US08483022B2
An optical head device and an optical disc apparatus of a simple structure capable of canceling an offset in a tracking error signal caused when an objective lens shifts; in the optical head device, a polarizing hologram 104 has first diffraction areas 112 and 113 including a whole of an area irradiated with overlap of a zeroth-order beam of reflection light from an optical disc 1 and positive/negative first-order beams of the reflection light, and a second diffraction area 111 including an area irradiated with the zeroth-order beam of the reflection light and not irradiated with the positive/negative first-order beams of the reflection light without including the first diffraction area; and a photodetector 109 has a first light receiving section 131 for receiving a first light beam which is a zeroth-order beam of diffraction light generated by the polarizing hologram 104, a second light receiving section for receiving a second light beam which is a positive first-order beam of the diffraction light generated by the second diffraction area, and a third light receiving section for receiving a third light beam which is a negative first-order beam of the diffraction light generated by the second diffraction area.
US08482994B2
One embodiment includes a non-volatile memory cell array, and a read unit configured to disable read operation for the non-volatile memory cell array for a time period following writing of data in the non-volatile memory cell array.
US08482991B2
A data input buffer is changed from an inactive to an active state after the reception of instruction for a write operation effected on a memory unit. The input buffer is a differential input buffer having interface specs based on SSTL, for example, which is brought to an active state by turning on a power switch to cause a through current to flow and receives a signal therein while immediately following a small change in small-amplitude signal. Since the input buffer is brought to the active state only when the write operation's instruction for the memory unit is provided, it is rendered inactive in advance before the instruction is provided, whereby wasteful power consumption is reduced. In another aspect, power consumption is reduced by changing from the active to the inactive state in a time period from a write command issuing to a next command issuing.
US08482990B2
A circuit comprises a first PMOS transistor, a second PMOS transistor, a first NMOS transistor, a second NMOS transistor, a third NMOS transistor, and a fourth NMOS transistor. The PMOS transistors and the NMOS transistors are configured to provide a first voltage reference node having a first reference voltage and a second voltage reference node having a second reference voltage. The first reference voltage and the second reference voltage serve as a first reference voltage and a second reference voltage for a memory cell, respectively.
US08482986B2
A word line driver system that utilizes a voltage selection circuit to supply one of several voltages to an output node coupled to a plurality of word line control circuits. Each word line control circuit is coupled to a respective word line in an array of non-volatile memory cells. The voltage selection circuit may include selectable low pass filters for filtering the supplied voltage supplied to the word lines in the array of memory cells without significantly increasing the overall die-size of the device.
US08482985B2
A nonvolatile semiconductor storage device according to an embodiment includes an erase circuit executing an erase sequence, wherein in the erase sequence, the erase circuit executes: an erase operation to change a selection memory cell group to an erased state, after the erase operation, a soft program operation on the selection memory cell group to solve over-erased state, and after the soft program operation, a first soft program verification operation performed on at least one partial selection memory cell group of a first partial selection memory cell group and a second partial selection memory cell group so as to confirm whether the partial selection memory cell group includes a predetermined number of memory cells or more that have threshold values equal to or more than a predetermined first threshold value, and after the first soft program verification operation.
US08482978B1
A method for data storage includes storing data in a group of analog memory cells by writing into the memory cells in the group respective storage values, which program each of the analog memory cells to a respective programming state selected from a predefined set of programming states, including at least first and second programming states, which are applied respectively to first and second subsets of the memory cells, whereby the storage values held in the memory cells in the first and second subsets are distributed in accordance with respective first and second distributions. A first median of the first distribution is estimated, and a read threshold, which differentiates between the first and second programming states, is calculated based on the estimated first median. The data is retrieved from the analog memory cells in the group by reading the storage values using the calculated read threshold.
US08482971B2
A memory array includes a cross-point array of bit and source lines. A memory is disposed at cross-points of the cross-point array. The memory unit includes a magnetic tunnel junction data cell electrically coupled to a bit line and a source line. The magnetic tunnel junction data cell is configured to switch between a high resistance state and a low resistance state by passing a polarized write current through the magnetic tunnel junction data cell. A transistor is electrically between the magnetic tunnel junction data cell and the bit line or source line and a diode is in thermal or electrical contact with the magnetic tunnel junction data cell to assist in resistance state switching.
US08482970B2
A multi-bit spin torque magnetic element that has a ferromagnetic pinned layer having a pinned magnetization orientation, a non-magnetic layer, and a ferromagnetic free layer having a magnetization orientation switchable among at least four directions, the at least four directions being defined by a physical shape of the free layer. The magnetic element has at least four distinct resistance states. Magnetic elements with at least eight magnetization directions are also provided.
US08482961B2
In a semiconductor device including a memory cell array formed of memory cells using a storage element by a variable resistor and a select transistor, a buffer cell is arranged between a sense amplifier and the memory cell array and between a word driver and the memory cell array. The resistive storage element in the memory cell is connected to a bit-line via a contact formed above the resistive storage element. Meanwhile, in the buffer cell, the contact is not formed above the resistive storage element, and a state of being covered with an insulator is kept upon processing the contact in the memory cell. By such a processing method, exposure and sublimation of a chalcogenide film used in the resistive storage element can be avoided.
US08482956B2
A semiconductor memory device includes a memory cell array where a plurality of memory cells are arranged in a matrix, each of the memory cells serially connecting a two-terminal type memory element and a transistor for selection, a first voltage applying circuit that applies a write voltage pulse to a bit line, and a second voltage applying circuit that applies a precharge voltage to a bit line and a common line. In writing the memory cell, after the second voltage applying circuit has both terminals of the memory cell previously precharged to the same voltage, the first voltage applying circuit applies the write voltage pulse to one terminal of the writing target memory cell via the bit line, and while the write voltage pulse is applied, the second voltage applying circuit maintains the application of the precharge voltage to the other terminal of the memory cell via the common line.
US08482933B2
A holding apparatus includes a receiving element and an elastic element. The receiving element is fixed on a circuit board and receives an upright plug-in element. The receiving element defines two through holes in two sides of the receiving element. The through holes have different axial lines. The elastic element includes a main pole and two branch poles respectively perpendicularly extending down from two ends of the main pole. Two opposite pins respectively extend from distal ends of the branch poles. The pins of the elastic element are respectively inserted in the through holes of the receiving element, to locate the upright plug-in element between the elastic element and the receiving element.
US08482932B2
A motherboard assembly includes a serial advanced technology attachment dual-in-line memory module (SATA DIMM) with a circuit board, a memory slot, and an interface. An edge connector is set on a bottom edge of the circuit board. A SATA connector is arranged on the circuit board, and connected to a control chip and the interface, enabling a motherboard communication with the SATA DIMM module.
US08482923B2
Provided is a heat sink clip for fastening a heat sink on a printed circuit board (PCB). The heat sink clip includes two hooks and a wire clip. The two hooks are inversely fixed to the PCB at two opposite sides of the heat sink. The wire clip includes a pressing wire pressing the heat sink, two pairs of deforming wires extending from the lateral of the pressing wire along two radial directions of the pressing wire and away from the PCB, and two engaging wires engaging with the respective hooks such that the deforming wires are bent towards the PCB.
US08482921B2
A system and method is disclosed for fabricating a heat spreader system, including providing a plurality of bottom microporous wicks recessed in a bottom substrate, bonding a center substrate to the bottom substrate, and bonding a top substrate having a top chamber portion to the center substrate to establish a first vapor chamber with said plurality of bottom microporous wicks.
US08482917B2
A high-performance network switch chassis has multiple network ports and air openings on the front end of the chassis, and multiple fan modules mounted on the back end of the chassis. The fan modules are hot-swap replaceable so that replacement of one of the fan modules does not require interruption of network switch operation. Air-blockers associated with each fan module prevent recirculation of air when fan modules are removed. Different types of fan modules may be used to provide either front-to-rear or rear-to-front airflow through the chassis. A fan speed controller determines fan speed based on temperature using one of two profiles. The two profiles correspond to the two different airflow directions.
US08482914B2
An electronic device with multi-phase mechanism including a host, a storage device and a carriage is provided in the present invention. The storage device is slidably disposed in the host and adapted to be pulled out from the host. The carriage is slidably disposed in the storage device and adapted to be pulled out from the storage device. Through the storage device slidably disposing in the host and being adapted to be pulled out from the host, it facilitates the user to take or replace a content from the storage device. When the carriage is moved out from the storage device in a first phase and then the storage device is pulled out from the host in a second phase, the content in the storage device is taken out.
US08482910B2
Provided is a display module in which the prevention of ambient light reflection and the protection of a mounting component may be provided in the same process using the same material, to thereby reduce the number of production steps, while preventing the display panel from increasing in size and thickness so that the cost of production may be reduced. The display module includes a display panel including a display element and a mounting component; a protective plate for protecting a display region of the display panel; and a covering material for integrally covering the display region of the display panel and the mounting component, the covering material being disposed between the display panel and the protective plate.
US08482909B2
A display apparatus (10) comprises a display band (14) and a control unit (12). The display band (14) is flexible and is dimension for wrapping round the wrist or other part of the user. In preferred forms, the control unit (12) includes a timing circuit and the display band (14) includes a digital time display, the apparatus thus functioning as a watch. Also preferred is the use of a malleable display band (14) allowing the apparatus to be applied to the wrist or the like without use of a buckle or catch. A variety of display bands (14) may be used interchangeably with a single control unit.
US08482906B2
The present invention is directed to the field of environmentally sealed casings for protection of electronic or other devices. More particularly, the present invention relates to enclosures for protecting LCD panels from the harsh environments in which they are sometimes used. In an embodiment, the present invention provides a harsh environment LCD enclosure comprising: a casing with an interior for protecting an LCD panel; a door for accessing the interior of the casing; a compression gasket assembly for sealing together the door and casing; an actuator for opening and closing the door; and a hinge assembly disposed entirely within the interior of the casing and operably configured to provide for rotational and linear movement of the door relative to the casing.
US08482900B2
An electrochemical double layer capacitor electrode comprising microporous carbon, wherein the microporous carbon comprises a median pore width of 1.2 nanometers or less, and a ratio of BET surface area to total pore volume greater than 2200 m2/cm3.
US08482878B2
A spoiler of a hard disk drive including a body portion coupled with a housing of the hard disk drive and adjacent to a hard disk, and an end portion coupled with the body portion, the end portion comprising a fan-shape, the spoiler extending radially with respect to the hard disk and parallel to a surface of the hard disk, wherein the fan-shape expands outward toward the tip end.
US08482874B2
A shingled magnetic recording hard drive is presented to a resource manager of a host device as an emulated device such as one or more optical media, an array of sequential access media, and/or write-once, read-many device. Data targeted for the emulated device is written to the shingled magnetic recording hard drive.
US08482870B2
Example embodiments are directed to a lens module manufactured from a wafer and a wafer level lens module manufacturing apparatus. The wafer level lens module manufacturing apparatus to mold lenses on a wafer provided with lens holes includes a first master substrate and a second master substrate disposed such that the wafer is between the first master substrate and the second master substrate. The wafer level lens module manufacturing apparatus also includes lens molding parts that enter the lens holes and are on at least one of the first master substrate and the second master substrate. The lens is molded to have a thickness less than that of the wafer using the first lens molding parts and second lens molding parts, and both surfaces of the lens are inside the lens hole. Therefore, even if wafers provided with lenses are stacked on each other, the lens does not contact the surfaces of the neighboring wafers or the lenses molded on the neighboring wafers.
US08482861B2
A zoom lens includes, in order from an object side to an image side, a first lens unit having a negative refractive power, a second lens unit having a positive refractive power, a third lens unit having a negative refractive power, and a fourth lens unit having a positive refractive power. A distance between consecutive lens units of the first through fourth lens units varies for zooming. The first lens unit includes, in order from the object side to the image side, a negative lens and a positive lens whose surface on the object side has a convex shape. In the zoom lens, a focal length f1, a focal length f3, an Abbe number υd1p, a focal length f3i, and an Abbe number υd3i are appropriately set.
US08482850B2
A control circuit for a fiber amplifier having a first stage pump and at least one second stage pump and method of controlling thereof is disclosed. The control circuit includes a control gate controlling a current through the first stage pump. A sensor for detecting a voltage across the first stage pump and providing a measured output of the voltage is provided. The control circuit further includes a control loop configured for selectively controlling the current through the control gate in accordance with the measured output and a set reference point is also provided.
US08482846B2
In a shifting algorithm for an optically nonlinear crystal arranged to frequency-convert beam of radiation, the location of one or more defects in the crystal is recorded as an exclusion zone. The location of the beam is stepped incrementally over a surface around a closed or open loop path in increments less than a beam dimension. The path is arranged such that the beam does not enter the exclusion zone.
US08482842B2
A method of manufacturing a smart panel and a smart panel. A method of manufacturing a smart panel includes spraying a coating solution including a thermochromic material and a silicon oxide on a surface of a transparent substrate, and drying the coating solution to form a coating film on the surface of the substrate. A smart panel is manufactured in accordance with the above-described method.
US08482838B2
Electrochromic device laminates and their method of manufacture are disclosed.
US08482836B2
A flexible display device includes a flexible substrate, a display layer, a first protecting layer, and at least one light-pervious polymer film. The display layer is arranged on the flexible substrate. The first protecting layer is arranged on the display layer. The at least one light-pervious polymer film is arranged on the first protecting layer. The light-pervious polymer film is used to protect the flexible display device from being damaged by external force.
US08482823B2
A contact-type image scanner includes an illumination unit, a control unit and a photo-sensing unit. The illumination unit includes a first, a second and a third light source for respectively emitting different color light beams on an original surface. The control unit is in communication with the illumination unit for controlling on durations of the light sources. In response to a first start pulse and a second start pulse, the first light source and the second light source are turned on for a first on duration and a second on duration respectively, wherein the second light source is turned on immediately after the first light source is turned off or after the first light source is turned off for a delaying time. In response to a third start pulse, the first, second and third light sources are simultaneously turned on for a first minor on duration, a second minor on duration and a third minor on duration, respectively. The photo-sensing unit obtains a first image data value during the first on duration, obtains a second image data value during a second on duration and obtains a third image data during the first, second and third minor on durations.
US08482822B2
An image recording apparatus includes: a recording head which has a plurality of recording elements; a conveyance device which conveys at least one of the recording head and a recording medium to cause relative movement between the recording head and the recording medium; an input device which inputs image data; an image processing device which causes a plurality of subsidiary image processing devices to perform a plurality of subsidiary image processes with respect to the input image data so as to generate output data; an image recording device which causes the recording head to perform recording on the recording medium according to the generated output data; a selection device which selects, of the plurality of subsidiary image processing devices, a subsidiary image processing device that is not to reflect, in the output data, processing result; and a control device which controls the selection device in accordance with the input image data.
US08482819B2
An optical system, used for scanning, forms an image using reflective optical surfaces. The system may be telecentric, and may form an image that is reduced in size as compared with the scanned original. Several image-forming optical channels may be combined to form a page-wide scanning array.
US08482818B2
There is provided an image reading apparatus and a control method therefor, which can suppress the influence of external light, and obtain an appropriate read image. To accomplish this, the image reading apparatus executes a Light-on reading processing for turning on an LED and causing a sensor to read an original document on a original platen at the first resolution, and a Light-off reading processing for turning off a light source and causing the sensor to read the original document on the original platen at the second resolution. In accordance with the influence of external light in an Light-off mode image read by the Light-off reading processing, the image reading apparatus removes the influence of external light in a Light-on mode image read by the Light-on reading processing.
US08482805B2
An image processing apparatus which can determine the image quality of code data in consideration of the print characteristics of an output device (copying machine or printer) is provided. A code data input unit inputs code data to be added to an image. A print precision data input unit inputs print precision data indicating the print precision of the code data by a printing device. An image quality determination unit determines, based on the code data and the print precision data, the image quality when the printing device prints the code data.
US08482803B2
Methods and apparatuses for halftoning an image are provided using a parametrically controlled hexagonal halftone dot shape threshold function that reduces tone reproduction irregularities in the halftoned image which can occur at darker gray levels. The halftoning transforms image data representing contone image pixels into halftoned image data in the form of clustered-dot hexagonal halftone screens for representing halftone dots of a halftoned image. Weight parameters can be used to control the rate at which a respective vertex of a halftone dot approaches a vertex of a neighboring halftone dot in relation to gray level. The hexagonal halftone dot shape threshold function can also control the shape of the sides of the halftone dots.
US08482786B2
An image forming apparatus acquires a print target image, scans an image on a sheet, recognizes reuse information in the image scanned from the sheet, generates reuse information after printing the print target image from the recognized reuse information and the acquired print target image, selects an area where the reuse information can be printed, in the acquired print target image, combines the reuse information with the selected area in the print target image, deletes the image on the sheet from which the image is scanned, and forms the combined image on the sheet from which the image is deleted, with a erasable image forming material.
US08482782B2
An image output system connecting an image input apparatus and an image output apparatus by a close proximity wireless communication, and outputting by the image output apparatus of image data transmitted from the image input apparatus by the wireless communication. The image input apparatus detects a connection condition of the wireless communication, generates a script for defining an output processing according to at least a user operation, and transmits the script to the image output apparatus when the disconnection is detected after image data transmission, and the connection is detected again after disconnection detection. The image output apparatus detects the connection condition of the wireless communication, suspend output processing of the image data when the disconnection is detected during the image data output processing, and controls the image data output processing according to the script received from the image input apparatus when the connection is detected again.
US08482777B2
In an image information processing device, in order to execute printing with a printing apparatus that applies as a basic form any printing form of plural differing printing forms to print an image, a receiving unit receives image information and instruction information including printing form information and scale information for printing based on the image information. An extracting unit extracts an object whose printing form is to be changed in code image units on the basis of scale designation information. A comparing unit compares a dot pattern that is expanded on the basis of printing form designation information and a dot pattern that is expanded on the basis of the basic form. A determining unit determines, on the basis of the comparison result, whether or not to maintain a designated printing form based on the printing form designation information with respect to the extracted object.
US08482771B2
A printing apparatus includes multiple image printers (700) that respectively print an image on a front surface of a paper, a back surface printer that prints given information on the back surface of a paper printed with an image by the image printer (700), a sorter (104) that sorts papers printed with given information on the back surfaces by the back surface printer, a first conveyance path that conveys a paper printed with an image on the front surface by the image printer (700) to the back surface printer, and a second conveyance path that conveys a paper printed with given information on the back surface by the back surface printer to the sorter (104). The back surface printer, the sorter (104), and the second conveyance path are integrated into an upper casing (101).
US08482760B2
A communication apparatus is provided. The communication apparatus includes an image read unit which reads image data from a transmission document; a transmission unit which transmits data; a tag read unit which wirelessly reads tag data stored in a wireless tag corresponding to the transmission document, the tag data comprising destination data indicating a first destination of the transmission document; an operation unit configured to input a second destination of the transmission document; a comparison unit which compares the first destination and the second destination; and a transmission controller which controls the transmission unit based on a comparison result of the comparison unit.
US08482757B2
Data to be printed in accordance with a print instruction is acquired by referring to management information on data containing the storage positions of the data which are managed on storage media and managed in image forming apparatuses on the network including the image forming apparatus and an external image forming apparatus. The acquired data is printed. The first print count when the image forming apparatus acquires the data to be printed from the external image forming apparatus and prints the data in the print step is compared with the second print count of the data in the external image forming apparatus. The data acquired from the external image forming apparatus is stored in a storage device as master data to be managed by the storage device in the image forming apparatus on the basis of the comparison result.
US08482749B2
An image processing apparatus includes: an operation section by which a user selects image information and that is configured to perform an operation for the selected image information; a determination section configured to determine a display item to be displayed by the operation section based on attribute information that corresponds to the selected image information; and an operation control section configured to change the displayed item to be displayed by the operation section based on a determination result by the determination section. A method for performing an operation for image information includes: displaying a plurality of sets of image information so as to allow a user to select predetermined image information; determining a display item to be displayed, based on attribute information that corresponds to the selected image information; and changing the displayed item to be displayed, based on a determination result.
US08482738B2
A method of and an optical arrangement for generating a non-linear optical signal on a material excited by an excitation field, wherein with the excitation field coherent fields of first and second optical pulses of differing frequency are overlapped in the material in temporal and spatial relationship, wherein the first pulses of a first frequency are generated in a first beam of a first optical generator unit, and the second pulses of a second frequency are generated in a second beam of a second optical generator unit synchronously pumped by the first optical generator unit, wherein with the first pulses of the first frequency as a fundamental frequency pulses of a higher harmonic frequency thereof are generated and the second optical generator unit is pumped with the pulses of the higher harmonic frequency.
US08482736B2
A method of detecting the condition of a turf grass is described. According to one aspect of the invention, the method comprises steps of attaching an active sensor to a mower; traversing a section of turf grass; and processing the output of the sensor. A device for detecting the condition of turf grass is also disclosed. The device comprises an array of illuminating devices generating a pattern of illuminating light; a detecting device receiving a pattern of reflected light which is coincident with the pattern of illuminating light; a detecting device adapted to detect stray light from the array of illuminating devices; and a feedback loop controlling the array of illuminating devices. A system employing the device is also disclosed.
US08482734B2
A device consisting of a rotatable substrate (10) with at least one cavity (14) or channel/chamber structures is described. Fluids may be provided into the at least one cavity (14) and on rotation of the substrate will experience the effects of pseudo forces. At least one functional element (15, 16) which is based on organic conductors as for instance an LED or a photodiode is connected with the rotatable substrate.
US08482728B2
An aspect of the invention provides a defect inspection apparatus being able to accurately inspect a micro foreign matter or defect at a high speed for an inspection target substrate in which a repetitive pattern and a non-repetitive pattern are mixed. In a foreign matter anti-adhesive means 180, a transparent plate 187 is placed on a placement table 34 through a frame 185. In the foreign matter anti-adhesive means 180, a shaft 181 which is rotatably supported by two columnar supports 184 fixed onto a base 186 is coupled to a motor 182 by a coupling 183. The shaft 181 is inserted into a part of a frame 185 between the two columnar supports 184 such that the frame 185 and the transparent plate 187 are turnable about the shaft 181. Therefore, the whole of the frame 185 is opened and closed in a Z-direction about the shaft 181, and a wafer 1 on the placement table 34 can be covered with the frame 185 and the transparent plate 187.
US08482721B2
A laser light receiver used to detect pulsed laser light that is produced by a rotating laser light source on a construction jobsite is disclosed. In this manner, the laser receiver acts as an elevation detector and provides an equipment operator, or a construction worker, with the current elevation status with respect to the plane of laser light. The laser receiver is a unitary device that can detect multiple light frequencies/wavelengths, including laser beams that are in the green, red, and infrared spectra. The laser receiver also is capable of discriminating between such laser beams and other interference light sources, particularly fluorescent light sources.
US08482713B2
Electronic devices may be provided with display structures such as glass and polymer layers in a liquid crystal display. The glass layers may serve as substrates for components such as a color filter layer and thin-film transistor layer. The polymer layers may include films such as a polarizer film and other optical films. During fabrication of a display, the polymer layers and glass layers may be laminated to one another. Portions of the polymer layers may extend past the edges of the glass layers. Laser cutting techniques may be used to trim away excess portions of the polymer layer that do not overlap underlying portions of the glass layers. Laser cutting may involve application of an adjustable infrared laser beam.
US08482710B2
A liquid crystal display and a fabricating method thereof are provided. The liquid crystal display includes a first substrate having a pixel portion and a pad portion; a gate line and a data line crossing each other to define the pixel portion at the pixel portion; a transistor adjacent to a crossing of the gate line and the data line, the transistor including a gate electrode, a source electrode and a drain electrode; an insulating layer above the source electrode and the drain electrode, the insulating layer exposing a lateral side of the drain electrode; a pixel electrode in contact with the lateral side of the drain electrode; a second substrate attached to the first substrate; and a liquid crystal layer between the first substrate and a second substrate.
US08482705B2
A method of fabricating a transflective display. The method includes providing a first substrate; forming a first electrode thereon; providing a second substrate having a reflective area and a transmissive area opposite to the first substrate; forming a second electrode having a plurality of slits on the second substrate opposite to the first electrode; disposing a liquid crystal layer including a plurality of liquid crystal molecules and monomers between the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein the monomers have a weight ratio of about 0.1-20%; and polymerizing the monomers to form a plurality of non-liquid crystal polymers adjacent to the first electrode and the second electrode.
US08482699B2
A backlight module includes an LGP and a linear light source. The LGP includes a light-incident side surface and a top light-emitting surface that has a peripheral region and an effective illumination region. The linear light source includes a circuit board, solid-state light-emitting devices configured on and electrically connected to the circuit board, and a reflector covering a portion of the peripheral region. Light emitted from each solid-state light-emitting device enters the LGP from the light-incident side surface. The reflector includes first reflection parts that correspond to the solid-state light-emitting devices and second reflection parts. Each second reflection part is connected to two adjacent first reflection parts. Each first reflection part and each second reflection part extend towards the effective illumination region from an edge of the top light-emitting surface. An extension length of each first reflection part is shorter than that of each second reflection part.
US08482698B2
An HDR display is a combination of technologies including, for example, a dual modulation architecture incorporating algorithms for artifact reduction, selection of individual components, and a design process for the display and/or pipeline for preserving the visual dynamic range from capture to display of an image or images. In one embodiment, the dual modulation architecture includes a backlight with an array of RGB LEDs and a combination of a heat sink and thermally conductive vias for maintaining a desired operating temperature.
US08482697B2
A protecting module for protecting a liquid crystal display module of a portable electronic device. The protecting module includes an electrical field shielding plate and a rubber gasket. The electrical field shielding plate defines a holding portion to receive the liquid crystal display module. The holding portion includes a bottom wall and a plurality of connected sidewalls extending from the bottom wall. The rubber gasket defines a slot to receive the bottom wall and the plurality of connected sidewalls. The liquid crystal display is received into the holding portion and resists against the rubber gasket.
US08482696B1
A display apparatus includes a plurality of first brackets adhered to the rear panel. A first bracket has a recess on a first surface where an adhesive is applied, and a first protrusion extending from a second surface and a second protrusion extending from the first protrusion. A connection bracket has a side wall and a plurality of first tab portions. The tab portion is provided into an opening of the first protrusion. A second bracket is provided adjacent to the plurality of the first brackets and attached to the connection bracket. A frame is mounted to the at least one second bracket. A light source is provided between the frame and the second bracket.
US08482694B2
A liquid crystal module includes a housing, a light guide plate, at least one optical film, a liquid crystal panel, and a light bar. The housing includes a bottom plate with a bearing surface and a frame wall connected to the bottom plate. The light guide plate is disposed on the bearing surface and has a light emitting surface and a light incident side surface. The frame wall surrounds the light guide plate. The optical film is disposed above the light emitting surface. The liquid crystal panel is disposed above the optical film. The light bar includes a first circuit board and at least one light emitting element mounted on the first circuit board. The light emitting element is located opposite to the light incident side surface. The first circuit board located between the liquid crystal panel and the light emitting surface partially covers the light emitting surface.
US08482690B2
An object is to provide a liquid crystal display device in which a pixel including a thin film transistor using an oxide semiconductor has a high aperture ratio. The liquid crystal display device includes a plurality of pixels each including a thin film transistor and a pixel electrode. The pixel is electrically connected to a first wiring functioning as a scan line. The thin film transistor includes an oxide semiconductor layer over the first wiring with a gate insulating film therebetween. The oxide semiconductor layer is extended beyond the edge of a region where the first wiring is provided. The pixel electrode and the oxide semiconductor layer overlap with each other.
US08482687B2
An exemplary liquid crystal display device includes a data line, a pixel, a first gate line, a second gate line, an additional electrode and an additional gate line. The pixel includes a first sub-pixel and a second sub-pixel. The first gate line is electrically coupled to the first sub-pixel. The second gate line is electrically coupled to the second sub-pixel. The first sub-pixel is electrically coupled to the data line to receive a signal provided from the data line. The second sub-pixel is electrically coupled to the first sub-pixel through the additional electrode and to receive a signal provided from the data line through the first sub-pixel. The additional gate line is arranged crossing over the additional electrode and whereby a compensation capacitance is formed between the additional gate line and the additional electrode.
US08482680B2
In a power board, relay terminals penetrate a circuit board through fitting holes, and are connected to output terminals. The fitting holes are thus formed as through holes on the circuit board, and thereby on-board connectors provided for connection to the relay terminals on a chassis can be arranged on the back surface of the circuit board on the opposite side of the chassis. Electronic components free from restriction of the positional relationship with the chassis can be mounted on the back surface of the circuit board, as are the on-board connectors.
US08482678B2
A remote control controls an audiovisual apparatus, such as a TV, using conventional physical inputs, such as buttons, or by controlled movement of the remote control. Circuitry connected to the physical inputs generates command signals for receipt by and operation of the apparatus. The command signals, such as On or Change Channel, correspond to control functions for the apparatus. The remote control also includes a motion sensor and motion circuitry connected to one another and constructed to generate at least some of the command signals when the body has been moved in predetermined manners for receipt by and operation of the apparatus. The remote control can therefore be operated using either the physical inputs or by moving the remote control in at least one of the predetermined manners. In some examples the motion sensor comprises a MEMS sensor.
US08482677B2
A display device includes power management by including a first input suitable to receive electrical power from an outlet for providing power for the operation of the display device. The display device includes a second input, separate from the first input, suitable to receive electrical power from an external battery source for providing power for the operation of the display device. The display device includes an internal battery source enclosed within the display device suitable for providing power for the operation of the display device. A source select is enclosed within the display device that selects power from at least one of the first input, the second input, and the internal battery for providing power for the operation of the display device. A processor receives video content from a video source and selectively modifies a backlight of the display device based upon the power source selected by the source select in such a manner as to reduce the power consumption of the display device. The processor may additionally change the media playback behavior to decode and playback only some of the video frames to reduce the power consumption of decoder and display device.
US08482674B2
A video production apparatus advantageously includes at least one embedded multi-previewer (14) that receives at least some of a plurality video signals generated by one or more elements in the switcher, such as a mix-effects engine (10). The multi-previewer generates an output signal which when displayed yields of mosaic of images, each representative of a respective input signal. In this way, an operator can observe, via a single video monitor, the status of multiple video signals, thus obviating the need for multiple device outputs, multiple monitors, and associated cabling.
US08482672B2
A video output device includes a screen configuration management section for managing a placement or a scaling of a screen for displaying at least one video, an area determination section for determining a character area in an input video, a supplemental information storing section for cutting out a video on a supplemental information area including the at least one character area determined by the area determination section and storing it as supplemental information, a supplemental information display determination section for determining whether or not the supplemental information stored by the supplemental information storing section is displayed in addition to an input video based on the screen configuration managed by the screen configuration management section, and an output section for outputting the input video and the supplemental information in accordance with commands from the screen configuration management section and the supplemental information display determination section. The supplemental information display determination section determines that the supplemental information is displayed based on a size of a character included in the character area in the input video changing in response to a scaling managed by the screen configuration management section. Therefore, the display form of the supplemental information can be changed in response to a scaling factor of the display size of the input video.
US08482667B1
An apparatus for embedding additional information that may embed additional information into a digital television (TV) broadcast signal and transmit the additional information is provided. The apparatus may modulate the additional information to an intermediate frequency/radio frequency (IF/RF), embed the modulated additional information into the digital TV broadcast signal, and compensate for a distortion that may occur in an RF part, thereby correctly transmitting the additional information.
US08482665B2
Disclosed herein is a camera module including: an image sensor which converts an image entering through a lens into an electric signal; a rigid-flexible substrate which includes first and second rigid substrates distanced from each other and a flexible substrate to connect the first and the second rigid substrates to each other; a first connection part which is electrically connected to the rigid-flexible substrate; and a second connection part which has one end electrically connected to the first connection part and the other end connected to a cable, and which is disconnectable from the first connection part and the cable.
US08482657B2
An imaging apparatus having a function of enabling focus detection at high speed while exposing an image sensor to light. Imaging apparatus 1 has: a first photoelectric converting element (image sensor 10) that converts an optical image formed on an imaging plane into an electrical signal for forming an image signal; and a second photoelectric converting element (phase difference detecting sensor 20) that receives light having passed through the first photoelectric converting element and converts light into an electrical signal for distance measurement.
US08482646B2
An image sensing device comprises a pixel array, and a peripheral circuit, a column selecting circuit, and a readout, wherein each pixel includes a photodiode, a floating diffusion, a transfer PMOS transistor to the floating diffusion, an amplifier PMOS transistor, and a reset PMOS transistor, the amplifier PMOS transistor has a gate which is formed by an n-type conductive pattern, and is isolated by a first element isolation region and an n-type impurity region which covers at least a lower portion of the first element isolation region, and each PMOS transistor included in the column selecting circuit has a gate which is formed by a p-type conductive pattern and is isolated by a second element isolation region, and an n-type impurity concentration in a region adjacent to a lower portion of the second element isolation region is lower than that in the n-type impurity region.
US08482645B2
Disclosed herein is a solid-state imaging device employing a plurality of unit pixels each having an opto-electric conversion section configured to convert incident light into electric charge and an electric-charge holding section configured to hold a signal voltage representing the electric charge produced by the opto-electric conversion section, the solid-state imaging device further including a read section and a control section.
US08482644B2
For a solid-state image pickup device 1, a plurality of pixels are two dimensionally arranged in an imaging region 10, and two photodiodes PD1 and PD2 are included in each pixel Pm,n. An electric charge generated in the respective photodiodes PD1 and PD2 is input to a signal readout section 20, and a voltage according to an electric charge amount thereof is output from the signal output section 20. The voltage output from the signal readout section 20 is input to an A/D converting section 40, and a digital value according to the input voltage is output from the A/D converting section 40. In an adding section 50, a sum of digital values to be output from the A/D converting section 40 according to the amount of electric charge generated, for each pixel Pm,n of the imaging region 10, in the two respective photodiodes PD1 and PD2 included in the pixel is operated, and a digital value being a sum value thereof is output.
US08482640B2
An independent pixel output line (14) is provided for each of two-dimensionally arranged pixels (10) within a pixel area (2a). A plurality of memory sections are connected to each pixel output line (14). In a continuous reading mode, photocharge storage is simultaneously performed at all the pixels, and signals are collectively transferred from the pixels (10) through the pixel output lines (14) to the memory sections, after which the signals held in the memory sections are sequentially read and outputted. In a burst reading mode, the operations of simultaneously storing photocharges at all the pixels and collectively transferring signals from each pixel (10) through the pixel output line (14) to the memory sections are sequentially performed for each of the memory sections to hold signals corresponding to a plurality of frames. When a imaging halt command is given, the holding of new signals is halted, and a plurality of frames of image signals held in the memory sections at that point in time are sequentially read and outputted. Thus, both an ultrahigh-speed imaging operation with a limitation on the number of frames and an imaging mode that is rather slow but has no limitation on the number of frames can be performed.
US08482638B2
A digital camera is provided with a focusing function and a focal length varying function of a main lens. The digital camera includes a main imaging unit configured to generate a main image by performing a photoelectric conversion from a subject obtained via the main lens, a sub-imaging unit configured to generate a sub-image by performing a photoelectric conversion from the subject obtained via a sub-lens, a focal length acquiring unit configured to acquire the focal length of the main lens, a magnification setting unit configured to set a level of magnification on the basis of the focal length, a composite image generating unit configured to generate a composite image by combining the main image and the sub-image, after at least one of the main image and the sub-image is magnified at the level of magnification, and an image display unit configured to display the composite image.
US08482626B2
A digital camera and an image capturing method for photographing at least one object in the digital camera. An image is sensed, and an eye-gazing detection process is accordingly preformed on the image to detect an eye-gazing direction of at least one pair of eyes of the at least one object. It is determined whether the eye-gazing direction meets a gazing criterion. If the eye-gazing direction meets the gazing criterion, an application of the digital camera is triggered.
US08482625B2
Noise level estimation includes examining color correlation in a digital image.
US08482622B2
The present invention relates to a method for reducing motion blur. According to the method, at least two image frames are captured. A sequence of values is provided. All captured frames are processed by subsequently associating one sequence value with each captured frame. The processed captured frames are accumulated and a deconvolution is applied to the accumulated frame.The present invention further relates to system for reducing motion blur.
US08482616B2
The electronic apparatus includes; a user interface which generates a module mapping signal corresponding to one of the driving modules; a controller which determines whether an error has occurred in the driving module and an error warning unit which warns a user if it is determined that the driving module has an error. A remote controller includes a user selection unit through which a user individually selects a driving module and a communicating unit which outputs a module mapping signal corresponding to the driving module selected by a user. 109 An error detecting method includes receiving a module selection signal to select one of the driving modules; determining whether an error has occurred in the driving module; and warning a user when an error occurs in the driving module according to determination results.
US08482600B2
A one source multi use (OSMU)-type stereoscopic camera is disclosed. The stereoscopic camera includes left and right cameras of which lenses are aligned with parallel optical axes, a separation adjustment unit for adjusting the separation between the cameras, a critical parallax computing unit, a camera separation computing unit, and an image storage unit. The critical parallax computing unit adjusts the focus of the stereoscopic camera to an object and determines the far point of an image so that a maximum critical parallax is computed based on a far point limit parallax of a medium-size display. The camera separation computing unit computes the separation between the optical axes based on the computed critical parallax and drives the separation adjustment unit. The image storage unit stores images photographed by the readjusted cameras. Therefore, stereoscopic video made according to the present invention may be viewed on various sizes of displays.
US08482588B2
An optical writing device that forms an electrostatic latent image on a photoreceptor. The device includes a pixel-information acquiring unit, a line-pixel-information storage unit that stores the acquired pixel information corresponding to a plurality of lines for each main scanning line, a light source device that exposes the photoreceptor with a period corresponding to an N-fold sub-scanning direction resolution of the pixel information, a positional-shift-information storage unit that stores a positional shift information, a sub-line counting unit that counts a sub-line period, a reading-line selecting unit that performs N times of selection that determines which main scanning line is selected as the line from which the pixel information is read out, on the basis of a calculated value from the counted value of the sub-line period and the positional shift information, and a pixel-information reading unit.
US08482585B2
According to one embodiment, a printer includes a conveying mechanism, a first image forming unit, and a second image forming unit. The conveying mechanism conveys a medium. The first image forming unit forms an image with a non-temperature-sensitive ink whose color is not changed depending on a temperature, on the medium. The second image forming unit forms an image with a temperature-sensitive ink whose color is changed depending on a temperature, on the medium having the image with the non-temperature-sensitive ink formed thereon.
US08482584B2
A 3-D image display including an image forming unit for forming an image by modulating light according to image information is provided. The 3-D image display includes a display device with a plurality of first regions for forming a left eye image and a plurality of second regions for forming a right eye image in a 3-D image mode. The 3-D image display also includes a viewpoint controller with first and second reflection mirror devices for reflecting light of a left eye image and light of a right eye image input from the image forming unit to first and second viewpoints when displaying a 3-D image. The locations of the first and second viewpoints may be changed by controlling an angle of reflection surfaces of the first and second reflection mirror devices.
US08482571B2
There is provided an information processing apparatus, including a first processing unit capable of processing an image, a second processing unit capable of processing the image in parallel for each unit dividing the image, and a controller section configured to perform a control to select one of the first processing unit, the second processing unit, and both of them as a subject or subjects processing the image, to divide, in a case where both the first processing unit and the second processing unit are selected, the image into a first region and a second region, and to assign processing of an image of the first region and processing of an image of the second region, which are obtained by the division, to the first processing unit and the second processing unit, respectively, to cause the first processing unit and the second processing unit to perform the processing.
US08482570B2
An image processing apparatus includes: an image division section which divides input image data configuring one screen into N (N is an integer of 2 or more) image blocks; and N image processing sections which carry out image processings in parallel on every N image blocks, an ith (i is an integer of 1 to N) image processing section including: a first image block memory; K (K is an integer of 2 or more) image quality adjustment sections; (K−1) buffer memories; a second image block memory; and a pixel data acquisition section, wherein each image quality adjustment section selects processing subject pixels, in order from pixels positioned outside toward pixels positioned inside the ith image block, and carries out the image quality adjustment, and at least one of the second to Kth image quality adjustment sections is a filtering section which carries out a filtering process.
US08482557B2
An instructed position, which includes an instruction area for receiving a predetermined instruction and is displayable two-dimensionally and three-dimensionally, on a display means where an instruction image is displayed is detected. Upon setting on the display means a control range corresponding to the instruction area displayed on the display means such that the control range is changed between during the two-dimensional display and during the three-dimensional display, information of a tentative instructed position is obtained by receiving an instruction directed to the instruction area during the three-dimensional display. A horizontal shift on the display means of the tentative instructed position during the three-dimensional display relative to a position of the instruction area during the two-dimensional display is calculated. The control range is changed based on the horizontal shift to make the control range coincide with a visually recognized instruction area through stereoscopic viewing during the three-dimensional display.
US08482555B2
An organic light emitting diode (OLED) display is provided. The OLED display includes a display panel including pixels formed at each of crossings of a plurality of gate lines and a plurality of data lines, a monitoring signal line formed along an outer area of the display panel, a first signal supply unit that supplies a monitoring signal to the monitoring signal line and generates a first power control signal, a power supply unit that supplies a high potential driving voltage and a low potential driving voltage to the pixels, and a second signal supply unit that monitors the monitoring signal and generates a second power control signal. If the monitoring signal is not monitored, the second signal supply unit controls the power supply unit through the second power control signal and allows the power supply unit to stop supplying one of the high and low potential driving voltages to the pixels.
US08482552B2
A method is described comprising conducting a first current through a switching transistor. The method also comprises conducting a second current through a pair of transistors whose conductive channels are coupled in series with respect to each other and are together coupled in parallel across the switching transistor's conductive channel. The second current is less than and proportional to the first current.
US08482548B2
A configuration method includes the following steps: Controlling the display unit to display visual information, determining whether the visual information includes one or more touch icons, and determining if the display areas are displaying the touch icons, if yes, determining which infrared lines correspond to the display areas. Then determining which infrared emitters and which infrared receivers form the infrared lines, and turning on the determined infrared emitters and infrared receivers, finally, turning off the other infrared emitters and infrared receivers. The invention also provides an electronic device with an infrared touch panel.
US08482543B2
A dual mode touchscreen display disposed in an information handling system chassis proximate a keyboard selectively presents images from information generated by a central processing unit or from information generated by a secondary processor associated with the touchscreen display. An operating system executing on the central processor unit presents information at the touchscreen through a serial link by treating the touchscreen as a secondary display to a primary display integrated in the chassis. Alternatively, an application executing on the secondary processor presents information at the touchscreen independent of the central processing unit or the operating system. As an example, the touchscreen display presents a number pad under the direction of the operating system to accept number pad inputs or, alternatively, presents a number pad under the direction of an application running on the secondary processor to accept number pad inputs that are forwarded to a keyboard controller.
US08482528B2
An ultra mobile personal computer includes a monitor, a keyboard apparatus, and a micro-touchpad. The monitor is coupled on the keyboard apparatus such that the monitor could be shifted relatively to the keyboard apparatus to display a keyboard panel built inside. In addition, the micro-touchpad is arranged on the keyboard apparatus.
US08482523B2
A control device having an elongated shaft, a C-shaped magnet, and an anti-rotation pin. The magnet and the anti-rotation pin are encapsulated in a spherical member. The C-shaped magnet has opposing ends defining an open slot along the C-shaped main body. The anti-rotation pin extends through the slot and connects to the shaft.
US08482520B2
A method for tap detection and for interacting with a handheld electronic device, and a handheld electronic device configured therefore are described. In accordance with one embodiment, there is provided a method for tap detection on a handheld electronic device, comprising: measuring acceleration using an accelerometer of the handheld electronic device; determining when measured acceleration exceeds an upper limit threshold and a lower limit threshold within a predetermined duration of each other; when the upper limit threshold and lower limit threshold have been exceeded, determining a rate of change of acceleration between the upper limit threshold and lower limit threshold and registering a tap input when the rate of change of acceleration exceeds a predetermined tap threshold.
US08482512B2
A liquid crystal backlight apparatus being placed behind a liquid crystal display panel in a manner facing the liquid crystal display panel and illuminating the liquid crystal display panel from behind with a backlight having plural light emitting diodes as a light source, the liquid crystal backlight apparatus including a control part configured to use 0.1-0.5 watt white light emitting diodes as the plural light emitting diodes and independently control luminance of the white light emitting diodes separately.
US08482511B2
A liquid crystal (LC) display system includes an LC panel and a backlight unit. A controller controls the LC panel to display first and a second images forming a stereoscopic pair; controls the backlight unit to only illuminate the LC panel during a first time period after pixels of the LC panel have a stable optical state according to the first image, and during a second time period after the pixels have a stable optical state according to the second image; and generates a control signal for controlling a first shutter glass of a pair of 3D shutter glasses to be in a transmissive state for enabling viewing of the pixels of the LC panel only during the first time period, and a second shutter glass to be in a transmissive state for enabling viewing of the pixels of the LC panel only during the second time period.
US08482507B2
A liquid crystal display and a driving method thereof capable of improving contrast properties by implementing a local dimming and achieving the slimness of the liquid crystal display. The liquid crystal display comprises a liquid crystal display panel, a backlight unit including a light guide plate part in which a plurality of light guide channels are formed, and a plurality of light sources for illuminating light to the light guide channels, a division driving controller for mapping an input picture to a plurality of blocks in which a plurality of data channels are intersected with the plurality of light guide channels, analyzing luminance of the input picture for each block, determining dimming values of the plurality of light sources, and independently modulating the luminance of the input picture for each block based on the analyzed result, and a light source driver for independently controlling luminance of the light sources responding to the dimming values.
US08482505B2
In a liquid crystal display device performing multi-picture element driving, gate OFF timing of a switching element connected between each sub picture element and a signal line is matched with phase timing when all the subsidiary capacity wires are at the same potential. This prevents the occurrence of uneven luminance appearing in a lateral streak.
US08482504B2
A liquid crystal display device with low power consumption is provided by using a driver circuit and a pixel that have novel circuit structures. In a liquid crystal display device using n (n is a natural number and satisfies n≧2) bit digital video signals to display an image, n×m (m is a natural number) memory circuits and n×k (k is a natural number) non-volatile memory circuits are provided in each pixel, thereby giving the device a function of storing m frames of digital video signals in the memory circuits and a function of storing k frames of digital video signals in the non-volatile memory circuits. Once stored in the memory circuits, the digital video signals are repeatedly read out for every new frame to display a still image, so that driving of a source signal line driver circuit can be stopped during still image display. Moreover, digital video signals stored in the non-volatile memory circuits are kept stored after power supply is shut off and hence the image of the stored data can immediately be displayed next time the display device is turned on.
US08482501B2
A liquid crystal display device with controllable viewing angle of the present invention has an upper substrate (101) on which an upper substrate common electrode (103) is disposed, a lower substrate (102) on which a pixel electrode is disposed, and a liquid crystal layer (107) sandwiched between the upper substrate (101) and the lower substrate (102). The liquid crystal molecules are vertical to the upper substrate (101) in substance when no voltage is applied, and a plurality of parallel strip-like lower substrate common electrodes (104) are disposed on the lower substrate (102). The upper substrate common electrode (103) and the pixel electrode (105) provide an electric field perpendicular to the upper substrate (101) in order to form a first viewing angle mode when a voltage is applied, the lower substrate common electrode (104) and the pixel electrode (105) provide an electric field perpendicular to the upper substrate (101) and an electric field parallel to the upper substrate (101) in order to form a second viewing angle mode when a voltage is applied. A method of driving the said liquid crystal display device is also disclosed.
US08482500B2
In a display apparatus, a text code input section outputs externally-supplied text code information to a font conversion section and a voice synthesizer section. The font conversion section converts the input text code into a corresponding font, and transmits the font to a display drive section via a video signal input section, and the display drive section causes a display section to display the font. Meanwhile, the voice synthesizer section converts the input text code into corresponding voice data, and transmits the voice data to a voice device where the voice data is outputted. With this structure, superior convenience is ensured for a display apparatus which serves only as an individual displaying apparatus and relies on an external device (server) for the major functions of the system.
US08482497B2
The invention provides a switch matrix and display matrix of a display device. The display matrix of a display device includes: a switch matrix including M×N MEMS switches, wherein M is the number of rows and N is the number of columns, and MEMS switches in each row are controlled by a corresponding row drive signal to output respective column data signals; and a pixel matrix including M×N pixel units each of which is coupled with a corresponding one of the M×N MEMS switches and displays in response to the column data signal output from the corresponding MEMS switch. The switch matrix can simplify pixel design and reduce layout area of each pixel. Moreover, conventional design needs special process to handle high voltage of source driver. This invention can realize a display device with one common process while source driver uses high voltage process conventionally.
US08482494B2
A display drive apparatus performs a display drive of a display panel on the basis of display data and comprises a selection drive section for applying a selection signal to each of display pixels arranged in each row of the display panel, a data drive section for generating a drive signal based on the display data, and a power source drive section for setting at least a row as a writing region and at least a region as a designated region separated from the writing region by the number of one or more rows and sequentially moving correspondingly to moving of the writing region, and the power source drive section supplies a power source voltage for operating each display pixel to make each display pixel corresponding to the row of the writing region and each display pixel corresponding to the row of the designated region perform non-display operation.
US08482490B2
In a plasma display device, a plurality of agglomerated particle groups in which a plurality of crystal particles made of a metal oxide agglomerate are disposed in the periphery of a protective layer thereof. The plasma display device is driven by the following driving method to display images. An initializing period has a first half of the initializing period in which a second electrode is applied with a voltage gradually rising from a first voltage to a second voltage, and a second half of the initializing period in which the second electrode is applied with a voltage gradually falling from a third voltage to a fourth voltage.
US08482489B2
A system for displaying images is provided and includes a plurality of first signal lines, a plurality of second signal lines, a display area, and a first dummy line. The second signal lines are interlaced with the first signal lines. The display area comprises a plurality of display pixels. Each of the display pixels corresponds to the interlaced first signal line and second signal line. The first dummy line is disposed on a first side of the display area and interlaced with the second signal lines. A section of the first dummy line between every two adjacent second signal lines among the second signal lines has an opening.
US08482482B2
An exemplary electronic device is capable of communicating with one other electronic device including a slave display unit. The electronic device includes a master display unit, sensors, and a processor. The master display unit and the at least one slave display unit cooperatively form a united display unit. The master display unit has sub-display areas. The sensors are arranged on the master display unit. The processor determines the position of the slave display unit relative to the master display unit according to the sensors, establish a minimum virtual display area M×N, and determine maximum actual rectangle display area m×n that the united display unit has. The processor further divides an image to m×n sub-images, transmit the sub-images displayed by the slave display unit to the another electronic device, and further control the master display unit to display the determined sub-images.
US08482480B2
A multi display system which includes a plurality of display apparatuses in which partial images of an entire image are displayed is provided. The multi display system includes a plurality of display apparatuses which display partial images of an entire image, and an image distribution apparatus which generates the partial images based on a separation distance set between the partial images.
US08482466B2
An antenna assembly including a ground plane and a radiator supported above the ground plane is disclosed. The radiator may include a slot to configure the radiator to be resonant in at least two frequency ranges and a grounding point coupled to the ground plane. The radiator may be a dual-band planar inverted F antenna (PIFA) having an upper surface opposite the ground plane. First and second antenna modules may be coupled to the upper surface of the PIFA. The first and second antenna modules may be patch antennas, such as stacked patch antennas.
US08482462B2
Embodiments in the present disclosure pertain to a multi-antenna beam-forming system for transmitting constant envelope signals decomposed from a variable envelope signal. The variable envelope signal is decomposed into two constant envelope signals. Each of the constant envelope signals are separately amplified by power amplifiers and transmitted over separate antennas. Beam steering delays can be added to the transmit paths of the constant envelope signals to direct the beam to the location of a receiver. The transmitted constant envelope signals combine through spatial out-phasing such that a receiving antenna receives a variable envelope signal.
US08482458B2
A position determination method includes: performing a positioning process that calculates a located position by performing positioning calculations using satellite signals; determining whether or not a convergence condition is satisfied based on current and preceding positioning results when the positioning process is performed, the convergence condition being specified as a condition for determining whether or not the positioning results of the repeated positioning processes have converged; and determining the located position calculated by the current positioning process to be an output position when the convergence condition is satisfied.
US08482439B2
A signal corresponding to a short-period change and a signal corresponding to a long-period change of a sound signal are detected, and optimal quantization is performed based on the combination of the two signals. In an ADPCM encoding apparatus (100), a differential value dn between a 16-bit input signal Xn and a decoded signal Yn-1 of one sample ago is calculated by a subtractor (102). Thereafter, the 16-bit differential value dn is adaptively quantized by an adaptive quantizing section (103), so as to be converted to a (1 to 8)-bit length-variable ADPCM value Dn. Thereafter, the ADPCM value Dn is compression-encoded by a compression-encoding section (108) to generate a signal D′n, and the signal D′n is framed by a framing section (130) and outputted. Further, in an ADPCM decoding apparatus, a framed input signal is subjected to a reverse of the aforesaid process so as to be decoded.
US08482433B2
Disclosed are a system and method for recognizing an obstacle at the time of parking. The inventive system includes: at least one lateral side ultrasonic sensor for sensing lateral distance data between a user's vehicle and an obstacle positioned adjacent to a lateral side of the user's vehicle; a first course calculation unit for calculating lateral position data and a first course on the basis of the lateral distance data; at least one rear side ultrasonic sensor for sensing rear distance data indicating a distance between the user's vehicle and an obstacle positioned behind the rear side of the user's vehicle; a second course calculation unit for extracting rear position data for the obstacle positioned behind the user's vehicle on the basis of the rear distance data, and for extracting and calculating a final target parking position and a final course on the basis of the rear position data; and a control unit which receives information for the first course from the first course calculation unit so as to control the steering wheel of the user's vehicle, thereby moving the user's vehicle forward or backward along the first course, and receives information for the final target parking position and the final course from the second course calculation unit so as to control the steering wheel, thereby moving the user's vehicle is moved along the final course and automatically parked at the final target parking position.
US08482432B2
The portable traffic barrier with illuminated message display includes at least one lightweight panel having a rigid frame and a matrix of separate illumination units therein. The illumination units are flexibly secured to one another within the panel by links extending between adjacent units. Each illumination unit includes two mutually opposed faces, either or both faces providing illumination from a plurality of small lighting elements (e.g., LEDs) therein. Some of the units may be non-illuminated, if desired. The panel includes an electrical power supply capable of providing power to the illumination units from a solar panel, a portable electrical supply, or from the local power grid, if available. In at least one embodiment, the panel may be folded in accordion fashion for more compact storage when not deployed. A plurality of such panels may be interconnected mechanically and electrically to provide a comprehensive traffic message, if desired.
US08482430B2
An apparatus for communicating information to an operator of a vehicle without unnecessarily distracting the operator by illuminating an interior of the vehicle with different colors, includes an illumination control module monitoring an informational input and determining a lighting color command based upon the informational input. The apparatus further includes an illumination system communicating with the illumination control module and generating an illumination color upon the interior based upon the lighting color command.
US08482429B2
RFID tag sensor devices are adapted to be mounted in locations relative to a rack mountable device to wirelessly report a condition relating to an operating environment of the rack mountable device at the location. The sensor device in some embodiments has a body having a mounting portion adapted to engage with at least one pre-configured environmental operating condition sense-location of a rack or rack mountable device.
US08482427B2
A method and apparatus for providing a strobe alarm unit employing at least one light emitting diode.
US08482418B1
Treatment of sleep conditions is disclosed, particularly snoring, sleep apnea and the related problem of dozing while driving or engaging in activity requiring full attention. Also disclosed are means and methods of pinpointing sleep patterns, particularly therapeutic treatment of sexual disorders. Monitoring of REM sleep cycles to optimize the time for awakening one from sleep is also disclosed.
US08482417B2
A networked jump safety system and method for monitoring a jump area is described. The system comprises a safety analysis station connected via a network to least one monitoring station. The output of a sensor is analyzed at the safety analysis station to determine if it is safe for a rider to enter a jump area. A status corresponding to the determination is transmitted via the network from the safety analysis station to a light emitting output.
US08482413B2
Systems and associated methods for monitoring and/or controlling access to interior portions of consumer-operated kiosks and other enclosures are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a consumer-operated kiosk includes an enclosure having a door movable between a closed position that prevents access to the enclosure and an open position that permits access to the enclosure. In this embodiment, an identifier, such as an RFID transponder or tag, is mounted to one of the enclosure or the door, and a reader, such as an RFID reader, is mounted to the other of the enclosure or the door. When the door is closed, the reader detects the identifier. Conversely, when the door moves away form the closed position, the reader ceases to detect the identifier and can generate/send a signal indicating that the door is open.
US08482412B2
In one embodiment, a method and apparatus for reducing time expended on non-value added tasks during assembly of an aircraft is provided. A RFID tag reading function of a RFID tag reader integrated into user apparel is enabled. The RFID tag reader comprises a set of touch activation components integrated into the user apparel. A touch activation component in the set of touch activation components is pressed against a surface in proximity of a RFID tag associated with an aircraft component. The RFID tag reader transmits an interrogate signal to an RFID tag associated with the aircraft component. The user observes a display device coupled to the RFID tag reader integrated into the user apparel, wherein the display device displays RFID tag information received from the RFID tag in response to the interrogate signal. The RFID tag information comprises data describing the aircraft component. The user receives the RFID tag information without interrupting an assembly task.
US08482406B2
A sanitization compliance monitoring system comprises care giver badges, patient bed beacons associated with patient beds, dispenser beacons associated with sanitization dispensers, and a central unit for wirelessly communicating with the badges.
US08482395B2
A system and method for detecting a rotation of the vehicle tires between different wheel locations. The method carried out by the system involves obtaining and storing TPM sensor identification numbers and their corresponding tire locations. Next, the system checks the sensors periodically to determine if any of the sensors have changed tire location. Based on that change, the system determines if a tire rotation has occurred; for example, by matching changes in sensor positions with known tire rotation patterns. This approach allows the system to detect and record a tire rotation, as well as to take some automated action, such as subsequently notifying the vehicle owner when the next scheduled tire rotation is due.
US08482390B2
An apparatus is disclosed which has a media player, a local user interface, the local user interface being a primary presentation resource for the media player, a wireless communication interface, a media output port for connection to a remote media presentation device as a secondary presentation resource for the media player, and a controller. The controller is configured for receiving a wireless signal via the wireless communication interface from a remote control device designed for controlling an external device other than the apparatus. The controller is also configured for processing the received wireless signal to determine an action of the media player, and causing the media player to perform the determined action and output a result of the action to the media output port for presentation on the remote media presentation device if connected.
US08482387B2
An apparatus, system, and method for judging a movement direction of an RFID tag in a case where read information acquired from a first region and read information acquired in a second region which overlap the first region indicate that the RFID tag has moved out of a part of the first region which part does not overlap the second region. The described embodiments include a movement direction judging section, a detection frequency information acquisition section, a movement judging section, an output judging section, and an output section.
US08482386B2
The active transponder includes an input amplifier (26) arranged between an envelope detector (8) and a demodulation circuit (28). It further includes an activation unit (30) for the input amplifier and also for the demodulation circuit, which is formed by a frequency changer or mixer circuit (32), which decreases a significant modulation frequency of the modulated signal received by the antenna to a low frequency, the resulting low frequency signal then being amplified and filtered by low frequency elements. The activation unit thus consumes little electric power and sends a wake up signal to the elements operating at a high frequency when it detects said significant modulation frequency, in a very selective manner.
US08482376B2
A method for teaching a switching circuit is provided. The method includes presenting a target within a sensing range of a sensor of the switching circuit for a pre-determined duration and acquiring an identification code of the target via the sensor. The method also includes storing the acquired identification code for operating the switching circuit and locking the switching circuit against learning identification codes of any other target prior to reaching an allowed number of reteaching attempts.
US08482372B2
A piezoresistive sensor device and method for making the same are disclosed. The device comprises a silicon wafer having piezoresistive elements and contacts in electrical communication with the elements. The device further comprises a contact glass coupled to the silicon wafer and having apertures aligned with the contacts. The device also comprises a non-conductive frit for mounting the contact glass to a header glass, and a conductive non-lead glass frit disposed in the apertures and in electrical communication with the contacts. The method for making the device comprises bonding a contact glass to a silicon wafer such that apertures in the glass line up with contacts on the wafer, and filling the apertures with a non-lead glass frit such that the frit is in electrical communication with the contacts. The use of a lead free glass frit prevents catastrophic failure of the device in ultra high temperature applications.
US08482371B2
The chip-type coil component includes: a body; conductive patterns connected to each other so as to have a coil structure; and external electrodes formed on the bottom surface and the two surfaces in the length direction; wherein a height of the external electrodes in a thickness direction of the body is greater than a height from the bottom surface to a farthest conductive pattern therefrom among the conductive patterns and is less than a height from the bottom surface of the body to the top surface thereof. According to embodiments of the present invention, even in a case in which a chip-type coil component set contacts a metal can, interference such as short-circuits does not occur, and as a result, a chip-type coil component having excellent reliability can be acquired.
US08482370B2
An arrangement of a NTC resistor in an electromagnet includes an electromagnetic coil comprising a main winding and a shunt winding, a coil carrier configured to have the electromagnetic coil be wound thereon, a first contact terminal and a second contact terminal configured to supply a voltage, a NTC resistor, a first contact lead comprising a first contact lead end, a second contact lead comprising a second contact lead end, and a third contact lead. The first contact lead, the second contact lead and the third contact lead are configured to interconnect the first contact terminal, the second contact terminal, the main winding, the shunt winding, and the NTC resistor. A fixing element is configured to be elastically deformable and to exert a spring force so as to fix the NTC resistor between the first contact lead end and the second contact lead end.
US08482349B2
An apparatus and method for linearizing a non-linear power amplifier. The method comprises: performing an iteration algorithm by using a desired output signal of the non-linear power amplifier, to calculate an input signal of the non-linear power amplifier, whereby with the calculated input signal of the non-linear power amplifier, the non-linear power amplifier is linearized. The apparatus and method can produce a signal on the output of the non-linear power amplifier with an arbitrarily high quality of performance.
US08482347B2
Disclosed is an amplifier designed to substantially reduce an ON/OFF transient. The amplifier comprises a drive block that includes a pre-driver and an output stage. The amplifier also comprises a bypass circuit that is coupled to an output of the pre-driver. The bypass circuit of the amplifier is selectively activated to reduce the ON/OFF transient. The bypass circuit may comprise an auxiliary output stage that can be coupled to provide selective activation. The amplifier may also be configured to provide multi-point offset compensation. Also disclosed is a related method. The amplifier and the related method may be incorporated into an audio amplifier used in a cellular telephone or other mobile audio device.
US08482343B1
The digitally programmable high-order filter uses simple active elements, namely DCCAs and VBs, with the help of R-2R ladders to realize several nth-order filters, ‘n+3’ DCCAs and ‘n’ VBs may be used, and can provide programmability to either the filter's numerator coefficients or to the denominator coefficients. The digitally programmable high-order filter may include R-2R ladders in its negative feedback loops, resulting in a filter in which all coefficients are programmable.
US08482339B1
A voltage integrator circuit and a filter circuit are configurable to adjust their outputs in order to compensate for various circuit elements' variations with temperature. The voltage integrator circuit performs temperature compensation through the adjustment in resistance value of a single resistive element in response to a received control signal. The control signal correlates with a detected temperature value and causes the resistive element to adjust its resistance value in a manner that maintains the transfer function of the voltage integrator circuit under varying temperatures. The filter circuit comprises one or more of the voltage integrator circuits and maintains its transfer function under varying temperatures.
US08482330B2
A low cost, low power and low noise temperature sensor circuit is disclosed. A control circuit asserts a start signal and a stop signal, causes a pulse generating circuit to generate a finite number of pulses, whose pulse frequency varies with temperature. A counter counts the finite number of pulses and outputs the count which can be used to represents the temperature. Further, the pulse generating circuit includes a delay circuit, a pulse width controlling circuit, and a synchronizer with asynchronous clear.
US08482317B2
A comparator (10) includes a first input transistor (M0) having a drain coupled to a gate and drain of a first diode-connected transistor (M2) and a gate of a first current mirror output transistor (M4), and a second input transistor (M1) having a drain coupled to a gate and drain of a second diode-connected transistor (M3) and a gate of a second current mirror output transistor (M5). Sources of the first and second current mirror output transistors are connected to a supply voltage (VDD). Gates of the first and second input transistors are coupled to first (VIN−) and second (VIN+) input signals, respectively. Sources of the first and second diode-connected transistors are coupled to drains of the first and second current mirror output transistors, respectively. A latch circuit (M8,M9) is coupled to the drains of the first and second current mirror output transistors.
US08482316B1
Circuits, methods, and systems are presented for managing current leakage in an electronic circuit. One circuit includes a keeper circuit, and a controller. The keeper circuit supplies current to a leaker circuit, which is experiencing current leakage, to compensate for the current leakage. Further, the controller provides to the keeper circuit a control signal that is based on the current leakage. The control signal has a cycle equal to the cycle of a clock signal, and the control signal is a pulse having a first value during a first period, and a second value during a second period of the pulse. The keeper circuit provides a current to the leaker circuit during the first period and the keeper circuit withholds the current to the leaker circuit during the second period, where the durations of the first period and the second period are based on the current leakage.
US08482314B2
A multiplexing circuit includes first and second tri-state inverters coupled to first and second data input nodes, respectively. The first and second tri-state inverters include first and second stacks of transistors, respectively, coupled between power supply and ground nodes. Each stack includes first and second PMOS transistors and first and second NMOS transistors. The first and second stacks include first and second dummy transistors, respectively.
US08482305B2
A component carrier has formed therein a water sensor, having a first patterned conductor piece formed in a metal layer of the component carrier and a bridge being an amount of water-soluble conductive glue filling an electrically insulating gap between the patterned conductor piece and another conductor in the carrier. This forms a conductive path between the patterned conductor piece and the another conductor. A sensing circuit is coupled to detect changes in impedance of the path. In another embodiment, a discrete component has a pair of terminals with a bridge being an amount of water-soluble conductive glue filling the electrically insulating gap between the terminals to form a conductive path whose impedance changes in response to coming into contact with a sufficient amount of water. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.
US08482302B2
A device is provided for measuring the clearance between a member and a surface over and relative to which the member moves. The device has a first reference element, and a second reference element which faces the first reference element, and is movable to alter the distance to the first reference element. The device further has a fastening system for fastening the device to the member so that, during the relative motion, the first reference element is held in a fixed position relative to the member and the second reference element slides over the surface. The device further has an urging arrangement which urges the second reference element into contact with the surface so that, as the second reference element slides over the surface and the clearance between the member and the surface varies, the second reference element moves relative to the first reference element. The device further has a sensor which measures the distance between the first and second reference elements.
US08482300B2
A system for providing electromagnetic imaging through magnetoquasistatic sensing contains an electromagnetic sensor for imaging a sample. The electromagnetic sensor contains drive/sense electronics and a pixelated sensor array having an array of inductive loops that source magnetic fields that interact with the sample, wherein the inductive loops are individually drivable by the drive/sense electronics in a coordinated manner to establish a desired temporal and spatial pattern in which electrical properties of the inductive loops are used to generate an image. Other components of the system include a precision motion controller, sensor head and associated electronics, and a computer for performing data acquisition and signal inversion.
US08482297B2
A system for testing a DC power supply performance includes a comparison module, a judge module, and an alarm module. The comparison module receives DC voltage signals from the DC power supply, compares the DC voltage signals with a reference voltage respectively, and outputs a voltage level signal when the DC power supply is normal. The judge module receives the voltage level signal, and outputs a control signal according to the voltage level signal. The alarm module receives the control signal, and indicates status of the DC power supply according to the control signal.
US08482296B2
An apparatus for ascertaining and monitoring fill level of a medium in a container by means of a travel-time measuring method utilizing high-frequency measuring signals. An antenna having an antenna coupling region and an antenna region, or a waveguide having a probe coupling region and a probe measuring region extending into the container is included. Hollow spaces present in the antenna coupling region, in the antenna region, in the probe coupling region and/or in the probe measuring region are filled at least partially with a dielectric filling body. The dielectric filling body has internally at least one, hermetically sealed, reserved volume and the hermetically sealed, reserved volume is so embodied, that the dielectric filling body has a predetermined wave resistance and/or the high-frequency measuring signals have a predetermined propagation characteristic.
US08482292B2
A status detecting device that includes a first contact member, a second contact member, an applying component, a grounding component, a detecting component, and an executing component is provided. The applying component applies a predetermined voltage to the first contact member. The grounding component grounds the second contact member. The detecting component detects at least one of a potential between the applying component and the first contact member, or a potential between the second contact member and the grounding component. The executing component executes predetermined processing, based on a detection result from the detecting component.
US08482285B2
The phase background of a proton resonance frequency shift treatment image may be estimated by fitting a combination of baseline images to the treatment image.
US08482283B2
In a method and magnetic resonance system to determine the strength of a magnetic interference field that is caused by an interference object in a magnetic resonance image data acquisition, the interference object having a magnetic susceptibility that differs from the magnetic susceptibility of the material that surrounds the interference object image data acquired with the imaging magnetic resonance measurement that depict an examination subject that contains the interference object are made available in a form that allows the determination of at least one geometric variable of an image artifact in the image data that was caused by the magnetic interference field. The strength of the magnetic interference field that is caused by the interference object is then determined on the basis of the determined geometric variable of the image artifact.
US08482277B2
A surge current detection device 30 is detachably attached to a conductor 11 and detects a surge current entering the conductor 11. The surge current detection device 30 includes: a holder 40 releasably holding the conductor 11 via first and second holder bodies 40-1 and 40-2 facing each other; a magnetic force concentrating member 60 having a substantially U-shaped cross-section, the magnetic force concentrating member 60 being secured inside the holder 40 and concentrating a magnetic flux included in a magnetic field generated by the surge current entering the magnetic flux conductor 11 to a high density at a predetermined detection region; and a magnetic material sheet 70 secured inside the holder 40 in such a manner that the magnetic material sheet 70 is positioned at the detection region, the magnetic material sheet 70 detecting the surge current.
US08482274B2
Apparatus and methods for detecting stray voltage anomalies in electric fields are provided herein. In some embodiments, an apparatus for detecting an electrical field may comprise: at least one sensor probe for generating data corresponding to an electrical field detected by the at least one sensor probe, wherein the at least one sensor probe comprises at least one electrode; a processor, coupled to the at least one sensor probe, for analyzing the data to identify a voltage anomaly in the electric field; and an indicator, coupled to the processor, for alerting a user to a presence of the voltage anomaly in the electric field.
US08482266B2
Apparatus for voltage regulation circuits and related operating methods are provided. An exemplary voltage regulation circuit includes a voltage regulation arrangement that provides a regulated output voltage based on an input voltage reference, a phase compensation arrangement coupled to the voltage regulation arrangement and configured to increase a phase margin of the voltage regulation arrangement, and detection circuitry coupled to the phase compensation arrangement. The detection circuitry is configured to disable the phase compensation arrangement in response to detecting an output current that is less than a threshold value.
US08482265B2
A current balance circuit includes a first branch and a second branch in parallel between a power supply unit and at least one load, which respectively include a switch. The current balance circuit detects and compares currents flowing through the first branch and the second branch. The current balance circuit also generates triangle waves and reversed triangle waves, compares voltage of a control pole of a first switch with the triangle waves, and compares voltage of the control pole of a second switch with the reversed triangle waves. Then the current balance circuit controls if the triangle waves and the reversed triangle waves are input to the first switch and the second switch according to the currents flowing through the first branch and the second branch to adjust impedance of the first switch and the second switch to balance the currents flowing through the first branch and the second branch.
US08482264B2
This invention proposes a novel charging method for improving the efficiency of charging a super capacitor. The method comprises the steps of: charging the super capacitor with a first current; measuring a voltage of the super capacitor; stopping the supply of the first current when the measured voltage reaches a pre-defined voltage value; monitoring a voltage variation of the super capacitor; charging the super capacitor with a second current when the monitored voltage variation exceeds a pre-defined threshold within a pre-defined period. By using said two-phase charging, especially when using two different charging currents, it is easier to improve the charging efficiency without degrading the charging speed.
US08482246B2
A customized awning, window covering or other shading device that includes customized photovoltaic modules, panels or other photovoltaic-type devices and capabilities. The awning includes a cost-effective, energy-efficient means of providing solar power to run low-voltage devices at a desired interior or exterior location, while also maintaining or enhancing the aesthetic appearance or physical attributes of the shading device.
US08482245B2
A power conversion device in which an inverter for controlling a load is connected to an alternating current power system, and arranged to perform an electric power assist by connecting a direct-current power assist device having a chopper and a charge device to a direct-current circuit of the inverter. The device including a setting section to set charge and discharge target values in accordance with a sensed value of the direct-current voltage of the inverter; a charge control section to perform a charge control based on the charge target value; a discharge control section to perform a discharge control based on the discharge target value; and an instantaneous-low high-speed-compensation section to estimate an electric power corresponding to a direct-current sensed voltage of the inverter, and to output a value to the discharge control section which is obtained by dividing the estimated value by the direct-current sensed voltage.
US08482241B2
A method and apparatus for driving a stepper motor and using the stepper motor as a rotary sensor when the stepper motor is not being driven.
US08482237B2
A vehicle includes a power source, a motor, and a computing device. The power source provides electrical energy to the motor, and the motor generates rotational motion from the electrical energy received. The computing device is configured to estimate a temperature of the motor in real time based at least in part on a thermal model of the motor. The thermal model includes a plurality of nodes and at least one thermal resistance. Each node represents a region of the motor and each thermal resistance represents a heat transfer path between at least two of the nodes. A method includes solving one or more energy balance equations to determine a temperature change at each node and estimating the temperature of the motor in real time based at least in part on the temperature change at each node and at least one of the thermal resistances in the thermal model.
US08482234B2
A motor drive control device includes a battery, a converter, an inverter, and a control section for outputting control signals to the converter and the inverter. The control section has a first map and a second map regarding control of the alternating-current motor and further includes a map switching section for switching from control based on the first map to control based on the second map in accordance with conditions of the battery.
US08482231B2
A pulse width modulation (PWM) module is configured to adjust the input PWM control signal and the motor can be implemented in different rotation speed to enhance the flexibility of the implementation of the motor when the PWM control signals are the same. In addition, the PWM modulation block in the present invention includes a PWM direction control circuit, a PWM vector transfer circuit and a PWM signal generation circuit. Apparently, the PWM modulation block of the present invention is connected to a PWM control signal inputted by an external system and an external adjustment apparatus; by setting up the adjustment apparatus, the vector and the modulation direction of the PWM control signal can be adjusted, and the duty cycle of the PWM control signal can also be adjusted.
US08482214B2
This invention is concerned with the control and design of a LED lighting system that does not need electrolytic capacitors in the entire system and can generate light output with reduced luminous flux fluctuation. The proposal is particularly suitable, but not restricted to, off-line applications in which the lighting system is powered by the ac mains. By eliminating electrolytic capacitors which have a limited lifetime of typically 15000 hours, the proposed system can be developed with passive and robust electrical components such as inductor and diode circuits, and it features long lifetime, low maintenance cost, robustness against extreme temperature variations and good power factor. No extra electronic control board is needed for the proposed passive circuits, which can become dimmable systems if the ac input voltage can be adjusted by external means.
US08482210B2
A luminance adjusting circuit includes an LED module, a switch module and a processing unit. A table equating luminance levels and average current values is pre-stored. The processing unit includes a judging and executing module and a signal generating module. The judging and executing module achieves a desired luminance level according to trigger signals generated by a button. The signal generating module produces timing signals to turn on and turn off the switch module periodically, thereby achieving an average current value to adjust the luminance level of the LED module to the desired level.
US08482209B2
A portable electronic device, such as a flashlight, with a circuit for reducing the initial surge of current that is sent through the lamp filament when a flashlight is turned on is provided. The circuit reduces the stresses placed on the lamp bulb when it is turned on, thereby extending the life expectancy of the lamp bulb. A flashlight with beacon mode that produces light according to a duty cycle of less than 11% is also disclosed.
US08482206B2
A new device based on very short pulsed discharges, generating plasmas balls and plumes over very long distances (up to several meters). These plasma balls travel in a dielectric guide at the end of which there is generation of an apparent plasma plume like zone, with a shape and intensity dependent on the discharge repetition rate. A secondary mixture plasma can be produced close to a given surface by adding other gas fluxes in the main gas stream. The plasma balls can be generated in gases at a repetition rate in the range from single shot to multi-kilohertz.
US08482200B2
A forming method of a protective film made of oxide containing any one of calcium oxide (CaO), strontium oxide (SrO) and barium oxide (BaO) and having a higher band gap than that of magnesium oxide (MgO) (higher than 7.9 eV) is provided. By adjusting a time constant of a protective film to a predetermined value or larger, the voltage drop time is adjusted so as to be usable for a plasma display panel. At this time, the time constant τ(=C×R) defined by the discharge capacitance C and the protective film resistance R is referenced.
US08482195B2
Provided is a display apparatus that uses a sealing configuration with a protective layer and in which the luminous efficiency of an organic electroluminescent element that emits blue light is improved. A display apparatus includes a plurality of organic electroluminescent elements (11, 12, 13), a protective layer 6, and an optical adjustment layer 5 including a first optical adjustment layer and a second optical adjustment layer.
US08482194B2
A display apparatus includes a light emitting device emitting red light, a light emitting device emitting green light, and a light emitting device emitting blue light. The display apparatus includes a circular polarizer provided on the light extraction side of the light emitting devices. Each light emitting device includes a periodic structure for extracting light from the light extraction side of the light emitting device, the light being generated in a light emitting layer and guided in the in-plane direction of a substrate. Each period of the periodic structure of the light emitting devices is identical, and the period of the periodic structure is more than 200 nm and 380 nm or less.
US08482192B2
A luminescent material which is featured in that it exhibits an emission peak at a wavelength ranging from 490 to 580 nm as it is excited by light having a wavelength ranging from 250 to 500 nm and that it has a composition represented by the following general formula (2): (M1-xRx)a2AlSib2Oc2Nd2 (2) (In the general formula (2), M is at least one metallic element excluding Si and Al, R is a luminescence center element, and x, a2, b2, c2 and d2 satisfy the following relationships: 0
US08482187B2
A spark plug which exhibits high dielectric strength at high temperature and which is unlikely to be deteriorated in dielectric strength is provided. The spark plug includes a center electrode, an insulator, and a metallic shell. The insulator includes an alumina-based sintered body which contains a silicon component, a Group II element component, and a rare earth element component. The alumina-based sintered body is composed of a glass phase and an alumina crystal phase as observed through X-ray diffraction analysis. When the grain boundary phase of the alumina-based sintered body is observed under a transmission electron microscope, and the weight ratio between an alkali metal component and the rare earth element component as reduced to oxides thereof [alkali metal/rare earth element] is calculated at 30 circular spots, each having a diameter of 0.3 nm, selected arbitrarily in a field of observation, the average of the weight ratios of the 30 spots falls within a range of 0.01 to 1.0.
US08482185B2
The invention relates to an ultrasonic actuator, preferably for use in an ultrasonic motor, in the form of a piezoelectric plate with a length L, height H and thickness t, wherein the piezoelectric plate has a lateral plane of symmetry Sq, a longitudinal plane of symmetry Sl and at least two main surfaces, and the piezoelectric plate comprises at least two generators symmetrically disposed with respect to plane of symmetry Sq for generating ultrasonic standing waves. According to the invention, the piezoelectric plate has a shape that includes at least eight lateral surfaces, wherein at least two of the lateral surfaces are working surfaces for contacting of elements to be driven, and at least two of the lateral surfaces are holding surfaces for holding the piezoelectric plate, and the remaining lateral surfaces are free surfaces, wherein at least four free surfaces are arranged at an identical angle α with respect to the longitudinal plane of symmetry Sl and/or at an identical angle φ with respect to the lateral plane of symmetry Sq.
US08482184B2
A plate wave element includes a piezoelectric body, a comb-shaped electrode disposed on an upper surface of the piezoelectric body, and a medium layer disposed on the upper surface of the piezoelectric body so as to cover the comb-shaped electrode. The comb-shaped electrode excites a Lamb wave as a main wave. The medium layer has a frequency temperature characteristic opposite to that of the piezoelectric body. The plate wave element has a preferable frequency temperature characteristic.
US08482168B2
The invention provides systems and methods for cooling and lubrication of high power density electric machines with an enhanced fluid injection system. Multiple fluid flow passages may be provided within the electric machine, which may include a stator fluid flow pathway between the stator and the machine housing. The stator fluid flow pathway may comprise one or more passages which may allow a fluid to directly contact the stator and the rotor. A method for cooling the electric machine may include directing a fluid to flow through one or more passages between the stator and the housing, which may provide the opportunity to transfer heat from the stator and the rotor to the fluid, thereby cooling the stator and the rotor.
US08482163B2
A DC to AC inverter used in a solar cell power system can include an improved structure for cooling itself and increasing power output.
US08482157B2
A wireless powering and charging system is described. The antennas can be high q loop antennas. The antennas can use coupling between a first part and a second part.
US08482150B2
The inventive technology described herein generally relates to the field of power generation. More specifically, methods and apparatus for a power generation coupler utilizing perhaps multiple generators coupled through a power generation coupler to at least one rotational movement element such that said coupled connection is dynamically movable across the surface the rotational movement element so as to maintain an electrical output at a constant generator rotation(s) per minute (RPM) according to the varying rotational velocity along the radius of a rotational movement element. In some embodiments such coupled generators may be sequentially loaded and disengaged to such rotational movement element to maintain an electrical output at a constant generator RPM. Certain embodiments may include a static power generation coupler as well as an electrically dynamic power generation coupler such that the current applied to the stator of a generator may dynamically alter that generators resistance.
US08482144B2
A wind turbine generator includes: a rotor including a vertical shaft and blades radially extending from the shaft, the rotor is characterized by a breakaway torque that is greater than the torque required to maintain rotation; a generator operationally coupled to the rotor shaft; a rotatable airfoil shaped housing enclosing at least a portion of the rotor blades and exposing at least a portion of the rotor blades; a motor mechanism operatively coupled to the rotor shaft; sensors adapted to determine wind speed; a processor operatively coupled to the sensors and the motor mechanism, wherein, in reaction to input received from the sensors, the processor provides a control signal to the motor mechanism to assist the rotation of the rotor shaft when the wind speed is below the speed needed to induce breakaway torque and above the threshold required to rotate the rotor once the initial resistance is overcome.
US08482141B2
A flow energy installation, in particular a wind power installation, having a housing which has a droplet-shaped cross section and can be adjusted about its vertical axis aligned with the flow direction, in particular the wind direction, wherein the housing has an inlet opening on the front face to an inner flow channel, which leads to at least one outlet opening which is arranged in particular at the side on the housing, and at least one axial incident-flow propeller is arranged in the flow channel, wherein the flow channel has boundary surfaces which run in a convex shape, in its inlet area adjacent to the inlet opening.
US08482140B2
A starter control system is disclosed. In one example, the starter control system may be activated via predetermined control logic or via an operator action that is not subject to the predetermined control logic.
US08482127B2
A new method is provided for the creation of interconnect lines. Fine line interconnects are provided in a first layer of dielectric overlying semiconductor circuits that have been created in or on the surface of a substrate. A layer of passivation is deposited over the layer of dielectric, a thick second layer of dielectric is created over the surface of the layer of passivation. Thick and wide interconnect lines are created in the thick second layer of dielectric. The first layer of dielectric may also be eliminated, creating the wide thick interconnect network on the surface of the layer of passivation that has been deposited over the surface of a substrate.
US08482126B2
According to an embodiment of the present invention, a device includes a substrate, a base body formed on or above the substrate, and a pair of wirings. The base body has a line shape in a plan view and extends along a length direction. The pair of wirings includes first and second catalyst layers formed on both side surfaces of the base body in the length direction of the base body with sandwiching the base body; and first and second graphene layers formed on both side surfaces of the base body in a manner of contacting the first and second catalyst layers, respectively, and extending along the length direction of the base body, the graphene layers includes a plurality of graphenes laminated perpendicularly with respect to both side surfaces of the base body, respectively.
US08482112B1
A semiconductor package is provided and methods for bonding wires in the semiconductor package. In one implementation, the semiconductor package includes a lead frame including a first die pad and a second die pad; each die pad is supported by one or more supports and isolated from another; at least first and second dice, a first die being disposed on the first die pad and a second die being disposed on the second die pad; wire bonds in communication with the first and second dice; and an encapsulant adapted to encapsulate the die pads, the dice, the lead frame and the wire bonds.
US08482103B2
A nitride semiconductor template including a substrate, a mask layer, a first nitride semiconductor layer and a second nitride semiconductor is provided. The substrate has a plurality of trenches, each of the trenches has a bottom surface, a first inclined sidewall and a second inclined sidewall. The mask layer covers the second inclined sidewall and exposes the first inclined sidewall. The first nitride semiconductor layer is disposed over the substrate and the mask layer. The first nitride semiconductor layer fills the trenches and in contact with the first inclined sidewall. The first nitride semiconductor layer has voids located outside the trenches and parts of the mask layer are exposed by the voids. The first nitride semiconductor layer has a plurality of nano-rods. The second nitride semiconductor layer covers the nano-rods. The spaces between the nano-rods are not entirely filled by the second nitride semiconductor layer.
US08482096B2
A method for manufacturing a semiconductor photodetector includes: forming an insulating film on a semiconductor substrate; forming an electrode on and in contact with a predetermined area of a surface of the semiconductor substrate; forming a resist on the insulating film after forming the electrode; forming a power supply layer of a metal on the resist and the electrode; plating a surface of a portion of the power supply layer with a metal coating, after forming the power supply layer, the portion overlying and being in contact with the electrode; after the plating, etching and removing a part of the power supply layer leaving a portion that is covered with the metal coating and is an extension of the electrode; and removing the resist after etching the power supply layer.
US08482086B2
A plurality of three-dimensional structure configuring devices, each including an elastic body in which micro three-dimensional structure elements fixed to a substrate member are placed so as to be covered therewith and which is fixed to the substrate member, are placed within a film-like elastic body with the substrate members thereof spaced apart from one another so as to configure a three-dimensional structure. Thereby, the plurality of three-dimensional structure configuring devices can be placed with desired intervals of arrangement and in desired positions within the film-like elastic body and so that various specifications can be addressed.
US08482085B2
Power MOS device of the type comprising a plurality of elementary power MOS transistors having respective gate structures and comprising a gate oxide with double thickness having a thick central part and lateral portions of reduced thickness. Such device exhibiting gate structures comprising first gate conductive portions overlapped onto said lateral portions of reduced thickness to define, for the elementary MOS transistors, the gate electrodes, as well as a conductive structure or mesh. Such conductive structure comprising a plurality of second conductive portions overlapped onto the thick central part of gate oxide and interconnected to each other and to the first gate conductive portions by means of a plurality of conducive bridges.
US08482081B2
A high-performance semiconductor apparatus which can be easily introduced into the MOS process, reduces the leakage current (electric field strength) between the emitter and the base, and is insusceptible to noise or surge voltage, and a manufacturing method of the semiconductor apparatus. The emitter 111 is formed by performing the ion implantation twice by using the conductive film (109) as a mask. The second emitter area (111b) is formed by ion implantation of a low impurity density impurity ion, and the first emitter area (111a) is formed by ion implantation of a high impurity density impurity ion. As a result, the low impurity density second emitter area is formed in the circumference of the emitter 111, which lowers the electric field strength, and reduces the leakage current. Also the conductive film is connected with the emitter electrode (116), which makes the apparatus insusceptible to noise.
US08482077B2
A semiconductor device includes a substrate including a first region and a second region each having an n-type region and a p-type region, wherein the n-type region in the first region includes a silicon channel, the p-type region in the first region includes a silicon germanium channel, and the n-type region and the p-type region in the second region respectively include a silicon channel. A first gate insulating pattern formed of a thermal oxide layer is disposed on the substrate of the n-type and p-type regions in the second region.
US08482076B2
A method forms an integrated circuit structure. The method patterns a protective layer over a first-type field effect transistor and removes a stress liner from above a second-type field effect transistors. Then, the method removes a first-type silicide layer from source and drain regions of the second-type field effect transistor, but leaves at least a portion of the first-type silicide layer on the gate conductor of the second-type field effect transistor. The method forms a second-type silicide layer on the gate conductor and the source and drain regions of the second-type field effect transistor. The second-type silicide layer that is formed is different than the first-type silicide layer. For example, the first-type silicide layer and the second-type silicide layer can comprise different materials, different thicknesses, different crystal orientations, and/or different chemical phases, etc.
US08482072B2
A semiconductor die is described. This semiconductor die includes an electro-static discharge (ESD) device with a metal component coupled to an input-output (I/O) pad, and coupled to a ground voltage via a signal line. Moreover, adjacent edges of the metal component and the I/O pad are separated by a spacing that defines an ESD gap. When a field-emission or ionization current flows across the ESD gap, the metal component provides a discharge path to the ground voltage for transient ESD signals. Furthermore, the ESD gap is at least partially enclosed so that there is gas in the ESD gap.
US08482071B2
An ESD protection device includes an MOS transistor with a source region, drain region and gate region. A node designated for ESD protection is electrically coupled to the drain. A diode is coupled between the gate and source, wherein the diode would be reverse biased if the MOS transistor were in the active operating region.
US08482061B2
A semiconductor device according to the invention includes p-type well region 3 and n+ source region 4, both formed selectively in the surface portion of n− drift region 2; trench 6 in contact with n+ source region 4 and extending through p-type well region 3 into n− drift region 2; field plate 8 formed in trench 6 with first insulator film 7 interposed between the trench 6 inner surface and field plate 8; gate electrode 10 formed in trench 6 with second insulator film 9 interposed between the trench 6 side wall and gate electrode 10, gate electrode 10 being formed above field plate 8; first insulator film 7 being thicker than second insulator film 9; and n−− lightly doped region 21 in n− drift region 2, n−− lightly doped region 21 crossing under the bottom surface of trench 6 from the corner portion thereof, n−− lightly doped region 21 covering the bottom surface of trench 6. The semiconductor device according to the invention and the method of manufacturing the semiconductor device according to the invention facilitate lowering the ON-state voltage, preventing the breakdown voltage from lowering, lowering the gate capacitance, and reducing the manufacturing costs.
US08482060B2
According to one embodiment, a semiconductor device includes a drift region of a first conductivity type, a base region of a second conductivity type, a source region of the first conductivity type, a gate electrode in a trench shape, a contact region of the second conductivity type, a drain electrode, and a source electrode. The drift region is selectively provided in a drain layer of the first conductivity type from a surface of the drain layer to an inside of the drain layer. The base region is selectively provided in the drift region from a surface of the drift region to an inside of the drift region. The source region is selectively provided in the base region from a surface of the base region to an inside of the base region. The gate electrode penetrates from a part of the source region through the base region adjacent to the part of the source region to reach a part of the drift region in a direction substantially parallel to a major surface of the drain layer. The contact region is selectively provided on the surface of the drift region. The contact region contains an impurity having a concentration higher than an impurity concentration of the base region. The drain electrode is connected to the drain layer. The source electrode is connected to the source region and the contact region. The contact region extends from a side of the drain layer toward the drift region and does not contact the drain layer.
US08482052B2
Thin film transistor memory cells are stackable, and employ bandgap engineered tunneling layers in a junction free, NAND configuration, that can be arranged in 3D arrays. The memory cells have a channel region in a semiconductor strip formed on an insulating layer, a tunnel dielectric structure disposed above the channel region, the tunnel dielectric structure having a multilayer structure including at least one layer having a hole-tunneling barrier height lower than that at the interface with the channel region, a charge storage layer disposed above the tunnel dielectric structure, an insulating layer disposed above the charge storage layer, and a gate electrode disposed above the insulating layer.
US08482044B2
An aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided semiconductor memory device including a ferroelectric capacitor and a field effect transistor as a memory cell, the ferroelectric capacitor including a lower electrode connected to one of the pair of the impurity diffusion layers, a bit line formed below the lower electrode, wherein each of the memory cells shares the bit line contact with an adjacent memory cell at one side in the first direction to connect to the bit line, and three of the word lines are formed between the bit line contacts in the first direction.
US08482035B2
According to one embodiment, a III-nitride transistor includes a conduction channel formed between first and second III-nitride bodies, the conduction channel including a two-dimensional electron gas. The transistor also includes at least one gate dielectric layer having a charge confined within to cause an interrupted region of the conduction channel and a gate electrode operable to restore the interrupted region of the conduction channel. The transistor can be an enhancement mode transistor. In one embodiment, the gate dielectric layer is a silicon nitride layer. In another embodiment, the at least one gate dielectric layer is a silicon oxide layer. The charge can be ion implanted into the at least one gate dielectric layer. The at least one gate dielectric layer can also be grown with the charge.
US08482034B2
A light emitting device including a light emitting structure having a first conductive semiconductor layer, an active layer and a second conductive semiconductor layer; a first electrode on the light emitting structure; and a photon escape layer on the light emitting structure. Further, the photon escape layer has a refractive index that is between a refractive index of the light emitting structure and a refractive index of an encapsulating material with respect to the light emitting structure such that an escape probability for photons emitted by the light emitting structure is increased.
US08482031B2
This invention generally relates to lateral insulated gate bipolar transistors (LIGBTs), for example in integrated circuits, methods of increasing switching speed of an LIGBT, a method of suppressing parasitic thyristor latch-up in a bulk silicon LIGBT, and methods of fabricating an LIGBT. In particular, a method of suppressing parasitic thyristor latch-up in a bulk silicon LIGBT comprises selecting a current gain αv for a vertical transistor of a parasitic thyristor of the LIGBT such that in at least one predetermined mode of operation of the LIGBT αv<1−αp where αp is a current gain of a parasitic bipolar transistor having a base-emitter junction formed by a Schottky contact between the a semiconductor surface and a metal enriched epoxy die attach.
US08482030B2
A trench gate IGBT designed to reduce on-state voltage while maintaining the withstand voltage, including a first drift layer formed on a first main surface of a buffer layer, a second drift layer of the first conductivity type formed on said first drift layer, a base layer of a second conductivity type formed on the second drift layer, an emitter layer of the first conductivity type selectively formed in the surface of the base layer, and a gate electrode buried from the surface of the emitter layer through into the second drift layer with a gate insulating film therebetween, wherein said first drift layer has a structure in which a first layer of the first conductivity type and a second layer of the second conductivity type are repeated in a horizontal direction.
US08482025B2
An optoelectronic semi-conductor component includes a first carrier having a top side and an underside laying opposite the top side of the first carrier, wherein the first carrier has a first and a second region; at least one optoelectronic semiconductor chip arranged at the top side on the first carrier; and at least one electronic component arranged in the second region at the underside of the first carrier, wherein the first region has a greater thickness in a vertical direction than the second region, wherein, at the underside, the first region projects beyond the second region in a vertical direction, and the at least one electronic component is electrically conductively connected to the at least one optoelectronic semi-conductor chip.
US08482024B2
A light emitting device includes a light emitting layer made of semiconductor; an upper electrode including a bonding electrode capable of connecting a wire thereto and a thin-wire electrode surrounding the bonding electrode with a spacing and including a junction with the bonding electrode, and a current diffusion layer provided between the light emitting layer and the upper electrode and made of semiconductor, the current diffusion layer including a recess that is formed in a non-forming region of the upper electrode and capable of emitting light emitted from the light emitting layer.
US08482021B2
A light emitting device, a light emitting device package, and a lighting system are provided. The light emitting device includes: a second conductive semiconductor layer; an active layer over the second conductive semiconductor layer; a first conductive semiconductor layer over the active layer; and a second electrode layer including a reflective layer under the second conductive semiconductor layer. The active layer includes a second active layer that actually emits light on the reflective layer and a first active layer that does not emit light on the second active layer. A distance between the reflective layer and the second active layer satisfies a constructive interference condition.
US08482010B2
An EL display panel includes an organic EL device and a thin film semiconductor unit. The organic EL device includes a lower electrode, an organic light-emitting layer, and an upper electrode. The thin film semiconductor unit includes a first gate electrode, a gate insulating film, a first source electrode, a second drain electrode formed in a same layer as the first source electrode, a first power supply line formed in a same layer as the second drain electrode, and a first interlayer insulating film formed on the first source electrode and the second drain electrode. A gate line connected to the first gate electrode, a second power supply line formed in a same layer as the gate line and connected to the first power supply line, and an auxiliary line formed in a same layer as the second power supply line and connected to the upper electrode are included.
US08482008B2
A thin film transistor having a crystalline silicon film that is formed over an insulating substrate with a gate electrode and a gate insulating film in between, and has a channel region in a region corresponding to the gate electrode; an insulating channel protective film that is selectively formed in a region corresponding to the channel region on the crystalline silicon film; an n+ silicon film having a source region and a drain region that sandwich a region corresponding to the channel region on the channel protective film and the crystalline silicon film; and a metal film having a source electrode and a drain electrode that respectively correspond to the source region and the drain region.
US08482007B2
It is an object to provide a light-emitting device including a thin film transistor with high electric characteristics and high reliability, and a method for manufacturing the light-emitting device with high productivity. As for a light-emitting device including an inverted staggered thin film transistor of a channel stop type, the inverted staggered thin film transistor includes a gate electrode, a gate insulating film over the gate electrode, a microcrystalline semiconductor film including a channel formation region over the gate insulating film, a buffer layer over the microcrystalline semiconductor film, a channel protective layer which is provided over the buffer layer so as to overlap with the channel formation region of the microcrystalline semiconductor film, a source region and a drain region over the channel protective layer and the buffer layer, and a source electrode and a drain electrode over the source region and the drain region.
US08482000B2
In one example embodiment, a molecular element is configured by bridging a gap between a source electrode and a drain electrode by a functional molecule. The functional molecule arises from covalent linkage of a side chain composed of a pendant molecule that has dielectric constant anisotropy and/or dipole moments and in which orientation change occurs due to an electric field to a main chain composed of a conjugated molecule in which structural change occurs due to the orientation change of the pendant molecule and an electrical characteristic changes. The molecular element is made to work as a diode, a transistor, or a memory by an electric field applied to the pendant molecule of the functional molecule by gate electrodes.
US08481998B2
A display device and a manufacturing method thereof are provided. The display device includes a substrate, a semiconductor layer formed on the substrate, an organic insulating layer formed on the semiconductor layer, a plurality of conductive wires formed on the organic insulating layer. The organic insulating layer has an open groove that is formed between the conductive wires.
US08481997B2
An organic light emitting display device including: a substrate; an organic light emitting device on the substrate to display an image; a sealing member on the organic light emitting device; a phase delay layer disposed on the substrate, the organic light emitting device, or the sealing member; a linear polarization layer disposed on the substrate, the organic light emitting device, the sealing member, or the phase delay layer and is located closer to a display surface of the organic light emitting display where the image is displayed than the organic light emitting device, the sealing member, and the phase delay layer are from the display surface; a multi-phase delay layer between the phase delay layer and the linear polarization layer; and a transmittance control layer disposed on the substrate, the organic light emitting device, the sealing member, the phase delay layer, the multi-phase delay layer, or the linear polarization layer.
US08481996B2
The present invention relates to a photodiode, comprising a photo-active layer which layer comprises at least one electron donating material, and at least one fullerene derivative as an electron accepting material. The present invention further relates to a method for making such a photo diode, to a photo-active layer and to a fullerene derivative.
US08481995B2
An image display panel includes a gate electrode; a gate insulating film over the gate electrode; a source electrode, a drain electrode, and a first adhesive on the gate insulating film; an organic semiconductor layer on the source and drain electrodes including a space; an interlayer insulating film covering the gate insulating film, source electrode, organic semiconductor layer, and part of the drain electrode; a conductive layer on the interlayer insulating film; a second adhesive formed over the interlayer insulating film and conductive layer; an image display medium on the second adhesive; an inorganic film on the image display medium and first adhesive; and a second substrate on the inorganic film, where the first adhesive is arranged outside the second adhesive between the display medium and the conductive layer, and forms bonding between the inorganic film and the gate insulating film having a hydrophilic treatment formed on the first substrate.
US08481992B2
A flat panel display capable of preventing a chipping phenomenon of a pixel definition layer, and a method for making the same are disclosed. The flat panel display includes a thin film transistor formed on a substrate; a planarization layer formed on the thin film transistor; a first electrode layer formed on the planarization layer and electrically connected with the thin film transistor through the via hole formed in the planarization layer; a pixel definition layer formed on the planarization layer and in which an opening for at least partially exposing the first electrode layer is formed; an adhesive reinforcement layer formed at least between the planarization layer and the pixel definition layer on the top of the planarization layer; an emitting layer formed on the first electrode layer; and a second electrode layer formed on the emitting layer and the pixel definition layer. The flat panel display has an improved adhesive property between a pixel definition layer and an planarization layer, which prevents a chipping phenomenon of the pixel definition layer.
US08481988B2
According to one embodiment, a resistance change memory includes a first interconnect line extending in a first direction, a second interconnect line extending in a second direction intersecting with the first direction, and a cell unit which is provided between the first interconnect line and the second interconnect line and which includes a non-ohmic element and a memory element, the non-ohmic element including a conductive layer provided on at least one of first and second ends of the cell unit and a silicon portion provided between the first and second ends, the memory element being connected to the non-ohmic element via the conductive layer and storing data in accordance with a reversible change in a resistance state, wherein the non-ohmic element includes a first silicon germanium region in the silicon portion.
US08481987B2
Devices and methods for degrading contaminants that may foul a sensor. A photocatalyst associated with the sensor is capable of interacting with a light source to prevent contamination of the sensor and/or to facilitate decontamination of the sensor by contaminants such as, but not limited to, organic compounds, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), organometallic compounds, soot, organic matter, bacteria, algae, eggs of aquatic organisms, planktonic larvae, and the like.
US08481985B2
This specification relates to an improved method, process and apparatus for disinfecting and sterilizing all types of surfaces and indoor air and room air contaminated with microorganisms. The improved apparatus consists of a multi-wavelength narrow spectral width UV source that is more effective than mercury based 254 nm germicidal lamps for destroying the DNA and outer shell or membrane of virus, bacteria, spores and cists.
US08481966B1
A high pressure microplasma source operating in a normal glow discharge regime is used to produce a cold bright focused beam of Xe+ and/or Xe2+ ions having ion temperature of the order of 0.5-1 eV and a current density on the order of 0.1-1 A/cm2 or higher for focused ion beam applications.
US08481951B2
The invention is related to the field of charged Hadron Therapy, i.e. radiation therapy using strongly interacting particles. More particularly, the invention relates to a detector and method for measuring the beam range of a charged hadron beam in a target object as well as the particle dose distribution in the target object.
US08481945B2
An optical frequency converter includes a waveguide including a core made of a nonlinear optical medium having a refractive index n1,light in a wavelength region of light, and cladding disposed so as to cover the core and made of a material whose refractive index n2,light in the wavelength region of light is lower than the refractive index n1,light, and a coupling section made of a material whose refractive index n3,THz in a wavelength region of a terahertz wave is higher than the refractive index n1,light and disposed in contact with the cladding. The coupling section is configured to couple the waveguide with a space in the wavelength region of the terahertz wave. The coupling section covers the cladding.
US08481937B2
A photocathode apparatus is constructed by a transparent body adapted to receive incident light, and a metal cover layer formed on a surface of the transparent body. The incident light reaches an incident/reflective surface of the metal cover layer through the surface of the transparent body to excite surface plasmon resonance light in the incident/reflective surface of the metal cover layer, thus emitting photoelectrons from a photoelectric surface of the metal cover layer opposite to the incident/reflective surface thereof by the photoelectric effect of one of the surface plasmon resonance photons and its second harmonic generation wave.
US08481931B2
The present invention provides an electron spectroscopy apparatus (12) comprising a high energy particle source (12) for irradiating a sample, an electron detector system (16) (e.g. including a delay line detector) for detecting electrons emitted from the sample and an ion gun (8) for delivering a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) ion beam to the sample, wherein the ion gun comprises a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon ion source, for example comprising coronene. In an embodiment, the PAH is located in a heated chamber (22) and vaporised to produce gas phase PAH. The gas phase PAH molecules are then ionised by electron impact, extracted from the ion source via an extraction field and focussed using ion optics. The PAH ion beam can be used for surface cleaning and depth analysis.
US08481918B2
An image improvement system and method are disclosed that compensates for effects of optical scattering and pixel cross-talk on image quality in an imager employing a focal plane array. The method characterizes these effects on a test image, presents them as a set of stored numerical coefficients, and applies the coefficients during image processing.
US08481917B2
A system and a method for calibrating an ambient light sensor (ALS) are disclosed. The ALS, an adjustable resistor and a switch are located on a first surface of a printed circuit board (PCB), and the adjustable resistor and the switch are connected in series between an adjustable probe of the ALS and the ground. A resistor is connected between two pads located on a second surface of the PCB via two probes touching the pads. A controller connected to the PCB reads a light sensitivity of the ALS and calculates a calculated resistance value of the adjustable resistor by a formula “detected light sensitivity/resistance value of the resistor=objective light sensitivity/resistance value of the adjustable resistor”, wherein the objective light sensitivity and the resistance value of the resistor are given.
US08481911B2
A system and method for communicating between serially connected electrical devices of a network is provided. The network includes a series of electrical devices, and fiber optic connectors between electrical devices of the series of electrical devices forming a closed communication ring in which output of each electrical device is communicatively connected to input of a subsequent electrical device of the series of electrical devices.
US08481908B2
According to one embodiments, a transparent reference electrode is provided to be sandwiched between a red-detecting photoelectric conversion film and a green-detecting photoelectric conversion film, a first transparent driving electrode is provided to face the transparent reference electrode with the green-detecting photoelectric conversion film therebetween, a second transparent driving electrode is provided to face the transparent reference electrode with the red-detecting photoelectric conversion film therebetween, and a blue-detecting photoelectric conversion film is provided below the red-detecting photoelectric conversion film and performs blue detection.
US08481906B2
A tracking system is provided for a roof-mounted solar array. The system includes a sensor mechanism for sensing an orientation of the sun relative to the solar array, and a controller connected to the sensor mechanism that generates a signal that represents an optimal tilt angle of the solar array relative to the orientation of the sun. An actuator connected to the controller receives the signal from the controller and adjusts the tilt angle of the solar array in response to the received signal.
US08481905B2
A shadow band assembly includes a platform and an arcuate shadow arm extending upward from the platform and terminating in a free end above the platform. A sun sensor mounting location is located below the free end of the shadow arm. The arm is preferably further supported by a vertical strut. According to other embodiments, the arm is hollow and contains a fluid conduit and/or an electrical cable. A sun sensor may be mounted on top of the free end of the arm and a fluid nozzle may be mounted under the free end. A shadow band pyranometer includes the shadow band assembly, a sun sensor mounted at the mounting location and a motor drive coupled to the platform for azimuth tracking. Additional sensors with zenith tracking may also be provided.
US08481878B2
The present invention relates to devices that may be used in conjunction with one or more battery modules and related methods. More particularly, the present invention relates to a devices and related methods allowing one to manually disconnect high voltage and high current devices from a system. In one aspect, the present invention provides a mid pack break. The mid pack break is able to manually disconnect high voltage and high current devices from a system. The mid pack break includes a handle, a pin, a first sleeve, and a second sleeve. Force exerted on the handle causes the pin to insert into the first and second sleeves, thereby completing an electrical connection between the first and second sleeves.
US08481867B2
Compressible grounding pads with two conductor layers separated by a compressible foam layer comprise: (A) A first conductor layer, e.g., copper foil; (B) A first adhesive layer in direct contact with a part of the first conductor layer, the first conductor layer extending beyond the first adhesive layer; (C) A foam layer in direct contact with one facial side of the first adhesive layer; (D) A second adhesive layer in direct contact with the opposite facial side of foam layer; (E) A second conductor layer, e.g., copper foil, in direct contact with the second adhesive layer, the second conductor layer extending beyond the second adhesive layer such that the second conductor layer joins with the first conductor layer; (F) An electrically conductive third adhesive layer in direct contact with the facial surface opposite the facial surface that is in direct contact with the second conductor layer; and (G) An optional release liner in direct contact with the third adhesive layer.
US08481846B2
A dye-sensitized solar cell that includes a semiconductor layer, to which a photosensitive dye generating electrons is adhered; a photo electrode disposed on a side of the semiconductor layer so as to transfer electrons; and an auxiliary electrode disposed on the other side of the semiconductor layer so as to transfer the electrons, and at least one semiconductor layer and at least one auxiliary electrode are stacked alternatively. Thus, an amount of molecules of the photosensitive dye may be increased without increasing the moving distance of electrons, and the efficiency of the solar cell may be increased.
US08481845B2
A very thin photovoltaic cell is formed by implanting gas ions below the surface of a donor body such as a semiconductor wafer. Ion implantation defines a cleave plane, and a subsequent step exfoliates a thin lamina from the wafer at the cleave plane. A photovoltaic cell, or all or a portion of the base or emitter of a photovoltaic cell, is formed within the lamina. In preferred embodiments, the wafer is affixed to a receiver before the cleaving step. Electrical contact can be formed to both surfaces of the lamina, or to one surface only.
US08481843B2
A thermoelectric composition comprises a material represented by the general formula (AgaX1−a)1±x(SnbPb1−b)mM′1−yQ2+m wherein X is Na, K, or a combination of Na and K in any proportion; M′ is a trivalent element selected from the group consisting of Sb, Bi, lanthanide elements, and combinations thereof; Q is a chalcogenide element selected from the group consisting of S, Te, Se, and combinations thereof; a and b are independently >0 and ≦1; x and y are independently >0 and <1; and 2≦m≦30. The compositions exhibit a figure of merit ZT of up to about 1.4 or higher, and are useful as p-type semiconductors in thermoelectric devices.
US08481839B2
Disclosed herein are various systems and methods for audio and/or visual playback. A system can include a first data encoded according to a first file format, a second data encoded according to a second file format, and a file using the first and second data to enable synchronized audio and/or visual playback of the data on one or more receiving elements. In certain instances, at least a portion of the second data includes information relating to finger positions on a musical instrument.
US08481836B2
An invention is afforded for a dampening apparatus for a musical instrument. The dampening apparatus includes a plurality of dampening pads disposed on a base element. The dampening pads are spaced to allow a string of a stringed musical instrument to fit between two dampening pads. In addition, at least one dampening pad is configured to fit between two strings of the stringed musical instrument to allow for free string vibration. The base element and the plurality of dampening pads are configured to fit between the strings and a fretboard of the stringed musical instrument.
US08481826B1
The present invention provides an inbred corn line designated NPNA0001, methods for producing a corn plant by crossing plants of the inbred line NPNA0001 with plants of another corn plant. The invention further encompasses all parts of inbred corn line NPNA0001, including culturable cells. Additionally provided herein are methods for introducing transgenes into inbred corn line NPNA0001, and plants produced according to these methods.
US08481825B1
The present invention provides an inbred corn line designated NPFX6896, methods for producing a corn plant by crossing plants of the inbred line NPFX6896 with plants of another corn plant. The invention further encompasses all parts of inbred corn line NPFX6896, including culturable cells. Additionally provided herein are methods for introducing transgenes into inbred corn line NPFX6896, and plants produced according to these methods.
US08481822B1
A novel maize variety designated PH18DS and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH18DS with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH18DS through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH18DS or a locus conversion of PH18DS with another maize variety.
US08481820B1
A novel maize variety designated PHHJN and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PHHJN with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PHHJN through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PHHJN or a trait conversion of PHHJN with another maize variety. Inbred maize varieties derived from maize variety PHHJN, methods for producing other inbred maize varieties derived from maize variety PHHJN and the inbred maize varieties and their parts derived by the use of those methods.
US08481819B1
A novel maize variety designated PH12FT and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH12FT with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH12FT through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH12FT or a locus conversion of PH12FT with another maize variety.
US08481814B2
Isolated polynucleotides and polypeptides encoded thereby are described, together with the use of those products for making transgenic plants.
US08481803B2
A hemostatic device includes a flexible band adapted to be wrapped around a patient's limb at a site on the limb where bleeding is to be stopped, a portion for securing the band in a wrapped state to the limb, a curved plate which is made of a material more rigid than the band and at least a portion of which is curved toward the inner peripheral side thereof, a main balloon which is provided on the inner peripheral side of the curved plate and which inflates when a fluid is introduced therein, and a pressing member which is provided between the curved plate and the main balloon so that at least a portion thereof overlaps with the balloon and which is adapted for pressing against the balloon. The device provides an excellent hemostatic effect and prevents numbness and poor circulation in areas peripheral to the site of attachment.
US08481802B2
The present invention relates to stratiform biomatrices that are formed from regularly shaped, uniformly arranged portions which are connected to one another by continuous, straight-through perforations, and also to the use thereof as cosmetic or pharmaceutical agents, such as, in particular, as agents for wound treatment. The present invention further relates to a process for producing stratiform biomatrices of such a type, and also to the combination thereof in kit-of-parts arrangements.
US08481795B2
A process for aromatic transalkylation and olefin reduction of a feed stream is disclosed. Transalkylation conditions produce xylenes and reduced olefins in the feed. The process may be used in a xylene production facility to minimize or avoid the necessity of feedstock pretreatment such as hydrotreating, hydrogenation, or treating with clay and/or molecular sieves.
US08481792B2
To reduce acetal and/or ester concentrations when separating ethanol from a crude product in one or more distillation column, at least one of the columns is operated at a higher pressure to increase the equilibrium constant that favors hydrolysis of the acetal. The crude product may comprise ethanol, acetaldehyde, water, ethyl acetate and one or more acetals, such as diethyl acetal. The acetal and/or ester concentration may be reduced thus reducing the need to separate acetal and/or ester from the crude product.
US08481790B2
A method of preparing a catalyst for producing acrolein by oxidation of propylene at high space velocity, said catalyst is a Mo—Bi—Fe—Co based composite metal oxide. Producing unsaturated aldehyde via partial oxidation of lower unsaturated olefin at high space velocity using said catalyst is suitable for process with or without off-gas recirculating. Said catalyst is prepared by co-precipitation, the reaction conditions for using said catalyst to produce unsaturated aldehyde are, the space velocity of unsaturated lower olefin relative to catalyst being 120˜200 h-1(STP), reaction temperature being 300˜420° C. and absolute pressure being 0.1˜0.5 MPa; a single-stage unsaturated lower olefin conversion ratio of greater than 98.0% and carbon oxide yield of less than 3.3% with an overall yield of unsaturated lower aldehyde and acid of greater than 94.0% are obtained. The process to prepare the said catalyst is simple, easy to be repeated, and capable of industrial scale-up.
US08481789B2
The present invention relates to a process for producing 9-decen-2-one, characterized by the bioconversion of undecylenic acid using a mold, and to its use in perfumery, cosmetics and food flavoring.
US08481785B2
The invention pertains to new materials based on sterically inhibited donor arylboranes for the improvement of electron injection and electron transport in organic electronic components like organic light-emitting diodes (OLED's), organic field effect transistors (OFET's), and on organic photovoltaics based components, in particular, organic solar cells.
US08481780B2
Different polymorphs of bromfenac sodium may be prepared and interconverted using crystallization/recrystallization, drying and/or hydration techniques.
US08481772B2
The invention features methods for the preparation of naturally occurring trihydroxy polyunsaturated eicosanoids and their structural analogs. The invention further provides new derivatives and analogs of trihydroxy polyunsaturated eicosanoids that can be prepared according to these methods. The invention also provides compositions and methods using trihydroxy polyunsaturated eicosanoid derivatives for the prevention, amelioration and treatment of a variety of diseases or conditions associated with inflammation or inflammatory response, autoimmune diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular diseases, or abnormal cell proliferation or cancer.
US08481768B2
The disclosure provides methods and systems for the production of biodiesel from biological feedstocks such as vegetable oils or animal fats. In particular, the disclosure is directed to the product of biodiesel from seeds such as non-edible oil seeds. Methods for maximizing oil recovery from the feedstocks are provided, as well as methods to convert free fatty acids in the feedstocks into glycerides amenable to transesterification. Thus the methods and systems provide for efficient biodiesel production.
US08481764B2
A process for producing propylene oxide, which comprises supplying an organic peroxide and propylene to an epoxidation reactor in which a solid catalyst is packed thereby continuously producing propylene oxide through epoxidation reaction, wherein said process comprises cooling at least a part of the propylene before supplying to separate and remove water contained in the propylene, and supplying the propylene in which water has been separated and removed to the epoxidation reactor.
US08481763B2
A process is provided for preparing dronedarone or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. The process comprises reacting 5-amino-2-butyl-3-(4-[3-(dibutylamino)propoxy]benzoyl)benzofuran (compound A) with methanesulfonyl chloride without any catalyst to provide crude dronedarone hydrochloride, which is purified to afford highly pure product. Then, the dronedarone hydrochloride can be converted to highly pure dronedarone through treatment with an alkaline solvent, the dronedarone can be further converted to other pharmaceutically acceptable salts of dronedarone. In this process, acylation between compound A and methanesulfonyl chloride is carried out successfully and the formation of the dimethylsulfonyl by-product is inhibited.
US08481755B2
This invention relates to novel compounds with ester linkage(s) capped with either electron deficient olefinic linkage(s) or group(s) or reactive functional groups (termed herein as “active methylene reagents”), and curable compositions prepared therefrom.
US08481751B2
Methods are provided for the production of bendamustine alkyl ester, bendamustine, as well as derivatives thereof. With the methods the production of these compounds is possible in reproducibly high yields. To this end, hydroxyl-group-containing esters are used as the starting material, whose hydroxyl groups are substituted in a simple way by halogen groups. This substitution is possible in the presence of (i) oxalyl chloride and (ii) dialkylformamide, dialkyl acetamide or dimethyl sulfoxide. In a subsequent reaction, the resulting esters can be hydrolyzed to form the acid.
US08481749B2
N-(Tetrazol-5-yl)- and N-(triazol-5-yl)arylcarboxamides of the formula (I) are described as herbicides. In this formula (I), X, Y, Z and R represent radicals such as hydrogen, organic radicals such as alkyl, and other radicals such as halogen. A and B represent N and CY.
US08481748B2
Provided herein are ruthenium complexes of Formula I, and processes of preparation thereof. Also provided are methods of their use as a metathesis catalyst.
US08481747B2
This invention relates generally to olefin metathesis, and more particularly relates to the synthesis of terminal alkenes from internal alkenes using a cross-metathesis reaction catalyzed by a selected olefin metathesis catalyst. In one embodiment of the invention, for example, a method is provided for synthesizing a terminal olefin, the method comprising contacting an olefinic substrate comprised of at least one internal olefin with ethylene, in the presence of a metathesis catalyst, wherein the catalyst is present in an amount that is less than about 1000 ppm relative to the olefinic substrate, and wherein the metathesis catalyst has the structure of formula (II) wherein the various substituents are as defined herein. The invention has utility, for example, in the fields of catalysis, organic synthesis, and industrial chemistry.
US08481746B2
A novel process of preparing tridentate ligands containing a diarylphosphine electron donating group are disclosed. Use of this process for preparing a combinatorial library of such tridentate ligands and of organometallic complexes containing same is also disclosed. Further disclosed are novel diarylphosphine-containing compounds that can serve as tridentate ligands (e.g., pincer ligands), combinatorial libraries of such tridentate ligands, organometallic complexes containing these ligands (e.g., pincer complexes), and combinatorial libraries of such complexes. Methods utilizing these libraries for screening for candidate organometallic catalysts are also disclosed.
US08481742B2
The invention encompasses the novel class of compounds represented by the formula below, which are inhibitors of the PTP-1B enzyme. The invention also encompasses pharmaceutical compositions which include the compounds shown (Formula I) above and methods of treating or preventing PTP-1B mediated diseases, including diabetes.
US08481737B2
The citrate salt of (S)-4-(4-Chloro-phenyl)-1-{3-[7-(1-hydroxy-1-methyl-ethyl)-11H-10-oxa-1-aza-dibenzo[a,d]cyclohepten-5-ylidene]-propyl}-3,3-dimethyl-piperidin-4-ol, which may be used in pharmaceutical applications, is disclosed. The crystalline Citrate Salt, including particular single crystal forms and combinations of the single crystalline forms, are also discussed. Mixtures for forming the crystalline salts are discussed. As well, methods of producing the Citrate Salt, and crystalline forms thereof, and using such Citrate Salt, and crystalline forms thereof, in treating diseases associated with aberrant leukocyte recruitment, activation, or recruitment and activation are also discussed.
US08481731B2
New compounds are disclosed which have utility in the treatment of a variety of metabolic related conditions in a patient. The compounds of this invention have the structure (I): wherein X1, X2, X3, X4, Y1, Y2, A, R1, R2, R3, R4, m, n, p, and q are as defined herein, including stereoisomers, esters, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. Also disclosed are compositions containing a compound of this invention in combination with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, as well as methods relating to the use thereof in a patient in need thereof.
US08481723B2
The present invention relates to uracils of formula I wherein the variables are defined according to the description, processes and intermediates for preparing the uracils of the formula I, compositions comprising them and their use as herbicides, i.e. for controlling harmful plants, and also a method for controlling unwanted vegetation which comprises allowing a herbicidal effective amount of at least one uracil of the formula I to act on plants, their seed and/or their habitat.
US08481720B2
The present invention relates to a manufacturing method of tagatose using galactose isomerization of high yield, more particularly a method to enhance conversion rate of isomerization by adding borate which binds specifically to tagatose and a manufacturing method of tagatose using the same.
US08481717B2
The present invention relates to a process of making a starch crosslinked with sodium trimetaphosphate or with a combination of sodium trimetaphosphate and sodium tripolyphosphate. The reaction has increased efficiency over the standard crosslinking process and/or reduced phosphorus effluent.
US08481715B2
The invention includes methods for isolating crystalline Form I of 5-azacytidine substantially free of other forms, wherein 5-azacytidine is represented by the formula: The invention also includes pharmaceutical compositions comprising Form I of 5-azacytidine.
US08481713B2
The present invention provides (i) a process for preparing a 2-deoxy-2-fluoro-2-methyl-D-ribonolactone derivative, (ii) conversion of the lactone to nucleosides with potent anti-HCV activity, and their analogues, and (iii) a method to prepare the anti-HCV nucleosides containing the 2-deoxy-2-fluoro-2-C-methyl-β-D-ribofuranosyl nucleosides from a preformed, preferably naturally-occurring, nucleoside.
US08481712B2
The present invention provides nucleoside compounds and certain derivatives thereof which are inhibitors of RNA-dependent RNA viral polymerase. These compounds are inhibitors of RNA-dependent RNA viral replication and are useful for the treatment of RNA-dependent RNA viral infection. They are particularly useful as inhibitors of hepatitis C virus (HCV) NS5B polymerase, as inhibitors of HCV replication, and/or for the treatment of hepatitis C infection. The invention also describes pharmaceutical compositions containing such nucleoside compounds alone or in combination with other agents active against RNA-dependent RNA viral infection, in particular HCV infection. Also disclosed are methods of inhibiting RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, inhibiting RNA-dependent RNA viral replication, and/or treating RNA-dependent RNA viral infection with the nucleoside compounds of the present invention.
US08481709B2
The present invention relates to the design of the Antisense-oligonucleotide complementary to the specific region of peptide deformylase gene from Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The use of this Antisense-oligonucleotide on mycobacterial culture inhibits the production of the peptide deformylase enzyme by hybridizing within the region, which is found to be responsible for maintaining stability as well as retaining the functionality of the enzyme and thus in turn affecting the growth of the cells. This invention also establishes the essentiality of the peptide deformylase enzyme in mycobacteria and claims it as a drug target in this microorganism.
US08481708B2
By a computer search for upstream promoter elements (DSE, PSE) typical of small nuclear RNA (snRNA) genes, we have identified a number of previously unrecognized, putative transcription units whose predicted products are novel noncoding RNAs with homology to protein-coding genes. By elucidating the function of one of them, we provide evidence for the existence of a sense/antisense-based gene regulation network where part of the Pol III transcriptome could control its Pol II counterpart.
US08481707B2
This application describes methods and compositions for detecting and treating vimentin-associated neoplasia. Differential methylation of the vimentin nucleotide sequences has been observed in vimentin-associated neoplasia such as colon neoplasia.
US08481706B2
The use of monokaryotic strains of filamentous fungi of the Pycnoporus species of the basidiomycete group, for implementing a method for preparing a specific recombinant protein, the method being carried out by overexpressing the gene encoding the protein in the Pycnoporus monokaryotic strain.
US08481705B2
The invention provides isolated polynucleotide molecules, including plasmids; viral vectors; and transfected host cells that comprise a DNA sequence encoding an infectious RNA sequence encoding a North American PRRS virus; and also North American PRRS viruses encoded thereby. The invention further provides isolated infectious RNA molecules encoding a North American PRRS virus. The invention also provides isolated polynucleotide molecules, infectious RNA molecules, viral vectors, and transfected host cells encoding genetically-modified North American PRRS viruses; and genetically-modified North American PRRS viruses encoded thereby. The invention also provides vaccines comprising such plasmids, RNA molecules, viral vectors, and North American PRRS viruses, and methods of using these vaccines in swine and in other animals. Also provided are isolated polynucleotide molecules, viral vectors, and transfected host cells that comprise a nucleotide sequence encoding a peptide of a North American PRRS virus. These viral vectors and transfected host cell lines are useful in providing peptides to compensate for mutated peptide coding sequences of DNA sequences encoding genetically-modified North American PRRS viruses so that functional virions can be generated.
US08481704B2
Antigen binding proteins that bind to human GM-CSF protein are provided. Nucleic acids encoding the antigen binding protein, vectors, and cells encoding the same are also provided. The antigen binding proteins can inhibit binding of GM-CSF to GM-CSFR, inhibit GM-CSF-induced proliferation and signaling of myeloid lineage cell lines and inhibit GM-CSF-induced activation of human monocytes.
US08481703B2
This invention relates to the use of monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies that specifically bind to and become internalized by mesothelin-positive cells and also induce an immune effector activity such as antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity. The antibodies are useful in specific delivery of pharmacologic agents to mesothelin expressing cells as well as eliciting an immune-effector activity particularly on tumor cells and precursors. The invention is also related to cells expressing the monoclonal antibodies, polyclonal antibodies, antibody derivatives, such as human, humanized, and chimeric monoclonal antibodies, antibody fragments, mammalian cells expressing the monoclonal antibodies, derivatives and fragments, and methods of treating cancer using the antibodies, derivatives and fragments.
US08481698B2
The present invention describes compositions and methods showing that the spatial proximity of intracellular components may be related to their ability to cooperate in intracellular biochemical reactions. In some embodiments, the present invention contemplates a variety of nucleic acid barcoded binding partners capable of determining the spatial proximity of intracellular components as determined by ligation of their respective nucleotide barcodes. As such, an intracellular component contact map may be constructed to fingerprint specific physiological and/or pharmacological intracellular conditions.
US08481695B2
Kits and compositions for producing an alginate gel are disclosed. The kits and compositions comprise soluble alginate and insoluble alginate/gelling ion particles. Methods for dispensing a self-gelling alginate dispersion are disclosed. The methods comprise forming a dispersion of insoluble alginate/gelling ion particles in a solution containing soluble alginate, and dispensing the dispersion whereby the dispersion forms an alginate gel matrix. The methods may include dispensing the dispersion into the body of an individual. An alginate gel having a thickness of greater than 5 mm and a homogenous alginate matrix network and homogenous alginate gels free of one or more of: sulfates citrates, phosphates, lactatates, EDTA or lipids are disclosed. Implantable devices comprising a homogenous alginate gel coating are disclosed. Methods of improving the viability of pancreatic islets, or other cellular aggregates or tissue, following isolation and during storage and transport are disclosed.
US08481688B2
Monoclonal antibodies that bind and inhibit biological activities of human FGFR2 are disclosed. The antibodies can be used to treat cell proliferative diseases and disorders, including certain forms of cancer, associated with activation or overexpression of FGFR2.
US08481681B2
The present invention provides silk proteins, as well as nucleic acids encoding these proteins. The present invention also provides recombinant cells and/or organisms which synthesize silk proteins. Silk proteins of the invention can be used for a variety of purposes such as in the manufacture of personal care products, plastics, textiles, and biomedical products.
US08481665B2
Use of a metallocene compound of general formula Ind2R″MQ2 as a component of a catalyst system in producing polyethylene, wherein each Ind is the same or different and is indenyl or substituted indenyl; R″ is a bridge which comprises a C1 to C4 alkylene radical, a dialkyl germanium or silicon or siloxane, alkyl phosphine or amine, which bridge is substituted or unsubstituted, M is a Group IV metal or vanadium and each Q is hydrocarbyl having 1 to 20 carbon atoms or halogen; and the ratio of meso to racemic forms of the metallocene in the catalyst system is at least 1:3. The metallocene may be supported. The ethylene may be polymerized in a reaction medium that is substantially free of any external comonomer, with comonomer being formed in situ. The produced polyethylene may have long chain branching. The produced polyethylene may be atactic.
US08481662B2
Silicone hydrogel contact lenses having ophthalmically acceptable levels of energy loss are described. The lenses are derived from a polymerizable composition including a first siloxane monomer represented by formula (1): wherein m of formula (1) represents one integer from 3 to 10, n of formula (1) represents one integer from 1 to 10, R1 of formula (1) is an alkyl group having from 1 to 4 carbon atoms, and each R2 of formula (1) is independently either a hydrogen atom or a methyl group; the lenses also include units derived from a second siloxane monomer which is a dual-end methacrylate end-capped polydimethylsiloxane having a number average molecular weight of at least 7,000 daltons. Batches of silicone hydrogel contact lenses and methods of making silicone hydrogel contact lenses are also described.
US08481660B2
Disclosed is (1) a mixture of fluoroalkyl alcohol-unsaturated carboxylic acid derivatives represented by the general formulae: CF3(CF2)n(CH═CF)a(CF2CF2)b(CH2CH2)c OCOCR═CH2 and CF3(CF2)n−1(CF═CH)a CF2(CF2CF2)b(CH2CH2)cOCOCR═CH2, wherein R is a hydrogen atom or a methyl group, n is an integer of 1 to 5, a is an integer of 1 to 4, b is an integer of 0 to 3, and c is an integer of 1 to 3; (2) a fluorine-containing polymer containing the mixture as a polymerization unit; and (3) a water- and oil-repellent comprising the fluorine-containing polymer as an active ingredient. The fluoroalkyl alcohol-unsaturated carboxylic acid derivatives are produced by an esterification reaction of a mixture of fluoroalkyl alcohols represented by the general formulae: CF3(CF2)n(CH═CF)a(CF2CF2)b(CH2CH2)cOH and CF3(CF2)n−1(CF═CH)aCF2(CF2CF2)b, (CH2CH2)cOH, with acrylic acid or methacrylic acid.
US08481659B2
The present invention relates to cure accelerators useful for anaerobic curable compositions, such as adhesives and sealants.
US08481649B2
A coupled copolymer is provided. The coupled copolymer is coupled by reacting a silane coupling agent with a copolymer, where the copolymer is polymerized by a conjugated diene monomer and a vinyl aromatics monomer, and the silane coupling agent has an alkenyl group and a alkoxy group, and has a chemical Formula (I) as follows: where R1 and R4 are alkyl groups; R3 is a group having an alkenyl group; R5 is one of an alkyl and an alkenyl groups; q is one of “1” and “0”; when q=0, then k=j=0, 1≦n≦3, 0≦m≦2, m+n=3, and R2 is alkoxy group; and when q=1, then k+j=3, R2 is —(CH2)r, r=1-6 and m+n=3.
US08481646B2
This invention relates to the preparation of thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs) with unique morphological features, more specifically, this invention relates to a method for preparing TPV compositions wherein the mixing of plastomers and elastomers are carried out in solvent with curatives to induce cross-linking.
US08481642B2
The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of hydrothermal hybrid material, in particular coal-like hybrid material from biomass. The process involves the heating of a reaction mixture comprising water, biomass and a copolymerizable compound, wherein the copolymerizable compound is added when preparing the reaction mixture, in a variant of the process, the biomass is converted to activated biomass in a first step, and the copolymerization of the activated biomass and a copolymerizable compound to give the hydrothermal, preferably coal-like, hybrid material is started by adding a polymerization initiator. The invention also relates to the hydrothermal hybrid materials obtainable by the processes as such, e.g. to aqueous dispersions thereof. By incorporating copolymerizable compounds, e.g. petrochemical compounds in the structure of the hydrothermal hybrid materials, the physical properties of the materials and the preparation process thereof can be controlled.
US08481637B2
A thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) is disclosed which is a combination of a non-elastomeric polyolefin and two different non-crosslinked elastomers and optional softening oil. The TPE can be used as an outer layer on at least a portion of the outer surface of a co-extruded, blow-molded polyolefin plastic article to provide a “soft touch” gripping surface on the article.
US08481616B2
A two step method for preparing a filler composition, the filler composition useful to prepare a nanocomposite polymer and an epoxy nanocomposite coating. First, disperse a water dispersible filler material in a liquid comprising water, but without any added intercalation agent, to form a dispersion. Second, replace at least a portion of the water of the liquid with an organic solvent so that the water concentration of the liquid is less than six percent by weight to form the filler composition, the average size of at least one dimension of the filler material being less than two hundred nanometers upon examination by transmission electron microscopy of a representative freeze dried sample of the dispersion of the first step. A nanocomposite polymer can be prepared by mixing the filler composition with one or more polymer, polymer component, monomer or prepolymer to produce a polymer containing the filler composition.
US08481609B2
Disclosed is a phase change ink comprising (a) a crystalline oxazoline compound; and (b) an amorphous polyterpene resin.
US08481603B2
The present invention relates to a polymer bead material that are characterised by having pore sizes that can be pre-determined and that can be obtained with a narrow distribution of such pore sizes created by use of sacrificial filler materials within the polymer material. The invention also discloses processes for production of the material as spherical or approximately spherical beads or resins with predefined sizes. Also, the invention relates to the preparation of molecularly imprinted polymer materials that are created by the said method. Further the invention relates to the use of said polymer materials for separation, detection, catalysis or entrapment of chemicals, metal ions, inorganic compounds, drags, peptides, proteins, DNA, natural and artificial polymers, natural or artificial compounds, food or pharma products, viruses, bacteria, cells and other entities.
US08481592B2
The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition for preventing or treating hyperlipidemia, fatty liver, diabetes and obesity comprising a sesquiterpene derivative as an active ingredient. The sesquiterpene derivatives of the present invention leads to decrease in body fat weight, visceral fat weight and total cholesterol levels, triglyceride of plasma and liver tissue, blood glucose and blood insulin levels in a fast state, finally exhibiting efficacies on prevention or treatment of hyperlipidemia, fatty liver, diabetes and obesity.
US08481589B2
The disclosure relates to novel taxoid-based compositions comprising injectable formulations of these derivatives in the form of an emulsion.
US08481587B2
The present invention relates to novel substituted 2-(5-hydroxy-2-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)acetic acids, to novel antiviral active ingredients, pharmaceutical compositions, antiviral medicaments, methods for prophylaxis and treatment of viral diseases particularly caused by influenza viruses and infectious hepatisis C (HCV) viruses.Novel substituted 2-(5-hydroxy-2-methyl-1H-indol-3-yl)acetic acids, their esters of the general formula 1 and pharmaceutically acceptable salts and/or hydrates thereof have been disclosed wherein: R1 represents amino group substituent selected from hydrogen, optionally substituted C1-C5 alkyl, acyl or sulfonyl; R2 and R4 independently of each other represent alkyl substituent selected from hydrogen, halogen, optionally substituted C1-C3 alkyl, optionally substituted hydroxyl, optionally substituted amino group, optionally substituted aminomethyl, substituted mercapto group; R3 represents hydrogen, optionally substituted lower C1-C5 alkyl; R5 represents cyclic system substituent selected from hydrogen, fluorine, trifluoromethyl, carboxy group, alkyloxycarbonyl, possibly substituted aryl, heterocyclyl, optionally substituted aminomethyl, cyano group; R6 represents hydroxyl group substituent selected from hydrogen, optionally substituted C1-C5 alkyl, acyl.
US08481582B2
Compounds of formula I and a method for their preparation are described: where R1, R2 and R3 are the same or different and signify hydrogens, halogens, alkyl, nitro, amino, alkylcarbonylamino, alkylamino or dialkylamino group; R4 signifies -alkyl-aryl or -alkyl-heteroaryl; X signifies CH2, oxygen atom or sulphur atom; n is 2 or 3; including the individual (R)- and (S)-enantiomers or mixtures of enantiomers thereof; and including pharmaceutically acceptable salts and esters thereof. The compounds have potentially valuable pharmaceutical properties for the treatment of cardiovascular disorders such as hypertension and chronic heart failure.
US08481573B2
Compounds of the following generic structure are provided: Such compounds activate a sphingosine-I-phosphate receptor of the subtype 1 (S1P1), and have utility in the treatment of malconditions mediated by S1P1 activation. More specifically, such compounds are beneficial in the treatment of, for example, multiple sclerosis, transplant rejection and/or adult respiratory syndrome.
US08481570B2
The present invention is directed to nicotinamide derivatives, and their use in treating lipoprotein abnormalities, alone or in combination with a statin.
US08481566B2
Compounds of formula (I) and salts and solvates are provided: wherein R4 is fluoro, R5 is selected from hydrogen, halogen, cyano, C1-6alkyl, C1-6alkyl substituted with one or more fluorine atoms, C1-6alkoxy, and C1-6alkoxy substituted with one or more fluorine atoms; and R6 is selected from halogen, cyano, C1-6alkyl, C1-6alkyl substituted with one or more fluorine atoms, C3-6cycloalkyl, C3-6cycloalkyl substituted with one or more fluorine atoms, C1-6alkoxy and C1-6alkoxy substituted with one or more fluorine atoms, and Q is hydrogen or C1-6alkyl. The compounds are expected to be useful for therapy, for example in the treatment of psychotic disorders and cognitive impairment.
US08481554B2
The present invention relates to the oral solid pharmaceutical composition comprising lamivudine or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof with isomalt as a filler. The present invention also relate to the combination of lamivudine and other Anti-HIV agents. Thus, for example, the present invention provides a stable tablet formulation comprising lamivudine, isomalt, crospovidone, calcium stearate and opadry white.
US08481550B2
This invention relates to compounds that inhibit E1 activating enzymes, pharmaceutical compositions comprising the compounds, and methods of using the compounds. The compounds are useful for treating disorders, particularly cell proliferation disorders, including cancers, inflammatory and neurodegenerative disorders; and inflammation associated with infection and cachexia.
US08481543B2
A compound, particularly an antimalarial compound, according to formula I: or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, wherein: X is an electron-withdrawing group; A is an optionally substituted alkanediyl or an optionally substituted cycloalkanediyl that includes 2 to 5 carbon atoms; and R1 and R2 are each individually H, tert-butyl, isopropyl, or optionally substituted cycloalkyl.
US08481534B2
5- and 6-membered heterocyclic compounds which are inhibitors of phosphodiesterase 10 are described as are processes, pharmaceutical compositions, pharmaceutical preparations and pharmaceutical use of the compounds in the treatment of mammals, including human(s) for central nervous system (CNS) disorders and other disorders which may affect CNS function. Also described is the treatment of neurological, neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders including but not limited to those comprising cognitive deficits or schizophrenic symptoms.
US08481525B2
The invention is directed to a compound represented by the following structural formula and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof: Compounds represented by this structural formula are kinase inhibitors and are therefore disclosed herein for the treatment of cancer. Definitions for the variables in the structural formula are provided herein.
US08481523B2
The present invention is directed to a biocidal composition comprising a blend of one or more pyrithione compounds, and one or more pyrrole compounds of Formula I wherein said biocidal composition is copper free or low copper content.
US08481514B2
The present invention thus concerns a method for treating and/or preventing rickets, osteoporosis, osteomalacia, psoriasis, autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis or type I diabetes, hyperparathyroidism, benign prostate hyperplasia, any type of cancer or any vitamin D relevant disease comprising administering inecalcitol at doses comprised between 1 mg/day and 100 mg/day to a human patient in need thereof.
US08481511B2
A docetaxel inclusion complex having improved water-solubility (up to 15 mg/ml) and stability (stability constant Ka=2056M−1-13051M−1), comprises docetaxel and hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin and/or sulfobutyl-beta-cyclodextrin in a ratio of 1:10-150. The method includes steps as follows: docetaxel dissolved in ethanol is added into water solution of cyclodextrin via stirring, until docetaxel is completely dissolved; said solution is filtered in 0.2-04 μm microporous membrane then ethanol is removed through reduced pressure to obtain the inclusion complex in a liquid form; or ethanol, followed by water is removed through reduced pressure, then dried to obtain the inclusion complex in a solid form.
US08481504B2
Composition and method for stimulating angiogenesis, stimulating myogenesis, upregulating angiogenic factors and angiopoietins, and treating the muscular and vascular complications of diabetes. Overall, the embodiments of the invention can be accomplished by delivering a heterologous nucleic acid sequence encoding insulin-like growth factor I (“IGF-I”) or a functional biological equivalent thereof into the cells of the subject and allowing expression of the encoded gene to occur while the modified cells are within the subject. The nucleic acid sequence maybe delivered by a vector system including a synthetic myogenic promoter and a 3′ untranslated region. The preferred method to deliver the constitutive or inducible nucleic acid encoding sequences of IGF-I or the functional biological equivalents thereof is directly into the cells of the subject by the process of in vivo electroporation.
US08481501B2
Disclosed are analgesic-related compositions and methods of using the compositions for modulation of analgesic receptor activity. The compositions and methods are useful for reducing pain, as well as for therapeutic intervention of addictions or other diseases or disorders amenable to treatment or prophylaxis by modulation of analgesic receptor signaling.
US08481498B1
Pharmaceutical compositions and kits including a tyrosine hydroxylase inhibitor, a melanin promoter, a p450 3A4 promoter, and a leucine aminopeptidase inhibitor are provided. Also provided are methods of treating cancer in a subject, comprising administering an effective amount of a tyrosine hydroxylase inhibitor, a melanin promoter, a p450 3A4 promoter, and a leucine aminopeptidase inhibitor to the subject in need thereof. Also provided are methods of reducing cell proliferation in a subject comprising administering an effective amount of a tyrosine hydroxylase inhibitor, a melanin promoter, a p450 3A4 promoter, and a leucine aminopeptidase inhibitor to the subject in need thereof.
US08481494B2
The present invention relates to the field of protein misfolding diseases and thus to diseases which are associated with or induced by abnormal or pathogenic three-dimensional folding of proteins and/or peptides or which are linked to pathogenic conformational changes of proteins and/or peptides, such as Alzheimer's disease. Particularly, the present invention provides novel trimeric pyrazole compounds, which exhibit a therapeutic effectiveness in regard to the aforementioned protein misfolding diseases, and refers to their use for the treatment of such protein misfolding diseases, especially neurodegenerative diseases as well as to medicaments or pharmaceutical compositions comprising these compounds.
US08481492B2
The invention relates to a fusion protein and a method for the generation of the fusion protein of the invention. Further, the invention relates to the use of the fusion protein of the invention for the generation of induced pluripotent cells. Moreover, the invention relates to a composition comprising at least one fusion protein of the invention.
US08481486B2
This invention provides a method for regulating migration of neuronal progenitor cells in the nervous system of a mammal. The method comprises providing a mammal with TNR, a biologically active fragment of TNR, or a TNR agonist in an amount sufficient to direct migration of the neuronal progenitor cells. The invention provides a method of treating neurological diseases by replenishing diseased, damaged, or destroyed neural cells in the central nervous system or in the peripheral nervous system.
US08481483B2
The present invention provides cyclosporin analogues of formula I, and compositions comprising these compounds, as well as processes for their preparation, intermediates in their synthesis, and methods of use thereof for prevention of organ transplantation rejection, the treatment of immune disorders and inflammation, and treatment of viral (particularly hepatitis C viral) infection.
US08481481B2
The use of a peptide is described as a carrier for the transport of molecules or radioisotopes into cancer cells; also described are modifications of said peptide and their use.
US08481464B2
The present invention relates to a spacer member reducing fretting wear and fastened structures using a spacer member, furthermore, the present invention provides a spacer member 1 sandwiched between contact surfaces 7 of contact materials 6 subject to abrasion and suffering from wear and provided with sliding and vibrating surfaces 2, 2 characterized in that the sliding or vibrating surfaces (2, 2) of the spacer member 1 have a higher hardness than at least one of the contact surfaces (7) of the first contact material (6) and the second contact material (6′) and the sliding or vibrating surfaces (2, 2) of the spacer member 1 have a lower coefficient of friction and a higher flatness than at least one of the contact surfaces (7) of the first contact material (6) and the second contact material (6′), whereby the sliding or vibrating surfaces 2, 2 of the spacer member 1 do not easily wear down the contact surfaces 7 of the contact materials 6.
US08481459B2
The present invention provides methods for improving the quality of harvested plants. The present invention also provides novel ACC synthase inhibitors useful for improving the quality of harvested plants.
US08481447B2
This invention relates to a solid particulate substrate for use in the vulcanization of rubber and a process for the production thereof. The solid particulate substrate is coated with a coating containing a complexed acetometallate salt of sodium and a transition metal. The use of the solid particulate substrate in the vulcanization of rubber reduces the amount of transition metal oxide used in the vulcanization process.
US08481446B2
A coating composition comprising a Photocatalyst Composition comprising a photocatalyst and a pendent silyl ester group, wherein the photocatalyst produces singlet oxygen in the presence of light and ambient air. In certain embodiments, the coating composition further comprises a singlet oxygen scavenger.
US08481445B2
Solid adducts comprising a MgCl2, ethanol and a compound (A), said compounds being present in molar ratios defined by the following formula MgCl2.(EtOH)n(A)p in which n is from 0.1 to 6, p ranges from 0.001 to 0.5 and A is a compound selected from cyclic hydrocarbon structures which are substituted with at least two hydroxy groups.
US08481442B2
An arrangement for aftertreatment of exhaust gas for lean-burn internal combustion engines such as diesel engines and Otto engines with direct injection has a NOx storage catalyzer installed in the exhaust gas train for reducing nitrogen oxides and at which nitrogen oxides are stored in lean operating phases and these stored nitrogen oxides are reduced in rich operating phases. At least one molecular sieve which keeps sulfur dioxide away from the at least one NOx storage catalyzer is arranged upstream of the NOx storage catalyzer.
US08481431B2
A method for opening a one-side contact region of a vertical transistor is provided. The one-side contact region of the vertical transistor is opened using a polysilicon layer, a certain portion of which can be selectively removed by a selective ion implantation process. In order to selectively remove the polysilicon layer formed on one of both sides of an active region, at which the one-side contact is to be formed, impurity ion implantation is performed in a direction vertical to the polysilicon layer by a plasma doping process, and a tilt ion implantation using an existing ion implantation process is performed. In this manner, the polysilicon layer is selectively doped, and the undoped portion of the polysilicon layer is selectively removed.
US08481427B2
A micromechanical method for manufacturing a cavity in a substrate, and a micromechanical component manufactured with this method. In this method, in a first step a first layer is produced on or in a substrate. At least one second layer is then applied onto the first layer. An access hole is produced in this second layer. Material of the first layer and of the substrate can be dissolved out through this hole, so that a cavity is produced in the substrate beneath at least a portion of the second layer. This second layer above the cavity can subsequently be used as a membrane. In addition, the possibility also exists of depositing further layers onto the second layer, only the totality of which layers constitutes the membrane. The material of the first layer is selected so that dissolving out the material of the first layer produces a transition edge in the first layer, which edge at is at a predefinable angle between the substrate and the second layer.
US08481419B2
A method for producing an electrically conducting metal contact on a semiconductor component having a coating on the surface of a semiconductor substrate. In order to keep transfer resistances low while maintaining good mechanical strength, the invention proposes applying a particle-containing fluid onto the coating, where the particles contain at least metal particles and glass frits, curing the fluid while simultaneously forming metal areas in the substrate through heat treatment, removing the cured fluid and the areas of the coating covered by the fluid, and depositing, for the purposes of forming the contact without using intermediate layers, electrically conducting material from a solution onto areas of the semiconductor component in which the coating is removed while at the same time conductively connecting the metal areas present in said areas on the substrate.
US08481416B2
A semiconductor device includes an inorganic insulating layer on a semiconductor substrate, a contact plug that extends through the inorganic insulating layer to contact the semiconductor substrate and a stress buffer spacer disposed between the node contact plug and the inorganic insulating layer. The device further includes a thin-film transistor (TFT) disposed on the inorganic insulating layer and having a source/drain region extending along the inorganic insulating layer to contact the contact plug. The device may further include an etch stop layer interposed between the inorganic insulating layer and the semiconductor substrate.
US08481409B2
The invention relates to a process for manufacturing a stacked structure comprising at least one thin layer bonding to a target substrate, comprising the following steps: a) formation of a thin layer starting from an initial substrate, the thin layer having a free face called the first contact face, b) putting the first contact face into bonding contact with a face of an intermediate support, the structure obtained being compatible with later thinning of the initial substrate, c) thinning of the said initial substrate to expose a free face of the thin layer called the second contact face and opposite the first contact face, d) putting a face of the target substrate into bonding contact with at least part of the second contact face, the structure obtained being compatible with later removal of all or some of the intermediate support, e) removal of at least part of the intermediate support in order to obtain the said stacked structure.
US08481404B2
In a static memory cell, the failure rate upon forming contact elements connecting an active region with a gate electrode structure formed above an isolation region may be significantly reduced by incorporating an implantation species at a tip portion of the active region through a sidewall of the isolation trench prior to filling the same with an insulating material. The implantation species may represent a P-type dopant species and/or an inert species for significantly modifying the material characteristics at the tip portion of the active region.
US08481401B2
A method for manufacturing a component having a through-contact includes: providing a substrate; forming an insulating layer on the substrate; structuring the insulating layer, the insulating layer being removed at least in a predetermined trenching area surrounding a selected substrate area; performing an etching process in which the structured insulating layer functions as a mask to remove substrate material in the trenching area and to create a trench structure surrounding the selected substrate area; and forming a metallic layer on the insulating layer, the metallic layer sealing the trench structure.
US08481395B2
The use of a monolayer or partial monolayer sequencing process, such as atomic layer deposition, to form a dielectric layer of hafnium oxide doped with dysprosium and a method of fabricating such a combination produces a reliable structure for use in a variety of electronic devices. Forming the dielectric structure can include depositing hafnium oxide onto a substrate surface using precursor chemicals, followed by depositing dysprosium oxide onto the substrate using precursor chemicals, and repeating to form a thin laminate structure. A dielectric layer of dysprosium doped hafnium oxide may be used as the gate insulator of a MOSFET, as a capacitor dielectric in a DRAM, as a tunnel gate insulator in flash memories, or as a dielectric in NROM devices, because the high dielectric constant (high-k) of the film provides the functionality of a thinner silicon dioxide film, and because the reduced leakage current of the dielectric layer when the percentage of dysprosium doping is optimized improves memory function.
US08481387B2
In a method of forming an insulation structure, at least one oxide layer is formed on an object by at least one oxidation process, and then at least one nitride layer is formed from the oxide layer by at least one nitration process. An edge portion of the insulation structure may have a thickness substantially the same as that of a central portion of the insulation structure so that the insulation structure may have a uniform thickness and improved insulation characteristics. When the insulation structure is employed as a tunnel insulation layer of a semiconductor device, the semiconductor device may have enhanced endurance and improved electrical characteristics because a threshold voltage distribution of cells in the semiconductor device may become uniform.
US08481384B2
A method of producing a Metal-Insulator-Metal (MIM) capacitor stack through doping to achieve low current leakage and low equivalent oxide thickness is disclosed. A high K dielectric material is deposited on a non-noble electrode; the dielectric material is doped with oxides from group IIA. The dopant increases the barrier height of metal/insulator interface and neutralizes free electrons in dielectric material, therefore reduces the leakage current of MIM capacitor. The electrode may also be doped to increase work function while maintaining a rutile crystalline structure. The method thereby enhances the performance of DRAM MIM capacitor.
US08481378B2
A method for selective deposition of Si or SiGe on a Si or SiGe surface exploits differences in physico-chemical surface behavior according to a difference in doping of first and second surface regions. By providing at least one first surface region with a Boron doping of a suitable concentration range and exposing the substrate surface to a cleaning and passivating ambient atmosphere in a prebake at a temperature lower or equal to 800° C., a subsequent deposition step will prevent deposition in the first surface region. This allows selective deposition in the second surface region, which is not doped with the Boron (or doped with another dopant or not doped). Several devices are, thus, provided. The method saves a usual photolithography sequence, which according to prior art is required for selective deposition of Si or SiGe in the second surface region.
US08481363B2
The semiconductor device includes a thin film transistor which includes a gate electrode layer, a gate insulating layer over the gate electrode layer, a source electrode layer and a drain electrode layer over the gate insulating layer, a buffer layer over the source electrode layer and the drain electrode layer, and a semiconductor layer over the buffer layer. A part of the semiconductor layer overlapping with the gate electrode layer is over and in contact with the gate insulating layer and is provided between the source electrode layer and the drain electrode layer. The semiconductor layer is an oxide semiconductor layer containing indium, gallium, and zinc. The buffer layer contains a metal oxide having n-type conductivity. The semiconductor layer and the source and drain electrode layers are electrically connected to each other through the buffer layer.
US08481360B2
This invention generally relates to organic electronic devices and to methods for their fabrication. More particularly we will describe organic thin film transistor (TFT) structures and their fabrication.An organic electronic device, the device comprising: a substrate supporting a first electrode; a spacer structure over said substrate; a second electrode over said spacer structure and at a height above said first electrode; and a layer of organic semiconducting material over said first and second electrodes to provide a conducting channel between said first and second electrodes; and wherein a majority of said first electrode is laterally positioned to one side of said channel and a majority of said second electrode is laterally positioned to the other side of said channel.
US08481345B1
A method reconstructs the charge collection from regions beneath opaque metallization of a semiconductor device, as determined from focused laser charge collection response images, and thereby derives a dose-rate dependent correction factor for subsequent broad-area, dose-rate equivalent, laser measurements. The position- and dose-rate dependencies of the charge-collection magnitude of the device are determined empirically and can be combined with a digital reconstruction methodology to derive an accurate metal-correction factor that permits subsequent absolute dose-rate response measurements to be derived from laser measurements alone. Broad-area laser dose-rate testing can thereby be used to accurately determine the peak transient current, dose-rate response of semiconductor devices to penetrating electron, gamma- and x-ray irradiation.
US08481337B2
An object of the present invention is to provide a silicon spin transport device manufacturing method and silicon spin transport device whereby improved voltage output characteristics can be obtained. The silicon spin transport device manufacturing method comprises: a first step of patterning a silicon film by wet etching and forming a silicon channel layer; and a second step of forming a magnetization free layer and a magnetization fixed layer, which are apart from each other, on the silicon channel layer.
US08481336B2
A magnetic sifter is adapted for manipulation of biological cells by providing a greater pore density at the edge of the sifter than at the center. Application of an external magnetic field to the sifter causes high magnetic fields and field gradients at the sifter pores. These conditions are suitable for capturing magnetically tagged or labeled cells at the sifter pores. Altering the external magnetic field can provide controlled capture and/or release of magnetically labeled cells from the sifter pores. The purpose of having a greater pore density at the periphery of the sifter than at the center is to provide improved flow rate uniformity through the sifter. Such flow rate uniformity is advantageous for cell quantification.
US08481332B2
A liposomal composition, preferably a vaccine, comprising liposomes formed of liposome forming compounds, containing coentrapped polysaccharide antigen and T-cell dependent protein carrier, such as tetanus toxoid or diphtheria toxin modified to render it non-toxic. The invention is of use in the production of vaccines against Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumoniae or Neisseria meningitidis.
US08481323B2
The present invention is drawn to a method of measuring glycated hemoglobin, which can comprise steps of establishing multiple age-specific groups of red blood cells, and measuring HbA1c levels of at least one of said groups. In another embodiment, a system for measuring glycated hemoglobin can comprise a separating device configured to separate red blood cells into multiple age-specific groups, and a measuring device configured to measure HbA1c levels of at least one of said groups.
US08481320B2
The present invention relates to methods for increasing homologous recombination of a nucleic acid sequence introduced into a host cell, comprising: (a) introducing into a population of filamentous fungal host cells a first nucleic acid sequence encoding a recombination protein and a second nucleic acid sequence comprising one or more regions which are homologous with the genome of the filamentous fungal host cell, wherein (i) the recombination protein promotes the recombination of the one or more regions with the corresponding homologous region in the host's genome to incorporate the second nucleic acid sequence by homologous recombination, and (ii) the number of host cells comprising the incorporated second nucleic acid sequence in the population is increased at least 20% compared to the same population without the first nucleic acid sequence; (b) and isolating from the population a filamentous fungal cell comprising the incorporated second nucleic acid sequence.
US08481317B2
The invention generally features methods for providing hepatocytes from a variety of cell sources, particularly pluripotent stem cells, therapeutic compositions featuring such cells, and methods of using them for the treatment of subjects.
US08481316B2
The present invention relates to methods of differentiating a human embryonic stem (ES) cell into a cell, specifically a renal epithelial cell, expressing AQP-I. The methods disclosed comprise culturing human ES cells in a renal specific medium in the presence of an extracellular matrix molecule. The cells produced according to said method can be used to treat renal related disorders such as renal failure, nephrosis, Bright's disease and glomerulitis.
US08481311B2
Human progenitor cells are extracted from perivascular tissue of human umbilical cord. The progenitor cell population proliferates rapidly, and harbors osteogenic progenitor cells and MHC−/− progenitor cells, and is useful to grow and repair human tissues including bone.
US08481304B2
The invention provides a photo bioreactor comprising an aqueous liquid comprising a photosynthetic culture and a light distributor (30). Each light distributor has a surface arranged to receive light and a surface arranged to emit at least part of the received light. At least part of the surface is submerged in the aqueous liquid comprising the photosynthetic culture. The walls of the light distributors define a fluid filled cavity.
US08481299B2
Disclosed are methods directed to the cosmetic use of an effective amount of at least one probiotic microorganism especially from the genus Lactobacillus sp. and/or Bifidobacterium sp., of a fraction thereof and/or of a metabolite thereof, as an active agent for limiting, preventing or treating skin irritation and/or irritative skin disorders.
US08481295B2
A method of processing stillage from fermentation derived alcohol is disclosed, including dry-grind ethanol production from corn, by fermentation with filamentous fungi. This produces high-value fungal biomass that can be recovered by screening, is easily dewatered and used as an animal feed, human food or as a source of nutraceuticals. The methodology uses an airlift reactor to enhance the morphology of the fungi for easy harvesting and separation of water for recycling and reuse and to recover added enzymes and mineral acid with the water. The process also separates oil from the stillage. The fungal processing removes organic substances from the water that are otherwise inhibitory to the reuse prospects for the water, i.e. suspended and dissolved organic matter, including glycerol, lactic and acetic acids. The process also separates oil from the stillage by enmeshing the oil in the fungal biomass and can produce more oil through cultivation of oleaginous fungi. This approach generates revenue from low value thin stillage, while substantially reducing stillage processing costs, mainly by averting the need for evaporation of the thin stillage.
US08481289B2
Multi-drug resistant superbugs are a persistent problem in modern health care. This invention provides an antimicrobial endolysin-Lysostaphin triple fusion protein, comprising (1) an endolysin CHAP endopeptidase domain, (2) an endolysin amidase domain, and (3) a Lysostaphin glycyl-glycine endopeptidase domain. The domains are derived from two proteins that show antimicrobial synergy when used in combination. The protein has specificity and exolytic activity for the peptidoglycan cell wall of untreated, live Staphylococcus aureus from many growth phases i.e. stationary, logarithmic and biofilm growth. The recombinant triple fusion protein comprising the three functional antimicrobial domains is designed to be refractory to resistance development.
US08481287B2
Disclosed herein are methods and systems for expressing a polypeptide in a Rhodospirillum species. The methods include introducing an expression vector having a nucleic acid sequence encoding the polypeptide operably linked to a puc promoter into the Rhodospirillum bacterium and growing the Rhodospirillum bacterium under conditions that allow expression of the polypeptide. Vectors for expressing a membrane polypeptide in a Rhodospirillum species are disclosed. The vectors include a puc promoter and a nucleic acid encoding a membrane polypeptide.
US08481286B2
The present invention is directed to variant squalene synthase enzymes, including Saccharomyces cerevisiae squalene synthase enzymes, and to nucleic acid molecules encoding these variant enzymes. These variant enzymes produce squalene at a lower rate than the wild-type enzyme, allowing more farnesyl pyrophosphate to be utilized for production of isoprenoid compounds, while still producing sufficient squalene to allow the S. cerevisiae cells to grow without the requirement for supplementation by sterols such as ergosterol. These variant enzymes, therefore, are highly suitable for the efficient production of isoprenoids.
US08481274B2
Methods and kits are provided for separating a mixture of proteins in a biological sample. Methods for detecting and profiling proteins in biological samples by the separation method and kits are also provided. These methods are particularly useful in assessing damage to cells such as cardiac and skeletal muscle cells and in the early clinical diagnosis of myocardial damage by detection of myofilament proteins in serum of a subject.
US08481273B2
A method for the detection in a body fluid of perlecan polypeptide fragments that are biomarkers of tumor metastasis, and antibodies for detecting these fragments are described. An immunoassay kit for detecting the presence of these biomarkers in a body fluid, such as serum or urine, is also described.
US08481271B2
The present invention relates to the prognosis of the outcome of a cancer in a patient, which prognosis is based on the quantification of one or several biological markers that are indicative of the presence of, or alternatively the level of, the adaptive immune response of said patient against said cancer.
US08481270B2
The present invention provides a method and kit for detection of two or more target molecules in a single tissue sample, such as for gene and protein dual detection in a single tissue sample. Methods comprise treating a tissue sample with a first binding moiety that specifically binds a first target molecule. Methods further comprise treating the tissue sample with a solution containing a soluble electron-rich aromatic compound prior to or concomitantly with contacting the tissue sample with a hapten-labeled binding moiety and detecting a second target molecule. In one example, the first target molecule is a protein and the second is a nucleic acid sequence, the first target molecule being detected by immunohistochemistry and the second by in situ hybridization. The disclosed method reduces background due to non-specific binding of the hapten-labeled specific binding moiety to an insoluble electron rich compound deposited near the first target molecule.
US08481261B2
The present invention relates to a nucleic acid extracting apparatus, and the nucleic acid extracting apparatus can include a pipe-shaped tube having an open outlet at one side thereof, and a hydrogel column that is provided inside the tube and filters impurities excluding an extraction target material.
US08481257B2
The invention relates to a method for the high throughput discovery, detection and genotyping of one or more genetic markers in one or more samples, comprising the steps of restriction endonuclease digest of DNA, adaptor-ligation, optional pre-amplification, selective amplification, pooling of the amplified products, sequencing the libraries with sufficient redundancy, clustering followed by identification of the genetic markers within the library and/or between libraries and determination of (co-) dominant genotypes of the genetic markers.
US08481255B2
A scytovirin domain 1 (SD1) polypeptide, a nucleic acid encoding the polypeptide, and related fusion proteins, conjugates, isolated cells, vectors, and antibodies, as well as a method of inhibiting a viral infection using the same.
US08481254B2
Substrate probe capable of detecting enzyme activity with high accuracy and a method for detecting the enzyme activity by a multi nuclear magnetic resonance method using the substrate probe. Multi-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance is performed by using a substrate probe, which is used for measuring enzyme activity by a multi-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance method and characterized by containing a enzyme recognition site that is selectively recognized by an active-state enzyme, as at least one constitutional unit, and a group to which at least three nuclear magnetic resonance active nuclei each having a nuclear spin and a different resonance frequency are connected, being present specifically to the enzyme recognition, thereby detecting presence of the substrate probe and the enzyme activity. Alternatively, imaging of the enzyme activity is performed by a multi-dimensional nuclear resonance imaging method.
US08481252B2
Silver halide photographic photosensitive materials are disclosed. A silver halide photographic photosensitive material has a support, and on or above the support, a red-sensitive silver halide emulsion layer, a first interlayer, a green-sensitive silver halide emulsion layer, a second interlayer, and a blue-sensitive silver halide emulsion layer in this order from the support, wherein the first interlayer includes a chelating agent and another silver halide photographic photosensitive material has, in the following order, a support, and provided on or above the support, a first interlayer containing a chelating agent, a blue-sensitive silver halide emulsion layer, a second interlayer, a red-sensitive silver halide emulsion layer, a third interlayer, a green-sensitive silver halide emulsion layer, and a protective layer.
US08481244B2
A photo-curable resin composition comprising an epoxy-containing silphenylene or silicone polymer with a Mw of 3,000-500,000 forms a coating which is useful as a protective film for electric/electronic parts.
US08481238B2
An electrophotographic photoreceptor is provided which comprises a conductive substrate and a photosensitive layer formed thereover, wherein the photosensitive layer contains at least a polyarylate resin having a repeating structure represented by the following formula [1] and a compound represented by the following formula [6]. This photoreceptor has excellent abrasion resistance under practical load, has high mechanical strength, and further has highly excellent electrical properties.
US08481236B2
An electrophotographic photosensitive member is provided in which both a long-term potential variation and a short-term potential variation are suppressed, and a process cartridge and an electrophotographic apparatus each having the electrophotographic photosensitive member are also provided. The intermediate layer of the electrophotographic photosensitive member includes an organic resin and rutile-type titanium oxide crystal particles which contain tin and have an average primary particle diameter of 3 nm or more and 9 nm or less.
US08481223B2
A fuel cell stack for generating electrical energy by an electrochemical reaction of a fuel and an oxidizing gas including a plurality of electricity generating units and a fastening member is disclosed. The plurality of electricity generating units are configured for an electrochemical reaction between the fuel and the oxidizing gas to generate electrical energy, and the fastening member combines the plurality of electricity generating units into a stack. Each electricity-generating unit includes a membrane electrode assembly (MEA) and separators that are provided on each side of the MEA. Each separator comprises a channel on a surface facing the MEA. The channel is divided into a multiple of 2 sub-channels that is greater than 2 on a surface of the separator, and the sub-channels have substantially the same fluid passage length.
US08481219B2
A fuel cell system and an operation method thereof are provided, which are capable of properly executing special shutdown of the fuel cell system in the event of a trouble in purge operation by use of material gas. In the fuel cell system (100), if an abnormality occurs in a purge process by use of material gas during shutdown of the fuel cell system (100), the controller (11) brings, according to the contents of the abnormality, the opening/closing state of fuel electrode opening/closing devices (26, 23, 24) for opening and closing the outlet/inlet of a fuel electrode (13a), oxidant electrode opening/closing devices (25, 28, 20, 27) for opening and closing the outlet/inlet of an oxidant electrode (13c) or hydrogen generator opening/closing devices (21, 23, 22) for opening and closing the outlet/inlet of a hydrogen generator (12) into a state that is different from their opening/closing state when the purge process by use of the material gas is performed.
US08481217B2
A fuel supply system for a fuel cell stack includes a cathode gas supply line for supplying an oxidant to the cathode input of the fuel cell stack and an anode gas supply line for supplying fuel to the anode input of the fuel cell stack. An anode gas recirculation line recirculates partially used anode gas from the anode output to the anode input while a purge line may be connected for conducting away the partially used anode gas, as a purge gas from the anode gas recirculation line into the cathode gas supply line. The supply system also includes a conditioning arrangement disposed upstream of the cathode input. The conditioning arrangement is designed to a) mix a partial flow of the oxidant with the purge gas in a mixing station, b) compress accelerate, and/or heat the partial flow or the mixed flow, and c) conduct the mixed flow into the cathode gas supply line.
US08481206B2
Provided are an electrolytic solution for a nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery and a nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery each of which not only has heat resistance enough to resist reflow soldering but also can maintain the discharge capacity of the battery even in a low-temperature environment. The nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery is provided with an electrolytic solution 50 including a solute and a solvent containing a polyethylene glycol dialkyl ether and an ethylene glycol dialkyl ether, a positive electrode 12, a negative electrode 26, and a separator 30 formed of glass fibers and placed between the positive electrode 12 and the negative electrode 26.
US08481205B2
A nonaqueous electrolyte includes: a nonaqueous solvent; an electrolyte salt; a hydrocarbon compound having a nitrile group; and at least one of a heteropolyacid and a heteropolyacid compound.
US08481200B2
A battery cover includes an inner assembly and an outer assembly. The inner assembly includes an upper board defining an L-shaped groove, a bottom board screwed connected with the upper board; and a metal dome fixed between the upper board and the bottom board to pass throughout the bottom board for contacting the battery compartment. The outer assembly includes a front cover defining a first opening thereon, a slide button receiving in the first opening and the L-shaped groove of the upper board to slidably move along the L-shaped groove.
US08481192B2
A redox flow battery has a high energy density and an excellent charge and discharge efficiency because re-precipitation is prevented in an electrolyte solution or eduction is prevented in an electrode during reduction of a metal ion used as an electrolyte.
US08481187B2
Disclosed herein are embodiments of lithium/air batteries and methods of making and using the same. Certain embodiments are pouch-cell batteries encased within an oxygen-permeable membrane packaging material that is less than 2% of the total battery weight. Some embodiments include a hybrid air electrode comprising carbon and an ion insertion material, wherein the mass ratio of ion insertion material to carbon is 0.2 to 0.8. The air electrode may include hydrophobic, porous fibers. In particular embodiments, the air electrode is soaked with an electrolyte comprising one or more solvents including dimethyl ether, and the dimethyl ether subsequently is evacuated from the soaked electrode. In other embodiments, the electrolyte comprises 10-20% crown ether by weight.
US08481184B2
This invention relates in general to components of electrochemical devices, and to methods of preparing the components. The components and methods include the use of a composition comprising an ionically conductive polymer and at least one solvent, where the polymer and the solvent are selected based on the thermodynamics of the combination. In one embodiment, the invention relates to a component for an electrochemical device which is prepared from a composition comprising a true solution of an ionically conductive polymer and at least one solvent, the polymer and the at least one solvent being selected such that |δ solvent−δ solute|<1, where δ solvent is the Hildebrand solubility parameter of the at least one solvent and where δ solute is the Hildebrand solubility parameter of the polymer.
US08481181B2
Approaches to reduce switching field distribution in energy assisted magnetic storage devices involve first and second exchange coupled magnetic elements. The first magnetic elements have anisotropy, Hk1, volume, V1 and the second magnetic elements are magnetically exchange coupled to the first magnetic elements and have anisotropy Hk2, and volume V2. The thermal stability of the exchange coupled magnetic elements is greater than about 60 kBT at a storage temperature of about 300 K. The magnetic switching field distribution, SFD, of the exchange coupled magnetic elements is less than about 200% at a predetermined magnetic switching field and a predetermined assisting switching energy.
US08481173B2
Provided are an organometallic complex providing highly efficient phosphorescence and an organic electroluminescence device using the organometallic complex represented by Formula 1: MLmL′n where M is Ir, Os, Pt, Pb, Re, Ru or Pd, L and L′ are different bidentate ligands, m is 1, 2 or 3, and n is 3−m. The organometallic complex can be used to form an organic layer of the organic electroluminescence device, efficiently emits light of a wavelength corresponding to red light, and has high brightness and low operating voltage.
US08481169B2
A leather obtained by a (1) pre-treatment before tanning, (2) tanning process where glutaraldehyde is used as a tanning agent, (3) process where a re-tanning agent is used which is constituted by synthetic tannin, resin and aluminum, of which the synthetic tannin is constituted by (a) condensation product of aromatic sulfonic acid with formaldehyde or mixture of aromatic sulfonic acid and condensation product of aromatic sulfonic acid with formaldehyde, (b) methylene cyclic polymer of aromatic sulfonic acid with hydroxy aromatic compound or mixture of aromatic sulfonic acid and methylene cyclic polymer of aromatic sulfonic acid with hydroxy aromatic compound and (c) glyoxal, while the resin is constituted by (a) acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, acrylic acid ester or methacrylic acid ester polymer(s) and mixture thereof, and copolymer(s) thereof or mixture thereof and (b) polycondensation product of melamine with formaldehyde, wherein the re-tanning agent having the aforementioned composition is used to perform re-tanning, followed by dyeing as well as fatliquoring treatment using a fatliquoring agent constituted by (a) synthetic oil and natural oil and (b) mixture of synthetic oil and natural constituent, and (4) post-treatment after re-tanning; wherein said leather is characterized in that it is flexible and has unique elasticity and softness beyond what is presented by the material hide and has restorability that prevents the leather from stretching more than it should, and also in that its conditions include a BLC stiffness/softness of 4.42 mm or more but 4.90 mm or less and maximum set ratio of 10.7 or more but 13.9 or less.
US08481164B2
A material and an associated method of formation. A self-assembling block copolymer that includes a first block species and a second block species respectively characterized by a volume fraction of F1 and F2 with respect to the self-assembling block copolymer is provided. At least one crosslinkable polymer that is miscible with the second block species is provided. The self-assembling block copolymer and the at least one crosslinkable polymer are combined to form a mixture. The mixture having a volume fraction, F3, of the crosslinkable polymer, a volume fraction, F1A, of the first block species, and a volume fraction, F2A, of the second block species is formed. A material having a predefined morphology where the sum of F2A and F3 were preselected is formed.
US08481158B2
An aggregate of carbon-based fine structures in which a plurality of carbon-based fine structures are collected, wherein respective carbon-based fine structures are oriented in the same direction. The above aggregate of carbon-based fine structures is an aggregate of a plurality of carbon-based fine structures in a state they are pulled by one another with strong interaction, and has such a length that allows the improvement of the handleability and workability thereof.
US08481156B2
A decorative sheet includes a decoration layer having air permeability and an adhesive layer on the decoration layer arranged to bond the decoration layer onto an object. The decoration layer has an adhesive permeated portion permeated with the adhesive that has diffused from the adhesive layer. The adhesive permeated portion is about one-fifth to about one-third as thick as the decoration layer. A method of making the decorative sheet includes providing the adhesive in a sheet shape, and forming an adhesive layer by applying the adhesive onto a decoration layer permeable to air. The step of forming the adhesive layer includes permeating a portion of the decoration layer with a portion of the adhesive, and making the adhesive permeate through a surface of the decoration layer to a depth corresponding to about one-fifth to about one-third of the overall thickness of the decoration layer.
US08481148B2
An antireflection film is formed by alternately laminating a low refractive index layer and a high refractive index layer. The antireflection film has a reflectance of 10% or less and an excitation purity range of 10 or less for visible light in a wavelength range from 380 nm to 780 nm incident at an incident angle ranging from 0° to 45° when regarding the direction perpendicular to the surface as 0°. The antireflection film inhibits a specific color tone from occurring in interference color of incident light coming from an oblique direction.
US08481140B2
A molded article prepared by polyol-crosslinking a fluorine-containing elastomer composition containing a polyol-crosslinkable fluorine-containing elastomer, a polyol crosslinking agent and a silicate of an alkali metal.
US08481137B2
An object of the invention is to provide a multilayer stretched film with barrier property that is free from deterioration of barrier properties attributable to dimensional change caused by moisture absorption, and bending, etc. [Method for Achieving the Object]A multilayer stretched film with barrier property obtained by biaxially stretching a multilayer laminate comprising at least three layers, namely, a polyester-based resin layer (Layer A), a polyamide-based resin layer (Layer B), and a polyester-based resin layer (Layer A), in this order (wherein the two Layers A may be the same or different) to obtain a biaxially stretched multilayer film; and providing a deposition layer (Layer C) on at least one surface of the biaxially stretched multilayer film;both of the Layers A containing a crystalline polyester;Layer B containing 70 to 99 wt % of aliphatic polyamide and 1 to 30 wt % of aromatic polyamide; andLayer C containing an inorganic substance.
US08481136B2
A pressure vessel for containing materials under elevated pressures includes a metal liner and an adhesive layer, applied to the outer surface of the metal liner, where the adhesive layer is treated with a vacuum bag in order to secure the adhesive to the outer surface of the liner. An overwrap layer is applied on top of the adhesive on the outer surface of the metal liner, where the overwrap layer is formed by winding a filamentary material around the liner, such that the filamentary material adheres to the adhesive forming an overwrap layer on the outer surface of the metal liner, forming the pressure vessel.
US08481134B2
A biodegradable package includes a shaped body formed from a composition that contains: (i) a source of starch; (ii) a strengthening agent; (iii) a binding agent; (iv) a plasticizer; and a moisture-impermeable film covering at least a portion of the shaped body.
US08481131B2
Transparent ink-jet recording films, compositions, and methods are disclosed. These compositions and methods can impart excellent adhesion properties between film layers and the transparent support. These films are useful for medical imaging.
US08481127B2
Cyclodextrin compositions including one or more radiation polymerizable monomers and a cyclodextrin inclusion complex, the cyclodextrin inclusion complex including a cyclodextrin compound and an olefinic inhibitor of an ethylene generation in produce, are coated onto packaging materials and cured. Treated containers and treated package inserts having the cured cyclodextrin compositions are useful in packaging of respiring plant materials.
US08481125B2
Molecular adsorption to the microfluidic device surfaces can be passively and actively mitigated by mixing certain hydrophilic polymers (organic polymers with repeating hydrophilic groups—the preferred polymers being amphipathic surfactants—with the sample liquid during or prior to relevant microfluidic operations. Nonionic surfactants such as polyoxyethylene sorbitan monooleate and polyoxyethylene octyl phenyl ether are especially effective. High molecular weight polyethylene polymers are also effective. The hydrophilic polymers appear to prevent binding of the fouling molecules to the microfluidic by occupying the surface sites in place of the fouling molecules or by interacting with the fouling molecules to prevent binding of the fouling molecules the surface. When surface adsorption is thus mitigated, microfluidic devices can readily handle samples containing biomolecules to enable active sample concentration, filtering, washing, transport, mixing and other sample handling operations.
US08481122B2
ALD-type methods which include providing two or more different precursors within a chamber at different and substantially non-overlapping times relative to one another to form a material, and thereafter exposing the material to one or more reactants to change a composition of the material. In particular aspects, the precursors utilized to form the material are metal-containing precursors, and the reactant utilized to change the composition of the material comprises oxygen, silicon, and/or nitrogen.
US08481106B2
A method of fabrication of high-k paraelectric metal oxide films at low temperatures utilizing ordered mesoporous metal oxide thin films synthesized by organic templating methodology. The process consisting of (a) chemical solution deposition of periodic ordered mesoporous structures containing high-k metal oxide films, (b) removal of organic template additives, (c) infiltration of the pores with an appropriate second phase, and (d) low temperature thermal and/or annealing of infiltrated films.
US08481100B2
An improved system for filtering particulate matter from a liquid in a brewing pot. The improvement includes a filter assembly positioned about a drain tube. The filter assembly has a screen member surrounded by a shield member. The shield member is positioned between the drain tube and the particulate matter separated from the liquid. The bulk of the liquid, located in a top portion of a reservoir bypasses the screen member and drains through a drain reservoir and the drain tube. After removing the shield member, the remainder of the liquid drains through the screen member or filter and into the drain reservoir preventing the particulate matter from being carried through to a fermentor.
US08481098B2
The present invention relates to a device for the preparation of a beverage having: a mixing chamber (1) for mixing a soluble ingredient (2) and a diluent, the chamber further having a top opening (4), a diluent inlet opening (5), a beverage outlet opening (6), sealing item (7) that is able to seal the top opening (4) of the mixing chamber (1) and to prevent any fluid from leaving the mixing chamber through said sealing item. The invention also relates to a method for using this device.
US08481097B2
Apparatuses, methods and systems for liquid flow control and beverage preparation are disclosed. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention include liquid flow control and beverage preparation capsules, pods, cartridges, pouches, systems, and modules for controlling and directing flow streams of liquid through a beverage preparation process. The apparatuses, methods and systems of the present invention may be used in combination with or included as an integral assembly of any apparatus, method or system for liquid dispension.
US08481094B2
The present invention provides a method of treating neural injury, e.g., spinal cord injury (SCI), or enhancing recovery from the neural injury with silymarin or silybin.
US08481085B2
The present invention relates to the use of cannabigerol (CBG) type compounds and derivatives thereof in the treatment of mood disorders.
US08481084B2
Layered phyllosilicates are useful for adsorbing and/or binding to cholesterol and, thereby, reducing blood cholesterol in a patient. Accordingly, provided herein is a method of reducing hypercholesteremia in a mammal comprising administering to said mammal a protonated and at least partially exfoliated layered phyllosilicate material alone and in combination with other cholesterol-reducing agents in an amount effective to reduce hypercholesteremia in said mammal.
US08481082B2
A method and composition for hyperthermally diagnosing and monitoring treatment of cells in an animal with photoacoustic sound and nanoparticles. The heat (temperature) and photoacoustic sound wave production inside the target tissue is measured. The desired temperature is achieved using a laser and photoacoustic imaging technique. Hyperthermia treatment of tissue in a target site applies a heat source to kill cells without protein denaturation. The hyperthermia treatment may further comprise platelet-derived treatment. The method introduces an encapsulated dye that is released at a selected temperature in the target site to indicate that a threshold temperature has been reached to hyperthermally treat the tissue. In one embodiment, the composition releases the dye at a temperature of 42° C. to 56° C., and preferably about 45° C. to 49° C. The composition which can be a liposome composition encapsulating the dye can be introduced to the bloodstream of the patient to flow through the target site.
US08481077B2
Compositions containing a carrier and microbubbles encapsulating one or more gases, preferably oxygen, and methods for making and using the compositions are described herein. The microbubbles contain a lipid envelope. The compositions may be administered to a patient to quickly deliver large amounts of oxygen to the patient's blood supply or directly to a tissue in need of oxygen. The compositions may be administered via injection or as a continuous infusion. The compositions contain a concentrated microbubble suspension, where the suspension contains at least 40 mL oxygen/dL suspension. The microbubbles are preferably less than 20 microns in diameter, more preferably less than 15 microns in diameter. The microbubbles described herein may be administered to a patient in an effective amount to increase in oxygen concentration in the patient's blood, and/or one or more tissues or organs.
US08481076B2
A bariatric procedure or delivery apparatus is configured in such a way to deter premature passing of magnetic members through the pylorus. In other exemplary embodiments, the magnetic apparatus includes a plurality of magnetic members, having one of a variety of configurations, wherein plural magnetic poles are disposed on a surface of the apparatus.
US08481067B2
The present invention provides methods of promoting the revascularization and/or reenervation of central nervous system lesions using an in-situ crosslinkable hydrogel.
US08481040B2
The present invention relates to a transport protein which can be obtained by modifying the heavy chain of the neurotoxin formed by Clostridium botulinum wherein (i) the protein binds specifically to nerve cells with a higher or lower affinity as the native neurotoxin; (ii) the protein has an increased or reduced neurotoxicity compared to the native neurotoxin, the neurotoxicity being preferably determined in the hemidiaphragma assay; and/or (iii) the protein comprises a lower affinity against neutralizing antibodies compared to the native neurotoxin. The invention also relates to methods for producing the same and the use thereof in cosmetic and pharmaceutical compositions.
US08481034B2
The present invention provides anti-VEGFR-3 monoclonal antibodies, pharmaceutical compositions containing said antibodies and uses of said antibodies in the treatment of disease.
US08481025B2
The present invention provides a composition comprising prebiotic and probiotic components and is used to reduce elevated levels of nitrogenous waste products and to promote a healthy bowel microenvironment.
US08481021B2
The present invention provides compositions and methods relating to IL-1Rrp2 requiring proteins.
US08481019B2
The present invention relates to novel particles comprising polyelectrolyte polymers which are transporters of active principle (AP), in particular protein and peptide active principle, and to novel modified-release pharmaceutical formulations comprising said AP microparticles.These novel particles loaded with AP release the AP over a prolonged period of time of several days, or even several weeks.The invention relates, in a first aspect, to particles comprising: a) a first polyelectrolyte polymer (PE1) in a charged state, carrying side hydrophobic groups (GH), wherein said first polyelectrolyte polymer (PE1) can spontaneously form, in water, a colloidal solution of particles at least one pHm value of the pH of between 3 and 8; b) a second polyelectrolyte polymer (PE2) of opposite polarity to the first polyelectrolyte polymer (PE1), wherein said second polyelectrolyte polymer (PE2) forms, in water, a solution or a colloidal solution at said pHm value of the pH; and c) at least one active principle (AP) associated noncovalently with the particles of the colloidal solution of the first polyelectrolyte polymer (PE1); wherein said particles are obtained by mixing, at a pH equal to pHm, the first polyelectrolyte polymer (PE1), in the form of a colloidal solution of particles associated with the active principle (AP), with the second polyelectrolyte polymer (PE2), in the form of a solution or colloidal solution. The invention also relates to the process for the preparation of these particles, to a pharmaceutical formulation comprising such particles and to a process for the preparation of medicaments.
US08481010B2
The present invention relates generally to the field of primers and adhesion promoters. More specifically, the primer of the present invention is comprised of one or more multi-carbonylated methacrylates. In a preferred embodiment, a non-ketone polar solvent is also employed. The resulting composition eliminates primer related discoloration of artificial nail enhancements, eliminates the potential for corrosion of skin and nails, and eliminates risk of chemical burn injury, while providing stronger adhesion than currently available primers.
US08481007B2
The present invention provides sunscreen compositions and associated methods. In one aspect, for example, a sunscreen composition can include a cosmetically acceptable carrier and a plurality of nanoparticles dispersed in the carrier with a dispersant. The nanoparticles include at least one sun-block functional group operable to provide UV radiation protection. In one aspect the nanoparticles can be nanodiamond particles.
US08481005B2
Compositions and methods to inhibit adverse physiological effects caused by resin-based and resin-containing materials are disclosed. More specifically, the use of N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) to inhibit hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA)-mediated cell death and cytotoxicity.
US08481000B2
The present invention relates to thickened beverage compositions. More particularly the invention relates to beverage compositions thickened for the management of dysphagia. More particularly this invention relates to the production of thickened beverages by a dispensing machine that is also capable of dispensing non-thickened beverages.
US08480997B2
Provided is a method for preparing manganese sulfate monohydrate, which comprises the following steps: (1) adding equimolar BaS or SrS solution into manganese sulfate solution to carry out reaction fully, and separating and washing the obtained solid; (2) mixing the solid with deionized water to prepare a slurry, dissolving the slurry with concentrated sulfuric acid, and separating solid from liquid to obtain MnSO4 solution; (3) adding proper amount of hydrogen peroxide to the MnSO4 solution, heating to boiling, adjusting the pH value of the solution within 5-6, evaporation the filtrate after a precise filtration, and crystallizing and drying to obtain MnSO4 H2O product. Manganese sulfate monohydrate can be produced at high yield in a cost-efficient manner by this method.
US08480993B2
A diamond reference standard contains a diamond composite of 60-90% diamond crystals and 10-40% silicon carbide binding agent doped with a plurality of elements. The standard is prepared by doping a diamond composite containing a silicon carbide binder with a plurality of elements, the presence of which can readily be detected using a variety of instruments, e.g. a mass spectrometer.
US08480989B2
Hollow fine particles containing SiO2 as the main component and containing another metal. The amount of the other metal (calculated as oxide) is 0.2 to 8 parts by mass based on 100 parts by mass of SiO2. A coating composition containing the hollow fine particles and a dispersion medium. An article having a coating film including the coating composition formed on a substrate. A process for producing hollow fine particles, which includes (a) precipitating a shell containing SiO2 as the main component and containing another metal on the surface of core fine particles, to obtain core/shell particles, and (b) dissolving or decomposing the core fine particles of the core/shell fine particles.
US08480987B2
Provided are lithium transition metal phosphates where the cation anti-site defects between lithium and transition metals in a lithium transition metal phosphate with a cation well-ordered olivine structure are arranged only in a 1D crystal direction, and a method of preparing the same. The method comprises adding any one selected from the group consisting of an alkali element and an element that has a valence of 5+ or any combination thereof to a solid salt comprising lithium, transition metals, and phosphorus as a starting material to produce a first intermediate material; subjecting the first intermediate to a first heat treatment at a temperature of approximately 250° C. to approximately 400° C. to produce a second amorphous material; and cooling the second intermediate material to room temperature, followed by a second heat treatment at a temperature of approximately 400° C. to approximately 800° C. to produce a final material in which the cation-distribution defect is locally clustered and the distribution has a 1D-oriented arrangement parallel to any one axis direction in the crystal.
US08480984B2
A selective catalytic reduction system and method for reducing nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions comprising a boiler producing flue gas emissions, a particulate control device receiving flue gas emissions from the boiler, a selective catalytic reduction unit (SCR) receiving flue gas emissions from the particulate control device and reducing nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, and a heat exchanger located downstream of the selective catalytic reduction unit (SCR) for removing heat from the flue gas for preheating at least one of boiler feed water and combustion air for the boiler.
US08480979B2
An enhancement water system to produce a serving of enhanced filtered water is described. The present system describes a faucet mount water enhancement system that includes a housing with an inlet and an outlet, a source of water at the inlet, and a filter component within the housing. Source water is converted into treated water as it flows through the filter component under the influence of pressure. The housing further includes an outlet for outflow of treated water. A first enhancement module is disposed outside the housing adjacent the outlet and the first enhancement module is effective to dispense a desired amount of a first enhancement for use in combining with treated water dispensed from the outlet.
US08480970B2
The present invention relates to an analytical pretreatment device, comprising a supporting material 1, m inlet ports 3 as fluid injection ports, n outlet ports 4 as fluid outlet port, m×n hollow filament 5 communicating between the inlet ports and the outlet ports, and n filler cartridges 6 connected to the outlet ports (wherein, m is a natural number; and n is a natural number) that provides an analytical pretreatment device allowing easier automation of the analytical pretreatment step for improvement in operational accuracy and saving in labor.
US08480969B2
A medical device includes a casing, a cover member that covers a portion on one-direction side of the same, and a sheet member interposed therebetween. The cover member includes on its periphery a hook part having a hook-like portion and a protrusion. The casing includes a latch part configured to engage with the hook part and a fitted portion for the protrusion to fit in. The sheet member includes an alignment part for aligning itself with the cover member. The cover member preferably has optical transparency. The casing preferably includes a recess shaped to fit with an outer shape of the cover member at a portion to be covered by the cover member.
US08480962B2
An engine exhaust gas purification apparatus for engine includes a mixing device for promoting mixing of a liquid reducing agent or a precursor thereof and exhaust gas is disposed at a position at which, when an engine is operating in a predetermined operating state, the liquid reducing agent or the precursor thereof injection-supplied from an injection nozzle impinges on substantially an entire surface of the mixing device. The predetermined operating state may be, for example, an operating state in which a solute tends to deposit from the liquid reducing agent or the precursor thereof. Thus, the liquid reducing agent or the precursor thereof adhering to the mixing device or an exhaust passage is reduced in absolute amount, thereby preventing that only a solvent evaporates from the liquid reducing agent or the precursor thereof adhering to the mixing device or the exhaust passage to deposit the solute.
US08480956B2
Laterally oscillating gravimetric sensing device embeddable under micro-fluidic channels and fabricated with micro-electro mechanical systems (MEMS) technology, which detects biological cells and analytes by measuring the change of mass attached on its surface is composed of four main groups, namely a resonator that can be placed onto the basis of the channel, components of the resonator bio-activation, a micro fluidic channel, and the microfabrication techniques, and its main components are the proof mass (1), comb fingers fixed to proof mass (2), folded spring beams (3), channel floor and mechanical soil (4), stationary electrodes (5), comb fingers attached to the stationary electrodes (6), golden film deposited onto the mass (7), immobilized biologic recognition molecules (8), and micro fluidic channel placed on resonator structure (9).
US08480953B2
A vessel including an identification region may be placed in a holder. Through interaction of a positioning feature on the vessel and an orientation feature on the holder, the vessel can be placed into an alignment orientation, e.g., such that the identification region may be reliably read by a reader. The identification region may provides information related to the sample, such as vessel identity, sample volume, processes to be performed on the sample, and so on.
US08480949B2
A gas-jet cooling apparatus for a continuous annealing furnace apparatus includes a plurality of tubular pressure headers extending in a width direction of a steel strip and having a length that is larger than a width of the steel strip, wherein the pressure headers are arranged to face each of front and back surfaces of the steel strip along a longitudinal direction of the steel strip at a pitch L; and a plurality of nozzles protruding from the pressure headers, wherein the nozzles are arranged along the width direction of the steel strip at a pitch W and arranged along the longitudinal direction of the steel strip in a staggered manner.
US08480948B2
An apparatus and method for processing iron sinter is provided. A cooling system is arranged downstream of a furnace for cooling the iron sinter. The cooling system includes a convective cooling system for forcing air into the iron sinter and an evaporative cooling system for directing fluid into the hot sinter.
US08480935B2
Prepreg for manufacturing a fiber-reinforced composite material, the prepreg comprising a layer of dry fibers and a layer of resin material adhered to a surface of the layer of dry fibers, the resin material having a plurality of particles dispersed therein, the particles have an average particle size that is larger than the average fiber separation of the layer of dry fibers.
US08480933B2
Systems and methods for calibrating a dispense head to provide substantially uniform droplets on a substrate are described.
US08480930B2
A method for preparing carbon aerogels and carbon aerogels obtained therefrom are disclosed. The method for preparing carbon aerogels comprises: mixing organic starting materials including phloroglucinol and furfural with a solvent capable of dissolving the organic materials in a predetermined ratio to form a sol solution; adjusting pH of the sol solution adequately by using an acidic or basic catalyst, gelling the sol solution at room temperature under atmospheric pressure, and aging the resultant gels; substituting the solvent in thus obtained gels with liquid carbon dioxide, followed by drying in a supercritical state, to form organic aerogels; and pyrolyzing the organic aerogels in an electric furnace under inert atmosphere to obtain carbon aerogels. Particularly, the gels are formed at room temperature in a short period of time by adequately adjusting pH of the sol solution. Therefore, the method provides improved time efficiency and energy efficiency as compared to existing methods for preparing gels. Additionally, the method allows supercritical drying while avoiding a need for an additional solvent substitution, thereby simplifying the overall process. Further, the method enables preparation of carbon aerogels for supercapacitors having a high specific surface area and high capacitance even in the absence of additional activation step.
US08480924B1
Certain exemplary embodiments provide methods for reducing a concentration of a contaminant associated with a medium, which can be any substance or material, such as soil, water, air, and/or fluid. In one exemplary method, the medium is treated with a ferric chelate and an oxidizing agent in amounts effective to oxidize at least a portion of the contaminant.
US08480901B2
Provided herein are methods and products for biomass digestion, which includes the production of biogas, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency classified Class A Biosolids, and pathogen reduced organic liquid fertilizer. Through the digestion of waste materials using sequential phases in an efficient digestion process, enhanced biomass conversion efficiency and improved output of products (in quantity and/or quality) are obtained with a significant reduction in dwell time in each phase.
US08480900B2
A buoyant water heating device that may be used in a natural setting, such as a pond or lake, or in a man-made water-containing apparatus, such as a pool or water-treatment lagoon. The device comprises a water-filled, generally cylindrical anchor member coupled to a hollow, generally annular base member, and may he used alone or in combination with multiple other devices to create a free-floating blanket on the surface of the water. The device absorbs solar energy to heat water external to the device, and also provides a layer of thermal insulation between the water and the air above the device.
US08480892B2
The invention concerns a filter insert (1) that is provided as an exchangeable insert in an oil filter of an internal combustion engine, as well as a corresponding oil filter. The oil filter comprises a filter housing (3) separable along a separating plane (2) and the exchangeable filter insert (1). Two housing parts (4, 5) of the filter housing (3) are sealed relative one another along the separating plane (2) by means of a seal (6). The seal (6) is captively secured on the filter insert (1).
US08480887B2
A stormwater gully comprises a chamber in which an outlet assembly is installed. The outlet assembly comprises filter units connected to an outlet housing. In use, stormwater can flow from the chamber in an upwards direction through filter units into the outlet housing. The outlet housing has an outlet, which extends from the gully. At high rates of flow, the water level in the chamber will rise until water can flow into the outlet housing through bypass inlets. The bypass inlets are connected to the interior of the housing by siphons defined by arched regions of a top cover. The siphons allow rapid discharge of water until the water level returns below the level of the bypass inlets. A slow drain down feature is provided which enables the chamber and outlet assembly to be drained below the level of the primary inlet.
US08480885B2
A fluid filter has an outer case with a side wall, a closed first end wall, and a second end wall defining fluid inlet and outlet openings, as well as a filter cartridge received within the outer case. The filter cartridge includes a substantially cylindrical full flow filter element, providing for passage of a major portion of fluid entering the filter, and a substantially cylindrical bypass filter element, providing for passage of a minor portion of fluid entering the filter and disposed radially within and surrounded circumferentially by the full flow filter element. By way of the particular fluid filter configuration disclosed, a simple alternative to known filters having full flow and bypass filters located in common housings is provided.
US08480880B2
A process for making a lubricating base oil having a viscosity index of at least 110, comprising the steps of: combining a waxy light neutral base oil and a wax derived from pyrolyzing a plastics feed comprising polyethylene to form a blend; hydroisomerization dewaxing the blend; and recovering the lubricating base oil from an effluent from the hydroisomerization dewaxing step.
US08480862B2
An improved system and method for controlling ozone concentration in connection with a multi-chamber tool. The system and method involve a first and a second concentration controller in combination with an ozone generator. The first concentration controller detects an EVENT (i.e., one of the chambers in the multi-chamber tool coming on-line or off-line) and in response provides a power instruction to the ozone generator in accordance with a predictive control algorithm. The first concentration controller has a fast (i.e, about 1 second) response time. The second concentration controller is masked from the ozone generator during the EVENT, but otherwise controls the generator after an interval of time has lapsed after the EVENT. The second concentration controller has a slower response time than the first concentration controller, however the second concentration controller provides the system with long-term stability and can be used to provide updated data to the predictive control algorithm.
US08480857B2
A papermaking machine for the production of a fibrous web. The papermaking machine including a plurality of rollers and a structured fabric moving along the plurality of rollers. The structured fabric includes a plurality of weft yarns and a plurality of warp yarns woven with the plurality of weft yarns to produce a weave pattern. The plurality of warp yarns are a plurality of paired warp yarn sets, each paired warp yarn set including a first warp yarn and a second warp yarn. Within the weave pattern the first warp yarn weaves a plain weave while the second warp yarn floats over a first portion of the plurality of weft yarns. The second warp yarn weaving a plain weave while the first warp yarn floats over a second portion of the plurality of weft yarns in the weave pattern.
US08480851B2
A bamboo fiber material, which is manufactured via the following steps: (1) preparation of bamboo oil: (2) preparation of bamboo fiber: (3) mixing the bamboo oil, a water-proofing agent and sodium chloride, adding water in an amount of 2-5 times of the weight of the mixture, stirring at 15-20° C. for 5-10 minutes; (4) adding the bamboo fiber obtained in step (2), as well as a natural resin powder and an edible starch, stirring at 18-20° C. for 2-5 minutes; finally adding a titanium dioxide and stirring uniformly to obtain the bamboo material. The bamboo fiber material of the present invention is made from natural bamboo as main raw material, taking inherent advantages of bamboo such as antibacterial, anticorrosive, non-toxic and less side-effect. In addition, other raw materials are also all environment-friendly materials, so that the bamboo fiber material is free of volatile chemicals.
US08480847B2
A processing system adapted for processing an object to be processed, including a processing vessel configured for containing the object to be processed and for receiving a processing fluid, a processing fluid generating unit configured for generating a processing fluid, a processing-side fluid passage configured for supplying the processing fluid into the processing vessel, and a discharge fluid passage configured for discharging the processing fluid from the processing vessel. The processing system further includes a bypass-side fluid passage configured for discharging the processing fluid generated in the processing fluid generating unit without passing it through the processing vessel, a pressure control mechanism provided to the discharge fluid passage downstream from a position at which the bypass-side fluid passage is connected with the discharge fluid passage, and a switch valve configured to selectively switch a fluid passage of the processing fluid between the processing-side fluid passage and the bypass-side fluid passage.
US08480842B2
A low-cost contour cuff for surgical tourniquet systems comprises: a sheath containing an inflatable bladder, the sheath having an arcuate shape, an outer surface and a centerline equidistant between first and second side edges; a securing strap non-releasably attached to the outer surface and formed of substantially inextensible material having a shape that is predetermined and substantially flat, wherein the strap includes a bending portion near a first strap end and a fastening portion near a second strap end, and wherein the bending portion is adapted to allow twisting of the bending portion out of the substantially flat shape to facilitate positioning of the fastening portion into any of a plurality of positions in the substantially flat shape; and fastening means for releasably attaching the fastening portion of the securing strap to the outer surface whenever the sheath is curved into a position for surrounding a limb.
US08480840B2
A stretch composite having one or more elastomeric members disposed on at least one region of an extensible fibrous substrate to provide stretch properties to a targeted region of the substrate. The composite has been incrementally stretched to at least partially break up the structure of the substrate in order to reduce its resistance to stretch. The stretch composites are useful for disposable and durable articles, such as disposable absorbent articles including diapers, pull-on diapers, training pants, incontinence briefs, catamenial garments, baby bibs, and the like, and durable articles like garments including sportswear, outerwear and the like. The present invention also relates to methods of forming such stretch composites.
US08480836B2
A double-sided, slip resistant material is produced using a blown film process which produces a film having an interior heat sealable layer, a core layer of flexible polyolefin and an exterior polyolefin elastomer layer in combination with a blowing agent and optionally grit to produce a double-sided slip resistant material. A number of rollers are provided after nip rollers have fused the film together, and which form part of a machine direction orienter (MDO) that is used in line in the manufacturing process to heat, and then cool and condition (anneal and relieve any stresses and/or thickness inconsistencies in the film) prior to the film being wound onto a roll for storage.
US08480834B2
The method of labeling of a container including a medication includes, in at least one embodiment, reducing a size of the label using a label apparatus and reducing the label size using the label apparatus, applying a surface securing adhesive to at least one surface securing section of the label using an adhesive application apparatus, and attaching the at least one surface securing section of the label to the container with the securing adhesive. The method also includes applying a label securing adhesive to the label to maintain the label in the reduced orientation.
US08480833B2
An intravaginal device has a fluid storage element and at least one fluid transport element in fluid communication with the fluid storage element. It is produced by providing an individual sheet of material having properties useful to move bodily fluids, attaching the individual sheet to a substantially cylindrical fluid storage element to form the at least one fluid storage element, folding the fluid storage element, and packaging the resultant device. The at least one fluid transport element is capable of extending radially away from the fluid storage element during use. The invention also includes alternative methods of forming the intravaginal device.
US08480824B2
The invention discloses a process and apparatus for micro-treating an iron-based alloy including heating and immediately quenching to room temperature to produce high tensile iron-based alloy with varying thicknesses. The process may or may not be practiced with or without tension under various controllable tensions in order to create desirable effects The micro-treated iron-based alloy contains desirable bainite to increase its formability and tensile strength. The varying thickness of the iron-based alloys is desirable for different applications, such as forming automobile panels.
US08480823B1
A metal induction forming method includes providing a metal sheet, cold forming the metal sheet by applying shaping pressure to the metal sheet, heating the metal sheet while applying shaping pressure to the metal sheet and quenching the metal sheet.
US08480820B2
A ferrous abrasion resistant sliding material and sliding member having improved seizing resistance, abrasion resistance and heat crack resistance are provided. The ferrous abrasion resistant sliding material has a parent phase taking the form of at least either one of a ferrite phase or a martensite phase, wherein the parent phase contains Al of 1.5 to 20 wt %, and at least either carbide, which may be selected from one or more types, of cementite, Cr7C3-type carbide, Fe3M3C-type carbide and MC-type carbide, or graphite is dispersed therein.
US08480817B2
One embodiment of the present invention is a unique method for thermal mechanical processing of a martensitic stainless steel. Other embodiments include apparatuses, systems, devices, hardware, methods, and combinations for thermal mechanical processing of a martensitic stainless steel and forged objects resulting therefrom. Further embodiments, forms, features, aspects, benefits, and advantages of the present application shall become apparent from the description and figures provided herewith.
US08480813B2
A method of introducing treatment fluid into containers to remove contaminants therefrom in a container filling plant, and an arrangement therefor. The abstract of the disclosure is submitted herewith as required by 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b). As stated in 37 C.F.R. §1.72(b): A brief abstract of the technical disclosure in the specification must commence on a separate sheet, preferably following the claims, under the heading “Abstract of the Disclosure.” The purpose of the abstract is to enable the Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and gist of the technical disclosure. The abstract shall not be used for interpreting the scope of the claims. Therefore, any statements made relating to the abstract are not intended to limit the claims in any manner and should not be interpreted as limiting the claims in any manner.
US08480809B2
A method is provided for receiving the wafer on a support, the support being configured for movement along a direction. While moving the wafer, dispensing a cleaning material to clean contaminants from the surface of the wafer, the dispensing applied as a film over a diameter length of the wafer. The cleaning material contains a cleaning liquid, a plurality of solid components, and polymers of a polymeric compound. Each of the plurality of solid components and polymers being greater than zero and less than 3% of the cleaning material, and wherein the polymers become soluble in the cleaning liquid and the solubilized polymers having long polymer chains that capture and entrap solid components and contaminants in the cleaning liquid. Then, rinsing the film off of the wafer with a rinsing meniscus. The rinsing meniscus applied along the diameter length of the wafer and the film is rinsed after the dispensing.
US08480797B2
Several embodiments of the invention relate to systems and methods for removing compositions comprising dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or related compounds, or odors associated with same. In several embodiments, the systems include activated carbon filters, adsorbents, odor adsorbing fabrics, masks, clean air members and clean air supply assemblies. Methods for reducing the concentration of a DMSO metabolite, or the odors associated with said DMSO metabolite are provided in some embodiments. In some embodiments the systems and methods facilitating the treatment of traumatic brain injury, ischemic stroke, atherosclerosis, spinal cord trauma, and neurodegenerative illnesses with compositions comprising DMSO.
US08480782B2
A composition has a core of at least one fertilizer substance and at least one layer of a coating material surrounding the core. The core may contain nitrogen and the coating material may include one or more linear, saturated aliphatic monocarboxylic acids.
US08480773B2
A polishing pad having a compressibility-aiding stripe buried therein is fabricated by assembling the compressibility-aiding stripe in a mold cavity, filling the mold cavity with a polymer material, and releasing the polishing pad from the mold. Embodiments include assembling a compressibility-aiding stripe comprising a solid pillar of material having a larger compressibility than that of the polishing pad body, and releasing a single layer polishing pad from the mold.
US08480771B2
A gasification process for making producer gas is disclosed. A consistent quality of raw carbon source material is supplied for gasification. The impurity content of the raw carbon source material is adjusted to within an acceptable consistent range of impurity content. The raw carbon source material is heated in a non-oxidizing environment to adjust the tar content and to remove volatile hydrocarbon constituents and to produce a devolatilized carbon source material. The devolatilized carbon source material is gasified by heating the carbon source material to a gasification temperature in a gasification generator, supplying steam, and supplying enhanced oxygen content air to react with the devolatilized carbon source material and to thereby form consistent, high energy value, low impurity producer gas.
US08480768B2
A gasifier 10 includes a first chemical process loop 12 having an exothermic oxidizer reactor 14 and an endothermic reducer reactor 16. CaS is oxidized in air in the oxidizer reactor 14 to form hot CaSO4 which is discharged to the reducer reactor 16. Hot CaSO4 and carbonaceous fuel received in the reducer reactor 16 undergo an endothermic reaction utilizing the heat content of the CaSO4, the carbonaceous fuel stripping the oxygen from the CaSO4 to form CaS and a CO rich syngas. The CaS is discharged to the oxidizer reactor 14 and the syngas is discharged to a second chemical process loop 52. The second chemical process loop 52 has a water-gas shift reactor 54 and a calciner 42. The CO of the syngas reacts with gaseous H2O in the shift reactor 54 to produce H2 and CO2. The CO2 is captured by CaO to form hot CaCO3 in an exothermic reaction. The hot CaCO3 is discharged to the calciner 42, the heat content of the CaCO3 being used to strip the CO2 from the CaO in an endothermic reaction in the calciner, with the CaO being discharged from the calciner 42 to the shift reactor 54.
US08480765B2
Biomass pyrolysis oil is converted into precursors for hydrocarbon transportation fuels by contacting the oil with liquid superheated water or supercritical water to depolymerize and deoxygenate the components of the oil and form the transportation fuel precursors. Temperatures above 200° C. and preferably above 300° C. are preferred with supercritical water at temperatures above 374° C. and pressures above 22 MPA providing the capability for fast conversion rates.
US08480763B2
A sealed battery includes a sealing plate 13 sealing a mouth of an outer can, an external terminal 16 attached to the sealing plate 13 and having a connecting terminal 23, and a current interruption mechanism 18 interrupting current in response to pressure increase in the outer can that is installed in a conductive pathway electrically connecting the connecting terminal 23 and an electrode assembly. In the connecting terminal 23, a through-hole 23b continuing to the space on the current interruption mechanism 18 at the side corresponding to the outside of the battery is formed. The through-hole 23b is sealed with a terminal stopper 30 made of an elastic member so as to form a closed space between the terminal stopper 30 and current interruption mechanism 18. An electrolyte or washing solution hardly enters the current interruption mechanism during the manufacture can be provided.
US08480757B2
Implants comprising cartilage and trabecular metal, and methods of making the implants are disclosed. Further disclosed are therapeutic uses of the implants, which include methods of treatment or repair of an chondral or osteochondral defect, such as a chondral or osteochondral injury, lesion or disease. An implant comprises cartilage or chondrocytes and a subchondral base comprising trabecular metal. An implant can comprise a geometric shape such as a cylinder or an anatomical shape such as a condyle, and can be used in conjunction with a positioning structure.
US08480756B2
Orthopaedic implants, orthopaedic implant sets, and/or methods for making the same. Aspects and embodiments of the present invention may include orthopaedic implants having an elongated insertion region including proximal, distal, and transition portions, wherein at least portions of at least one face each of the proximal and transition portions are defined by spaced apart constant radii of curvature. The same or other aspects and embodiments may include sets of orthopaedic implants in which proximal portions of the implants grow at different rates than distal portions of the implants. The same or other aspects and embodiments may include methods for making implants and/or sets of implants by studying the geometries of differently sized bony anatomies.
US08480753B2
The present invention relates to systems and methods for preparing the trochlear groove of a patient's femur to receive a prosthesis thereon. In the system, a combination drill-and-alignment guide includes at least a proximal and intermediate section, and preferably also includes a distal section. Guide holes for receiving guide pins therein are located in the proximal and distal sections of the guide. After the guide is positioned using at least one of several visual and/or tactile references in the system, the guides pins are placed through the guide holes of the guide and into bone. The guide may then be removed and replaced by cannulated reamers that are rotated and used to resect a predetermined amount of bone around the guide pins. A prosthesis having at least a portion of an outer surface that substantially matches the trochlear groove of the patient in a pre-degenerated state is then implanted on the resected bone.
US08480746B2
An intervertebral implant includes a first endplate having a first surface configured to substantially engage with a first vertebral body and a second surface having an extension with a concave contact surface, the concave contact surface being spaced apart from the second surface. The implant further includes a second endplate having a first surface configured to substantially engage with a second vertebral body and a second surface comprising a convex contact surface, and the second endplate having first and second side rails positioned along and above the second surface defining a first and second arcuate slots on opposing sides of the second surface. A plate connecting the first and second endplates is also provided.
US08480744B2
A method for delivering a spinal implant into a vertebral space, including providing a spinal implant, providing a die member defining an opening sized to receive the implant while in an initial configuration, inserting the implant into the opening in the die member, displacing the implant relative to the die member, transitioning the implant from the initial configuration to a deformed configuration having a reduced lateral profile relative to the initial configuration, and discharging the implant from the die member and inserting the implant into the vertebral space while in the deformed configuration.
US08480742B2
An artificial disc prosthesis having load-bearing characteristics that mimic those of the normal, healthy intervertebral disc so as to provide resist flexion and axial compression of the spine in a way that preserves normal spinal function. The disc prosthesis includes three main components, a frame, a cushion molded over the frame, and a sac containing a hydrogel for maintaining disc height that is confined within a cavity in the cushion. Disc height is changed by increasing and/or decreasing the amount of hydrogel in the sac in accordance with the particular needs of the patient into which the artificial disc is implanted. Also provided is a frame for an artifical intervertebral disc that allows the axis of rotation of the spine to shift in a manner that replicates, or mimics, the normal function of the intervertebral disc.
US08480737B2
Novel bioabsorbable, columellar strut implants are disclosed. The struts are useful in rhinoplasty and nasal reconstruction surgical procedures. The devices have opposed lateral sides connected to a spine member to form a tissue-receiving channel.
US08480732B2
Mitral valve prolapse and mitral regurgitation can be treating by implanting in the mitral annulus a transvalvular intraannular band having an elongate and arcuate body. The elongate and arcuate body has a first end, a first anchoring portion located proximate the first end, a second end, a second anchoring portion located proximate the second end, and a central portion. The central portion is displaced from the plane containing the first end and the second end. The transvalvular band is positioned so that it extends transversely across a coaptive edge formed by the closure of the mitral valve leaflets and the central portion is displaced towards the left ventricle relative to the first anchoring portion and the second anchoring portion. The ventricular direction displacement moves coaption to an earlier point in the cardiac cycle.
US08480722B2
A device delivers light within a patient using an inner cannula, fiber optics, LED along an endotracheal tube, ETT or tracheostomy tube or a strip with embedded LED adhered to an ETT. The inner cannula includes a tubular thin walled device that transmits light by fiber optics or delivers electrical power to an LED. The light passes along one or more fibers placed within the walls of the inner cannula for outward delivery of the light. The light affects the inside of the cannula, the area between the cannula and the ETT, the area outside the ETT, and into the tracheobronchial tree. The light delivers an antimicrobial effect into the upper airway of a patient. Alternatively, the light delivery device involves tubes and cannulas attaching to existing medical tubes and devices. Alternatively, a transparent strip of embedded LED secures to an existing medical tube.
US08480712B1
A spinal fixation system suitable for effecting fixation between adjacent vertebral levels within the spine. The spinal fixation system of the present invention includes a pair single axis or “fixed” pedicle screw assemblies, a pair of poly-axial pedicle screw assemblies, a pair of cannulated rod members, and a transverse connector spanning between the pair of cannulated rod members.
US08480708B2
Methods for occluding an atrial appendage. The steps of an exemplary method include introducing at least a portion of the first device in a heart, introducing at least a portion of a second device into a pericardial space surrounding the heart, positioning the balloon of the first device at least partially within an atrial appendage cavity, inflating the balloon to displace blood present within the atrial appendage cavity, positioning the loop of the second device around the atrial appendage, tightening the loop around the atrial appendage, deflating the balloon to allow for ultimate removal of the first device from the atrial appendage cavity, and separating the loop from the second device so that the loop remains positioned and tightened around the atrial appendage.
US08480707B2
A device for occluding septal defects or other bodily passageways includes two anchors connected to an occluding body. The occluding body may be formed as a plug or tube of biocompatible material configured to occlude a bodily passageway. At least one of the anchors includes a grasping member in the form of a loop or suitably shaped structure, which is configured for releasable attachment to an anchor engaging member, such as a biopsy forceps. In a further aspect a closure device assembly includes a closure device linked to the biopsy forceps and collapsibly disposed in a catheter. By positioning the catheter near a bodily passageway, such as a PFO, and disengaging the forceps from the grasping member, the closure device may be released so as to facilitate stable closure of a septal opening, such as a PFO.
US08480691B2
A suture trimmer having a shaft, a cutting member, an actuating device, and a snare. The shaft has a first end and a second end and bounds a bore extending from the first end toward the second end. The shaft has an opening formed in a side adjacent the first end. The cutting member is slidably disposed within the bore of the shaft and can be moved between a first position and a second position, such that when disposed in the second position the cutting member closes the opening formed in the side of the shaft. The actuating device is in communication with the cutting member and is operable to move the cutting member from the first position to the second position. The snare extends through the opening and out of the bore at the first end of the shaft.
US08480688B2
A clip applier for deploying a surgical clip includes an actuator having a flexible wire and a collet chuck coupled to a piston. Further, actuation of the piston in a forward direction towards a distal end of the clip applier advances the flexible wire in the forward direction.
US08480682B2
A stop is used for limiting the drill depth of an osteotomy drill bit within a bore in bone. This stop may have a generally tubular body for being releasably mounted on the drill bit and have a cam slot disposed at the body and used for defining a plurality of axial positions. The cam slot is configured for releasably securing a cam follower associated with a drill assembly that extends radially relative to a longitudinal axis of the drill bit assembly to axially secure the stop to the drill bit assembly. Additionally, the stop includes an apical end section that is configured to engage bone adjacent to the bore and limit the apical motion of the drill bit.
US08480675B2
A medical device and method of using the device to reinforce and stabilize a compressed tissue is disclosed. The medical device comprises a shaft with a single blade that is biased with a bend, but is elastic enough to be straightened. The end of a cannula is inserted into a tissue, and the blade and shaft are then inserted into a cannula to straightens the blade and direct it to the tissue site. When the blade reaches the tissue site, the blade naturally returns to its bent biased state, and the shaft and blade are then rotated to pulp a volume of tissue. A binding material is then injected into the pulped tissue without removing the tissue.
US08480671B2
An end effector assembly for use with a forceps includes a pair of jaw members, a knife assembly, and one or more cam assemblies. One or more of the jaw members are moveable relative to the other about a pivot between open and closed positions. One or more of the jaw members include a knife channel. The pivot includes first and second sections defining a passage therebetween. The knife assembly includes a knife blade and an actuation shaft. The knife blade is disposed distally relative to the pivot. The actuation shaft is configured for slidable translation through the passage to allow selective advancement of the knife blade through the knife channel. The one or more cam assemblies are operably coupled to the one or more moveable jaw members and are actuatable to move the one or more jaw members between the open and closed positions for grasping tissue therebetween.
US08480666B2
A system for providing feedback during an electrosurgical procedure on a target tissue is provided. The system includes an electrosurgical energy source; an electrode probe assembly connected to the electrosurgical energy source, wherein the electrode probe assembly includes at least one electrode assembly having a needle configured to deliver electrosurgical energy to the target tissue; at least one thermal feedback assembly connected to the electrosurgical energy source, wherein each thermal feedback assembly includes at least one temperature sensor assembly; and a hub configured to selectively support the electrode probe assembly and each thermal feedback assembly such that the needle of the electrode probe assembly and each temperature sensor assembly of each thermal feedback assembly are proximate one another when disposed proximate the target tissue.
US08480664B2
A method of performing cryotherapy on a patient can include positioning an outer surface of a distal portion of a cryotherapy catheter in contact with body tissue to be treated; performing a treatment phase, including regulating a temperature of the outer surface at a treatment value for a first period of time; performing a recovery phase comprising allowing the temperature of the outer surface to warm up to a recovery value that is higher than treatment value but substantially lower than a normal body temperature of the patient; and performing one or more additional treatment phases for a second period of time. Each of the first and second periods of time can be selected to allow a cold front having a cold front temperature to propagate from the outer surface and through a therapeutic portion of a thickness of the body tissue, but not substantially beyond the thickness.
US08480663B2
Apparatus and methods for performing cryogenic ablation of tissue and adjusting the size and/or location of a cryogenic cooling region. A cooling assembly may include tubes for dispensing and exhausting a coolant or refrigerant. One or both of the tubes may be moved, e.g., slidably adjusted, in order to adjust the location or size of a cryogenic ablation region. The cooling assembly may be integrated into cryogenic ablation devices including a cryogenic balloon device that includes an inner inflatable balloon and another balloon that is at least partially wrapped around the inner balloon and carries refrigerant for performing cryo-ablation. Electrodes permit electrical mapping of tissue before or after cryo-ablation to verify success of the procedure.
US08480660B2
An apparatus for the treatment of biological, in particular living tissue comprising a treatment laser device 1 for generating a pulsed treatment radiation directed on to a target tissue, in an embodiment additionally including a measurement laser device 2, 3 for generating a pulsed measurement radiation directed on to the target tissue of lower energy and shorter pulse duration than the treatment radiation, a detector device 4 for measuring pressure transients induced by the measurement radiation and a control device 6 for controlling the treatment radiation in dependence on the pressure transients evaluated in respect of a tissue change, wherein a regulating or control algorithm for controlling the treatment radiation is formed from the pressure transients.
US08480656B2
A dispensing device for dispensing medicaments to a patient that is made up of first and second stand-alone, interconnectable assemblies. The first of these assemblies comprises a fluid reservoir assembly that houses a fluid reservoir defining component while the second assembly comprises a fluid delivery and control assembly that includes a novel flow control means that functions to control the flow of medicinal fluid from the fluid reservoir of the first assembly toward the patient via a plurality of fluid flow control passageways. Because the stand-alone fluid delivery and control assembly is initially totally separate from the fluid reservoir assembly of the apparatus, the fluid flow passageways of the fluid delivery and control assembly can be effectively sterilized using conventional gamma ray sterilization techniques without adversely affecting the medicament contained within the fluid reservoir of the apparatus.
US08480638B2
The present invention includes methods and devices for non-invasively delivering an active agent to the eye of a subject. In one aspect, for example, a device for delivering an active agent to an eye of a subject may include an ocular lens-shaped housing configured to contact a surface of the eye, and a reservoir coupled to the housing and configured to deliver an active agent to the eye, wherein the reservoir is located entirely within a 180 degree section of the housing. In another aspect, the reservoir is located entirely within a 150 degree section of the housing.
US08480636B2
The invention encompasses a catheter having an outer surface, a distal end, and at least one interior lumen, wherein the outer surface includes multiple aspiration passageways in fluid communication with an interior lumen. A preferred embodiment comprises multiple aspiration passageways formed into a helical pattern.
US08480630B2
A modular injection device for administration of dermal filler compositions is provided. The injection device may include a handheld injector unit including a drive unit, the drive unit configured to apply an extrusion force to a fluid; a control unit remote from the injector unit, the control unit configured to control the drive unit; and a cable configured to connect the control unit to the injector unit.
US08480629B2
A utility fixture secured to a proximal portion of an elongate medical device and methods of use. The utility fixture may have one or more receptacles for receiving and retaining additional medical instruments. The utility fixture may provide the operator a means to free a hand during a medical procedure. Therefore, the operator may operate a plurality of medical instruments simultaneously and/or sequentially during a medical procedure without assistance.
US08480620B2
A drug delivery balloon is provided, the a balloon having an outer surface, and a tunable coating disposed on at least a length of the balloon surface. The tunable coating includes a first therapeutic agent and a first excipient, and a second therapeutic agent and a second excipient. The first and second therapeutic agents have different dissolution rates during balloon inflation and therefore provide a coating that is tunable.
US08480614B2
A contrast medium injection management apparatus includes a measuring unit which repeatedly measures the injection amount of contrast medium injected from at least one contrast medium injection device into a subject to be examined, a cumulative injection amount calculating unit which repeatedly calculates a cumulative injection amount at the start of examination or after an arbitrary point of time from the injection amount, and a display unit which displays the cumulative injection amount.
US08480610B1
An ear tube for draining and ventilating the middle ear that prevents perforation of the ear drum. The tube comprises a tubular stem having a lumen formed in it and a pair of ports formed in its walls for providing access to the lumen from the sides. A plurality of resilient arms extend from one end of stem at an angle to the stem and each other. Once through the membrane, the arms resiliently spring open to anchor the tube.
US08480607B2
The invention provides an apparatus for use in the treatment of an individual suffering from liver disease, including: (a) means for selectively removing albumin from the blood of the individual; and (b) means for selectively removing endotoxin from the blood of the individual.
US08480606B2
A system is disclosed for removing gas bubbles from blood during circulatory assist procedures. Such bubbles are generated, along with particulate matter, in an extracorporeal circulatory bypass system by the pump, oxygenator and other components. Current filters are inefficient at removing small bubbles that can cause neurological defects and renal and other organ failures in the patient. An active filter apparatus and method is disclosed that forces the bubbles to the center of the system where they are removed from the blood before the blood exits the filter. The filter comprises an axially elongate cylindrical shell with a blood inlet, a blood outlet and a gas outlet. A motor driven impeller spins the blood within the shell and forces the gas toward the center by centripetal force, utilizing the buoyancy effects of the bubbles in blood, whereby the bubbles can be bled off at the center of the filter.
US08480581B2
Methods and systems for implantably determining a patient's anemia status and treating anemia are described. Blood viscosity is compared one or more thresholds to determine a patient's anemia status. Therapy, in the form of electrical stimulation therapy or administration of a pharmaceutical delivered to the patient's kidneys or hypothalamus is controlled based on the anemia status.
US08480578B2
An apparatus to measure skin moisture content, the apparatus including: an electrode unit comprising a reference (R) electrode, a current (C) electrode, and a measuring (M) electrode; an operational amplifier having an inverting input terminal connect with the R electrode, and having an output terminal connect with the C electrode; a first switch connecting the R electrode and the C electrode, and releasing a connection between the R electrode and the C electrode when the electrode unit contacts with the skin of a user; and a microcontroller controlling the connection between the R electrode and the C electrode via the first switch is provided.
US08480575B2
Embodiments of a surgical access system useful for single or limited port procedures comprise a trocar comprising a fixation cannula, a retractor, and a gel cap removably coupled to the retractor. The gel cap comprises a gel pad that acts as an artificial body wall, through which instruments may be inserted into a body cavity, either directly or through one or more trocars. The fixation cannula comprises a retainer and a bolster, which together, capture the artificial body wall therebetween, thereby fixing the trocar thereto. The gel pad permits flexible instrument placement, as well as translational and angular degrees of freedom for the instruments while maintaining a gas tight seal.
US08480569B2
An enhanced flexibility auxiliary endoscope assembly for use with an endoscope, the assembly including at least one flexible elongate element and a flexible sleeve having a first lumen for accommodating a distal portion of an endoscope capable of assuming at least a first curvature and a second lumen for accommodating the at least one flexible elongate element, the second lumen being configured to allow the at least one flexible elongate element to assume the at least first curvature as well as at least a second curvature about the first curvature, thereby to enhance flexibility of the auxiliary endoscope assembly.
US08480567B2
An endoscope system includes: an LVDS driver that outputs a differential signal; a differential transmission line that transmits the differential signal outputted from the LVDS driver; a pulse transformer including, in order to input the differential signal transmitted by the differential transmission line, two input terminals connected to an end of the differential transmission line; a resistor functioning as a bypass impedance element connected on an input side of the pulse transformer, to which the differential signal is inputted, in parallel to the pulse transformer and having, at a predetermined noise frequency of noise mixed in the differential transmission line, impedance smaller than circuit impedance of a circuit to which the pulse transformer, which is connected in parallel to the bypass impedance element, is connected; and a dielectric disposed between the two input terminals of the pulse transformer and between lines of the differential transmission line.
US08480564B2
The present invention provides a capsule type medical apparatus that can receive, in a subject, an external signal transmitted from an outside of the subject and transmitted via a conductor existing in the subject, including: a cover member that is formed of a dielectric and covers components of the capsule type medical apparatus; a plurality of electrodes that are formed of conductors, are provided in tight contact with an inner wall side of the cover member, and receive the external signal; an inductor circuit that is connected in series to each of the plurality of electrodes, and has an inductance value set to configure a resonant circuit having a frequency substantially equal to a carrier frequency of the external signal as a resonant frequency; and a signal receiving circuit to which the external signal received by the plurality of electrodes and a potential difference of the external signal are inputted.
US08480561B2
An instrument support apparatus is disclosed. In some embodiments, the instrument support apparatus may be for supporting an instrument having a shaft extending along a shaft axis relative to a patient positioned adjacent to an external frame. In some embodiments, the instrument support apparatus may include a base fixedly mountable onto the external frame, a pivot assembly mounted for pivoting relative to the base, an arm assembly extending along a longitudinal axis, and a support assembly configured to support the instrument on the arm assembly.
US08480559B2
A urethral support system is described, including an introducer device and tissue implant. The introducer device may include a needle with multiple curves, some of the curves having multiple radii. A sheath assembly may be utilized to assist the passing of the tissue implant through a patient's tissue. The sheath assembly may include connectors configured to connect the sheath assembly to an end of the needle and a tab configured to detachably couple sheath sides over the tissue implant.
US08480557B2
Disclosed are methods and devices for minimally invasive mastopexy, or other soft tissue suspension, which may be accomplished with our without augmentation.
US08480555B2
A pump system is disclosed for pumping blood from a patient's right atrium or right ventricle to a patient's pulmonary artery, the pump system including a distal section having at least one outlet; a pumping section in fluid communication with the distal section to provide blood to the outlet of the distal section, the pumping section having at least one inlet valve to receive blood; and a pump constructed and arranged to be positioned within the pumping section to draw blood into the pumping section in a first phase of operation and to pump blood out of the outlet of the distal section in a second phase of operation.
US08480550B2
A nonconforming product removing unit is disposed between a folding unit and a counter ejector of a box making machine, and includes a sort-out unit that conveys a corrugated board box whose joint is judged to be good by a judging unit to the counter ejector, and on the other hand discharges a corrugated board box whose joint is judged to be bad by the judging unit. Accordingly, only the conforming corrugated board box can be conveyed to the counter ejector. Therefore, the nonconforming board box can be removed easily, without requiring complicated work of taking out the nonconforming corrugated board box from among corrugated board boxes sorted into a predetermined number of batches by the counter ejector, and re-sorting only the conforming corrugated board boxes into a predetermined number of batches.
US08480547B2
The exercise device includes a base plate and a handle disposed on the top surface of the base plate. The bottom surface of the base plate has a surface roughness Ra of less than 3 microinches, and preferably 1 to 2 microinches such that the device slides along a floor allowing the user to perform a plurality of exercises. The base plate includes a hole extending through a center thereof, whereby the base plate has a ring-like shape.
US08480542B2
A gymnastic machine (1) comprising a frame (10) supporting a first actuating device (40) provided with at least a pair of first levers (102)(104), each of which presents a respective implement (112)(116) suitable to act as user interface; a load unit (300) being provided in connection with the first levers (102) so as to dissipate power applied to each implement (112)(116) in a proportion definable at will; said load unit (300) being designed to maintain the first levers (102)(104) in phase opposition; second actuating devices (50) of magnetic kind being associated with the load unit (300) to bring and maintain the first levers (102)(104) at rest in a neutral position so as to prevent stopping conditions.
US08480532B2
A spur gear differential (1) having a first sun (3) and a second sun (5), wherein the first sun (3) is associated with a first set of planetary gears (7) and the second sun (5) is associated with a second set of planetary gears (9), and the first set of planetary gears (7) engages with the second set of planetary gears (9). The number of teeth (11) of the first sun (3) are equal to the number of teeth (12) of the second sun (5), and the teeth (11) of the first sun (3) are disposed by a profile shift on a crown circle (2) having a crown circle diameter (DK1) that differs from the crown circle diameter (DK2) of a crown circle on which the teeth (12) of the second sun (5) are disposed. The first set of planetary gears (7) engages only with the first sun (3) and the second set of planetary gears (9) engages only with the second sun (5).
US08480531B2
A differential includes first and second case members that are attached to each other to define an inner cavity that receives a differential gear assembly. A first tapered roller bearing is associated with the first case member and a second tapered roller bearing is associated with the second case member. One of the first and second tapered roller bearings is inverted such that a defining taper diverges towards the differential gear assembly. The other of the first and second tapered roller bearings is non-inverted with a defining taper diverging in a direction that faces away from the differential gear assembly.
US08480517B2
The invention relates to a training device for training a person who uses the training device in a type of ball sport, said device having at least two ball receivers (11), which face the user and are intended to interact with a ball, and at least two ball dispensers (11) for conveying a ball to the user. The invention provides at least one optical and/or acoustic signal transmitter which, by emitting an optical and/or acoustic signal, indicates one of the ball receivers (11) to the user as the selected target for interacting with a ball conveyed to the user by one of the ball dispensers (11).
US08480500B2
A full-round head nail having an offset head is configured with a gusset formed integrally between an undersurface of the offset head and a superior portion of a shank. The head of the nail is relatively thin, and the shank is positioned radially off center of the round head such that no heel is formed at a point tangential to both the head and the shank. The gusset has a lofted surface tapering radially from a roundness at the zero heel to a taper at the toe. The gusset reinforces the junction of the shank with the head, supports the toe of the head, and distributes the force of a load on the head through a longitudinal axis of the shank, preventing the toe from bending or yielding and prevents the shank from yielding to the stresses of the load applied.
US08480498B2
Methods and systems are described for a multiplayer video game on a network in which a player's or players' missions are tracked individually as mission lines, each mission line being composed of a series of ordered objectives. Each objective generally must be completed in order of the sequence with no forking of objective paths. Each objective can include one or more conditions that can be completed in any order within the objective. Players can go off on different missions and then come back to synchronize their mission progress so that they benefit from the other player's gameplay. Players can also synchronize the conditions achieved within the missions during long missions with many difficult conditions to achieve in order to advance their combined progress.
US08480487B2
A method and system for verifying the continued presence of the same player at a device such as a gaming machine without identifying the identity of the player is provided. The system comprises a device for continuously obtaining verification data samples, wherein each verification data sample relates to one or more physical features of a first player. A subsequently obtained verification data sample is analyzed to determine whether it is substantially similar to a previously obtained verification data sample. If the subsequent verification data sample is substantially similar to the previously obtained verification data sample, then the system determines that the first player continues to be the same player present at the gaming machine.
US08480481B2
A gaming system for playing a wagering game includes a controller configured to randomly generate an outcome of the wagering game and activate, for a winning outcome, a game feature responsive to an occurrence of a predetermined symbol along an activated payline. The controller randomly determines and displays a first operand and a second operand in an award modifier calculation and randomly determines and displays a mathematical operator to apply to the first and second operands. The controller applies the randomly determined mathematical operator to the first operand and the second operand to yield a modifier, modifies an award associated with the winning outcome using the modifier to yield a modified award, and awards the modified award.
US08480477B2
When a wild symbol 311a is fixedly displayed, a gaming machine of the present invention preferentially displays a fixedly displayed wild symbol 311a over a symbol 311 rearranged behind the fixedly displayed wild symbol 311a until rearrangement is completed. When the plurality of symbols 311 rearranged including the symbol 311 rearranged behind the fixedly displayed wild symbol 311a satisfy a predetermined relation, the symbol 311 rearranged behind the fixedly displayed wild symbol 311a is preferentially displayed over the fixedly displayed wild symbol 311a. When the predetermined relation is not satisfied, the fixedly displayed wild symbol 311a is preferentially displayed over the symbol 311 rearranged behind the fixedly displayed wild symbol 311a.
US08480473B2
A feature game in a gaming machine includes a first portion during which a set of bonus slots is accumulated. A second portion includes selecting at least one set of a predetermined number of target symbols, associated with a bonus award, from among a pool of bonus symbols during which selected bonus symbols are not removed from the pool, and selecting a set of match symbols, equal in number to the accumulated number of bonus slots, from among the pool of bonus symbol during which selected bonus symbols are removed from the pool. The match symbols are compared to the at least one set of target symbols. If all the symbols in the at least one set of target symbols correspond to match symbols, the bonus award associated with the at least one set of target symbols is awarded to the player.
US08480471B2
In various embodiments, players may compete in a gaming context.
US08480465B2
A method for playing a card game between a dealer and each of at least one players includes dealing by the dealer, from a deck of cards, a hand of cards to the dealer and to each of the at least one players. At least one card of the dealer's hand is exposed. Each of the players' hands is arranged into a high hand and a low hand. The low hand has fewer player cards than the high hand. The dealer's hand is arranged into a high hand and a low hand. The low hand has fewer player cards than the high hand. An outcome of the card game is determined by comparing the arranged dealer's low hand and the arranged dealer's high hand with the corresponding arranged low and high hands of each of the at least one players.
US08480463B2
The invention relates to a flat element (1) for thermally adjusting indoor air, especially for cooling indoor air. Said flat element (1) comprises an air guiding chamber (2) and an active cover surface (3) having microholes (4). The air guiding chamber (2) has an upper side (5), a plurality of sidewalls (6a, 6b), at least one opening (7) for letting air in and at least one opening (8) for discharging air. The active cover surface (3) closes the air guiding chamber (2) towards its open bottom side. The upper side (5) of the air guiding chamber (2) is shaped so as to have at least one baffle (10) having at least one air guiding edge (11).
US08480461B2
An HVAC duct system of a vehicle includes an air duct for providing a passageway for forced conditioned air. The air duct having a first imaginary axis extending substantially parallel with the passageway. An air duct register having plurality of vane-like members for directing the flow of air as it exits the register is coupled to the air duct. An opening of the air duct register defines an imaginary plane. The register has a second imaginary axis extending perpendicular to the imaginary plane of the register. An air flow straightener disposed within the air duct juxtaposed to the register and includes an air guide member. The air guide member receives the forced air flowing through the air duct in a direction substantially parallel with the first imaginary axis and redirects the forced air in a direction substantially parallel with the second imaginary axis for reducing noise as air passes the vanes.
US08480458B2
A grinding wheel dressing assembly includes a driving gear rotatable about a central axis and a dressing ring engaged with the driving gear. Rotation of the driving gear about the central axis results in rotation of the dressing ring about an offset axis, which is offset from the central axis. The dressing ring includes a contact surface generally normal to the offset axis and adapted to remove dull CBN particles from a substantially planar grinding surface of a grinding wheel that comes into contact with the contact surface.
US08480452B2
A seamless athletic bra includes different regions with different levels of support. The bra is formed from layers of material adhered together. Altering the types of materials comprising the layers in a region changes the level of support in that region as compared with other regions of the bra. A first region having the lowest level of support is found in a back panel and in the molded cups. A second region having a medium level of support is found in the front portion of the strap. A third region having a high level of support is found in a framework that follows the contours of the molded cups and in a back portion of the strap.
US08480433B2
An on-board diagnostic (OBD) adapter includes an input connector, a first output connector and a second output connector. The input connector is electrically connected to the first and second output connectors through a circuit board. The input connector is inserted into a socket of the OBD to capture vehicle driving information from the OBD and transmit the vehicle driving information to the first and second output connectors. The first output connector is formed in a specification the same as the socket of the OBD. The second output connector is formed in a specification different from the socket of the OBD. The adapter provides connection with the OBD with the same or different connector to improve usability.
US08480424B2
An electrical connecting terminal has an insulating material housing and at least one spring clamping connection in the housing. The spring clamping connection has a cage tension spring having a bearing limb which rests on a busbar section, a rear spring bow which adjoins the latter, and an operating limb. The operating limb has, on a clamping section which is bent around in the direction of the busbar section, a window cutout through which the busbar section is led and a lower crosspiece which forms a clamping point for clamping an electrical conductor between the crosspiece and the busbar section. A lug projects forward and outward from the operating limb opposite to the rear spring bow. Each spring clamping connection has an operating lever pivotably mounted in front of the clamping section of the operating limb of the cage tension spring and has a support oriented to rest on the lug.
US08480419B2
A busbar connector assembly for coupling first and second terminals on a two-terminal device to first and second contacts on a power module is provided. The first terminal resides proximate the first contact and the second terminal resides proximate the second contact. The assembly comprises a first bridge having a first end configured to be electrically coupled to the first terminal, and a second end configured to be electrically coupled to the second contact, and a second bridge substantially overlapping the first bridge and having a first end electrically coupled to the first contact, and a second end electrically coupled to the second terminal.
US08480417B2
A wire cover has a cover body, a wire routing passageway and a hood. The cover body includes a plurality of wire receiving passageways positioned in one direction. The wire routing passageway is directed into an inside of the cover body. The hood protrudes from a circumference of the wire routing passageway and controls a leading direction out of the wire routing passageway wherein the hood has a different thicknesses between a base on a side of the cover body and a tip on another side of the cover body.
US08480400B1
A device for teaching reading skills employs a frame of rectangular configuration having an open interior region bounded in part by spaced apart parallel struts having paired grooves which function as upper and lower tracks. A window panel having an elongated aperture with a height that embraces one to three lines of printed text removably slides into the interior region upon one set of tracks. An obscuring panel slidably enters the other set of tracks and enables controllable visualization of a few words per line of exposed text.
