US08971113B2

The present invention discloses a 10T NVSRAM cell with a 6T SRAM cell with 4T Flash cell with one dedicated Flash-based Charger. In addition, a Pseudo-8T NVSRAM cell with a shared Flash-based Charger between two adjacent 8T NVSRAM cells at top and bottom in cell layout is also disclosed to further reduce cell size by 20%. As opposed to the prior art of 12T NVSRAM cell, the Store operation of the above two preferred embodiments use a DRAM-like charge-sensing scheme with Flash cell configured into a voltage follower ensured by the Flash-based Charger to obtain the final ΔVQ-QB>0.2V at Q and QB nodes of each SRAM cell to cover all the mismatched of parasitic capacitance in flash cell devices and layout for a reliable amplification by ramping up SRAM's VDD line and ramping down SRAM's VSS line.
US08971109B2

A semiconductor memory device and a method of operating the same are provided. The method includes performing an overall erase operation such that each threshold voltage of all memory cells connected to even word lines and odd word lines in a selected memory cell block are lower than a first target level, performing an erase operation such that each threshold voltage of the memory cells connected to the even word lines are lower than a second target level which is lower than the first target level, and performing an erase operation such that each threshold voltage of the memory cells connected to the odd word lines are lower than the second target level.
US08971107B2

A magnetic memory system includes a magnetic random access memory (MRAM) including a plurality of magnetic memory banks and operative to store data during a write operation initiated by a write command. The magnetic memory system further includes a first-in-first-out (FIFO) interface device coupled to the MRAM and including a plurality of FIFOs Each of the magnetic memory banks is coupled to a respective one of the plurality of FIFOs, the FIFO being operative to queue write commands on a per magnetic memory bank basis and further operative to issue the queued write commands at a time when the MRAM is not in use, wherein concurrent write operations are performed to at least two of the plurality of magnetic memory banks.
US08971099B1

Methods of measuring threshold voltages of MOS transistors in a SRAM array are provided. The SRAM array includes array-arranged cells having a first pass NMOS transistor, a second pass NMOS transistor, a first pull-down NMOS transistor, a second pull-down NMOS transistor, a first pull-up PMOS transistor, and a second pull-up transistor. A cell is selected from the SRAM array by a row decoding and a column decoding. A voltage is applied to a word line, a first bit line, a second bit line, a first power line, a second power line, a first substrate terminal, and/or a second substrate terminal, that are connected to the selected cell. A bit line current of the selected cell is measured to obtain a threshold voltage of a MOS transistor in the selected cell. Threshold voltages of a large number of MOS transistors in a SRAM array can be measured.
US08971074B2

A bias supply, a method of communicating data across an isolation barrier and a power supply are provided herein. In one embodiment, the bias supply includes: (1) a bias supply transformer having a primary winding inductively coupled to a secondary winding across an isolation barrier, (2) a controller configured to direct operation of the bias supply and (3) bias voltage manipulating circuitry, coupled to an input of the controller, configured to receive primary data and based thereon alter a secondary bias output voltage of the secondary winding between defined voltage levels by varying a voltage provided to the controller, the controller and the bias voltage manipulating circuitry located on the primary side.
US08971068B2

A three-phase rectification module, the system thereof and harmonic suppression method are provided. The module includes an LCL filter unit, a Vienna rectifier coupled to the LCL filter unit, and a rectifier control unit for controlling the power factor of the three-phase AC power source and the DC output voltage of the Vienna rectifier. A commutation diode is serially connected on the bridge-arm of each set of uni-directional rectification branches which are included in the Vienna rectifier, making it function as current uni-directionally. Herein, the power factor of the three-phase AC power source is matched with the parameters of the LCL filter unit, such that the absolute value of the phase difference between the AC input voltage and the current of the Vienna rectifier is close or equal to zero.
US08971067B2

An output current distortion compensating apparatus in an inverter is disclosed, the inverter including an inverter controller generating a PWM signal for controlling a PWM voltage generator, wherein the inverter controller includes a first dead time compensation voltage generator generating a compensation voltage based on an output current polarity of each phase in the inverter, and a second dead time compensation voltage generator generating a compensation voltage based on an output current waveform of each phase in the inverter, and wherein a first dead time compensation voltage outputted from the first dead time compensation voltage generator and a second dead time compensation voltage outputted from the second dead time compensation voltage generator are added to generate a final dead time compensation voltage, thereby preventing occurrence of hunting phenomenon in which a current is greatly fluctuated.
US08971065B2

A system for providing, from a direct current (DC) voltage source, an alternating current (AC) to an electrical grid outputting a grid voltage, the system including: a transformer for coupling to the DC voltage source through a first switch controlled by a first control signal, and configured to provide a converted voltage based on a DC voltage; a rectifier coupled to the transformer, and configured to generate an envelope voltage of the converted voltage; a plurality of switches coupled to the rectifier to receive the generated envelope voltage of the converted voltage, the plurality of switches being controlled by a plurality of control signals, respectively, and configured to generate the AC from the generated envelope voltage of the converted voltage; and control apparatus coupled to the first switch and the plurality of switches, and configured to provide, based on the grid voltage, the first control signal and the plurality of control signals.
US08971060B2

A controller for a switched mode power supply (SMPS) is provided. The SMPS is equipped with a transformer having a primary side winding, a secondary winding, and an auxiliary winding. The controller includes a detection circuit for detecting a transition from a first output load condition to a second output load condition of the SMPS and a control circuit coupled to the detection circuit and being configured to output one or more control signals in response to the detected output load transition. Depending on the embodiment, the one or more control signals include a first control signal for turning on a power switch to cause a current flow in a primary winding of the SMPS and/or one or more second control signals for turning off one or more functional circuit blocks in the controller.
US08971056B2

A hermetically sealed HF front end (e.g. a transmission/reception module) in a multilayer structure that includes electronic components is provided. The multilayer structure contains a plurality of substrates stacked one above the other and carrying the components. Grooves are formed in the substrates and sealing elements are provided between the substrates, which sealing elements engage in the grooves, and the substrates are soldered together.
US08971049B1

A portable electronic device, a peripheral expansion module and methods for assembling a peripheral expansion module onto a portable electronic device are provided herein. The portable electronic device may comprise a main housing unit having a front cover and a back cover which, when coupled together, enclose internal components of the portable electronic device. The peripheral expansion module, comprising one or more peripheral devices coupled within or on a peripheral module housing, may be securely integrated with the portable electronic device. A majority of the peripheral expansion module may be positioned outside of the main housing unit along one side of the portable electronic device. In some embodiments, the peripheral expansion module includes a pair of rails, which extend out from within an interior of the module housing for attachment via one or more mechanical fasteners to an interior surface of the main housing unit of the portable electronic device.
US08971044B2

A semiconductor device includes: a first output unit configured to output a first phase; a second output unit configured to output a second phase different from the first phase, the second output unit being disposed to be stacked on the first output unit; and a controller configured to control the output units.
US08971040B2

A handheld device includes a body and a back cover. The body has a back portion covered by the back cover. The back cover includes a yielding layer and a rigid layer. The yielding layer has an outer surface and an inner surface opposite to each other. The inner surface faces the back portion. The rigid layer is formed on the inner surface and locked to the body. The rigid layer has a hole exposing the back portion and covered by the yielding layer. When a portion of the yielding layer corresponding to the hole is pressed, the portion of the yielding layer is elastically deformed to closely lean on the back portion, and the locked body and rigid layer are released due to a force between the portion of the yielding layer and the back portion, such that the back cover may depart from the body.
US08971037B2

Provided herein are a display device and a cooling apparatus, the cooling apparatus including an impeller which sucks a fluid in an axial direction, and which discharges the fluid in a radial direction; a pair of radiation blocks, which are respectively disposed at each side of the impeller, wherein each of the radiation blocks includes a plurality of radiation fins; and a plurality of scroll units which guide the fluid discharged from the impeller to the pair of radiation blocks, wherein each of the scroll units includes a first scroll part which guides the fluid based on a rotating direction of the impeller, and a second scroll part which guides the fluid so in a direction opposite to the rotating direction of the impeller.
US08971036B1

The systems and methods described herein include, among other things, a hard disk drive (HDD) retention system that has an HDD carrier assembly into which an HDD is positioned, and which allows an HDD to be inserted and ejected quickly. The carrier assembly includes spring elements, which, upon insertion of the HDD into the carrier assembly, compress, and exert a force on the HDD, retaining it within the assembly, in addition to reducing vibration transmission between the HDD and the carrier assembly.
US08971024B1

Aspects of the disclosure relate generally to inputs for computing devices. For example, an input, such as a keyboard, may include a plurality of layers, such as a base layer. The base layer may include a cutout defined at least partially by interior edges of the base layer. An antenna may be secured to a structural member of the computing device, and the antenna may receive electromagnetic radiation through the cutout in the base layer. In another example, the antenna may be mounted to a lower surface of a key cap.
US08971022B2

An electrode foil including a substrate made of metal material, a first layer made of metal oxide and formed on the substrate, a second layer made of TiNxOy (x>y>0) and formed on the first layer, and a third layer made of TiNxOy (0
US08971013B2

A electronic device is provided. The electronic device includes a first electrode formed in a first layer; a second electrode formed in the first layer, wherein the first electrode and the second electrode are symmetrically disposed with respect to a first point; and a first floating metal ring formed in the first layer and enclosing the first electrode and the second electrode.
US08971000B2

A leak current absorption circuit for absorbing a leak current from an output transistor includes a switch connected to a grounding node on one end, a constant voltage circuit connected between the other end of the switch and an output node, a switch-operating circuit connected between the output node and the grounding node to operate the switch based on a voltage of the output node. When the voltage of the output node becomes equal to a predetermined threshold voltage or more, the switch-operating circuit turns on the switch to clamp the voltage of the output node by allowing at least a portion of the leak current from the output transistor flow to the grounding node.
US08970997B2

An electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit is provided. The ESD protection circuit includes an impedance device coupled between a pad and a power line and a clamp unit coupled between the pad and a ground line.
US08970996B2

A microwave assisted magnetic recording write head having a spin torque oscillator capable of producing high strength high frequency magnetic oscillations with reduced applied current. The spin torque oscillator uses a magnetic field generation layer with a high moment material including such as Fe and Co that is formed on an interlayer having a face centered cubic (fcc) crystal structure, that functions as an under-layer. The high moment magnetic field generation layer has also reduced magnetic damping.
US08970990B2

A slider and microactuator elements are disposed on a gimbal portion of a flexure. A first end portion of each of the elements is secured to a first supporting portion. A second end portion is secured to a second supporting portion. A ground-side conductor is provided on the second supporting portion. A limiter member consists mainly of a resin shared with an insulating layer of a conductive circuit portion. The limiter member comprises a grounding junction, a first bridge portion, and a second bridge portion. The grounding junction is secured to the second supporting portion. The first bridge portion extends in a first direction from the grounding junction. The second bridge portion extends in a second direction from the grounding junction.
US08970987B2

A first sleeve rotatably extends around a shaft. First and second flanges are fixed to the shaft. A second sleeve extending around the first sleeve is fixed thereto. A first annular member fixed to the second sleeve surrounds the first flange. A second annular member fixed to the second flange surrounds a portion of the second sleeve. A first capillary seal includes a clearance between the first flange and the first annular member. A second capillary seal includes a clearance between the second annular member and the second sleeve. Lubricant is provided in the clearances in the first and second capillary seals. The second annular member and the second sleeve are designed so that the lubricant in the clearance in the second capillary seal can be viewed from a point in a radial position which is outward of the second sleeve as seen in an axial direction.
US08970976B1

Systems, methods, devices, circuits for data processing, and more particularly to systems and methods for reducing inter-track interference in relation to processing data retrieved from a storage medium.
US08970963B2

Apparatus and methods for combining beams of amplified radiation are disclosed. A beam combiner has a collimating optic positioned to receive a plurality of coherent radiation beams at a constant angle of incidence with respect to an optical axis of the collimating optic. The respective angles of incidence may also be different in some embodiments. The collimating optic has an optical property that collimates the beams. The optical property may be refractive or reflective, or a combination thereof. A collecting optic may also be provided to direct the plurality of beams to the collimating optic. The beam combiner may be used in a thermal processing apparatus to combine more than two beams of coherent amplified radiation, such as lasers, into a single beam.
US08970958B2

A broadband optical beam splitter can comprise a non-metallic high contrast grating including a substrate and an array of posts attached to a surface of the substrate. The grating can have a subwavelength period with respect to a preselected optical energy wavelength, the preselected optical energy wavelength within the range of 400 nm to 1.6 μm. Additionally, the broadband optical beam splitter can have a bandwidth of 80 nm to 120 nm and can have an optical energy loss of less than 5%.
US08970956B2

Methods of forming microelectronic structures are described. Embodiments of those methods may include forming a photomask on a (110) silicon wafer substrate, wherein the photomask comprises a periodic array of parallelogram openings, and then performing a timed wet etch on the (110) silicon wafer substrate to form a diffraction grating structure that is etched into the (110) silicon wafer substrate.
US08970954B2

A bidirectional Cartesian-cylindrical converter system and method for converting the spatial distribution of polarization states include a radial polarization converter capable of receiving a linearly polarized, spatially uniform, polarization distribution beam in order to convert it into a beam having a radial or azimuthal distribution of polarization states about an axis of symmetry. An optical device compensates for the phase shift induced by the radial polarization converter and is capable of introducing a spatially uniform phase shift to compensate for the phase shift introduced by the radial polarization converter.
US08970952B2

A sample retainer for a microscope is described, comprising a sample stage (32), a holder (34) arranged on the sample stage (32), a sample carrier (36), couplable to the holder (34), to which a sample is attachable, and an adjusting apparatus (44), engaging on the holder (34), with which with the sample carrier (36), together with the holder (34) to which the sample carrier (36) is coupled, is displaceable on the sample stage (32), relative to the objective (46), into a target position. A decoupling apparatus that decouples the sample carrier (36), arranged in the target position, from the holder (34) upon imaging of the sample through the objective (46) is provided.
US08970951B2

During mask inspection it is necessary to identify defects which also occur during wafer exposure. Therefore, the aerial images generated in the resist and on the detector have to be as far as possible identical. In order to achieve an equivalent image generation, during mask inspection the illumination and, on the object side, the numerical aperture are adapted to the scanner used. The invention relates to a mask inspection microscope for variably setting the illumination. It serves for generating an image of the structure (150) of a reticle (145) arranged in an object plane in a field plane of the mask inspection microscope. It comprises a light source (5) that emits projection light, at least one illumination beam path (3, 87, 88), and a diaphragm for generating a resultant intensity distribution of the projection light in a pupil plane (135) of the illumination beam path (3, 87, 88) that is optically conjugate with respect to the object plane. According to the invention, the diaphragm is embodied in such a way that the resultant intensity distribution of the projection light has at least one further intensity value between a minimum and a maximum intensity value.
US08970942B2

An electrophoretic display device includes a switching element on a substrate including a display area having a pixel region and a non-display area at a periphery of the display area, a passivation layer covering the switching element, a pixel electrode on the passivation layer and connected to the switching element, an electrophoresis film on the pixel electrode and including an ink layer and a base film, wherein the ink layer includes a plurality of charged particles, and the base film is formed of polyethylene terephthalate, a common electrode for generating an electric field with the pixel electrode to drive the electrophoresis film, and a color filter layer directly on the electrophoresis film, wherein the color filter layer is formed under temperatures of less than 100 degrees of Celsius.
US08970939B2

A multi-state light modulator comprises a first reflector. A first electrode is positioned at a distance from the first reflector. A second reflector is positioned between the first reflector and the first electrode. The second reflector is movable between an undriven position, a first driven position, and a second driven position, each having a corresponding distance from the first reflector. In one embodiment, the three positions correspond to reflecting white light, being non-reflective, and reflecting a selected color of light. Another embodiment is a method of making the light modulator. Another embodiment is a display including the light modulator.
US08970938B2

An electrochromic device (1) comprises a layered structure (11) having an ion conducting electrolyte layer (20). The ion conducting electrolyte layer (20) in turn comprises particles (30) absorbing electromagnetic radiation. The particles (30) are electrically conducting. The particles have a main light absorption above 700 nm.
US08970931B2

An image reading device includes an imaging device including a plurality of imaging elements, a color measuring unit that detects color of an object at a color measurement area, a calibration plate having a surface on which a plurality of color patches is formed, and a processor that causes the color measuring unit to read the plurality of color patches while changing a relative position between the plurality of color patches and the plurality of imaging elements to output color measurement results of the plurality of color patches, and generates a set of reference values for the plurality of color patches based on the color measurement results of the plurality of colors. The set of reference values are compared with the reading results of the plurality of color patches to generate a set of correction values for correcting the reading results of the plurality of color patches.
US08970930B2

A sheet conveying device includes: a conveying unit; and a controller. The conveying unit is configured to convey a sheet along a conveying path. The sheet has a leading edge and a trailing edge. The conveying path includes a segment that is curved. The controller is configured to control the conveying unit to convey the sheet, determine whether or not a halting condition for halting conveyance of the sheet is met, and halt, if the halting condition is met, conveyance of the sheet when one of the leading edge and the trailing edge of the sheet is positioned in a segment of the conveying path different from the segment that is curved.
US08970924B2

Provided is an image reading device including: a light source member including light source portions emitting light; a light guide member including: an input section to which the light emitted from the light source portions is input; and an output section from which the input light is output; a support member supporting the light source member and the light guide member and having higher rigidity than the light source member and the light guide member; a retaining member configured to press the light guide member toward the support member and configured to retain the light guide member in a supported state by the support member; and a protrusion-shaped contact section provided on the light guide member and contacting the retaining member, the contact section protruding in a direction perpendicular from the predetermined main scanning direction from the light guide member toward the retaining member.
US08970920B2

The apparatus of the present invention totalizes a frequency distribution while switching frequency distributions as targets, for each region having a set width, by using a sensor which captures document image data and a setting unit which sets a region width in accordance with frequency distribution generation targets. Upon detecting the trailing end of the document, the apparatus decides a remainder region which is not a totalization target in accordance with the remaining amount of image data of the document, and does not totalize any frequency distribution in the remainder region.
US08970913B2

A printing system includes the following elements. An addition unit creates additional image data having a specific attribute and adds it to original image data, thereby creating document image data. An image forming unit forms a document image including an original image and an additional image on a recording medium on the basis of the document image data. An image reader reads the document image, thereby creating read image data. A difference image creator creates difference image data by calculating a difference between the original image data and the read image data. A canceling unit corrects, on the basis of the specific attribute, the difference image data by canceling a difference generated due to the addition of the additional image data, thereby creating corrected difference image data. An inspection unit performs inspection to find a defect of the original image on the basis of the corrected difference image data.
US08970905B2

A combination of types of a printing device, a print medium, an input color space characteristic which is a color space characteristic of an object to be reproduced, and an output color space characteristic which is a color space characteristic of a print, is designated with respect to a printing job to be executed. A device link profile corresponding to the designated combination is set with respect to the printing job to be executed.
US08970903B2

Disclosed is a printing apparatus that forms a color image and a background image on a medium by repeating a dot formation operation of causing ink to be discharged from a first nozzle array and a second nozzle array moving in a moving direction so as to form the color dot and the background dot on the medium and a transport operation of transporting the medium in a transport direction, wherein a pixel in which the background dot is formed on the color dot and a pixel in which the color dot is formed on the background dot are mixed so as to form an area where the color image and the background image overlap.
US08970893B1

An ordered stack of bound sheets may comprise a set of printed product information sheets. An individual bound sheet may comprise a single printed product information sheet or may comprise a plurality of printed product information sheets. Each of the individual printed product information sheets may be detached from the ordered stack of bound sheets in the order in which the printed product information sheets are presented. The individual printed product information sheets (which are detached from the ordered stack in order) may be connected to structures in the stores based on a planogram for a set of products for display in the store. The order of the printed product information sheets may match an order in which the sheets are positioned based on the planogram.
US08970891B2

The present invention discloses a multi-core processor based image data rotating processing system for high-speed digital textile printers, including a data receiving equipment, a data analysis and processing equipment, a data transmission channel and data output equipment. The present invention also discloses a multi-core processor based image data rotating processing method for high-speed printers; it aims to receive data via the Ethernet interface, use numerous cores of the processor for parallel data processing, and implement data output via FPGA. As compared with prior arts, the system and method of the present invention can significantly improve the data gyration efficiency and output, and implement high yield of digital textile printers.
US08970885B2

A virtual printer interface node enables a non-cloud-ready printer to communicate with a cloud-based service, residing on an internet. The virtual printer interface node includes a housing; a communication interface to provide communication directly to the network router; and a microcontroller operatively connected to the communication interface. The microcontroller converts commands, received through the communication interface, from the cloud-based service, residing on the internet, to native protocols of the non-cloud-ready networked printer and communicates the converted native protocols to the non-cloud-ready networked printer.
US08970884B2

An image forming apparatus of the present disclosure includes a first processing unit; a second processing unit configured to perform a process different from a process performed by the first processing unit; and a non volatile memory device in which a shared root file system has been stored, the shared root file system mounted by a kernel for the first processing unit and a kernel for the second processing unit.
US08970881B1

Embodiments disclosed herein disclose methods and systems utilizing a fax server. The method may include configuring at least one setting for a multifunction printer (MFP) at the fax server. The method may further include receiving a document. The method may further include determining the at least one setting associated with the MFP based on a network address associated with the received document and applying the at least one setting for the MFP at the fax server.
US08970871B2

A document processing system includes a unique information acquiring section, a similar document element selecting section and a replacement document data acquiring section. The unique information acquiring section acquires unique information to be recorded. The similar document element selecting section selects one similar document element corresponding to the unique information from each of one or a plurality of groups of similar document elements. The one or the plurality of groups of similar document elements relate to one or a plurality of document elements respectively. The one or the plurality of document elements is contained in document data. The replacement document data acquiring section acquires replacement document data which is generated by replacing the document elements with the respective similar document elements selected by the similar document element selecting section.
US08970867B2

A system for printing 3D objects protects a 3D object file from being copied by separating the file into a series of instructions for printing the 3D object and sends those instructions piecemeal to a printing facility. The system enforces a methodology that forces the print facility to delete a previous set of instructions before the print facility can receive the next set of instructions to print a 3D object. By using such a system, the print facility never has the entire 3D print file in memory, preserving the rights of the creator of the 3D print file.
US08970866B2

An image processing apparatus which is capable of improving ease of operation for users and also improving security when destinations are made public. The image processing apparatus is shared by a plurality of users and capable of selecting a destination from a plurality of address books and carrying out file transmission to the destination. It is determined whether or not a user has logged in, and when it is determined that the user has logged in, only personal addresses for the logged-in user are displayed on a display unit. The personal destinations displayed on the display unit are switched to destinations other than the personal destinations according to selection by the user. When it is determined that the user has not logged in, all destinations which are registered in the plurality of address books are displayed on the display unit.
US08970860B2

An image processing device, comprises: a display part; a manipulation detecting part for detecting an operation; an image inputting part for inputting image data; an image processing part for performing various types of image processing sequentially in accordance with a processing process set in advance; a thumbnail image generating part for generating a thumbnail image one by one; an image outputting part for outputting an image based on the image data which is processed through all various types of the image processing; and a display controlling part for displaying a processing path of various types of the image processing on the display part, and for displaying the thumbnail image on the display part. The display controlling part updates the displayed processing path, thereby displaying a progress of the image processing to process the image data, and updates the thumbnail image in conjunction with the update of the displayed processing path.
US08970856B2

An image forming apparatus is described. Selecting a function desired by a user from among functions provided in the apparatus is provided to improve operability as well as eliminating erroneous copy. In the image forming apparatus, an operation unit includes a display panel for displaying a function selecting portion. An operation unit side control portion, as the function selecting portion, has a first function selecting portion in which selectable function items are displayed corresponding to an operation mode and a second function selecting portion in which other function items which are selectable at the same time. The first function selecting portion and the second function selecting portion are displayed at the same time on the display panel, so that functions of the first function selecting portion and functions of the second function selecting portion are selectable at the same time.
US08970855B2

A sheet conveying device includes a sheet stacking portion on which sheets are to be stacked, a sheet conveyance path, a sheet feeding member, a driving unit, a stopper and an interlocking unit. The sheet is conveyed from the sheet stacking portion in a predetermined conveying direction in the sheet conveyance path. The sheet feeding member is arranged at an entrance side of the sheet conveyance path and conveys the sheet by being driven and rotated. The stopper is projectable into and retractable from the sheet conveyance path at a side upstream of the sheet feeding member in the conveying direction and prevents the sheets stacked on the sheet stacking portion from coming into contact with the sheet feeding member in a projecting state. The interlocking unit causes the stopper to project into and retract from the sheet conveyance path in accordance with rotational movements of the sheet feeding member.
US08970853B2

A three-dimensional measurement apparatus for calculating three-dimensional shape information of a target object, comprising: capturing means for capturing reflected pattern light of stripe pattern light formed by alternately arranging a bright portion and a dark portion as first image data, and capturing reflected pattern light of reversed stripe pattern light formed by reversing the bright portion and the dark portion of the stripe pattern light as second image data; determination means for determining a boundary position between the bright portion and the dark portion based on the first image data and the second image data; and reliability calculation means for calculating a reliability indicating accuracy of the boundary position from a correlation between a first luminance gradient of the first image data and a second luminance gradient of the second image data.
US08970847B2

An optical image measuring device includes: an optical system that generates and detects interference light; an image forming part that forms a tomographic image based on the detection; an alignment part that performs alignment of the optical system with respect to an object; a focusing part that focuses the optical system with respect to the region of interest; a determining part that determines the suitability of the position of the optical system by the alignment part, the suitability of the focus state by the focusing part, and the suitability of the position of the tomographic image in a frame; a control part that, when it is determined that all of the positions of the optical system, position of focus state and the position in said frame are appropriate, controls the optical system and the image forming part, making it possible to obtain the tomographic image of the region of interest.
US08970843B2

An optical assembly and method for the non-invasive determination of a concentration of an analyte in a tissue sample is disclosed. The assembly comprises an optical arrangement comprising a first optical interface for reflecting light incident thereon and a second optical interface for reflecting light incident thereon. The second interface comprises an interface between an optical element of the arrangement and the tissue sample under investigation. The light reflected from the first and second interfaces is arranged to combine to generate an interference pattern characteristic of a difference in phase between light reflected from the first interface with the light reflected from the second interface.
US08970833B2

A method and a system of detecting a tilt angle of an object surface and a method and a system of compensating the same are provided. The detecting method includes the following steps. Light beams are projected by a light source device to the object surface. An image of the object surface is captured so as to obtain light spots on the object surface. A focus program is executed by adjusting a vertical distance between the light source device and the object surface, so as to gather the light spots in a focal point on the object surface. The vertical distance is adjusted, and a correction angle between the light beams and the object surface is calculated according to the light spots.
US08970832B2

An optical testing method and system for 3D display products are disclosed, the method comprising: the 3D display product to be tested displaying white light and/or black light, a left eye lens and a right eye lens receiving white light signals and/or black light signals of left eye pixels and right eye pixels respectively and transmitting them to a data processor for processing, obtaining test results for brightness difference; the 3D display product to be tested displaying primary colors, the left eye lens and the right eye lens receiving light signals of the left eye pixels and the right eye pixels respectively and transmitting them to the data processor for processing, and obtaining test results for color difference.
US08970830B2

The disclosure relates to optical measuring methods and apparatus for determining the transmission and/or reflection properties of translucent objects with utility for process monitoring and quality inspection in the manufacture of surface-coated substrates. According to the disclosure the transmission and reflection properties are determined in such a way that sequentially: a first large surface of the object is illuminated by a first illuminating device, with a photodetector measuring the total transmittance (Ttotal), a second, large surface of the object, lying opposite and parallel to the first one, is illuminated by a second illuminating device, with a photodetector measuring the diffuse transmittance (Tdiffuse), and optionally the first large surface of the object is illuminated by the first illuminating device, with the photodetector measuring the reflectance, and/or the second large surface of the object is illuminated by the second illuminating device, with the photodetector measuring the reflectance.
US08970828B1

A method for authenticating an object, comprising determining a physical dispersion pattern of a set of elements, determining a physical characteristic of the set of elements which is distinct from a physical characteristic producible by a transfer printing technology, determining a digital code associated with the object defining the physical dispersion pattern, and authenticating the object by verifying a correspondence of the digital code with the physical dispersion pattern, and verifying the physical characteristic.
US08970827B2

A fast spatial light modulator based on a linear MEMS ribbon array enables a depth capture system to operate in structured light and time-of-flight modes. Time-of-flight depth information may be used to phase unwrap structured light depth information. Combined structured light and time-of-flight systems offer precise depth resolution over a wide range of distances.
US08970822B2

A support table for a lithographic apparatus, the support table having a support section and a conditioning system, wherein the support section, the conditioning system, or both, is configured such that heat transfer to or from a substrate supported on the support table, resulting from the operation of the conditioning system, is greater in a region of the substrate adjacent an edge of the substrate than it is in a region of the substrate that is at the center of the substrate.
US08970819B2

A microlithography projection optical system is disclosed. The system can include a plurality of optical elements arranged to image radiation having a wavelength λ from an object field in an object plane to an image field in an image plane. The plurality of optical elements can have an entrance pupil located more than 2.8 m from the object plane. A path of radiation through the optical system can be characterized by chief rays having an angle of 3° or more with respect to the normal to the object plane. This can allow the use of phase shifting masks as objects to be imaged, in particular for EUV wavelengths.
US08970808B2

A display may be provided with display layers such as a thin-film-transistor layer and a color filter layer. Liquid crystal material may be interposed between the thin-film-transistor layer and the color filter layer. Due to temperature fluctuations during operation, the optical properties of the liquid crystal material may be altered. To prevent color casts from developing in the display, the display may include temperature sensors. The temperature sensors may run along the left and right edges of the thin-film-transistor layer or may be mounted to other portions of the display. A signal bus may be used to gather temperature sensor data from the temperature sensors. Control circuitry may use temperature data from the temperature sensors to make display color cast adjustments that compensate for temperature fluctuations in different regions of the display.
US08970807B2

Disclosed is a backlight module having light sources and a light guide plate, and the light guide plate has an incident side, and the lights emitted by the light sources pass through the incident side and enter into the light guide plate, and the a light direction changing layer is positioned at the incident side, and the light direction changing layer is employed for changing progress directions of the lights entering the incident side to shorten a distance perpendicular to the incident side from an intersection point of the lights emitted by adjacent light sources to the light sources. The present invention also discloses a liquid crystal display.
US08970805B2

A display device includes a display panel including an upper substrate and a lower substrate facing-coupled to a rear surface of the upper substrate, a backlight unit supplying light to the display panel, a cover member receiving the display panel and covering a side surface of the display panel, a guide frame supporting the display panel and guiding a position of the display panel and a position of the backlight unit, and an adhesive member injected between the guide frame and the display panel and coupling the guide frame and the display panel. The guide frame includes a horizontal part and a first prevention jaw formed to protrude from one end of the horizontal part, and preventing the adhesive member from being injected into the backlight unit when injecting the adhesive member.
US08970804B2

A liquid crystal panel and a liquid crystal display device using the same are disclosed, in which an alignment layer the same as that of a display area is formed in a light-transmitting portion of a non-display area, the light-transmitting portion being provided with a through hole. The liquid crystal panel comprises a color filter substrate; a driving device array substrate; a seal surrounding the outside of the light-transmitting portion and the display area; and a liquid crystal injected into the display area and the light-transmitting portion, which are surrounded by the seal, in a state that the driving device array substrate and the color filter array substrate are bonded to each other by the seal.
US08970795B2

A sliding panels system for hiding a flat screen television, has a wall attachment panel, a pair of post members spaced from one another and attached to the wall attachment panel. Extendable upper and lower rail assemblies attached between the post members. A first side support bracket assembly connected between the upper and lower rail assemblies on first ends thereof, and a second side support bracket assembly connected between the upper and lower rail assemblies on second ends thereof, such that the space between the first and second support bracket assemblies can be adjusted by the extendable upper and lower rail assemblies; and first and second panel members respectively attached to the first and second support bracket assemblies, such that the first and second panel members can be moved between an open and a closed position.
US08970794B2

A Portable Video Enhancement Apparatus. The apparatus includes a magnification lens, a video device holder and a collapsible housing. In operational mode configuration, the collapsible housing is designed to provide a viewing cavity and a stable medium for the magnification lens and the video device holder. In portable mode configuration, the collapsible housing is designed to have a relatively small volume. The collapsible housing comprises a plurality of support members. The magnification lens and video device holder are situated within the collapsible housing. The magnification lens and video device holder are designed to have different positions within the collapsible housing depending on whether the apparatus is in operational mode configuration or portable mode configuration.
US08970790B2

A switching power supply device has a switching controller adapted to generate an output voltage from an input voltage by turning on and off a switching device by a non-linear control method according to a comparison signal and a timer signal, a main comparator adapted to generate the comparison signal by comparing a feedback voltage based on the output voltage with a predetermined reference voltage, a timer adapted to output the timer signal as a one-shot pulse when a predetermined fixed period elapses after the switching device is turned from on to off or vice versa, and a reverse current detector adapted to detect a reverse current to the switching device to forcibly turn off the switching device. The timer and the reverse current detector are turned on at a pulse edge in the comparison signal, and are turned off on ending their respective operation.
US08970782B2

A method and system for playing a video image including video frames and on-screen displays, and displaying an on-screen display associated with a video frame already played without interrupting the playing of the video frames. The displaying of the on-screen displays can be activated by the user commands received from a user. The user can select on-screen displays associated with frames of the video image played in a past pre-defined interval.
US08970775B2

An interchangeable lens camera includes a camera body and a lens unit. The camera body includes: a body-side mount section; a mounting determination section; a body-side communication section; and a body control section. The lens unit includes a lens-side mount section and a lens-side communication section. A specific body-side signal terminal among plural body-side signal terminals of the camera body is connected to a power supply through a pull-up resistor, and a specific lens-side signal terminal, which is capable of coming into contact with the specific body-side signal terminal, among plural lens-side signal terminals of the lens unit is grounded through a pull-down resistor. The mounting determination section determines that the lens unit is mounted on the body-side mount section when resistance values of both the specific body-side signal terminal at time of non-communication and a body-side detection terminal of the camera body are at low levels.
US08970774B2

An imaging system of the present invention comprises a lens unit having a barrel section that contains a photographing optical system, and an operating section provided on the barrel section, and a camera body having an imaging section for converting a subject image formed by the photographing optical system into electrical signals, and a display section for displaying the subject image based on the electrical signals, wherein the lens unit has a transmission section for transmitting information relating to the operation section, and the camera body has a receiving section for receiving information relating to the operating section that has been transmitted from the transmission section, and an association section for displaying the information relating to the operation section that has been received by the receiving section on the display section, and associating information relating to the operating section with functions of the camera body.
US08970767B2

This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for an imaging system that includes a light guide having light-turning features that are configured to receive ambient light incident on the light guide, including light scattered from a scene to be imaged, and to direct the received ambient light towards an image sensor. The light-turning features may have angle-discriminating properties so that some light-turning features capture light incident upon the light guide at certain angles of incidence, but not others. Light scattered from multiple parts of a scene to be imaged may then be directed to correlated locations on an image sensor, which provides electronic data representing an image.
US08970757B2

A solid-state image pickup element comprises a plurality of first signal storage units connected to each vertical output line to store a signal transferred from a selected unit cell to each vertical output line, and a plurality of second signal storage units connected to each vertical output line to store the signals transferred from a first number of first signal storage units, wherein the plurality of first signal storage units and the plurality of second signal storage units are selectively driven such that in a period of time for selectively driving the first signal storage unit to store the signal transferred to the vertical output line by driving a signal read-out unit of the selected unit cell, another first signal storage unit connected to the vertical output line and the second signal storage unit to store the signal transferred from the another first signal storage unit are selectively driven.
US08970754B2

An image capturing apparatus comprises an image sensor that includes a plurality of pixels each having a plurality of photoelectric conversion units and a microlens and that is capable of capturing a subject and periodically outputting image signals individually from the plurality of photoelectric conversion units, a control unit that performs control such that, within the period in which the image sensor outputs an image signal, charge accumulation durations of the plurality of photoelectric conversion units of each pixel of the image sensor are shifted with respect to each other, and a synthesizing unit that sums up, for each pixel, the image signals individually output from the plurality of photoelectric conversion units.
US08970748B2

Correction processing load is reduced even when employing a color filter with a basic array pattern that is large in size. An imaging apparatus divides image data output from an image pickup device into line image data running along a predetermined direction for each line, and when a basic array pattern configuring a color filter has been divided into pattern lines running along the predetermined direction, line correction data that corresponds to the divided line image data is read, the line correction data being configured by plural correction data corresponding to each filter on the pattern line. The read line correction data is used to correct the line image data for each pattern line of the basic array pattern.
US08970743B1

A method of pixel correction is disclosed. The method generally includes the steps of (A) calibrating a per-pixel correction model of a sensor at a plurality of different illumination levels, (B) generating a plurality of pixel values from the sensor in response to an optical signal and (C) generating a plurality of corrected values by applying the per-pixel correction model to the pixel values.
US08970733B2

A method of operating first and second electronic devices includes providing the first device with a display screen, and providing the second device with a camera. A tag is displayed on the screen. The tag is associated with information stored within the first device. An image of the tag is captured by use of the camera. The captured image is processed within the second device to thereby recognize the tag. In response to the recognition of the tag, the second device is used to initiate a transfer of the information to the second device.
US08970732B2

There are provided an image capture apparatus which can implement good tone gradation at various shooting sensitivities without preparing a nonlinear conversion characteristic for each shooting sensitivity, and a method of controlling the apparatus. If the shooting sensitivity is less than the standard sensitivity, nonlinear conversion processing is performed by linearly converting the range of signal levels obtained by shooting operation with an image sensor sensitivity corresponding to the standard sensitivity such that the maximum value decreases with a decrease in shooting sensitivity.
US08970730B2

An imaging apparatus is provided in which a flicker is prevented. The imaging apparatus includes an imaging part that includes an optical system to form an image of a subject and an imaging element to generate an image signal by photoelectrically converting an optical image of the subject formed by the optical system, an image processing part to perform an image processing on the image signal, a display part/operation part having at least display and setting functions, a luminance change detection part to detect change of luminance of the subject, a signal processing part to calculate flicker amounts at respective frequencies based on signal intensities with respect to luminance change information acquired by the luminance change detection part, and a control unit to cause the display part/operation part to display the flicker amounts at the respective frequencies calculated by the signal processing part.
US08970729B2

An image capturing apparatus for capturing an object and generate an image, displaying the image, performing signal processing for the image, and accepting an input from a user, wherein the image is displayed with a vectorscope superimposed thereon, the vectorscope indicating a distribution of color components included in the image based on a hue and a color density and an index for specifying a range of a skin color region in the image, a display position of the index on the vectorscope is specified based on the hue and the color density values, and a size of the index is specified by the range of the skin color region value, and processing is performed for decreasing a detail level of an image signal of the image having a color component included in the index.
US08970728B2

An image pickup apparatus having an obtaining unit for obtaining a pixel signal of a first image and a pixel signal of a second image having a parallax to the first image performs a position adjustment to the first and second images having the parallax, subtracts the pixel signal of the second image from the pixel signal of the first image with respect to a corresponding pixel, and obtains a specular reflection light component, thereby specifying light source color.
US08970720B2

A digital camera having a plurality of photography modes, comprising: an image sensor; an optical system for imaging a scene onto the image sensor; an image capture control for initiating an image capture operation; a photography mode user interface for selecting between a plurality of photography modes, the photography modes having associated image capture and image processing settings; a power control for turning the digital camera on or off, wherein when the camera is in an off state and the power control is activated with a first activation pattern the digital camera is turned on and set to operate in a default photography mode and when the power control is activated with a second activation pattern the digital camera is turned on and set to operate in a previously selected photography mode.
US08970717B2

A photographing apparatus according to the present invention comprises: an imaging section converting an object image into image data; a photographing section obtaining the image data from the imaging section in response to release operation and also obtaining the image data of continuous shooting from the imaging section before or after the release operation; a trimming section generating trimming images sequentially for frames in different areas, respectively, using the image data of the continuous shooting; and a control section recording the trimming image generated in the trimming section and the image data obtained in the release operation.
US08970715B2

The invention concerns a control device for controlling an information device arrangement. Control device includes camera means (CAM) and display means (VF) to allow operating of a destined location of the information surface. Destined location is adapted for determination from the control being in the image information (IMAGE) formed by the camera means (CAM). The control device is arranged at least to determine from the control information of the image information (IMAGE) data (x1, y1, hei, wid, gx, gy) in order to determine a continuous stream of locations pointed by the control device. System, method and program products are also targets of the present invention.
US08970713B2

An image stabilized digital image capture device, comprising an image sensor for capturing a digital image; an optical system for imaging a scene onto the image sensor; an image stabilization system; an exposure control system; a memory system; and a processor. The processor is used to perform the steps of determining exposure settings using the exposure control system; selectively engaging the image stabilization system responsive to whether the determined exposure settings satisfy a predefined condition; capturing a digital image of a scene using the image sensor and the selectively engaged image stabilization system; and storing the captured digital image in the memory system.
US08970706B2

An integrated focal plane provides two co-aligned, overlapping pixel arrays in two formats, one with large pixels and low pixel count, the other with small pixels and high pixel count. Typically, the large pixels are 10 to 100 times larger in area than the small pixels. The dual arrays are disposed in a single detector substrate flip-chip bonded to a single readout circuit. They are sensitive to two infrared colors, one shorter and one longer wavelength band. The dual array focal plane concurrently provides two distinct pixel instantaneous fields of view within the same overall field of view as well as simultaneous fast and slow frame rates. The dual frame rates allow for combined fast sensing with sensitive imaging. Differing spatial and temporal data enables enhanced image processing for improved clutter rejection and detection performance. Differing gains combined with the dual frame rates provide an extended dynamic range.
US08970703B1

A method is provided for supplying to an operator a video stream from at least one of a plurality of cameras that capture images. This includes connecting the cameras and a computer to a network and recording the images from each camera into a corresponding buffer accessible to the computer. Upon detecting a triggering event associated with an event-recording camera, further operations include responding to the triggering event by depositing the images from an event-recording buffer corresponding to said event-recording camera as the video stream into a reviewable memory, and retrieving the video stream from the reviewable memory for the operator. The operator is preferably one of a commander using a command workstation, a lethal response operator using a lethal workstation, and a non-lethal response operator using a non-lethal workstation. Also preferably, each workstation is assigned as one of a primary brain and failover brains. The primary brain functions to execute software and issue control signals, so that if the primary brain fails, one of the failover brains assumes the functions, that failover brain being selected in a sequential order.
US08970699B2

In one embodiment, a method for monitoring the security of a plurality of automobiles includes receiving a message indicating a potential security threat to an automobile, and sending, over a network to a terminal device associated with an owner of the automobile, an alert indicating the potential security threat to the automobile. The method may further include one or more of: streaming video from a security camera onboard the automobile, streaming video from a public security camera near the automobile, or sending a report to a law enforcement entity.
US08970688B2

The invention relates to a high resolution microscope for three-dimensionally determining the position of objects, in particular individual fluorophores, and preferably for the high spatial resolution luminescence microscopy of a sample, which is marked with marker molecules that can be activated or switched using a signal such that they can be induced to emit certain luminescent radiation only in the activated state. The object is represented by means of an imaging system, preferably the microscope lens, on a surface detector consisting of individual detector elements. At least one microlens array is located in front of the detector elements, and different, preferably adjacent, detector elements receive light from microlenses having different focal lengths and from different object planes, or wherein by means of at least once microlens array, located in part in front of the detector elements, a different object plane is represented on the detector elements in the direction of the light behind the microlenses than on detector elements having no microlenses in front of the latter.
US08970686B2

An electronic endoscopic apparatus includes an endoscopic scope and an image processing processor. The endoscopic scope includes a solid-state imaging device, an imaging-side multiplying unit, and an imaging synchronization signal generating unit. The image processing processor includes a display clock generating unit, a monitor synchronization signal generating unit, a master imaging clock generating unit, a processor-side multiplying/dividing unit, a phase-comparison oscillation control unit, and a display timing adjustment unit.
US08970683B2

Disclosed is a method of controlling a display apparatus, a display apparatus and shutter glasses, the method including: establishing a pairing with three dimensional (3D) glasses; receiving first information related to at least one of an operation, a status and a structure of the 3D glasses; storing the first information; and displaying based on the first information, wherein the first information includes information about one of the 3D glasses and the display apparatus.
US08970674B2

A three-dimensional measurement apparatus comprises a light irradiation unit adapted to irradiate a measurement target with pattern light, an image capturing unit adapted to capture an image of the measurement target, and a measurement unit adapted to measure a three-dimensional shape of the measurement target from the captured image, the three-dimensional measurement apparatus further comprising: a change region extraction unit adapted to extract a change region where a change has occurred when comparing an image of the measurement target captured in advance with the captured image of the measurement target; and a light characteristic setting unit adapted to set characteristics of the pattern light from the change region, wherein the measurement unit measures the three-dimensional shape of the measurement target at the change region in a captured image after irradiation of the change region with the pattern light with the characteristics set by the light characteristic setting unit.
US08970665B2

A field sensor may be capable of generating a panoramic field, e.g., by instructing the user to capture a sequence of fields of the panorama, performing a field evaluation to identify one or more landmarks depicted in overlapping areas of two contiguous fields, performing a field registration therebetween, and stitching together the panoramic field. However, panoramic field stitching based on field evaluation may fail to register two fields accurately or at all. Rather, panoramic field stitching may be performed using a device having an orientation sensor that detects the orientation of the device while capturing each field with a field sensor. The detected orientation may be used to orient the fields within a projection, from which a panoramic field may be accurately stitched. Additional variations include stitching together projections of the panorama captured at different times and utilizing fields captured at a distance from the root location of the panorama.
US08970660B1

Methods and apparatuses, including computer program products, are described for media-based (e.g., video and/or audio) conferencing between a plurality of end point devices. The methods and apparatuses provide for secure conferencing while offering a robust feature set that provides call enhancement features such as interactive voice response (IVR) functionality and auto attendance, call security features such as password management, multi-factor authentication and authorization of end points (including filtering and allow/deny functionality), and call compliance features such as recording options, regulatory rules, and other retention/surveillance features.
US08970656B2

A communication device may include logic configured to detect a request to initiate a video call by the user of the communication device; select an avatar for the video call, wherein the avatar corresponds to an image selected by the user to be used as a replacement for a video stream for video calls associated with the user; determine a facial expression associated with the user of the communication device; select an avatar facial expression for the selected avatar, based on the determined facial expression; and incorporate the selected avatar facial expression into a video stream associated with the video call.
US08970653B2

A local video conference system executing a video conference application, that lacks an ability or functionality to control a remote camera of a remote video conference system, can display video from the remote video conference system. The local video conference system can also execute a controller application that can provide the local video conference system control of the remote camera. The controller application can receive user input that selects a region of multiple regions of a display window of the video conference application indicating a camera action for the remote camera, can determine a camera action based on the user input and the selected region, and can provide the camera action to the remote video conference system via a network. The remote video conference system can pan, tilt, and/or zoom the remote camera based on the camera action received from the controller application of the local video conference system.
US08970651B2

Systems, methods, and computer-readable storage media for adding video to an audio only communication session. During a communication session between a first device and a second device, the first device receives an audio portion of the communication session from a user. The first device then receives, via a wireless connection, a video portion of the communication session from a third device. The first device synchronizes the audio portion of the communication session and the video portion of the communication session to yield a synchronized audio and video portion of the communication session. Next, the first device sends the synchronized audio and video portion of the communication session to the second device.
US08970648B2

According to one embodiment, an erasing apparatus comprises a conveying unit that transports a sheet on which a color is developed by a developing material and a decoloring unit that comprises a heating unit that heats up the sheet to decolor the color. The heating unit has a variable heat quantity output to enable rapid warm up of the apparatus, but reduce energy waste during decoloring.
US08970646B2

A video display system based on constructing images through displaying orthogonal basis function components of the image is disclosed. The system is comprised of two display components aligned and driven concurrently. The first display component is a coarse pixel array. The second display component is a spatial light modulator whose geometric details are finer than the first pixel array. The overall system reconstructs the intended video to be displayed at the finer geometric details of the second display component at a minimal image quality loss through the use of time-domain display of orthogonal image basis function components. The resultant system has a considerably reduced interconnection complexity and number of active circuit elements, and also requires a considerably smaller video data rate if a lossy image reconstruction scheme is used. An embodiment with a LED based display and an LCD based spatial light modulator utilizing the concepts, and methods to drive the displays are described herein.
US08970641B2

Disclosed is a display device that reduces a data transmission frequency, thereby minimizing generation of EMI noise and realizing high resolution. The display device includes a display panel to display images, a gate driver to drive gate lines of the display panel, a data driver to drive data lines of the display panel, a timing controller to control the gate driver and the data driver and to arrange and supply display data to the data driver, and N (N is a natural number greater than 1) data ports to transmit the display data while being synchronized with N low-speed clock signals having a lower frequency than a clock signal necessary to transmit the display data in the timing controller.
US08970630B2

An information processing device includes: an operation recognition part that recognizes a user operation for a display screen of a display unit; a determination part that determines whether the user operation recognized by the operation recognition part is an operation starting from within a predetermined region of the display screen or not; and a control part that scrolls information being displayed on the display screen while changing a level of detail of the information if the determination part determines that the user operation is the operation starting from within the predetermined region in response to the user operation, and performs changing of the level of detail of the information or scrolling of the information if the determination part determines that the user operation is not the operation starting from within the predetermined region in response to the user operation.
US08970618B2

Computer implemented methods and data processing apparatus are described for displaying virtual slide images. Images of a plurality of slides are automatically displayed in a first region of a display device at a first magnification. The slides comprise all the slides including material from a same specimen. An image of at least one of the slides is displayed in a second region at a second magnification greater than the first magnification. At least the image displayed in the second region is changed responsive to receiving user input. Methods for automatically determining a slide layout pattern and methods for virtually melding glass slide images into a single image are also described.
US08970615B2

A computer system is described for automatically generating a three-dimensional model of a structure, including hardware and one or more non-transitory computer readable medium accessible by the hardware and storing instructions that when executed by the hardware cause it to locate multiple oblique images containing a real façade texture of a structure having a geographical position from one or more database of oblique images; select a base oblique image from the multiple oblique images by analyzing, with selection logic, image raster content of the real façade texture depicted in the multiple oblique images, the selection logic using a factorial analysis of the image raster content, wherein the factorial analysis is a weighted determination based on at least two factors; and, relate the real façade texture of the base oblique image to the three dimensional model to provide a real-life representation of physical characteristics of the structure within the three-dimensional model.
US08970613B2

GPU fragment programs can be used to render images in a computer system. These fragment programs are generated from render trees, which specify one or more filters or functions to be applied to an input image to render an output image. It is not uncommon for successive frames to require application of substantially the same filters. Therefore, rather than regenerate and recompile new fragment programs for successive corresponding render trees, the render trees are substantially uniquely identified and cached. Thus, when a render tree is received, it can be identified, and this identifier (such as a hash) can be used to determine whether a corresponding fragment program has already been generated, compiled and cached. If so, the corresponding cached fragment program is retrieved and executed. If not, a fragment program for the newly received render tree is generated and cached.
US08970608B2

One embodiment of the present invention sets forth a technique for transmitting state information associated with at least one graphics command to a graphics processor. The method includes the steps of generating a state object that specifies a set of properties that is needed to execute a first graphics command within the graphics processor, storing in the state object a value associated with a first property included in the set of properties, marking a second property included in the set of properties as a dynamic property, where a value associated with the second property is not stored in the state object and can be updated without having to modify the state object, and transmitting the state object to the graphics processor in order to execute the first graphics command.
US08970605B2

A display driver is provided. The display driver includes a compressor outputting first data by compressing input data, a first selection circuit transmitting the input data or the first data to a memory in response to a first selection signal, a de-compressor outputting third data by de-compressing second data output from the memory, and a display interface for transmitting fourth data generated by processing the third data to a display.
US08970596B2

A technique for optimizing the rendering of such complex render-graphs caches intermediate buffers of nodes that are expected to be re-used after they've been rendered. The render-graph is examined to determine the number of re-uses of each node's output buffer, and the buffer is cached in memory until all the re-uses of the buffer have occurred. Once all the re-uses of the buffer have occurred, the buffer is removed from the cache. This technique guarantees that for a given render-graph, no nodes will be re-rendered, resulting in improved render performance.
US08970595B2

Providing for graphical display of multidimensional data that improves user consumption of graphically rendered data is described herein. By way of example, the subject disclosure provides organization of multidimensional data into a graphical chart that can accommodate four or more dimensions of data on a single chart display. In a particular aspect, the graphical chart can comprise a core with a plurality of stems that branch outward from the core, having respective sub-topics of the multidimensional data assigned to respective stems. Stems can terminate in sets of bubbles, each sized according to quantitative significance of associated data, prominently presenting that significance. Bubbles can serve as lower level sub-topics for other sets of bubbles, providing recursive depth in the graphical chart to depict still more dimensions of data. Zoom controls, feature selection and custom data generation can provide usability features to enhance user experience.
US08970590B1

A method for generating a finite element mesh that includes receiving, by a computer system, data regarding a model of a simulated object, categorizing one or more geometric features of the model and dividing the one or more geometric features of the model into surface shapes based on the data regarding the model. The method includes generating a mesh for each surface shape; and interconnecting the generated mesh to form a mesh for the model.
US08970585B2

A system and method for displaying garments, including: a computer-rendered three-dimensional, rotatable model; and a size selection control for selecting different garment sizes to be displayed on the model.
US08970579B2

For generating a 3D geometric model (44) and/or a definition of the 3D geometric model from a single digital image of a building facade (4), a facade structure is detected from the digital image by dividing the facade (4) along horizontal lines into horizontal layers representative of floors (41), and by dividing the horizontal layers along vertical lines into tiles (42). The tiles (42) are further subdivided into a hierarchy of rectangular image regions (43). 3D architectural objects (45) corresponding to the image regions (43) are determined in an architectural element library. The 3D geometric model (44) or the definition of the 3D geometric model is generated based on the facade structure, the hierarchy and the 3D architectural objects (45). The library-based generation of the 3D geometric model makes it possible to enhance simple textured building models constructed from aerial images and/or ground-based photographs.
US08970577B2

Embodiments of the present invention generally provide a processing system for a display device having an integrated sensing device. The processing system includes a driver module coupled to a plurality of source lines and a plurality of transmitter electrodes. Each transmitter electrode includes one or more common electrodes configured for display updating and input sensing. The driver module is configured for selecting a first display line for display updating and driving the sources lines with first display update signals to update the first display line. The drive module is further configured for driving a first transmitter electrode of the plurality of transmitter electrodes for input sensing during a non-display update period and driving the source lines with restore signals during a restart period. The processing system further includes a receiver module coupled to a plurality of receiver electrodes and configured for receiving resulting signals with the receiver electrodes.
US08970570B2

A display device includes a display panel configured to receive a first-frame image signal for displaying a first-frame image in a first frame. The display panel is further configured to receive a second-frame image signal for displaying a second-frame image in a second frame that immediately follows the first frame such that the display panel appears to display a transition region associated with a boundary between a portion of the first-frame image and a portion of the second-frame image and moving in a moving direction. The display device further includes an optical effect layer and electrode sets. The electrode sets respectively overlap different portions of the optical effect layer and are configured for sequentially starting affecting the different portions of the optical effect layer such that the optical effect layer appears to display a light-blocking section that moves in the moving direction and overlaps the transition region.
US08970563B2

A display panel module includes: a pixel array section in which a sub-pixel formed by a self-luminous element of a current-driven type and a pixel circuit configured to drive and control the self-luminous element is arranged in a form of a matrix; a signal line driving section configured to drive a signal line; a writing control line driving section configured to control writing of a potential appearing in the signal line to the sub-pixel on a basis of a first scan clock; and a power supply controlling section configured to control supply of driving power to the sub-pixel and stop of the supply of the driving power, the power supply controlling section controlling timing of the supply of the driving power defining a lighting period of the self-luminous element on a basis of a second scan clock having a higher speed than the first scan clock.
US08970555B2

An optical touch panel includes a light source unit and a processing unit, wherein the processing unit is for executing a brightness control method. The brightness control method includes steps below. The light source unit emits at a first intensity in a touch control mode. Responding to a switching condition, the touch panel is switched into a scan mode, and the light source unit emits at a second intensity in the scan mode.
US08970551B2

A method and device for position detection are disclosed. A self-capacitance detection can be performed by a sensing device. According to the result of the self-capacitance detection, a first mutual-capacitance detection can be performed for determining one or more first 1-D positions. According to the result of the first mutual-capacitance detection, a second mutual-capacitance detection can be performed for determining one or more second 1-D positions corresponding to each first 1-D position. One or more 2-D positions can be provided according to the one or more second 1-D positions corresponding to each first 1-D position. Besides, during the self-capacitance detection, the first mutual-capacitance detection, and the second mutual-capacitance detection, a touch related sensing information corresponding to a touch that covers a wide area can be neglected for palm rejection.
US08970546B2

Embodiments of the invention generally provide a method and apparatus that is configured to reduce the effects of interference that is undesirably provided to a transmitter signal that is delivered from a transmitter signal generating device to a sensor processor to determine if an input object is disposed within a touch sensing region of a touch sensing device. In one embodiment, the sensor processor includes a receiver channel that has circuitry that is configured to separately receive a transmitter signal delivered from a display processor and a sensor processor reference signal that is based on a display processor reference signal to reliably sense the presence of an object. Embodiments of the invention described herein thus provide an improved apparatus and method for reliably sensing the presence of an object by a touch sensing device.
US08970542B2

To prevent an unintended operation from being accepted when a continuous operation is performed on a touch panel, an operation device performs control so that a touch operation is not accepted while a continuous operation on an operation panel by a user is being accepted.
US08970536B2

An assembly includes first electrode pairs and second electrode pairs distributed across an active area of a touchscreen. Each electrode pair of the first electrode pairs is formed in a pattern, the patterns of the first electrode pairs decreasing in frequency of snaking from electrode pair to electrode pair in a first direction. Each electrode pair of the second electrode pairs is formed in a pattern, the patterns of the second electrode pairs increasing in frequency of snaking from electrode pair to electrode pair in the first direction. A position of a touch can be determined in the first direction based at least in part on proportionate density of the first electrode pairs and the second electrode pairs in an area of the touch. At least one receive electrode in the first electrode pairs is directly coupled to at least one receive electrode in the second electrode pairs.
US08970530B2

A device, such as a display device, including a plurality of vibration plates oscillating in response to one or more oscillation signals. While at least one of first vibration plates among the plurality of vibration plates are oscillating, effective oscillation does not occur in at least one of second vibration plates among the plurality of vibration plates.
US08970527B2

A low power driving and sensing system for capacitive touch panels includes a capacitive touch panel, a first switch device, a second switch device, a driving device, a sensing device, and a control device. The capacitive touch panel has plural first conductor lines arranged in a first direction and plural second conductor lines arranged in a second direction. The driving device is connected to the first switch device for driving the capacitive touch panel. The sensing device is connected to the second switch device for sensing the capacitive touch panel. The control device configures the first switch device and the second switch device for entering the capacitive touch panel into a self-capacitance mode such that the driving device and the sensing device perform a self capacitance sensing, and into a mutual capacitance mode such that the driving device and the sensing device perform a mutual capacitance sensing.
US08970524B2

A touch sensor integrated type display and a method of forming the same are discussed. According to an embodiment, the touch sensor integrated type display device includes a plurality of gate lines and a plurality of data lines formed on a substrate to cross each other; a display area including a plurality of pixel electrodes for displaying images; a common electrode including at least two touch driving electrodes overlapping the plurality of pixel electrodes and at least one touch sensing electrode positioned adjacent to the at least two touch driving electrodes, for recognizing a touch input to the display area; at least one first signal line electrically connected to the at least two touch driving electrodes; and at least one second signal line electrically connected to the at least one touch sensing electrode, and formed over at least one of the data lines.
US08970521B2

A method for identifying touch object on a touch panel has steps of (A) reading m capacitance variations on a first direction, wherein the m capacitance variations respectively correspond to m sensed units of the touch panel; (B) determining whether a difference between the capacitance variation of a kth sensed unit and that of another sensed unit exceeds a preset noise ripple, wherein k is equal to or smaller than m, m is a positive integer; (C) determining whether the capacitance variation of the kth sensed unit exceeds those of the adjacent sensed units; and (D) determining a touch stylus touched on the touch panel when the difference exceeds the preset noise ripple and the capacitance variation of the kth sensed unit exceeds those of the adjacent sensed units. Accordingly, the method can correctly identify a range touched by a stylus from the sensed signals combined with LCM noise signals.
US08970516B2

This disclosure provides systems, methods and apparatus for combining devices deposited on a first substrate, with integrated circuits formed on a second substrate such as a semiconducting substrate or a glass substrate. The first substrate may be a glass substrate. The first substrate may include conductive vias. A power combiner circuit may be deposited on a first side of the first substrate. The power combiner circuit may include passive devices deposited on at least the first side of the first substrate. The integrated circuit may include a power amplifier circuit disposed on and configured for electrical connection with the power combiner circuit, to form a power amplification system. The conductive vias may include thermal vias configured for conducting heat from the power amplification system and/or interconnect vias configured for electrical connection between the power amplification system and a conductor on a second side of the first substrate.
US08970506B2

A power management system for a touch controller can include a transmit section for transmitting stimulation signals to an associated touch sensor panel to drive the panel, where the touch controller can selectively adjust the transmit section to reduce power during the transmission. The touch controller can also include a receive section for receiving touch signals resulting from the driving of the panel, where the touch controller can selectively adjust the receive section to reduce power during the receipt of the touch signals. The touch controller can also include a demodulation section for demodulating the received touch signals to obtain touch event results, where the touch controller can selectively adjust the demodulation section to reduce power during the demodulation of the touch signals. The touch controller can also selectively reduce power below present low levels during idle periods. The touch controller can be incorporated into a touch sensitive device.
US08970502B2

The invention relates to a touch screen system with a touch screen (400) comprising a transparent and electrically conductive surface (450) arranged to receive touches from users (UA, UB) of the touch screen system; and touch sensitive elements (420) arranged to detect the position of said touches on said electrically conductive surface (450). The touch screen system is further comprising a touch identification system (900) comprising at least two electrodes (EA-ED), at least one transmitting unit (910) connected to the electrically conductive surface (450) for transmitting an identifying signal to said electrically conductive surface (450), and at least two receiving units (900A-900D), each connected to at least one of said electrodes (EA-ED) for detecting said identifying signal when a user (UA, UB) simultaneously touches the electrically conductive surface (450) and an electrode (EA-ED) that is connected to the receiving unit (900A-900D).
US08970501B2

The use of one or more proximity sensors in combination with one or more touch sensors in a multi-touch panel to detect the presence of a finger, body part or other object and control or trigger one or more functions in accordance with an “image” of touch provided by the sensor outputs is disclosed. In some embodiments, one or more infrared (IR) proximity sensors can be driven with a specific stimulation frequency and emit IR light from one or more areas, which can in some embodiments correspond to one or more multi-touch sensor “pixel” locations. The reflected IR signal, if any, can be demodulated using synchronous demodulation. In some embodiments, both physical interfaces (touch and proximity sensors) can be connected to analog channels in the same electrical core.
US08970498B2

Embodiments of the present invention disclose a touch-enabled input device for a computing system. According to one embodiment, the touch enabled device includes a housing having an input surface and a plurality of identifiable key areas formed along the input surface. The input surface of the device is configured to detect individual presses of each key area in addition to touch-based input from a user.
US08970491B2

To prevent a user from sensing change in feeling of operation of a pointing device. There is provided a computer system control method for controlling a computer system having a coordinate designation system for producing base data for calculating position coordinates, the method comprising the steps of obtaining the position coordinates calculated based on the base data; when a predetermined application program is activated from another application program, obtaining position coordinates notified by the other application program, and showing a designated position image on a display screen based on the position coordinates obtained; and when the predetermined application program is activated from an operating system, showing the designated position image on the display screen based on the position coordinates obtained at the step of obtaining the position coordinates.
US08970489B2

In one implementation, a method includes detecting, using a processor, user input through a camera lens. The method further includes determining, using the processor, that an identity of a user, selected from identities of at least two users, is associated with the user input. The method also includes tracking, using the processor, a local interaction between the at least two users based on at least the identity, the user input, and stored rules that govern the local interaction. The tracking can include determining whether the user has complied with the stored rules that govern the local interaction. Furthermore, the local interaction can include a multiplayer game.
US08970485B2

An electronic device includes a first body with a first face and a second face opposite to the first face; a second body with a third face and a fourth face opposite the third face; a first connecting unit connected to the first and second body and set at a first edge of the first face. The first body can be rotated relative to the second body through the first connecting unit. The electronic device is in a first state when an angle between the first and second body is in a first interval and in a second state when the angle is in a second interval. A first displaying unit is set on the first face; a display direction of which is a first direction from the first edge to a second edge opposite to the first edge when the electronic device is in the second state.
US08970484B2

Provided is a three dimensional display device that includes: three dimensional image display unit (1) having display surface (11) for spatially separating and displaying parallax images corresponding to at least two viewpoints; and force sense generation unit (2) configured to generate a sound wave toward display surface (11) of three dimensional display unit (1) and then generate predetermined pressure of the sound wave reflected on display surface (11) at a position spatially similar to the position of three dimensional image (8) displayed by three dimensional display unit (1).
US08970483B2

An apparatus, comprising a processor, a memory including computer program code, the memory and the computer program code configured to, working with the processor, cause the apparatus to perform at least the following: receiving a first image, recognizing at least part of the first image as a command receiver, recognizing at least part of the first image as an input article, determining that at least part of the input article is associated with at least part of the command receiver, and causing display of a guidance associated with the command receiver is disclosed.
US08970480B2

A system and method determines a management action as a function of device interactions. The method includes determining a first interaction data generated by an electronic device, the first interaction data being indicative of at least one of a device user interaction, a device environment interaction, and a device state interaction. The method includes generating, by the electronic device, a first notification data as a function of the first interaction data. The method includes transmitting the first notification data from the electronic device to a remote device management server. The method includes determining, by the device management server, a first management action data as a function of the first notification data, the first management action data being indicative of a functionality to be applied to the electronic device.
US08970478B2

An apparatus comprising a sensor configured to detect the position and orientation of a user viewpoint with respect to an auto-stereoscopic display; a processor configured to determine a surface viewable from the user viewpoint of at least one three dimensional object; and an image generator configured to generate a left and right eye image for display on the auto-stereoscopic display dependent on the surface viewable from the user viewpoint.
US08970470B2

A display apparatus comprises a display panel, a backlight having emission brightness levels adjustable for each of divided sections, a graphic image generating unit that generates a graphic image signal, a synthetic image generating unit that generates a synthetic image signal representing a synthetic image in which an image based on the graphic image signal is overlapped on the image based on the input image signal, and a control unit, wherein the control unit controls the emission brightness levels of the backlight of a plurality of divided sections containing a graphic image display region, where a graphic image based on the graphic image signal is displayed, to be uniform, and controls the emission brightness levels of the backlight of other divided sections based on the input image signal.
US08970469B2

A selected divided light-emitting region, from a plurality of divided light-emitting regions, emits light in a light emitting unit and adjusts the light emission amount for each of the plurality of divided light-emitting regions based on the light emission amount detected by a detection unit.
US08970465B2

Methods of driving source lines and/or circuits/systems for driving source lines are provided. Source lines of a display device are driven by comparing first data for driving a first buffer associated with a first source line of the display device and second data for driving a second buffer associated with a second source line of the display device and selectively disabling the second buffer and driving the second source line of the display device with the first buffer based on the comparison of the first and second data.
US08970461B2

Disclosed herein is a display including: a reflective image display section having pixels arranged in the display region; and a lighting device adapted to irradiate light to the image display section from diagonally in front, in which the light scattering characteristics in the display region are angle-dependent, and in which the lighting device irradiates light whose intensity distribution is adjusted so that when the display region displaying an image having an equal gray level is viewed from a given viewing position, the image luminance is uniform.
US08970458B2

There is provided an organic light emitting display capable of minimizing noise. A method of driving the organic light emitting display includes setting pixels included in horizontal blocks into a non-emission state, the pixels charging voltages corresponding data signals, the pixels starting to emit light at different times in units of the horizontal blocks, and emitting light from the pixels according to the charging voltages.
US08970455B2

Systems and methods are provided for managing the display of content on a display screen (110) of an electronic device (100). According to certain aspects, a sensor (119) or a set of a plurality of sensors (225) generate image data corresponding to a user viewing the device. Further, in one embodiment, a film (111) generates electrical signals corresponding to a shape or configuration of the display screen. The electronic device can calculate a distortion parameter based on the electrical signals. In another embodiment, an additional set of the plurality of sensors generates image data, from which the electronic device can calculate the distortion parameter. The electronic device generates processed image data based on the viewing position and the distortion parameter, and displays the processed image data on the display screen in such a way that the content appears oriented and proportioned to the user viewing the display screen.
US08970450B2

Methods and systems for transparent user interface integration between remote (“published”) applications and their local counterparts are described, providing a seamless, unified user experience, and allowing integration of a start menu, dock, taskbar, desktop shortcuts, windows, window and application switching, system tray elements, client-to-host and host-to-client file type association, URL redirection, browser cookie redirection, token redirection, status message interception and redirection, and other elements. These methods and systems further enhance theme-integration between a client and remote desktop or virtual machine by remoting all UI elements to a recipient for generation, including text controls, buttons, progress bars, radio buttons, list boxes, or other elements; presenting them with the receiver's product and OS-specific UI; and returning status back to the sender. This may achieve a more unified and transparent UI integration. Furthermore, storage resources, printer resources, and identity-based resources may be integrated using a reverse seamless user interface.
US08970449B2

Various configurations of an electronic display, and devices incorporating the display, are provided. The display may have multiple portions connected along one or more axes, lines, points, or other connecting areas. The portions are movable about the connections. In various configurations, the display portions emulate different media and/or communication and computing devices. Two or more of the display devices may be coupled in an array.
US08970443B2

A planar antenna, such as included as a portion of printed circuit board assembly, can include a balanced configuration comprising a first conductive layer. The first conductive layer can include a first arm having a footprint extending in a first direction and a second arm having a footprint extending in a direction opposite the first direction. The second arm can be sized and shaped to be similar to the footprint of the first arm.
US08970435B2

A radially segmented antenna design is described. In an embodiment, the radially segmented antenna is formed from multiple patches which are arranged in a ring around the central point of the radially segmented antenna. Each patch is shaped to form a segment of the ring and is separated from the two adjacent patches. In operation, alternate patches in the ring may be used for transmitting and the remaining patches may be terminated in an open circuit or may be used for receiving. Alternatively, all the patches in the ring may be used for transmitting or receiving. In some examples, there may be more than one concentric ring of patches within the radially segmented antenna and the additional rings may be located on the same face of the antenna as the first ring of patches, or on the opposite face of the antenna.
US08970434B2

A compact broadband antenna is disclosed. In various embodiments, the broadband antenna comprises a folded inverted F radiator. The folded inverted F radiator comprises a first L-shaped element comprising an arm portion and a rectangular portion, a feed element coupled to a feed source and to the L-shaped element and a shorting element coupled to ground. In some embodiments, the antenna further comprises a second L-shaped arm providing an additional current path to enhance performance of the antenna. In other embodiments, the antenna further comprises a capacitive coupling patch comprising a rectangular portion that is substantially coplanar with said rectangular portion of the L-shaped element.
US08970431B2

The present invention is related to location positioning systems, and more particularly, to a method and apparatus of synchronizing to data bits in a positioning system signal. According to a first aspect, the present invention speeds up data bit sync by allowing high Pfa in the overall bit sync computation (e.g. 10−2) for coarse aided case. According to another aspect, the present invention combines and aligns signals from satellites for use in the bit sync computation (e.g. for improved sensitivity and speed).
US08970417B2

A method is provided for generating a digital signal (DS) from an analog signal (IA, UA) generated by a frequency converter on the basis of pulse width modulation, wherein the digital signal corresponds to a mean value of the analog signal over a period of the pulse width modulation. The method includes the acts of: generating a bit stream (BS(i)) with a predetermined bit repetition duration (BW) depending on the analog signal by way of a sigma-delta modulator (1) and, during a time interval which has a duration which is at least as great as the period of the pulse width modulation: multiplying a respective bit (BS(i)) of the bit stream by a corresponding rating coefficient (BK(i)) for generating a respective bit/rating coefficient product and summing the respective bit/rating coefficient products, wherein the sum represents the digital signal.
US08970416B2

A digital-to analog converter (DAC) of the charge transfer type for use in a sigma delta modulator, includes a capacitor switch unit operable to generate a 4n+1 output levels, comprising: a plurality of second switching units for coupling first terminals of a plurality of reference capacitor pairs with either a positive or a negative reference signal; wherein the second terminals of the plurality of reference capacitor pairs are coupled in parallel, respectively; wherein for even transfers a single switching combination is provided to achieve linearity and wherein for odd transfers an average of different switching combinations is provided to achieve linearity; wherein an even transfer is when an input of the DAC is even and an odd transfer is when an input to the DAC is odd.
US08970414B2

Methods, systems, and apparatuses for converting a digital input signal to an analog output signal are disclosed. A first delta-sigma modulator receives a common mode reference signal and generates a common mode control signal. A data delta-sigma modulator receives a digital input signal and generates a modulated digital input signal. A shuffler receives the modulated digital input signal and the common mode control signal and generates a shuffled digital input signal. A digital to analog converter (DAC) has a plurality of tri-level unit DAC elements each receiving a corresponding portion of the shuffled digital input signal as a first input signal, and receiving second and third input signals. The tri-level unit DAC elements have first outputs coupled together generating a first output signal and second outputs coupled together generating a second output signal. An operational amplifier receives the first and second output signals and generates the analog output signal.
US08970402B1

Present novel and non-trivial system, device, and method for varying the visibility of symbols depicted in a vertical situation display (“VSD”). An image generator receives zone data and defines a plurality of zones, where the zone data is comprised of second image data representative of a non-VSD zone symbol(s) or feature data representative of a zone feature(s). First image data representative of a VSD is generated, where the VSD is comprised of at least one VSD symbol representative of a zone symbol or a zone feature located in one of the three zones. If the represented zone symbol or zone feature of a VSD symbol is located within a left zone or a right zone, the visibility of each VSD symbol is variable and dependent of its proximity to a center zone.
US08970393B2

Systems and methods for determining possible theft scenarios at utility meters are described. In some examples, the system receives information that indicates possible tampering of utility meter by a customer of a utility. In some examples, the system uses the information to determine a theft scenario. The system may then use the determined theft scenario as evidence against the customer.
US08970388B2

A portable electronic device, such as a fluid infusion device, obtains its operating power from a primary battery and a secondary battery. The primary battery may be a replaceable battery, and the secondary battery may be a rechargeable battery that can be charged with the primary battery under certain conditions. The device utilizes a power management scheme that transitions between the primary battery and/or the secondary battery to prolong the useful life of the primary battery. The device may also generate an intelligent battery life indicator that displays an accurate representation of the remaining life of the primary battery.
US08970384B2

Disclosed are systems, devices, and methods, including a system that includes a sensor configured to monitor at least one parameter associated with operation of the fluid delivery device, and a controller. The controller is configured to activate a motor of the fluid delivery device, detect an occurrence of a problem in fluid delivery based on one or more first sensor signals generated by the sensor when the motor is activated in a first direction, the one or more first sensor signals representative of the at least one parameter monitored in the first direction, and determine a type of the detected problem based on one or more second sensor signals generated by the sensor when the motor is activated in a second direction substantially opposite the first direction, the one or more second sensor signals representative of the at least one parameter monitored in the second direction.
US08970360B2

An apparatus for performing a display indicating a state of fuel efficiency of a vehicle according to a driving operation, detects an operating state of the vehicle according to a driving operation performed by a driver of the vehicle. A score for representing the state of fuel efficiency of the vehicle according to the driving operation is determined. Here, the score is allocated to correspond to the operating state. A display indicating the score is performed as the display indicating the state of fuel efficiency. The allocation of the score to the operating state of the vehicle is changed according to a value obtained by accumulating the score. For example, the allocation of the score to the operating state is changed such that the score is lower as the value obtained by accumulating the score is higher. Thus, a degree of strictness with which the score is marked is higher as the level of the driving skill represented by the accumulated value is higher.
US08970348B1

The disclosed embodiments provide a system that authenticates a user. During operation, the system obtains a sequence of facial gestures from the user. Next, the system authenticates the user based on a likeness of the sequence to a set of baseline representations of the facial gestures.
US08970343B2

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.
US08970340B2

A method of manufacturing a chip resistor includes forming a resistor assembly in which a conductive member including portions separated from each other in a first direction is provided in a resistance body member; and dividing the resistor assembly into chip resistors, each including a chip-shaped resistance body formed by a part of the resistance body member, a pair of main electrodes formed by a part of the conductive member and separated from each other in the first direction, and a pair of sub-electrodes formed by a part of the conductive member, separated from each other in the first direction, and adjacent to the main electrodes in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction with concave portions recessed in the first direction interposed therebetween, by punching.
US08970339B2

A magnetic core is provided. The magnetic core includes a magnetic base and a magnetic plate. The magnetic base includes a first U-core, a second U-core, and a spacing member. The first U-core has a relatively high magnetic permeability, and includes a first surface having a first winding channel defined therein. The second U-core has a relatively high magnetic permeability, and includes a second surface having a second winding channel defined therein. The first and second surfaces are substantially coplanar with one another. The spacing member is connected to the first and second U-cores such that a gap having a relatively low magnetic permeability is formed between the first and second U-cores. The magnetic plate is coupled to the magnetic base such that the magnetic plate substantially covers the first and second surfaces.
US08970335B2

The coil form according to the invention for forming an inductive element includes a hollow cylindrical mantle portion, two flange portions and a slit. The flange portions and the mantle portion form a winding chamber for winding therein a wire that forms a first winding or a part of a first winding of the inductive element. The coil form, which is completely made of copper, forms a second coil or a winding of a second coil of the inductive element. Due to the increased contact surface between the first and the second coil the heat dissipation capabilities and the magnetic coupling between the coils are increased. This in turn results in an increased power density of the inductive element.
US08970330B2

A contactor is disclosed. The contactor includes one or more phase units, a mechanical drive and an electronic control module. Each phase unit includes an independent insulating housing, and, inside the housing, a positive pole, a static conducting rod, a negative pole, a moving conducting rod and a counter-force elastic component. The electronic control module drives a transmission to move, the transmission drives the central shaft to rotate, the central shaft drives the engagement between the moving conducting rod and the static conducting rod, the central shaft passes through the insulating housings of the one or more phase units and drives each phase unit, so that the contactor can be formed by absolutely independent phase units and it is convenient to add a phase unit along the central shaft so as to add rated operational current.
US08970328B2

Method of manufacturing a transmission line including the steps:—forming an element with at least one longitudinal groove on a surface of the element, the longitudinal groove being defined by two opposite wall portions in the element and having a longitudinal opening adjacent to the surface, and—locating a conductor line in the at least one longitudinal groove. The method is distinguished by the steps:—forming the conductor line from a metal strip upon punching the same from a sheet of metal,—attaching the metal strip to at least one holding device, and—mounting the at least one holding device, with the attached metal strip, on the element, so as to locate the metal strip in the longitudinal groove at a distance from the opposite wall portions of the element. The invention also concerns a transmission line manufactured in accordance with the method.
US08970319B2

A first line stub SB1 and one end of each of two switches SW1 and SW2 are connected to a transmission line 11L at spacings L1, L2 and L3 in order from the input end of the transmission line 11L, the other ends of the two switches are connected to a second line stub SB2, the first and second line stubs have an open end or short-circuit end, and matching at any of four frequency bands can be selected by combining on and off of the two switches SW1 and SW2.
US08970314B2

With some embodiments, a VCO (voltage controlled oscillator) operates at an integer multiple (N) above a desired transmission frequency. In accordance with one embodiment, a chip is provided with a VCO to generate a signal and a frequency dividing circuit to provide a reduced frequency version of the signal to a transmit mixer. The transmit mixer is followed by a power amplifier that is on the same die as the VCO. The power amplifier is to generate an OFDM output transmission.
US08970312B2

There is provided a differential ring oscillation circuit including a differential ring oscillation unit in which delay circuits, to which signals of 2 phases are input, and which delay and output the input signals of 2 phases, are connected at even stages in a ring form, first and second common-mode level detection units that detect that the input signals of 2 phases of one delay circuit at an even stage of the differential ring oscillation unit and the input signals of 2 phases of one delay circuit at an odd stage of the differential ring oscillation unit are at same predetermined levels, respectively, and first and second switches that set, to specific potentials, one of the output signals of 2 phases of the delay circuit delaying the input signals of 2 phases, when the first and second common-mode level detection units detect the same predetermined levels, respectively.
US08970311B2

In one embodiment, a voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) is provided having an output signal having a frequency responsive to a tuning signal. The VCO includes: a plurality of inverters coupled to form a loop, each differential inverter having a differential pair of transistors configured to steer a tail current from a current source, the current source sourcing the tail current responsive to a bias voltage, each inverter stage including a plurality of switched-capacitor circuits configured to control a signal delay through the inverter stage response to the tuning signal so as to control the frequency of the output signal; and a bias circuit configured to generate the bias voltage responsive to a reference signal such that an amplitude of the output signal is substantially independent of the output signal frequency and depends upon the reference signal.
US08970309B2

An atomic oscillator is disclosed, including an Alkaline metal cell, a light source illuminating a laser beam to the Alkaline metal cell, and a light detector detecting light passing through the Alkaline metal cell. The Alkaline metal cell includes a first member, a second member, a cell internal portion, and an Alkaline metal raw material. In the first member, a first glass substrate is bonded on a second surface of a first substrate where a first opening part is formed. In the second member, a second glass substrate is bonded to a fourth surface of a second substrate where a second opening part is formed. The cell internal portion is formed by the first opening part and the second opening part by bonding the first surface to the third surface. The Alkaline metal raw material is enclosed by the cell internal portion.
US08970304B2

Exemplary embodiments are directed to systems, devices, and methods for enhancing a telescopic amplifier. An amplifier may include a differential pair of input transistors including at least one transistor configured to receive a first input and at least one other transistor configured to receive a second input. The amplifier may further include a cascode circuit including a first pair of transistors coupled to the at least one transistor of the differential pair to form a first plurality of current paths configured to generate a first output. The cascode circuit may also include a second pair of transistors coupled to the at least one other transistor of the differential pair to form a second plurality of currents paths configured to generate a second output.
US08970302B2

An operational amplifier includes a selective differential stage including a first current mirror and a current distribution circuit. First and second legs of the first current mirror are responsive to current in first and second paths of the current distribution circuit, which distributes a tail current in response to a first signal received by a first input of the operational amplifier. Current in a first path of a selection circuit in the second path of the current distribution circuit is responsive to a second signal received by a second input of the operational amplifier. Current in the second path of the selection circuit is responsive to a third signal received by a third input of the operational amplifier. An output stage generates an output signal responsive to a difference between the first signal and one of the second and third signals.
US08970299B2

The present invention reduces the size of a power detection circuit. An RF power amplifier includes an RF amplifier circuit and a power detection circuit. The RF amplifier circuit subjects an RF input signal having a predetermined frequency band to power amplification and generates an RF amplifier output signal. The input terminal of the power detection circuit is coupled to the output of the RF amplifier circuit. The power detection circuit detects a harmonic component having a harmonic frequency that is a whole number multiple of the frequency of a fundamental wave component of the RF amplifier output signal, and generates at an output terminal a detected signal indicative of the signal level of the fundamental wave component of the RF amplifier output signal. The power detection circuit includes an input circuit, which detects the harmonic component, and an output circuit, which generates the detected signal at the output.
US08970296B1

An amplifying circuit for receiving a signal in a wireless network includes an amplifier and two switches. The amplifier includes an isolation switch having a gate connected to a control signal for activating the isolation switch transistor in a bypass mode and a source/drain connected to the input for receiving the signal and the other source/drain connected to the gate of an amplifier transistor. The amplifier also includes a bypass transistor having a gate connected to a control signal for activating the bypass transistor in a bypass mode. The bypass switch is connected in parallel with the series combination of the isolation switch and amplifier between the input and output, enabling the received signal to bypass the amplifier. In the bypass mode, the isolation switch prevents RF energy from voltage modulating the gate of the amplifier transistor gate thus reducing undesirable distortion and harmonics from the amplifier.
US08970293B1

Disclosed herein are embodiments of an active RC filter that has a gain-setting attenuator. An embodiment takes the form of a filter circuit having a filter-circuit input node; a filter-circuit output node; an operational amplifier (op-amp) having first and second inputs and also having an output coupled to the filter-circuit output node; and a passive feedback path extending between the filter-circuit output node and the first op-amp input, the passive feedback path having a gain-setting attenuator segment in series with a signal-filtering segment.
US08970292B2

An apparatus includes a biquad filter having first and second lossy integrators and multiple input networks. Each lossy integrator includes an amplifier, and each input network is coupled to an input of the amplifier in one of the lossy integrators. Each input network includes multiple resistors and a capacitor arranged in a T-structure. In a single-ended configuration, each input network includes a grounded capacitor. In a fully-differential configuration, each input network includes one of: a grounded capacitor and a floating capacitor coupled to another input network. The amplifiers and resistors could form a portion of an integrated circuit chip, which also includes multiple input/output pins. A single grounded capacitor could be coupled to a single input/output pin of the integrated circuit chip for an input network. A single floating capacitor could be coupled to two input/output pins of the integrated circuit chip for a pair of input networks.
US08970284B2

A receiver circuit is provided which receives an external signal of high voltage and provides a corresponding internal signal of low voltage. The receiver circuit includes a voltage limiter, a level down shifter and an inverter of low operation voltage. The level down shifter has a front node and a back node, and includes a transistor with a gate and a source respectively coupled to the voltage limiter and the inverter at the front node and the back node. The voltage limiter limits level of the external signal transmitted to the front node, the level down shifter shifts down a signal of the front node by a cross voltage to generate a signal of the back node, and the inverter inverts the signal of the back node to generate the internal signal.
US08970282B2

There is provided a high frequency switch including: a first signal transferring unit including a plurality of first switching devices; a second signal transferring unit including a plurality of second switching devices; a first shunting unit including a plurality of third switching devices; and a second shunting unit including a plurality of fourth switching devices.
US08970263B2

A semiconductor device driving unit to supply a drive signal to a gate of a semiconductor switching device, the semiconductor device driving unit comprising: a plurality of gate impedance circuits selectably connectable to the gate of the semiconductor switching device; and a selector to select one or more of the gate impedance circuits to connect to the semiconductor switching device. Also provided is a method of supplying a drive signal to a gate of a semiconductor switching device, the method comprising: selecting one or more of a plurality of gate impedance circuits to be connected to the gate of the semiconductor switching device based on one or more operating conditions and stored data relating to the one or more operating conditions; and connecting the selected one or more of the gate impedance circuits to the semiconductor switching device.
US08970261B2

A power module includes an IGBT; a MOSFET connected in parallel with the IGBT; a lead frame having a first frame portion on which the IGBT is mounted and a second frame portion on which the MOSFET is mounted, and having a step by which the first frame portion is located at a first height and the second frame portion is located at a second height larger than the first height; and an insulation sheet for a heat sink which is disposed on an underside of only the first frame portion of the lead frame.
US08970258B2

In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, systems and methods may include a switch coupled at its gate terminal to an input signal voltage, the input signal voltage for controlling a gate voltage of a gate terminal of a driver device coupled at its non-gate terminals between a rail voltage and an output node. The systems and methods may also include a diode having a first terminal and a second terminal, the diode coupled to a non-gate terminal of the switch such that when the switch is enabled, the first terminal is electrically coupled to the gate terminal of the driver device and the second terminal is electrically coupled to the output node.
US08970255B2

A frequency detection apparatus includes: a constant current generator, arranged for providing a constant current to a voltage output terminal; a first capacitor, coupled between the voltage output terminal and a first reference voltage; a first transistor, which has a first connection terminal coupled to the voltage output terminal, a control terminal coupled to an input signal; a second connection terminal, coupled between the second connection terminal of the first transistor and the first reference voltage; a second transistor, which has a first connection terminal coupled to the second connection terminal of the first transistor, a second connection terminal coupled to the first reference voltage, a control terminal coupled to an inverted input signal, which is obtained by inverting the input signal; wherein a voltage output of the voltage output terminal changes with an input signal frequency of the input signal.
US08970242B2

Provided is a method for manufacturing a probe card which inspects electrical characteristics of a plurality of semiconductor devices in batch. The method includes: a step of forming a plurality of probes, which are to be brought into contact with external terminals of the semiconductor devices, on one side of a board which forms the base body of the probe card; a step of forming on the board, by photolithography and etching, a plurality of through-holes which reach the probes from the other side of the board; a step of forming, in the through-holes, through electrodes to be conductively connected with the probes, respectively; and a step of forming wiring, which is conductively connected with the through electrodes, on the other side of the board.
US08970241B2

Structures and techniques for restraining devices for testing. Test sockets may retain devices under test using one or more retention members protruding from sidewalls of the test sockets. Retained devices may be oriented such that contact arms may traverse horizontally to access the devices to, for example, provide desired testing environments. Devices may be retained by forces applied by the retention members to the retained devices in response to displacement, such as compression or deformation, of the retention members caused by the retained devices. Retention of the devices may be achieved without the need for additional fasteners, claims, or adjustment.
US08970235B2

A semiconductor test device and method for sequentially carrying out tests including an AC test, DC test, and thermal resistance test on a power semiconductor device are provided. The semiconductor test device includes a holding unit that positions the power semiconductor device. Test units each generate a test signal for the power semiconductor device and determine a test result generated in response to the test signal. A connection unit switches between the test units and selectively connects the test units electrically to electrodes of the power semiconductor device. The connection unit is controlled such that the test units are sequentially connected to the power semiconductor device to perform a plurality of the tests. The connection unit may include parallel plate electrodes in proximity to each other across an insulating sheet. The parallel plate electrodes may connect the power semiconductor device to positive and negative power sources of the test unit.
US08970232B2

A capacitive sensor assembly for a motor vehicle is provided. The capacitive sensor assembly includes a capacitive sensor element which has at least one first electrical conductor element, and a reference conductor element defining an electrical reference potential and being interspaced from the first electrical conductor element. The first electrical conductor element is designed as an outer conductor surrounding the reference conductor element which represents the inner conductor.
US08970221B2

A discharge ionization current detector capable of supplying plasma gas in large quantity to stabilize plasma simultaneously with lowering the sample dilution ratio to improve detection sensitivity is provided. A gas supply pipe 7 for supplying a plasma gas, which also functions as a dilution gas, is connected to a point near the connecting section of a first gas passage 3 having electrodes 4-6 for plasma generation and a second gas passage having electrodes 16 and 17 for ion detection. A first gas discharge pipe 8 is connected to the other end of the first gas passage 3, and a second gas discharge pipe 13 is connected to the other end of the second gas passage 11. Flow controllers 9 and 14 are provided in the gas discharge pipes 8 and 13, respectively. The flow rate of the gas passing through a plasma generation area and that of the gas passing through an ion current detection area can be independently regulated. Therefore, for example, it is possible to increase the former flow rate to stabilize the plasma and simultaneously decrease the latter flow rate to enhance the detection sensitivity for a low-concentration sample.
US08970213B2

In a method for manufacturing the functional element, a protective film covering an underlayer, a patterned multilayer film, and a patterned cap layer are formed, and the underlayer is then processed without newly forming a resist. Thereby, an electrode can be formed in steps less than ever before. Since the protective film formed on the patterned multilayer film and the patterned cap layer is used as a mask, the problem of the misregistration can be prevented.
US08970212B2

An eddy current probe 1 in accordance with the present invention has a structure in which a cross coil 7 is placed in a predetermined direction relative to permanent magnets 3 and 5 in the following manner. When the probe 1 is erected, the coil 7 is placed between the magnets 3 and 5 so that a direction CD in which the opposing portion 9a (9c) of the first coil 9 is extended intersects with a direction MD in which the magnets 3 and 5 are extended. In the same manner, when the probe 1 is erected, the coil 7 is placed between the magnets 3 and 5 so that a direction CD in which the opposing portion 11a (11c) of the second coil 11 is extended intersects with the direction MD in which the magnets 3 and 5 are extended.
US08970200B2

Systems and methods for light-load efficiency in displays may include a backlight driver circuit that may adjust a gate drive voltage provided to a gate of a metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor (MOSFET) in the boost converter based on the load conditions of light-emitting diodes used to illuminate the display panel. The backlight driver circuit may also switch between two different voltage sources to further broaden a range of gate drive voltages available to drive the gate of the MOSFET in the boost converter. As a result, the backlight driver circuit may decrease gate drive losses associated with the MOSFET, thereby increasing the efficiency of the boost converter.
US08970199B2

The invention relates to an electronic device and a method for DC-DC conversion using a comparator for generating an output signal for driving a power switch of a switch mode DC-DC converter. The electronic device is configured to reduce a bias current of the comparator with a first slope in response to a decreasing load and to increase the bias current of the comparator with a second slope in response to an increasing load, wherein the second slope is steeper than the first slope.
US08970197B2

A voltage regulator circuit includes a plurality of transistors and a control circuit. Each transistor has two source/drain terminal and a gate terminal. One source/drain terminal of each transistor is electrically coupled to a source voltage, and the other source/drain terminals of the transistors are electrically coupled to each other and corporately referred to as an output terminal of the voltage regulator circuit. The control circuit is electrically coupled to the gate terminals of the transistors and configured to determine the number of the transistors to be turned on according to the difference between the voltage at the output terminal and a predetermined reference voltage.
US08970196B2

Representative implementations of devices and techniques determine when a dc to dc converter switches from a first mode of operation to a second mode of operation. The determination is based on a time interval representing a portion of a current waveform, which is measured and compared to a threshold value.
US08970190B2

A common (ground) of a low voltage regulator is connected to a virtual common (ground) of an integrated circuit device that is also connected to transistor sources but isolated from a true ground connected to the substrate of the integrated circuit device. The regulated output voltage from the low voltage regulator rises the same as the virtual ground voltage rises when back-biased sufficient to reduce leakage current to an acceptable level in a given process technology. Therefore, the output of the low voltage regulator will maintain a normal operating voltage for the logic during a power saving back-biased condition.
US08970183B2

A generator includes a permanent magnet generator, an exciter and a main generator mounted for rotation on a shaft. The main generator is configured to produce a voltage output. A generator control unit includes a circuit configured to provide current from the permanent magnet generator to the exciter. A switch is provided in the circuit and is configured to change between open and closed conditions. The switch is configured to flow current in the circuit in the closed condition and interrupt current flow in the open condition. An overvoltage limit controller is programmed to determine an amount of overvoltage of the output voltage exceeding a desired voltage. Either a fixed reference threshold is used or a reference threshold voltage is calculated based upon the duration in over voltage condition, and the switch is modulated between the open and closed conditions according to error between the actual output voltage and the reference threshold voltage to limit the output voltage to the desired reference threshold voltage.
US08970181B2

An apparatus and a method to charge a battery, the battery charging apparatus including: a battery unit which is chargeable; a battery charging unit which charges the battery unit; and a controller which adjusts a preset charge voltage of the battery unit based on a charge allowance capacity of the battery unit to have a predetermined value, and controls the battery charging unit to output the adjusted charge voltage and to charge the battery unit. Accordingly, the apparatus and method are capable of charging a battery based on a charge allowance capacity decreased owing to deterioration of the battery to safely use the battery and to extend a life of the battery.
US08970169B2

A charging device for a high-voltage battery of a motor vehicle, in particular a charging device installed in a motor vehicle, can be connected to an alternating current network via a connection device, which includes a residual current circuit breaker that does not detect a residual current of at least one residual current type, in particular a DC residual current. The charging device further includes a controllable component and a residual current detector for detecting a residual current of the residual current type, wherein the residual current detector controls the component to change the characteristic of the residual current in such a way that the residual current can be detected with the residual current circuit breaker.
US08970167B2

A section of roadway has at least one integrated induction loop designed to inductively charge a vehicle battery of a hybrid or electric vehicle that is situated on the induction loop. The section of roadway is arranged in the region of a road in which the traffic is at least temporarily stationary. As a result, useless time waiting at traffic lights or railway crossing gates can be used productively.
US08970160B2

A supervisory system controller for controlling and monitoring the generation of electrical energy from renewable sources and management methods for the storage of energy so generated and interconnecting the energy-generating elements, storage and load. The supervisory system controller operates to maximum the power transfer from a wind turbine to a battery by automatically varying the threshold levels at which turbine dump loads are switched based on system inputs and measurements. The method conserves generator fuel by delaying a scheduled generator maintenance running period such that it occurs when renewable energy availability is predicted to be low and battery is in a reduced state of charge. Further modifications and management methods are also provided.
US08970158B1

In one embodiment, a cryocooler drive circuit for a cryocooler motor is provided that includes: a first switching power converter configured to track a first sinusoidal input voltage signal to provide a first sinusoidal output voltage signal at a first output node; and a second switching power converter configured to track a second sinusoidal input voltage signal to provide a second sinusoidal output voltage signal at a second output node, wherein the second sinusoidal input voltage signal is an inverted version of the first sinusoidal input voltage signal such that the cryocooler motor is driven by an alternating current flowing between the first and second output nodes.
US08970157B2

A motor control device includes a feedback filter that has filter characteristics that a frequency response gain is substantially one at frequencies equal to or lower than a filter cutoff frequency, a frequency response gain decreases with increase in frequency in a range from the filter cutoff frequency ωfL to a filter upper limit frequency ωfH higher than the filter cutoff frequency ωfL, and a frequency response gain is substantially constant at frequencies equal to or higher than the filter upper limit frequency ωfH, and performs computing to apply the filter characteristics to a feedback transfer function, wherein a control-constant set unit sets a speed gain Kv and at least one of the filter cutoff frequency ωfL and the filter upper limit frequency ωfH to reduce a ratio of the filter upper limit frequency ωfH to the filter cutoff frequency ωfL with increase in the speed gain Kv.
US08970156B2

A path display apparatus includes a first position command acquiring unit that acquires first position command for motors, a first position feedback acquiring unit that acquires first position feedback of each of the motors, a correction data acquiring unit that acquires correction data generated for each of the motors, a second position command calculating unit that subtracts the correction data from the first position command to calculate a second position command, a second position feedback calculating unit that subtracts the correction data from the first position feedback to calculate second position feedback, a command path display unit that displays a command path of the tip point of the tool, based on the second position command; and a feedback path display unit that displays a feedback path of the tip point of the tool, based on the second position feedback.
US08970155B2

An electric power converter is provided with a plurality of power-conversion elements; a first control circuit that outputs a first control signal; an electricity storage circuit; a second control circuit that outputs a second control signal when the direct-current power source that supplies electrical power to the first control circuit is not normal; and a drive circuit that outputs drive signals for driving the plurality of power-conversion elements. Each of the power-conversion elements is either a power-conversion element of the upper arm connected to the high-voltage side or a conversion element of the lower arm connected to the low-voltage side. In cases when the voltage of the electricity storage circuit is at a higher predetermined first voltage value, the second control circuit outputs a second control signal so that all the power-conversion elements of the upper arm or the lower arm are turned on and the others are turned off.
US08970144B2

The disclosure relates to a method for operating an electric traction drive system, which comprises an electric motor and a battery with a plurality of battery strings having battery modules. Each battery module is configured to be connected selectively with respect to output terminals of a respective battery string with positive polarization or negative polarization or to be bridged in the respective battery string, such that each battery string is configured to produce an adjustable output voltage. The battery modules are each monitored for proper functioning. When a technical fault in at least one battery module is detected, the at least one battery module is bridged and the traction drive system is transferred to a transition state in which the electric motor continues to be supplied and actuated by the connected battery modules in the battery module string such that a presently generated torque is maintained unchanged.
US08970128B2

A two-wire load control device (such as, a dimmer switch) is operable to control the amount of power delivered from an AC power source to an electrical load (such as, a high-efficiency lighting load) and has substantially no minimum load requirement. The load control device includes a bidirectional semiconductor switch (such as a thyristor), which may be operable to remain conductive independent of the magnitude of a load current conducted through semiconductor switch and to conduct the load current to and from the load during a single half-cycle. The dimmer switch comprises a control circuit that conducts a control current through the load in order to generate a gate drive signal for rendering the bidirectional semiconductor switch conductive and non-conductive each half-cycle. The control circuit may provide a constant gate drive to the bidirectional semiconductor switch after the bidirectional semiconductor switch is rendered conductive each half-cycle.
US08970122B2

A LED driver comprising: a power switch; a transformer comprising a primary winding coupled to the power switch, a secondary winding and a third winding; a current sense circuit configured to sense a current flowing through the power switch and generates a current sense signal; a zero cross detecting circuit configured to detect a current flowing through the secondary winding, and generates a zero cross detecting signal; a compensation circuit configured to compensate the current sense signal based on the current flowing through the third winding; a control circuit configured to receive the compensated current sense signal and the zero cross detecting signal, and wherein the control circuit generates a control signal to control the power switch.
US08970116B2

Disclosed is a photo controller, a photo controller assembly, and a process for controlling non-unity power factor devices. The photo controller includes a housing and a circuit board positioned within the housing. The circuit board includes a photosensor, an electronic controller, and a thyristor secured to the circuit board. The electronic controller is configured to produce a series of trigger pulses for activating the thyristor; wherein the thyristor is configured to control power switching of a non-unity power factor lamp.
US08970115B2

A LED lamp that includes a LED lamp controller with delayed startup after a fault condition is detected. The type of the fault condition is used in determining a length of the startup delay, such as a number of power cycles during which the LED lamp controller is prevented from completing its configuration. Examples of different types of fault conditions include faults in a supply voltage or faults in a feedback voltage to the LED lamp controller. Fault type information can also be stored in circuitry that retains data and is not reset across the power cycles.
US08970114B2

A temperature controlled dielectric window of an inductively coupled plasma processing chamber includes a dielectric window forming a top wall of the plasma processing chamber having at least first and second channels therein. A liquid circulating system includes a source of cold liquid circulating in a first closed loop which is not in fluid communication with the channels, a source of hot liquid circulating in a second closed loop which is in fluid communication with the channels, and first and second heat exchangers. The cold liquid passes through the first heat exchanger at a controllable flow rate and temperature of the hot liquid is adjusted by heat exchange with the cold liquid as the hot liquid passes through the first heat exchanger and then through the inlet of the first channel. The cold liquid passes through the second heat exchanger at a controllable flow rate and temperature of the hot liquid is adjusted by heat exchange with the cold liquid as the hot liquid passes through the second heat exchanger and then through the inlet of the second channel.
US08970112B2

An actuation device (4) for a lighting device (3) of a motor vehicle (1), which includes at least one LED associated with a turn signal and at least one LED associated with another type of light, in particular a daytime running light and/or a position light, and a common optical system (10) for the types of light, wherein the actuation device (4) has a single DC/DC converter (11) used for both the LEDs of the turn signal and for the LEDs of the other type of light, as well as a control unit (12) for controlling the DC/DC converter (11) in response to a control signal.
US08970108B2

An organic light emitting display apparatus effectively improves viewing angle characteristics. The organic light emitting display apparatus includes a plurality of sub-pixels configured to emit light of different colors, respectively; a thin film encapsulation layer for sealing the plurality of sub-pixels; and a light scattering layer disposed over the thin film encapsulation layer to scatter light output from the plurality of sub-pixels.
US08970105B2

A display unit is provided including a first insulating film, a plurality of anode electrodes disposed on the first insulating film, a second insulating film disposed on the anode electrodes, a plurality of organic layers disposed on the anode electrodes, and a cathode electrode disposed on the organic layer. The cathode electrode is connected to an extraction electrode via a first wiring provided in a peripheral area of the display unit. Also, the organic layers are provided over two or more lines of the anode electrodes.
US08970104B2

A lighting portion is attached to a reflective liquid crystal display portion. A first transparent substrate and a second transparent substrate made of a glass substrate etc. are attached to each other with a sealing layer coated on those peripheral portions therebetween. The back surface of the first transparent substrate is attached to the reflective liquid crystal display portion, and an organic EL element is formed on the front surface of the first transparent substrate. The organic EL element is sealed in a space surrounded by the first transparent substrate, the second transparent substrate, and the sealing layer. The organic EL element is formed in a region corresponding to a pixel region of the reflective liquid crystal display portion. A desiccant layer is formed on the front surface of the second transparent substrate.
US08970100B2

A display device is provided, in which view-angle dependence of chromaticity of white or an intermediate color may be reduced. The display device includes a pair of opposed substrates, a light blocking layer provided on one of the pair of substrates while having a plurality of openings, and a plurality of self-luminous elements provided on the other of the pair of substrates, each of the self-luminous elements having an emission region facing each of the openings, and having an emission color different from an emission color of another element, at least one self-luminous element being different from other self-luminous elements in clearance in a display plane direction from an end of the emission region to an opening of the light blocking film.
US08970090B2

An ultrasonic sensor is disclosed. The ultrasonic sensor includes a piezoelectric element and an acoustic matching member. The piezoelectric element is configured to detect ultrasonic wave transmitted from a transmitter and reflected by a detection target object located in a detection target space. The acoustic matching member is configured to conduct the received ultrasonic wave to the piezoelectric element. The piezo electric element is covered with the acoustic matching member including a principal oscillation portion and a supplement oscillation portion. Thickness of a part of the supplement oscillation portion, the part covering the piezoelectric element, is smaller than a predetermined thickness threshold.
US08970089B2

A drive device includes a movable member, plural piezoelectric motors that cause the movable member to move in a predetermined direction, a drive circuit that drives the plural piezoelectric motors, and plural relays that electrically connect or disconnect at least one of the plural piezoelectric motors to or from the drive circuit.
US08970087B2

Provided is an ion conducting actuator that easily allows reduction in size and integration thereof, compared to existing one, and gives a large generating force. The columnar ion conducting actuator includes a tubular member serving as a first electrode, an ion-supplying material disposed inside the tubular member, and linear second electrodes disposed inside the tubular member. The ion-supplying material lies between the inner wall of the tubular member and the second electrodes and includes a polymer gel containing positive ions and negative ions. The tubular member contains a plurality of the second electrodes. Either the positive ions or the negative ions contained in the polymer gel move toward the plurality of second electrodes side and the other ions move toward the inner wall side of the tubular member by applying a voltage between the tubular member and the plurality of the second electrodes to elongate the ion conducting actuator.
US08970084B2

A stator core of a rotating electrical machine includes an annular first core plate including a plurality of first core plate pieces and an annular second core plate including a plurality of second core plate pieces. A predetermined number of the first and second core plates are alternately laminated such that stator fixing portions overlap with each other and such that positions of joints between the first core plate pieces of the first core plates differ from positions of joints between the second core plate pieces of the second core plates in the circumferential direction.
US08970083B2

An improved motor (90) broadly including a first member (30) and a second member (20) mounted for movement relative to one another. The first member has a plurality of poles (32) spaced substantially equidistantly. The second member has a plurality of arms (22). Each arm includes a plurality of fingers (27), a permanent magnet (29), and a coil (25). The fingers are arranged such that their distal end generally faces toward the poles on the first member. Each permanent magnet has a width that is greater than the pole spacing. Each arm is associated with one of a number of phases. The fingers of the arms within a particular phase are arranged such that they simultaneously align with respective poles when the first and second members are in one position relative to one another.
US08970075B2

A liquid-cooled, radial air gap electric motor includes a stator, a rotor, a rotor shaft, two end bells, a housing, a coolant manifold system, and a coolant sump. The rotor includes a plurality of axially directed slots located near its periphery. The coolant manifold system directs a first portion of liquid coolant to flow past some portion of the stator and a second portion of liquid coolant to flow through the rotor slots. Some or all of the liquid coolant is received by the coolant sump from which the coolant may be recirculated.
US08970066B2

In a plug-in operation, a first winding which functions as an armature winding for supplying an R-phase current of a three-phase rotary electric machine, a third winding, and a second winding are connected respectively to terminals for supplying R-phase, S-phase, and T-phase currents of a three-phase power source. Thus, the S-phase current and the T-phase current are interchanged as compared with in a normal operation. Thereby, reverse rotation of a field element is intentionally caused. A reverse-rotation prevention mechanism is provided in the field element.
US08970065B2

A system and method for controlling the DC voltage provided to a PV inverter is disclosed. A PV system includes a pair of PV array group configured to generate a direct current (DC) output from received solar irradiation and a DC-to-AC power inverter electrically coupled to the pair of PV array groups to receive the DC output therefrom and invert the DC output to an AC output. The PV system also includes a switching element positioned between the pair of PV array groups and the DC-to-AC power inverter, with the switching element being configured to selectively connect the pair of PV array groups to the DC-to-AC power inverter in one of a series arrangement and a parallel arrangement, so as to control a level of DC voltage received by the DC-to-AC power inverter from the pair of PV array groups.
US08970064B2

A direct current backup power supply device of a data processing system with at least one computer supplied with very low voltage whose direct current power supply is connected to an alternating current power supply system using an AC/DC converter of alternating current into direct current includes means for storing electrical energy. The device also includes means for charging the means for storing electrical energy from a part of the direct current provided by the AC/DC converter to the very low voltage power supply of the data processing system, and means for discharging the stored energy in the means for storing electrical energy to the very low voltage power supply of the data processing system, to a noticeably constant predetermined very low voltage, following the detection of a micro-cut of the supply system.
US08970042B2

A circuit board is provided including a core insulation film having a thickness and including a first surface and an opposite second surface, an upper stack structure and a lower stack structure. The upper stack structure has a thickness and has an upper conductive pattern having a thickness and an overlying upper insulation film stacked on the first surface of the core insulation film. The lower stack structure has a thickness and has a lower conductive pattern having a thickness and an overlying lower insulation film stacked on the second surface of the core insulation film. A ratio P of a sum of the thicknesses of the upper conductive pattern and the lower conductive pattern to a sum of the thicknesses of the core insulation film, the upper stack structure and the lower stack structure is in a range from about 0.05 to about 0.2.
US08970037B2

A preferred terminal structure comprises a base material; an electrode formed on the base material; an insulating covering layer formed on the base material and on the electrode and having an opening exposing at least part of the electrode; an under bump metal layer containing Ni, filling the opening on the electrode; and a dome-shaped bump containing Sn and Ti, covering the under bump metal layer, wherein at least part of the under bump metal layer has a portion sandwiched between the external electrode and the insulating covering layer.
US08970033B2

A device includes a work piece, and a metal trace on a surface of the work piece. A Bump-on-Trace (BOT) is formed at the surface of the work piece. The BOT structure includes a metal bump, and a solder bump bonding the metal bump to a portion of the metal trace. The metal trace includes a metal trace extension not covered by the solder bump.
US08970031B2

A method of making semiconductor die terminals and a semiconductor device with die terminals made according to the present method. At least a first mask layer is selectively printed on at least a portion of a wafer containing a plurality of the semiconductor devices to create first recesses aligned with electrical terminals on the semiconductor devices. A conductive material is deposited in a plurality of the first recesses to form die terminals on the semiconductor devices. The first mask layer is removed to expose the die terminals, and the wafer is diced into a plurality of discrete semiconductor devices.
US08970030B2

The invention relates to an electronic module and to a method for producing same, comprising a mold body (2), a first circuit carrier (3; 13) having a first inner face (3a; 13a), on which electronic components (5) are arranged, and a first outer face (3b; 13b), a second circuit carrier (4; 14) having a second inner face (4a; 14a), on which electronic components (5) are arranged, and a second outer face (4b; 14b), and at least one spring device (6, 7; 16) which connects the inner faces (3a, 14a; 13a, 14a), or surfaces of electronic components (5) arranged thereon, of the first and second circuit carriers (3, 4; 13, 14), wherein the first and second outer faces (3a, 4a; 13a, 14a) are exposed towards the outside of the electronic module in order to emit heat directly to the outside, and wherein the first and second outer faces (3a, 4a; 13a, 14a) are parallel to each other.
US08970028B2

A microelectronic package includes a substrate, first and second microelectronic elements, and a heat spreader. The substrate has terminals thereon configured for electrical connection with a component external to the package. The first microelectronic element is adjacent the substrate and the second microelectronic element is at least partially overlying the first microelectronic element. The heat spreader is sheet-like, separates the first and second microelectronic elements, and includes an aperture. Connections extend through the aperture and electrically couple the second microelectronic element with the substrate.
US08970025B2

Provided is a method of forming a package-on-package. An encapsulation is formed to cover a wafer using a wafer level molding process. The wafer includes a plurality of semiconductor chips and a plurality of through silicon vias (TSVs) passing through the semiconductor chips. The encapsulant may have openings aligned with the TSVs. The encapsulant and the semiconductor chips are divided to form a plurality of semiconductor packages. Another semiconductor package is stacked on one selected from the semiconductor packages. The other semiconductor package is electrically connected to the TSVs.
US08970021B2

One exemplary disclosed embodiment comprises a semiconductor package including an inside pad, a transistor, and a conductive clip coupled to the inside pad and a terminal of the transistor. A top surface of the conductive clip is substantially exposed at the top of the package, and a side surface of the conductive clip is exposed at a side of the package. By supporting the semiconductor package on an outside pad during the fabrication process and by removing the outside pad during singulation, the conductive clip may be kept substantially parallel and in alignment with the package substrate while optimizing the package form factor compared to conventional packages. The exposed top surface of the conductive clip may be further attached to a heat sink for enhanced thermal dissipation.
US08970018B2

A differential port and a method of arranging the differential port are described. The method includes arranging a first electrode to receive a drive signal, and arranging a second electrode to receive a guard signal, the guard signal having a different phase than the drive signal and the first electrode and the second electrode having a gap therebetween. The method also includes disposing a signal line from the first electrode to drive a radio frequency (RF) device.
US08970014B2

Semiconductor devices and methods of forming the semiconductor device are provided, the semiconductor devices including a first dielectric layer on a substrate, and a second dielectric layer on the first dielectric layer. The first dielectric layer has a carbon concentration lower than the second dielectric layer.
US08970001B2

A structure includes a metal feature, and a passivation layer having a portion overlapping the metal feature. The passivation layer includes a non-low-k dielectric material. A polymer layer is over the passivation layer. A Post-Passivation Interconnect (PPI) extends into the polymer layer to electrically couple to the metal feature. A guard ring includes a second PPI, wherein the guard ring is electrically grounded. The second PPI substantially encircles the first PPI.
US08970000B2

A signal transmission arrangement is disclosed. A voltage converter includes a signal transmission arrangement.
US08969991B2

BSI image sensors and methods. In an embodiment, a substrate is provided having a sensor array and a periphery region and having a front side and a back side surface; a bottom anti-reflective coating (BARC) is formed over the back side to a first thickness, over the sensor array region and the periphery region; forming a first dielectric layer over the BARC; a metal shield is formed; selectively removing the metal shield from over the sensor array region; selectively removing the first dielectric layer from over the sensor array region, wherein a portion of the first thickness of the BARC is also removed and a remainder of the first thickness of the BARC remains during the process of selectively removing the first dielectric layer; forming a second dielectric layer over the remainder of the BARC and over the metal shield; and forming a passivation layer over the second dielectric layer.
US08969987B2

A solid-state imaging device includes a light-receiving portion, an optical filter layer, and quantum dots. The light receiving portion, where a photoelectric conversion is carried out, is formed in a semiconductor substrate. The optical filter layer is directly formed on or formed through another layer on the surface of the semiconductor substrate in which the light-receiving portion is formed. Quantum dots having substantially equal diameters are formed in the optical filter layer. The quantum dots have higher refractive indexes than the refractive index of the optical filter layer in which the quantum dots are embedded.
US08969981B2

A sensor package has a semiconductor sensor chip, and a package body that has a semiconductor sensor chip mounting region on which the semiconductor sensor chip is mounted. The package body being a resin injection molded product. A groove is formed in a rear surface on an opposite side to a surface, on which the semiconductor sensor chip is mounted, so as to surround the semiconductor sensor chip mounting region. A coupling section is formed in the rear surface to couple a resin portion inside the groove and a resin portion outside the groove.
US08969980B2

A micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) device includes a housing and a base. The base includes a port opening extending therethrough and the port opening communicates with the external environment. The MEMS die is disposed on the base and over the opening. The MEMS die includes a diaphragm and a back plate and the MEMS die, the base, and the housing form a back volume. At least one vent extends through the MEMS die and not through the diaphragm. The at least one vent communicates with the back volume and the port opening and is configured to allow venting between the back volume and the external environment.
US08969977B2

The invention provides a flow sensor structure for sealing the surface of an electric control circuit and a part of a semiconductor device via a manufacturing method capable of preventing occurrence of flash or chip crack when clamping the semiconductor device via a mold. The invention provides a flow sensor structure comprising a semiconductor device having an air flow sensing unit and a diaphragm formed thereto, and a board or a lead frame having an electric control circuit for controlling the semiconductor device disposed thereto, wherein a surface of the electric control circuit and a part of a surface of the semiconductor device is covered with resin while having the air flow sensing unit portion exposed. The invention further provides flow sensor structure in which surfaces of a resin mold, a board or a pre-mold component surrounding the semiconductor device are continuously not in contact with three walls of the semiconductor device orthogonal to a side on which the air flow sensing unit portion is disposed, or a manufacturing method for absorbing the dimensional variation of the semiconductor device by the deformation of springs or deformation of an elastic film in the thickness direction.
US08969971B2

Semiconductor devices are provided. A semiconductor device may include a transistor area and a resistor area. The transistor area may include a gate structure. The resistor area may include an insulating layer and a resistor structure on the insulating layer. A top surface of the gate structure and a top surface of the resistor structure may be substantially coplanar.
US08969970B2

A semiconductor device includes a first MIS transistor and a second MIS transistor. The first MIS transistor includes a first gate insulating film which is formed on a first active region of a semiconductor substrate and has a first high dielectric constant film, and a first gate electrode formed on the first gate insulating film. The second MIS transistor includes a second gate insulating film which is formed on a second active region of the semiconductor substrate and has a second high dielectric constant film, and a second gate electrode formed on the second gate insulating film. The second high dielectric constant film contains first adjusting metal. The first high dielectric constant film has a higher nitrogen concentration than the second high dielectric constant film, and does not contain the first adjusting metal.
US08969969B2

Transistors exhibiting different electrical characteristics such as different switching threshold voltage or different leakage characteristics are formed on the same chip or wafer by selectively removing a film or layer which can serve as an out-diffusion sink for an impurity region such as a halo implant and out-diffusing an impurity such as boron into the out-diffusion sink, leaving the impurity region substantially intact where the out-diffusion sink has been removed. In forming CMOS integrated circuits, such a process allows substantially optimal design for both low-leakage and low threshold transistors and allows a mask and additional associated processes to be eliminated, particularly where a tensile film is employed to increase electron mobility since the tensile film can be removed from selected NMOS transistors concurrently with removal of the tensile film from PMOS transistors.
US08969965B2

FinFET devices and methods for the fabrication thereof are provided. In one aspect, a method for fabricating a FET device includes the following steps. A wafer is provided having an active layer on an insulator. A plurality of fin hardmasks are patterned on the active layer. A dummy gate is placed over a central portion of the fin hardmasks. One or more doping agents are implanted into source and drain regions of the device. A dielectric filler layer is deposited around the dummy gate. The dummy gate is removed to form a trench in the dielectric filler layer. The fin hardmasks are used to etch a plurality of fins in the active layer within the trench. The doping agents are activated. A replacement gate is formed in the trench, wherein the step of activating the doping agents is performed before the step of forming the replacement gate.
US08969963B2

Fin-defining mask structures are formed over a semiconductor material layer. A semiconductor material portion is formed by patterning the semiconductor material layer, and a disposable gate structure is formed over the fin-defining mask structures. After formation of a disposable template layer, the disposable gate structure is removed. A plurality of semiconductor fins are formed by etching center portions of the semiconductor material portion employing the combination of the disposable template layer and the fin-defining mask structures as an etch mask. A first pad region and a second pad region laterally contact the plurality of semiconductor fins. A replacement gate structure is formed on the plurality of semiconductor fins. The disposable template layer is removed, and the first pad region and the second pad regions are vertically recessed. Vertical source/drain junctions can be formed by introducing dopants through vertical sidewalls of the recessed source and second pad regions.
US08969957B2

According to one embodiment, a one-time programmable (OTP) device having a lateral diffused metal-oxide-semiconductor (LDMOS) structure comprises a pass gate including a pass gate electrode and a pass gate dielectric, and a programming gate including a programming gate electrode and a programming gate dielectric. The programming gate is spaced from the pass gate by a drain extension region of the LDMOS structure. The LDMOS structure provides protection for the pass gate when a programming voltage for rupturing the programming gate dielectric is applied to the programming gate electrode. A method for producing such an OTP device comprises forming a drain extension region, fabricating a pass gate over a first portion of the drain extension region, and fabricating a programming gate over a second portion of the drain extension region.
US08969953B2

Self-aligned charge balanced semiconductor devices and methods for forming such devices are disclosed. One or more planar gates are formed over a semiconductor substrate of a first conductivity type. One or more deep trenches are etched in the semiconductor self-aligned to the planar gates. The trenches are filled with a semiconductor material of a second conductivity type such that the deep trenches are charge balanced with the adjacent regions of the semiconductor substrate Source and body regions are formed by implanting dopants onto the filled trenches. This process can form self-aligned charge balanced devices with a cell pitch less than 12 microns.
US08969949B2

The present disclosure provides one embodiment of a SRAM cell that includes first and second inverters cross-coupled for data storage, each inverter including at least one pull-up device and at least one pull-down devices; and at least two pass-gate devices configured with the two cross-coupled inverters. The pull-up devices, the pull-down devices and the pass-gate devices include a tunnel field effect transistor (TFET) that further includes a semiconductor mesa formed on a semiconductor substrate and having a bottom portion, a middle portion and a top portion; a drain of a first conductivity type formed in the bottom portion and extended into the semiconductor substrate; a source of a second conductivity type formed in the top portion, the second conductivity type being opposite to the first conductivity type; a channel in a middle portion and interposed between the source and drain; and a gate formed on sidewall of the semiconductor mesa and contacting the channel.
US08969945B2

According to one embodiment, a nonvolatile semiconductor memory device, includes: a stacked body including a plurality of electrode layers stacked alternately with a plurality of insulating films; a plurality of first channel body layers; a memory film; a plurality of selection gates; a second channel body layer connecting to each of the plurality of first channel body layers; a gate insulating film; and a first interconnect electrically connected to at least one of the plurality of electrode layers. The stacked body has a through-hole communicating from the upper surface of the stacked body to the lower surface of the stacked body outside a cell region. And the first interconnect is drawn out through the through-hole from the upper surface side of the stacked body to the lower surface side of the stacked body.
US08969933B2

In a replacement gate scheme, a continuous material layer is deposited on a bottom surface and a sidewall surface in a gate cavity. A vertical portion of the continuous material layer is removed to form a gate component of which a vertical portion does not extend to a top of the gate cavity. The gate component can be employed as a gate dielectric or a work function metal portion to form a gate structure that enhances performance of a replacement gate field effect transistor.
US08969932B2

One method disclosed herein includes, prior to forming an isolation region in a semiconducting substrate for the device, forming a doped well region and a doped punch-stop region in the substrate, introducing a dopant material that is adapted to retard diffusion of boron or phosphorous into the substrate to form a dopant-containing layer proximate an upper surface of the substrate, performing an epitaxial deposition process to form an undoped semiconducting material above the dopant-containing layer, forming a plurality of spaced-apart trenches that extend at least partially into the substrate, wherein the trenches define a fin for the device comprised of at least the undoped semiconducting material, forming at least a local isolation insulating material in the trenches, and forming a gate structure around at least the undoped semiconducting material, wherein a bottom of a gate electrode is positioned approximately level with or below a bottom of the undoped semiconducting material.
US08969931B2

A semiconductor device and a method for fabricating the semiconductor device. The device includes: a doped semiconductor having a source region, a drain region, a channel between the source and drain regions, and an extension region between the channel and each of the source and drain regions; a gate formed on the channel; and a screening coating on each of the extension regions. The screening coating includes: (i) an insulating layer that has a dielectric constant that is no greater than about half that of the extension regions and is formed directly on the extension regions, and (ii) a screening layer on the insulating layer, where the screening layer screens the dopant ionization potential in the extension regions to inhibit dopant deactivation.
US08969928B2

Transistors having a dielectric over a semiconductor, a control gate over the dielectric at a particular level, and one or more conductive structures over the dielectric at the particular level facilitate control of device characteristics of the transistor. The one or more conductive structures are between the control gate and at least one source/drain region of the transistor. The one or more conductive structures are electrically isolated from the control gate.
US08969917B2

According to an embodiment, a semiconductor device includes a first layer including a first nitride semiconductor, a second layer provided on the first layer and including a second nitride semiconductor having a wider bandgap than the first nitride semiconductor. The device also includes a source electrode and a drain electrode provided on the second layer; and a gate electrode provided on the second layer and located between the source electrode and the drain electrode. The second layer includes a first region between the gate electrode and the drain electrode, the first region being selectively provided in a surface of the second layer and contains fluorine. A concentration of fluorine in the first region is higher than a concentration of fluorine in a portion underneath the gate electrode in the second layer.
US08969915B2

Gallium nitride (GaN) based semiconductor devices and methods of manufacturing the same. The GaN-based semiconductor device may include a heterostructure field effect transistor (HFET) or a Schottky diode, arranged on a heat dissipation substrate. The HFET device may include a GaN-based multi-layer having a recess region; a gate arranged in the recess region; and a source and a drain that are arranged on portions of the GaN-based multi-layer at two opposite sides of the gate (or the recess region). The gate, the source, and the drain may be attached to the heat dissipation substrate. The recess region may have a double recess structure. While such a GaN-based semiconductor device is being manufactured, a wafer bonding process and a laser lift-off process may be used.
US08969910B2

A silicone resin composition includes (1) an organopolysiloxane having at least two alkenylsilyl groups in one molecule, (2) an organopolysiloxane having at least two hydrosilyl groups in one molecule, (3) a hydrosilylation catalyst, and (4) a curing retarder, wherein the curing retarder contains tetraalkylammonium hydroxide.
US08969908B2

An emitter package comprising a light emitting diode (LED) mounted to the surface of a submount with the surface having a first meniscus forming feature around the LED. A matrix encapsulant is included on the surface and covering the LED. The outer edge of the matrix encapsulant adjacent the surface is defined by the meniscus forming feature and the encapsulant forms a substantially dome-shaped covering over said LED. A method for manufacturing an LED package by providing a body with a surface having a first meniscus holding feature. An LED is mounted to the surface with the meniscus holding feature around the LED. A liquid matrix encapsulant is introduced over the LED and the surface, the first meniscus holding feature holding the liquid matrix encapsulant in a dome-shape over the LED. The matrix encapsulant is then cured.
US08969905B2

A semiconductor light-emitting device (1) of the present invention includes: a substrate (101); a laminated semiconductor layer (20) containing a light-emitting layer, which is formed on the substrate (101); a first electrode (111) formed on the upper surface (106c) of the laminated semiconductor layer (20); and a second electrode (108) formed on an exposed surface (104c) that is formed by partially cutting the laminated semiconductor layer (20), wherein the first electrode (111) includes a transparent electrode (109) containing a hole portion (109a) through which the upper surface (106c) of the laminated semiconductor layer (20) is exposed, a junction layer (110) formed on a bottom surface (109b) and an inner wall (109d) of the hole portion (109a), and a bonding pad electrode (120) formed to cover the junction layer (110).
US08969901B2

A light emitting device includes a first semiconductor layer, an active layer, and a second semiconductor layer, and first and second electrodes electrically connected to the first and second semiconductor layers, respectively. The second electrode includes a reflective pad portion, a transparent electrode layer, a reflective finger portion and an electrode pad portion. The reflective pad portion is disposed in a region of an upper surface of the second semiconductor layer. The transparent electrode layer is disposed on the second semiconductor layer and has an opening encompassing the reflective pad portion such that the transparent electrode layer is not in contact with the reflective pad portion. The reflective finger portion extends from the reflective pad portion and has at least a portion thereof disposed on the transparent electrode layer. The electrode pad portion covers the reflective pad portion to be in contact with the transparent electrode layer.
US08969897B2

Disclosed is a light emitting device including a light emitting structure including a first conductive type semiconductor layer, an active layer and a second conductive type semiconductor layer, a first electrode layer, a second electrode layer disposed between the light emitting structure and the first electrode layer, and an insulating layer surrounding the edge of the second electrode layer under the second conductive type semiconductor layer, the insulating layer being disposed between the second electrode layer and the first electrode layer, wherein the first electrode layer passes through the second electrode layer, the second conductive type semiconductor layer and the active layer, and contacts the first conductive type semiconductor layer, and the second electrode layer comprises a plurality of first reflective layers that contact the second conductive type semiconductor layer and are spaced from one another by a predetermined distance.
US08969886B2

An electro-optic display comprises a substrate (100), non-linear devices (102) disposed substantially in one plane on the substrate (100), pixel electrodes (106) connected to the non-linear devices (102), an electro-optic medium (110) and a common electrode (112) on the opposed side of the electro-optic medium (110) from the pixel electrodes (106). The moduli of the various parts of the display are arranged so that, when the display is curved, the neutral axis or neutral plane lies substantially in the plane of the non-linear devices (102).
US08969882B1

A transistor includes a substrate, a channel layer over the substrate and an active layer over the channel layer. The active layer includes a first portion and a screen layer over the first portion. The transistor includes a metal layer over the screen layer.
US08969879B2

Forming a back-illuminated type CMOS image sensor, includes process for formation of a registration mark on the wiring side of a silicon substrate during formation of an active region or a gate electrode. A silicide film using an active region may also be used for the registration mark. Thereafter, the registration mark is read from the back side by use of red light or near infrared rays, and registration of the stepper is accomplished. It is also possible to form a registration mark in a silicon oxide film on the back side (illuminated side) in registry with the registration mark on the wiring side, and to achieve the desired registration by use of the registration mark thus formed.
US08969874B2

An organic light-emitting display apparatus with improved electric properties comprises: a substrate; an insulation layer which is formed on the substrate, and which includes a penetration hole; a first electrode which is formed on the insulation layer; an intermediate layer which is formed on the first electrode, and which includes an organic light-emitting layer; a second electrode which is formed on the intermediate layer; and a fixing member which is formed in the penetration hole, and which contacts the first electrode.
US08969872B2

A thin film transistor display panel a includes a transparent substrate; a gate electrode positioned on the substrate; a gate insulating layer positioned on the gate electrode; a semiconductor layer positioned on the gate insulating layer and including a channel region; a source electrode and a drain electrode positioned on the semiconductor layer and facing each other; and a passivation layer configured to cover the source electrode, the drain electrode, and the semiconductor layer, wherein the semiconductor layer includes a relatively thick first portion between the source electrode and the gate electrode and a relatively thinner second portion between the drain electrode and the gate electrode overlap, the relatively thick first portion being sufficiently thick to substantially reduce a charge trapping phenomenon that may otherwise occur at a gate electrode to gate dielectric interface if the first portion were as thin as the second portion.
US08969866B2

Provided is a structure to obtain a reliable electrical contact through a narrow contact hole formed in an insulating layer, which is required in the miniaturization of a semiconductor device. An exemplified structure includes a thin film transistor comprising: a lower electrode over and in contact with a semiconductor layer, the lower electrode comprising a metal or a metal compound; an insulating layer over the lower electrode, the insulating layer having a contact hole reaching the lower electrode; a conductive silicon whisker grown from a surface of the lower electrode; and an upper electrode over the insulating layer and in contact with the conductive silicon whisker. The ability of the conductive silicon whisker grown from the lower electrode to ohmically contact with the lower and upper electrodes leads to a reliable electrical contact between the thin film transistor and a wiring.
US08969865B2

A semiconductor film composition includes an oxide semiconductor material. At least one polyatomic ion is incorporated into the oxide semiconductor material.
US08969860B2

The present invention addresses the problem of providing an organic electroluminescent lighting device in which it is difficult for an organic light emitting film to be scratched. The organic electroluminescent lighting device includes: transparent substrate 1; a plurality of transparent first electrode films 2 spaced from each other on the surface of transparent substrate 1; auxiliary electrode films 3 arranged between the plurality of first electrode films 2, having electrical resistivity lower than that of first electrode films 2, and electrically connected to the plurality of first electrode films 2; insulating films 6 covering auxiliary electrode films 3; power supply terminal films arranged on the surface of transparent substrate 1 adjacently to an arrangement region in which the plurality of first electrode films 2 and auxiliary electrode films 3 are arranged, and electrically connected to the plurality of first electrode films 2 and auxiliary electrode films 3; organic light emitting film 7 covering first electrode films 2 and insulating films 6; and second electrode film 8 covering organic light emitting film 7.
US08969852B2

An electronic device including at least first and second transistors integrated together on a substrate and each including an organic semiconductor region, wherein the first and second transistors are either both n-type or both p-type but wherein one of the first and second transistors is a normally-ON transistor and the other of the first and second transistors is a normally-OFF transistor.
US08969850B2

An electro-magnetic radiation detector is described. The electro-magnetic radiation detector includes a detector material and a voltage biasing element. The detector material includes a substantially regular array of nano-particles embedded in a matrix material. The voltage biasing element is configured to apply a bias voltage to the matrix material such that electrical current is directly generated based on a cooperative plasmon effect in the detector material when electro-magnetic radiation in a predetermined wavelength range is incident upon the detector material, where the dominant mechanism for decay in the cooperative plasmon effect is non-radiative.
US08969849B2

Provided is a nitride semiconductor light emitting device including: a first nitride semiconductor layer; an active layer formed above the first nitride semiconductor layer; and a delta doped second nitride semiconductor layer formed above the active layer. According to the present invention, the optical power of the nitride semiconductor light emitting device is enhanced, optical power down phenomenon is improved and reliability against ESD (electro static discharge) is enhanced.
US08969839B2

Methods and apparatus for producing irradiation targets in an extreme ultraviolet (EUV) light source having an irradiation target generating system that includes a nozzle configured for ejecting droplets of a target material, and a subsystem having an electro-actuable element producing a modulation waveform to cause disturbance to the droplets thereby causing at least some of the droplets to coalesce into irradiation targets. There is included a laser producing a beam for irradiating the irradiation targets to generate an EUV-producing plasma, wherein the electro-actuable element is biased against the nozzle to enable transfer of the disturbance to the droplets while permitting relative movement between the electro-actuable element and the nozzle.
US08969838B2

A device is described herein which may comprise a chamber, a fluid line, a pressurized source material in the fluid line, a component restricting flow of the source material into the chamber, a sensor measuring flow of a fluid in the fluid line and providing a signal indicative thereof, and a pressure relief valve responsive to a signal to reduce a leak of source material into the chamber in the event of a failure of the component.
US08969833B1

Methods of evaluating a superabrasive volume or a superabrasive compact are disclosed. One method may comprise exposing a superabrasive volume to radiation and detecting a response of the radiation when it interacts with the superabrasive volume. In one embodiment, a boundary may be perceived between a first region and a second region of the superabrasive volume in response to detecting the response of the radiation. In one particular embodiment, a boundary between a catalyst-containing region and a catalyst-diminished region of a polycrystalline diamond volume may be perceived. Additionally, a depth to which a catalyst-diminished region extends within a polycrystalline diamond volume of a polycrystalline diamond compact may be measured based on the monitored response of the radiation. In a further embodiment, a non-planar boundary between the two regions may be mapped. A system configured to evaluate a superabrasive volume is also disclosed.
US08969832B2

An electrothermal vaporization atomic fluorescence spectrometer for determination of Cadmium comprising a sampling system, a light source, an atomizer, a light path system, a detection system, and a display device. The sampling system includes an electrothermal vaporization device and a capture trap; the capture trap comprises a Tungsten or Molybdenum coil (6), a holder (15), a cover (7) and a power supply (17); the cover (7) and the holder (15) form a sealed space; the Tungsten or Molybdenum coil (6) is arranged on the holder (15); the Tungsten or Molybdenum coil (6) is located inside the sealed space formed by the cover (7) and the holder (15); and the cover (7) is provided with an inlet (12) and an outlet (13) thereon. An electrothermal vaporization atomic fluorescence spectroscopy for determination of Cadmium is also provided.
US08969831B2

Disclosed herein is a system for stimulating emission from at least one an emitter, such as a quantum dot or organic molecule, on the surface of a photonic crystal comprising a patterned dielectric substrate. Embodiments of this system include a laser or other source that illuminates the emitter and the photonic crystal, which is characterized by an energy band structure exhibiting a Fano resonance, from a first angle so as to stimulate the emission from the emitter at a second angle. The coupling between the photonic crystal and the emitter may result in spectral and angular enhancement of the emission through excitation and extraction enhancement. These enhancement mechanisms also reduce the emitter's lasing threshold. For instance, these enhancement mechanisms enable lasing of a 100 nm thick layer of diluted organic molecules solution with reduced threshold intensity. This reduction in lasing threshold enables more efficient organic light emitting devices and more sensitive molecular sensing.
US08969828B2

This invention stabilizes positioning and provides improved positioning accuracy in a scanning electron microscope provided with stage-driving means utilizing an effect of rolling friction.In this scanning electron microscope that includes a sample stage equipped with an x-table, a y-table, a z-table, a rotation table, and a tilting table, and moved by means of stepping motors each connected to a ball screw via a coupling, a sliding friction element is disposed at a position close to the ball screw, between the x-table and the y-table and between a tilting base and the x-table.
US08969820B2

A radiographic apparatus includes an X-ray detection sensor having a two-dimensional detector plane for detecting an intensity distribution of X-rays, a body internally containing the X-ray detection sensor, a supporting member having a supporting surface for supporting the X-ray detection sensor across the detector plane and which fixes the X-ray detection sensor to an inner bottom surface of the body, and a circuit board on which is mounted a circuit for reading out a detection signal from the X-ray detection sensor. Furthermore, in the radiographic apparatus, the supporting member forms a space between the supporting member and the inner bottom surface of the body in a peripheral portion of the supporting member. At least a part of the circuit board is arranged in the space.
US08969812B2

The garnet-type crystal for a scintillator of the present invention is represented by General Formula (1), (2), or (3), Gd3-x-yCexREyAl5-zGazO12  (1) wherein in Formula (1), 0.0001≦x≦0.15, 0≦y≦0.1, 2
US08969810B2

An infrared sensor device includes a plurality of infrared sensors that is provided in a plurality of divided areas in which an infrared-receiving area is radially divided in one plane; a detector that detects presence or absence of movement of an object in the infrared-receiving area for each of the divided areas based on an output of the infrared sensor; and a determiner that determines whether the object is in a detection area in a predetermined distance range from the infrared sensor, based on an arrangement pattern of the divided areas in which the movement of the object is detected, in an alignment of the divided areas in the infrared-receiving areas.
US08969809B2

Thermo-optical array devices and methods of processing thermo-optical array devices are disclosed. One method of processing thermo-optical array devices includes forming an (001) oriented titanium dioxide material on a bolometer material, and forming a vanadium dioxide material on the (001) oriented titanium dioxide material. One thermo-optical array device includes a bolometer material, a titanium dioxide material on the bolometer material, and a vanadium dioxide material on the titanium dioxide material, wherein the vanadium dioxide material has an optical transition temperature of less than 67 degrees Celsius.
US08969803B2

In one embodiment, a method for producing a high-purity single crystal of aluminum antimonide (AlSb) includes providing a growing environment with which to grow a crystal, growing a single crystal of AlSb in the growing environment which comprises hydrogen (H2) gas to reduce oxide formation and subsequent incorporation of oxygen impurities in the crystal, and adding a controlled amount of at least one impurity to the growing environment to effectively incorporate at least one dopant into the crystal. In another embodiment, a high energy radiation detector includes a single high-purity crystal of AlSb, a supporting structure for the crystal, and logic for interpreting signals obtained from the crystal which is operable as a radiation detector at a temperature of about 25° C. In one embodiment, a high-purity single crystal of AlSb includes AlSb and at least one dopant selected from a group consisting of selenium (Se), tellurium (Te), and tin (Sn).
US08969795B2

A filter for a mass- or mobility-spectrometer that bars gases or vapors of a high-pressure ion source, as well as ions of high mobility and charged droplets, from entering an evacuated mass spectrometer or a mobility spectrometer at a lower pressure than the filter. The buffer gas of the high pressure ion source is blown into the volume of this filter directly or through tubes from where buffer gas and embedded ions are sucked through the aperture of a diaphragm or through an aperture of a capillary mainly from an “extraction volume” filled with a separately supplied clean gas, into which ions of interest are pushed by electric fields formed by electrodes that are substantially rotational symmetric around the “extraction volume” and a substantially flat electrode with respect to an axis of ion extraction and the end of the capillary and the end of a coaxial tube surrounding the capillary.
US08969794B2

Systems and methods for automatic gain control in mass spectrometers are disclosed. An exemplary system may include a mass spectrometer, comprising a lens configured to receive a supply of ions, and a mass analyzer. The mass analyzer may include an ion trap for trapping the supplied ions. The mass analyzer may also include an ion detector for detecting ions that exit the ion trap. The lens may focus the ions non-uniformly based on mass of the ions to compensate for space charge effects reflected in a measurement output of the mass spectrometer. An exemplary method may include focusing an ion beam into a mass analyzer. The method may also include obtaining a mass spectrum and identifying a space charge characteristic based on the mass spectrum. The method may further include defocusing the lens based on the identified space charge characteristic, wherein defocusing the lens is configured to divert lighter ions away from the entrance aperture. The method may include obtaining a mass spectrum of a defocused ion beam generated from the sample.
US08969785B2

An optical-electrical converting device includes a printed circuit board (PCB), a light emitting module, a light receiving module, an optical coupling lens, and a locating frame positioned on the PCB. The PCB has two first locating elements. The optical coupling lens includes a first converging lens and a second converging lens. The locating element has two second locating elements. The two first locating elements and the two second locating elements cooperate to position the locating frame on the PCB. The locating element further has two third locating elements. The optical coupling lens has two fourth locating elements. The two third locating elements and the two fourth locating elements cooperate to position the coupling lens on the locating frame, and thus the first converging lens is aligned with the light emitting module, and the second converging lens is aligned with the light receiving module.
US08969777B2

A method for processing images acquired by image detectors with non-uniform transfer functions and irregular spatial locations includes the steps of accumulating data from multiple images, defining an affinity graph which edges define pairs of detectors that measure related signal, performing statistical analysis on the accumulated data with respect to each pair of detectors, and solving a system of equations constructed from the results of the statistical analysis to estimate each detector transfer function, a set of solutions to the system of equations comprising a calibration of an imaging system.
US08969776B2

A solid-state imaging device includes a light sensing portion which is formed on a substrate and generates a signal electric charge according to incident light; a rectangular or gradient-index on-chip micro lens formed on a light incident side above the light sensing portion; and a planarized lens layer which covers the on-chip micro lens and is formed in such a manner that a light incident surface is planarized.
US08969770B2

Apparatus and a method for correlated double sampling using an up-counter for parallel image sensors. All bits of a counter are set to one. An offset signal is compared to a first reference signal to define a first period during which the counter is incremented. After the first period, all bits of the counter are inverted. A sensor signal is compared to a second reference signal to define a second period during which the counter is incremented to generate a correlated double sampling value.
US08969768B2

The present invention relates a microwave applicator for heating a sample by microwave radiation which is transmitted via an at least partially tapering transmission duct from a microwave source to a cavity adapted to receive the sample to be heated. The transmission duct has at least one external wall, said wall defining an internal space for the propagation of said microwave radiation and comprising an interface which is at least partially permeable to said microwave radiation. The interface is at least partially arranged within said tapering portion of the duct. The duct is adapted to form a jacket surrounding the cavity with said interface forming an inner wall of said jacket.
US08969767B2

Apparatus for heating a sample includes a microchip; a microchannel flow channel in the microchip, the microchannel flow channel containing the sample; a microwave source that directs microwaves onto the sample for heating the sample; a wall section of the microchannel flow channel that receives the microwaves and enables the microwaves to pass through wall section of the microchannel flow channel, the wall section the microchannel flow channel being made of a material that is not appreciably heated by the microwaves; a carrier fluid within the microchannel flow channel for moving the sample in the microchannel flow channel, the carrier fluid being made of a material that is not appreciably heated by the microwaves; wherein the microwaves pass through wall section of the microchannel flow channel and heat the sample.
US08969764B2

A system and method is provided in which a surface tension transfer welding function is employed where the welding waveform switches polarity during welding when a short circuit event is detected.
US08969746B2

The present invention, in at least one embodiment, relates to a safety switch with a hold-closed function, having a plunger element, which is held such that it can move, for positive opening and closing of contact elements, at least one locking element for locking and unlocking the plunger element, and a housing. At least one embodiment of the invention also relates to a method for positive opening and closing of contact elements of a safety switch with a hold-closed function, and to the use of a safety switch such as this.
US08969744B2

The invention relates an intelligent lunch box, mainly comprising a start button, containers for containing food and with open tops, a movable cover plate for controlling the opening and closing of the containers, a motor for controlling the opening and closing of the cover plate, a controller for controlling the running of the motor, a memory having a diet database, a touch display, and weight sensors for sending the weights of the containers to the controller, wherein the start button is electrically connected with the controller, the memory, the motor and the touch display, respectively; the controller is electrically connected with the memory, the motor and the touch display, respectively; the controller is a single-chip computer or a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The lunch box of the present invention is simple in structure, and safe and convenient in use.
US08969741B2

A damming device for a conductor in a cable gland connector is described herein. The damming device can include a first portion having a first thickness of a flexible elastomeric material disposed between a first diameter and a second diameter. The damming device can also include a second portion having a second thickness of the flexible elastomeric material disposed between a third diameter and the second diameter. The damming device can also include a hole having the third diameter. The first diameter is greater than the second diameter, and the second diameter is greater than the third diameter. Further, the first thickness is greater than the second thickness. The damming device can be disposed, under tension, within a slot formed between a top portion of a compound chamber and a bottom portion of a union body.
US08969739B2

According to one embodiment, a semiconductor device includes a housing including a first wall and a second wall opposite to the first wall, a board in the housing, a first supporter provided on the first wall and configured to support an end of the board in a direction substantially parallel to the first wall, a stopper in the housing, the stopper configured to support the board, and a second supporter provided on the second wall and configured to support the stopper.
US08969734B2

An intercoupling component is provided which permits reliable, non-permanent electrical connection between a first substrate and a second substrate. The intercoupling component includes a socket terminal having a first end, and a second end opposed to the first end. An axial hole extends inward from the second end, and an electrically conductive core member is disposed within the axial hole. The core member is formed of a different material than the socket terminal body, and is sized and shaped to obstruct the hole. In addition, the first end of the socket terminal is configured to receive a pin terminal, and the second end of the socket terminal is configured to be received within a hole in a printed circuit board.
US08969733B1

The present invention is directed to an RF device that includes a ceramic layer characterized by a ceramic layer dielectric constant and includes an RF circuit arrangement having a predetermined geometry and predetermined electrical characteristics. The ceramic layer dissipates thermal energy generated by the RF circuit via substantially the entire ceramic surface area. A first dielectric layer comprises a thermoplastic material and has a predetermined first thickness and a first dielectric constant. The predetermined electrical characteristics of the RF circuit arrangement are a function of the ceramic layer dielectric constant. A relative softness of the thermoplastic material is a function of the RF device operating temperature.
US08969732B2

A printed wiring board includes a core insulation layer having via conductors through the core layer, a first structure including an interlayer insulation layer on first surface of the core layer and having via conductors through the interlayer layer in the first structure, and a second structure including an interlayer insulation layer on second surface of the core layer and having via conductors through the interlayer layer in the second structure. The interlayer layers have dielectric constants set to be 4.0 or lower for signal transmission at frequency of 1 GHz, the core layer has thermal expansion coefficient at or below Tg set lower than thermal expansion coefficients of the interlayer layers at or below Tg, the coefficient of the core layer at or below Tg is set to be 75 ppm/° C. or lower, and the conductors in the interlayer layers are stacked on the conductors in the core layer.
US08969729B2

A high-voltage bushing with conductive inserts for a DC voltage has a bushing body surrounding a high-voltage conductor and containing a paper insulation. The bushing body tapers conically, at least at one end region thereof, from a ground-potential-side location to a high-voltage-side end and is surrounded by an insulating barrier. In order to provide a high-voltage bushing of this type with a particularly good potential distribution, the outside of the bushing body is coated at least in the region of the at least one end region with a coating to form a coating layer, which has a greater electrical conductivity than the bushing body.
US08969728B2

A cable includes a conductor. A plurality of inner armor wires is wrapped around the conductor. At least some of the plurality of inner armor wires have non-circular and non-rectangular cross-sectional shapes. A plurality of outer armor wires are wrapped around the inner armor wires. At least some of the plurality of outer armor wires have non-circular and non-rectangular cross-sectional shapes.
US08969727B2

A battery module including a plurality of rechargeable batteries each having terminals; and a connection member electrically connecting terminals of neighboring ones of the rechargeable batteries, wherein the connection member includes a terminal hole into which one of the terminals is inserted, and a mounting portion that protrudes inwardly at the terminal hole, and wherein each terminal includes a support portion contacting the mounting portion and supporting the mounting portion.
US08969725B2

A cable for transmitting HF signals includes a shield, at least one wire, and an electrically conductive sleeve. The sleeve includes a first and a second geometrical sleeve half as well as a first section and a second section. The sleeve is connected to the shield by crimping, such that the sleeve has at least one crimping ridge within the first section in the first sleeve half, and has no crimping ridges in the second sleeve half. It also has no crimping ridges within the second section in the first sleeve half and has at least one crimping ridge in the second sleeve half.
US08969724B2

An object of the present invention is to provide an elastic signal transmission cable having a length of several centimeters to several meters that has a shape deformation tracking ability and enables high-speed signal transmission. The inventive elastic signal transmission cable has an elasticity of 10% or more and transmission loss of 10 dB/m or less in a relaxed state at 250 MHz, and comprises an elastic cylindrical body having an elasticity of 10% or more and a conductor portion containing at least two conductor wires wound in the same direction around the elastic cylindrical body.
US08969713B2

Disclosed herein is a photoelectric conversion device having a semiconductor substrate including a front side and back side, a protective layer formed on the front side of the semiconductor substrate, a first non-single crystalline semiconductor layer formed on the back side of the semiconductor substrate, a first conductive layer including a first impurity formed on a first portion of a back side of the first non-single crystalline semiconductor layer, and a second conductive layer including the first impurity and a second impurity formed on a second portion of the back side of the first non-single crystalline semiconductor layer.
US08969711B1

A solar cell employing nanocrystalline superlattice material and amorphous structure and method of constructing the same provides improved efficiency when converting sunlight to power. The photovoltaic (PV) solar cell includes an intrinsic superlattice material deposited between the p-doped layer and the n-doped layer. The superlattice material is comprised of a plurality of sublayers which effectively create a graded band gap and multi-band gap for the superlattice material. The sublayers can include a nanocrystalline Si:H layer, an amorphous SiGe:H layer and an amorphous SiC:H layer. Varying the thickness of each layer results in an effective energy gap that is graded as desired for improved efficiency. Methods of constructing single junction and parallel configured two junction solar cells include depositing the various layers on a substrate such as stainless steel or glass.
US08969705B2

The invention describes a novel thermoelectric composite material containing electrically conductive polymeric fibrils in a polymer matrix with a high thermoelectric coefficient. The invention also includes a thermoelectric device using the composite. The invention also includes a thermoelectric device containing a thermoelectric layers and a thermoelectric device in which a thermal barrier isolates a thermoelectric layer from a structurally supporting substrate. The thermoelectric devices can be used to generate electricity or to control temperature.
US08969704B2

An annular semiconductor element for producing a thermoelectric module includes at least one groove extending in a radial direction from an internal circumferential face to an external circumferential face. An annular insulation material insulates n-doped and p-doped semiconductor elements and is accordingly disposed on a lateral face of the semiconductor elements. The insulation material has a slit which extends in the radial direction and divides the insulation material. A thermoelectric module and a method for manufacturing the thermoelectric module are also provided.
US08969700B2

In a computer system having at least one output device, a set of media programs is accessed. A playlist first portion including a first plurality of the media programs of the set is created. The programs of the first portion are arranged with respect to one another according to a respective first characteristic value of each of the programs of the first portion.
US08969694B2

A chord playing attachment and related method is disclosed. The chord playing attachment may be attached to a guitar or similar stringed instrument, and the user may use the chord playing attachment to learn to play the instrument. Unlike other chord playing attachments, the present invention discloses a design that does not function as a capo, which allows the user play chords in standard keys. The present invention also discloses tabs that may be removed or swapped by the user to allow the user to play some chords by pressing the strings directly and some by pressing a finger pad. The present invention encourages novices to learn to play the instrument in stages and eventually remove the invention entirely. A companion teaching manual is also disclosed.
US08969692B2

An apparatus and method are disclosed for compensating for string tension acting upon the body of an acoustic instrument. An acoustic instrument incorporating the string tension compensating apparatus is also disclosed.
US08969685B2

According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH342100. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH342100, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH342100 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH342100.
US08969683B2

According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH213919. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH213919, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH213919 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH213919.
US08969677B2

According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the corn variety designated CV721761. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CV721761, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CV721761 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to corn seeds and plants produced by crossing plants of variety CV721761 with plants of another variety, such as another inbred line. The invention further relates to the inbred and hybrid genetic complements of plants of variety CV721761.
US08969674B1

A novel maize variety designated X08C957 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing hybrid maize variety X08C957 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X08C957 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X08C957, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X08C957. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X08C957.
US08969673B2

The invention relates to the sorghum variety designated GSV548207. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the sorghum variety GSV548207. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the sorghum variety GSV548207 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing sorghum plants by crossing the sorghum variety GSV548207 with itself or another sorghum variety and plants produced by such methods.
US08969669B2

The invention provides seed and plants of pepper hybrid PS 16375253 and the parent lines thereof. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of pepper hybrid PS 16375253 and the parent lines thereof, and to methods for producing a pepper plant produced by crossing such plants with themselves or with another pepper plant, such as a plant of another genotype. The invention further relates to seeds and plants produced by such crossing. The invention further relates to parts of such plants, including the fruit and gametes of such plants.
US08969659B2

The present invention is in the field of soybean variety AR0902412 breeding and development. The present invention particularly relates to the soybean variety AR0902412 and its progeny, and methods of making AR0902412.
US08969657B2

This invention is intended to be used to search for a transcription factor having novel functions of increasing the weight of an individual plant, increasing the weight of a given tissue per individual plant, or improving the productivity of a given substance per individual plant and to improve such properties in the plant. The weight of an individual plant is increased, the weight of a given tissue per individual plant is increased, the productivity of a given substance per individual plant is improved, or the content of a given substance per given tissue of a plant is increased via expression of a transcription factor that has been modified to suppress transcription accelerating activity.
US08969653B2

The present application relates to extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from gram-positive bacteria. In detail, the present application provides animal models of disease using extracellular vesicles derived from gram-positive bacteria, provides a method for screening an active candidate substance which is capable of preventing or treating diseases through the animal models of disease, provides vaccines for preventing or treating diseases caused by extracellular vesicles derived from gram-positive bacteria, and provides a method for diagnosing the causative factors of diseases caused by gram-positive bacteria using extracellular vesicles.
US08969651B2

An absorbent core structure for disposable absorbent articles, having improved fluid handling properties.
US08969649B2

A device for the dressing of wounds and insertion sites of percutaneous and drug delivery devices provides 360 degree or complete circumferential protection of a wound or insertion site of a percutaneous or drug delivery device. In particular, the device is an integrated dressing for catheters comprising a pad and an adhesive dressing.
US08969640B2

The present invention provides methods, reactor systems, and catalysts for increasing the yield of aromatic hydrocarbons produced while converting alkanols to hydrocarbons. The invention includes methods of using catalysts to increase the yield of benzene, toluene, and mixed xylenes in the hydrocarbon product.
US08969639B2

In a dehydrogenation process a hydrocarbon stream comprising at least one non-aromatic six-membered ring compound and at least one five-membered ring compound is contacted with a dehydrogenation catalyst produced by a method comprising treating the support with a liquid composition comprising the dehydrogenation component or a precursor thereof and at least one organic dispersant selected from an amino alcohol and an amino acid. The contacting is conducted under conditions effective to convert at least a portion of the at least one non-aromatic six-membered ring compound in the hydrocarbon stream to benzene and to convert at least a portion of the at least one five-membered ring compound in the hydrocarbon stream to paraffins.
US08969632B2

A process for making ethylene glycol by feeding reactants including 1,2-dioxygenated organic compounds, an organometallic homogeneous catalyst, and hydrogen to a hydrogenation reactor, reacting at least a portion of the reactants with hydrogen in the presence of the organometallic homogeneous catalyst to produce a reaction product mixture containing ethylene glycol, and passivating the catalyst by contacting the catalyst with a carbon monoxide to thereby suppress the formation of by-product diols other that the ethylene glycol primary product, and suppress the formation of by-product tetrols and by-product glycolaldehyde acetals; and separating at least a portion of the ethylene glycol from the reaction product mixture.
US08969621B2

Novel ether-amide compounds having the formula RaRbC(OR1)—CHRc—CONR2R3 and processes for the preparation and use thereof, especially as solvents, for example in phytosanitary formulations.
US08969616B2

A process for the preparation of isosulfan blue (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient) is provided. A process is also provided for preparation of the intermediate, 2-chlorobenzaldehyde-5-sulfonic acid, sodium salt of formula (2), used in the preparation thereof and a procedure for the isolation of benzaldehyde-2,5-disulfonic acid, di-sodium salt of the formula (3). Also provided is a process for the preparation of an isoleuco acid of formula (4), which upon mild oxidation gives rise to isosulfan blue of pharmaceutical grade which can be used for preparation of pharmaceutical formulations. The isolation and purification procedures provided in the process provide substantially pure isosulfan blue with HPLC purity 99.5% or greater.
US08969615B2

The present invention relates to gas phase phosgenation of amines for preparation of isocyanates. In the present invention, phosgene is prepared by reacting chlorine with an excess of carbon monoxide in a gas phase. The obtained phosgene-containing reaction mixture is divided into two streams by a thermal and/or a membrane separating process. The first stream is a low-carbon monoxide stream of no more than 1% by weight of carbon monoxide, based on a total weight of the first stream. The second stream is a carbon monoxide-rich stream of more than 10% by weight of carbon monoxide, based on a total weight of the second stream. The first stream is used as the phosgene-containing reactant stream in the gas phase phosgenation of amines to prepare isocyanates. The second stream can be recycled into the phosgene synthesis.
US08969614B2

The present invention relates to a process for preparing colorless polyisocyanates, in particular for reducing the color of polyisocyanates.
US08969610B2

The present invention relates to a method for oligomerizing hydridosilanes, wherein a composition comprising substantially at least one non-cyclic hydridosilane having a maximum of 20 silicon atoms as the hydridosilane is thermally converted at temperatures below 235° C. in the absence of a catalyst, the oligomers that can be produced according to the method, and the use thereof.
US08969608B2

A method of continuously manufacturing an organometallic compound is provided where two or more reactants are conveyed to a contacting zone of a reactor in a manner so as to maintain a laminar flow of the reactants; and causing the reactants to form the organometallic compound.
US08969603B2

Provided are processes for the oxidative cleavage of a double bond in an unsaturated carboxylic acid. The process includes contacting the unsaturated carboxylic acid with a mild oxidizing agent and agitating the unsaturated carboxylic acid and the mild oxidizing agent for a time sufficient to cleave a double bond of the unsaturated carboxylic acid and produce a product comprising an aldehyde. The process is typically carried out in a mill, such as a ball, hammer, attrition, or jet mill.
US08969587B2

Compounds, compositions and methods are provided for modulating the activity of RAF kinases, including BRAF kinase and for the treatment, prevention, or amelioration of one or more symptoms of disease or disorder mediated by RAF kinases.
US08969578B2

Disclosed herein are compounds derived from a chemical structure according to the formula (I) wherein X comprises oxygen or sulfur, R1 comprises a phenyl or naphthyl group, R2 comprises an amide group and R3 comprises a phosphate group. The disclosed compounds demonstrate inhibitory activity against STAT3, a protein found in certain tumor tissues and which promotes cellular overproliferation and resistance to apoptosis. The invention includes compositions containing the disclosed compounds, as well as methods of treatment therewith.
US08969571B2

This invention provides biphenyl derivatives of formula I: wherein R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7, W, a, b and c are as defined in the specification, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate or stereoisomer thereof. The biphenyl derivatives of this invention possess both β2 adrenergic receptor agonist and muscarinic receptor antagonist activity and therefore, such biphenyl derivatives are useful for treating pulmonary disorders, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma.
US08969569B2

A crystalline form of a drug, ways to make it, compositions containing it and methods of treatment of diseases and inhibition of adverse physiological events using it are disclosed.
US08969565B2

Imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-based compounds of the formula: are disclosed, wherein R1, R2 and R3 are defined herein. Compositions comprising the compounds and methods of their use to treat, manage and/or prevent diseases and disorders mediated by mediated by adaptor associated kinase 1 activity are also disclosed.
US08969557B2

The present invention provides compounds useful as inhibitors of Acetyl CoA Carboxylase (ACC), compositions thereof, and methods of using the same.
US08969544B2

The invention relates to the cancer antigen PRAME (PReferentially expressed Antigen in MElanoma) and its use in a method of treatment of a tumour which comprises administering to a subject in need of treatment an effective amount of an inhibitor of PRAME, in combination with a second agent selected from the group of an inhibitor of HDAC (an HDACi) and a retinoid.
US08969540B2

The present invention provides the amino acid and nucleic acid sequences of heavy chain and light chain complementarity determining regions of a tumor specific antibody. In addition, the invention provides tumor-specific antibodies and immunoconjugates comprising the tumor-specific antibody attached to a toxin or label, and methods and uses thereof. The invention also relates to diagnostic methods and kits using the tumor-specific antibodies of the invention.
US08969539B2

This present invention provides an expression vector system that uses alternative RNA processing to express in a single cell a polypeptide in both membrane-bound and soluble forms. By incorporating a mimetic structure of the 3′ terminal region of human mu gene and introducing other exogenous genetic elements, an artificial gene can be constructed that is capable of simultaneously expressing membrane-bound and secreted forms of polypeptides in myeloma cells and other cells of the B lymphocyte lineage, as well as in non-B cells. If an immunoglobulin heavy chain is co-expressed with a light chain using this vector, whole antibodies can be produced that are both displayed on the surface of a single cell and secreted into the cell culture supernatant. Membrane-bound antibodies facilitate isolation and expansion of those cells displaying antibodies with desired antigen binding characteristics, while secreted antibodies facilitate identification of antibodies having desired biological function(s).
US08969526B2

The invention relates to engineered polypeptides comprising Fc variants and their uses. More specifically, Fc variants are described exhibiting reduced effector function. These variants cause a benefit for a patient suffering from a disease which could be treated with an antibody for which it is desirable to reduce the effector function elicited by antibodies.
US08969524B2

The present invention is related to peptides that can be used to reduce the immune response against FVIII or to induce tolerance to human FVIII in patients with, e.g., hemophilia A. Furthermore, the peptides can be used for immunodiagnostic purposes to detect FVIII-specific CD4+ T cells to monitor patients with hemophilia A during replacement therapy and during immune tolerance induction therapy.
US08969513B2

Disclosed are a caspofungin analog and applications thereof. The caspofungin analog is a compound having a structure as indicated in Formula (4), or pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. R1 can be chosen from hydroxyl, benzyloxy, phenoxy, substituted phenoxy, or substituted benzyloxy. R2, R3, R4, R5 can be chosen from hydrogen, C1-C6 alkyl, C1-C6 alkoxy, hydroxyl, benzyloxyphenyl, substituted benzyloxyphenyl, nitro, fluorine, chlorine, bromine, or iodine. Also disclosed are a preparation method for and applications of the compound.
US08969511B2

Polyether block copolymers of the general structure B-(A-OH)n are described, where n is greater than or equal to 2 and blocks A are made up of polyoxypropylene units and the central block B of polyoxytetramethylene, polyoxyethylene, polybutadiene, polyisoprene, polyacrylate, polymethacrylate, polyamide, polyurethane, or polyester units. These polyether block copolymers are suitable for the manufacture of compositions that serve as the basis for preparations for use as a one-component moisture-hardening or two-component adhesive or sealant, for assembly bonding, for areal bonding, and/or for coating, as a reactive melt adhesive or as a laminating adhesive.
US08969510B2

Fluorinated supramolecular polymers containing at least 5% by weight of covalently bonded fluorine atoms, based on total weight of the polymers are disclosed. The polymers comprise a fluorinated polymer chain and a (self-)complementary unit capable of forming at least three hydrogen bonds being covalently bonded to the fluorinated polymer chain. Also disclosed are materials comprising (a) a fluorinated supramolecular polymer and (b) a non-fluorinated polymer and/or (c) a fluorinated compound, the non-fluorinated polymer being a polymer containing less than 5% by weight of covalently bonded fluorine atoms, based on the total weight of the non-fluorinated polymer, and the fluorinated compound being either a low molecular weight fluorinated compound comprising at least one fluorine atom and having a molecular weight of 34 to 600 amu, or a fluoropolymer containing at least 5% by weight of covalently bonded fluorine atoms and a Mn from about 600 to about 5000.
US08969508B2

Photoactive polymers are provided, as well as related photovoltaic cells, articles, systems, and methods comprising these photoactive polymers.
US08969506B2

An amorphous copolyester comprising the reaction product of: (a) a monomer of formula I wherein R1, R2, R3, and R5 are each independently hydrogen or a C1-3 alkyl group, a is 0-1, b is 0-4, c is 0-4 and d is 0-3, and each R4 is independently hydrogen or a C1-3 alkyl group; (b) a virgin monomer selected from terephthalic acid, a di(C1-3 alkyl) terephthalate, and combinations thereof, and (c) 1,4-cyclohexane dimethanol; wherein the residue of monomer (a) is present in an amount from 7 to less than 12 mole % of the copolyester based on moles of repeat units in the polyester; and the copolyester has a glass transition temperature of at least 107° C., an intrinsic viscosity of at least 0.7 dl/g, and a molded sample has a Notched Izod value of at least 290 J/m determined in accordance with ASTM D256.
US08969483B2

A photoresist material comprising a polymer with at least two acrylate derivatives incorporated therein, and a photo-acid generator for generating an acid by exposure, wherein at least one of the two acrylate derivatives incorporated therein comprises a norbornyl moiety having a lactone structure, and at least one of the two acrylate derivatives comprises an ester-substituted tetracyclododecyl moiety.
US08969482B2

This invention relates to a process to alter comonomer distribution in a copolymer (as compared to a copolymer made absent the Lewis base modifier) comprising contacting ethylene and one or more C3 to C40 comonomers; with a catalyst system comprising: 1) a Lewis base modifier; 2) an activator; and 3) a bridged bisindenyl group 4 transition metal metallocene catalyst compound having a hydrogen atom at least one 2 position.
US08969477B2

The invention relates to compositions containing at least one (co)polycarbonate stable at high temperature and at least one ethylene-alkyl acrylate block copolymer, and to moldings and injection molded parts and extrudates obtainable from these compositions.
US08969468B2

The invention is a methacrylic resin composition which includes a methacrylic resin (A) and a saponified polymer (B) that is an alkaline-saponified product of an ethylene-unsaturated carboxylic acid ester copolymer, and the methacrylic resin composition has a concentration of alkali ions of from 0.03 mol/kg to 2.8 mol/kg.
US08969460B2

A thermostabilized thermoplastic molding composition includes a) a thermoplastic polyamide composition which consists of a blend of at least two polyamides. The at least two polyamides include a1) at least 50 mass %, relative to the total mass of the thermoplastic polyamide composition, of a first polyamide (PA-1) selected from the group consisting of polyamide-4,6, polyamide-6,6 and semi-aromatic polyamides and mixtures thereof; and a2) an amount of 1-50 mass %, relative to the total mass of the thermoplastic polyamide composition, of a second polyamide (PA-2) selected from the group consisting of polyamide-6 and copolymers thereof. The composition also contains b) 0.001-3 mass %, relative to the total mass of the thermoplastic polyamide composition, of a copper salt; and c) 0.01-10 mass %, relative to the total mass of the thermoplastic polyamide composition, of iron oxide. The molding composition exhibits reduced deterioration when exposed to an elevated temperature of 230° C. for a prolonged time period of 1000 hours as compared to an identical molding composition including a Cul/KI stabilization system but not including the iron oxide.
US08969455B2

The present invention is a method for producing a rubber composition containing a rubber component (A) of at least one selected from natural rubbers and synthetic dienic rubbers, a filler containing an inorganic filler (B), a silane coupling agent (C), at least one vulcanization accelerator (D) selected from guanidines, sulfenamides and thiazoles, and an organic acid compound (E), wherein the rubber composition is kneaded in plural stages, the rubber component (A), all or a part of the inorganic filler (B), all or a part of the silane coupling agent (C), the vulcanization accelerator (D) and the organic acid compound (E) are kneaded in the first stage of kneading, and the number of molecules X of the organic acid compound (E) in the rubber composition in the first stage is in a relation of the following formula [1] relative to the number of molecules Y of the vulcanization accelerator (D) therein. The production method enables production of a rubber composition having a low-heat-generation property while successfully preventing the coupling function activity of the silane coupling agent from lowering. 0≦X≦1.5×Y  [1]
US08969452B2

The present invention relates to quick-drying two-component polyurethane coating compositions, to processes for preparing them, and to their use.
US08969446B2

The present invention is a flame-retardant polyurethane composition comprising (a) a thermoplastic polyurethane-based resin component, (b) a phosphorus flame retardant particulate filler, and (c) a low melting temperature phosphorus flame retardant agent.
US08969440B2

Composite materials contain fibers from natural sources and polyamides, wherein the polyamides have a softening point below 220° C., and a heat deflection temperature above 50° C. The polyamides consist of a) 30 to 70 mol % dimeric fatty acids, b) 30 to 70 mol % aliphatic dicarboxylic acids, c) 70 to 98 mol % aliphatic diamines, d) up to 25 mol % cycloaliphatic diamines e) up to 20 mol % polyether diamines, wherein aliphatic dicarboxylic acids are selected from linear, non-branched C10 to C18 dicarboxylic acids, and wherein the weighted average number of C-atoms is between 11.5 to 14.5, and the sum of mol % for acids and amine each add to 100.
US08969437B2

The invention provides a compound which is useful in production of a fluoropolymer and easy to be removed from the produced fluoropolymer, a method of producing the compound, and a method of producing a fluoropolymer using the compound. The invention provides a compound which is represented by Rf1—CH2O—CF2—CHF—Rf2—X, wherein Rf1 represents a fluoroalkyl group containing 1 to 5 carbon atoms, Rf2 represents a fluoroalkylene group containing 1 to 3 carbon atoms, X represents —COOM or —SO3M, and M represents one of H, K, Na, and NH4.
US08969434B2

Disclosed herein is a composition having a thermoset polymer and a plurality of hollow microsphere homogenously dispersed in the composition. The polymer is a cyanate ester thermoset, a phthalonitrile thermoset, a crosslinked acetylene thermoset, or a hydrosilation thermoset. Also disclosed herein is a method of: providing a thermosetting compound; adding microspheres to the thermosetting compound; and mixing the thermosetting compound while initiating crosslinking of the thermosetting compound.
US08969428B2

A UV-curable composition for coating vehicle axles includes at least one aliphatic epoxy acrylate and at least one acrylate selected from the group consisting of aromatic epoxy acrylate and polyester acrylate as a photochemically crosslinkable component; at least one reactive diluent; at least one photoinitiator; and at least one filler and/or at least one pigment.
US08969426B2

The present invention relates to the recovery of nylon from co-mingled materials (e.g., carpet) with reduced or eliminated ash (e.g., calcium carbonate) contamination.
US08969420B2

Methods of treating or suppressing pervasive developmental disorders (PDDs) including; autistic disorder, Asperger's syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD), Rett's disorder, and PDD—not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) or attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) comprising administering to a subject in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of one or more compounds as disclosed herein.
US08969409B2

One embodiment relates to a method of treating pulmonary hypertension based upon co-administering to a subject in need thereof a pharmaceutically effective amount of an oral therapeutic agent for treating pulmonary hypertension and a pharmaceutically effective amount of an inhaled therapeutic agent for treating pulmonary hypertension. The benefit of the co-administration of these agents is to eliminate or reduce one or more side effects associated with mono-therapy of either agent, as well as one or more side effects associated with other administration routes such as subcutaneous or intravenous administration.
US08969408B2

The present invention relates to a new use of lignan-type compounds or an extract of nutmeg or aril of nutmeg comprising the same. More particularly, the present invention relates to a composition for skin whitening comprising a lignan-type compound or an extract of nutmeg or aril of nutmeg comprising the same. Because the lignan compound represented by Chemical Formulas 1 to 3 or the extract of nutmeg or aril of nutmeg has superior skin whitening activity by inhibiting melanin production and tyrosinase activity, it can be used for the preparation of a cosmetic composition, food composition or pharmaceutical composition for skin whitening.
US08969404B2

A process for purifying a crude furan 2,5-dicarboxylic acid composition (cFDCA) by hydrogenation of a FDCA composition dissolved in a hydrogenation solvent such as water, and hydrogenating under mild conditions, such as at a temperature within a range of 130° C. to 225° C. by contacting the solvated FDCA composition with hydrogen in the presence of a hydrogenation catalyst under a hydrogen partial pressure within a range of 10 psi to 900 psi. A product FDCA composition is produced having a low amount of tetrahydrofuran dicarboxylic acid, a low b*, and a low amount of 5-formyl furan-2-carboxylic acid (FFCA).
US08969395B2

Formula (I) and (II). The present invention relates to the use of a new lupane derivative of general formula (I) or (II), or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, crystal form, complex, hydrate, or hydrolysable ester thereof, for preventing and/or inhibiting tumor growth and for treating cancer and other proliferative diseases, more particularly for treating leukemia, liver, cervical, colon and prostate cancer. The present invention also relates to the synthesis of these compounds and to pharmaceutical compositions which contain them.
US08969394B2

The invention is directed to thiophenecarboxamide derivatives of formulae I and II as EP4 receptor ligands, antagonists or agonists, useful for the treatment of EP4 mediated diseases or conditions, such as acute and chronic pain, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, cancer and glaucoma. Pharmaceutical compositions and methods of use are also included. (Formulas I and II).
US08969376B2

The present invention relates to a compound represented by formula [I]: wherein: R1 is hydrogen, halogen, lower alkyl or cyano; Ring A is an optionally substituted heterocyclic group; Ring B is an optionally substituted 3 to 6-membered monocyclic group; and Y is optionally substituted amino, optionally substituted cyclic amino, optionally substituted aliphatic 3 to 6-membered monocyclyloxy, optionally substituted lower alkyl or optionally substituted lower alkyl-O—, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and to their use as PDE10 inhibitor.
US08969375B2

Disclosed are compound of Formula (Ia), wherein R1A, R1, R2, R10, J, L, T, X, Y, and Z are as defined in the specification, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof. The compounds may be used as agents in the treatment of diseases, including cancer. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions, comprising one or more compounds of Formula (Ia).
US08969373B2

A compound of general formula (I); A is O, S, CH, NH or NR′, when O links with Z3, Z1 is N or CRZ1, Z2 is CRZ2, when Z1 links with O, Z2 is CH, Z3 is C—Ar; Ra, Rb, Rc and Rd independently is H, OH, halogen or —Y1—Rm; A1 is NH or CH2; R1′ is alkyl, aryl, cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl or heteroaryl; A2 is N, O or linking bond; R1 is hydrogen, or, R1 linking covalently with R3 forms C5-C9 saturated or unsaturated hydrocarbon chain substituted by O or N; R3 is alkyl, cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl, alkyl substituted by cycloalkyl etc; R4 is alkoxy-CO, alkyl-NHCO, (alkyl)2NCO, or formyl substituted by aryl, cycloalkyl, heterocycloalkyl.
US08969367B2

The invention provides crystalline solid forms of (S)-4-((2S,3S)-7-carbamoyl-1,1-diethyl-3-methoxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalen-2-ylamino)-2-cyclohexylmethyl-butyric acid. The invention also provides pharmaceutical compositions comprising such crystalline solid forms, methods of using such crystalline solid forms to treat diseases associated with mu opioid receptor activity, and processes useful for preparing such crystalline solid forms.
US08969366B2

Pyrimidinylpyrrolopyridinone derivatives of formula (I) as defined in the specification, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, process for their preparation and pharmaceutical compositions comprising them are disclosed; the compounds of the invention may be useful, in therapy, in the treatment of diseases associated with a disregulated protein kinase activity, like cancer.
US08969365B2

There is disclosed a pyrimidinecarboxamide compound useful as a pharmaceutical agent, synthetic processes, and pharmaceutical compositions which include the pyrimidinecarboxamide compound. More specifically, there is disclosed a CXCR1/2 inhibitor useful for treating a variety of inflammatory and neoplastic disorders.
US08969361B2

Cyclopropanecarboxylate esters of purine analogues, method of making and using the same for treating herpes virus infections and tumors are disclosed.
US08969353B2

Aminoalcohol lipidoids are prepared by reacting an amine with an epoxide-terminated compound are described. Methods of preparing aminoalcohol lipidoids from commercially available starting materials are also provided. Aminoalcohol lipidoids may be prepared from racemic or stereochemically pure epoxides. Aminoalcohol lipidoids or salts forms thereof are preferably biodegradable and biocompatible and may be used in a variety of drug delivery systems. Given the amino moiety of these aminoalcohol lipidoid compounds, they are particularly suited for the delivery of polynucleotides. Complexes, micelles, liposomes or particles containing the inventive lipidoids and polynucleotide have been prepared. The inventive lipidoids may also be used in preparing microparticles for drug delivery. They are particularly useful in delivering labile agents given their ability to buffer the pH of their surroundings.
US08969350B2

The invention provides a pharmaceutical product, kit or composition comprising a first active ingredient which is N-Cyclopropyl-3-fluoro-4-methyl-5[3-[[1-[2-[2-(methylamino)ethoxy]phenyl]cyclopropyl]amino]-2-oxo-1(2H)-pyrazinyl]-benzamide or a salt thereof, and a second active ingredient selected from: a non-steroidal Glucocorticoid Receptor (GR Receptor) Agonist; an antioxidant; a β2 adrenoceptor agonist; a CCR1 antagonist; a chemokine antagonist (not CCR1); a corticosteroid; a CRTh2 antagonist; a DPI antagonist; an Histone Deacetylase activator; an IKK2 kinase inhibitor; a COX inhibitor; a lipoxygenase inhibitor; a leukotriene receptor antagonist; a MABA compound; an MPO inhibitor; a muscarinic antagonist; a PDE4 inhibitor; a PPARγ agonist; a protease inhibitor; a Statin; a thromboxane antagonist; a vasodilator; or, an ENAC blocker (Epithelial Sodium-channel blocker); and its use in the treatment of respiratory disease.
US08969337B2

The present invention relates to compounds of Formula I:
US08969336B2

Provided is a compound useful as an inhibitor against the kinase activity of EML4-ALK fusion protein.As a result of intensive and extensive studies on compounds having inhibitory activity against the kinase activity of EML4-ALK fusion protein, the present inventors found that the diamino heterocyclic carboxamide compounds of the present invention had inhibitory activity against the kinase activity of EML4-ALK fusion protein. By this finding, the present invention was completed. The compounds of the present invention can be used as a pharmaceutical composition for preventing and/or treating cancer, such as lung cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, and small cell lung cancer.
US08969333B2

PAD4 inhibitory compositions and methods for their use in treatment of cancer and autoimmune disease are provided according to embodiments of the present invention.
US08969331B2

The invention generally relates to the compositions and methods related to the use of adrenergic receptor agonists solutions for the treatment of skin and mucosal superficial wounds. Some of the preferred adrenergic receptor agonists include epinephrine, phenylephrine, norepinephrine, methoxamine, and mixtures thereof. The invention also relates to devices suitable for applying these solutions to the skin or the mucosal area. Methods according to the invention are especially effective to control superficial skin and mucosal bleeding and accelerate healing time.
US08969323B2

The present invention relates to priming solutions used during cardiopulmonary bypass procedures. In particular, the present invention relates to a cardiopulmonary bypass priming solution comprising a balanced salt solution and a combination of oncotic and non-oncotic dextran molecules. The present invention also relates to the use of the priming solution in a cardiopulmonary bypass method, a method of maintaining oncotic pressure in a patient during a cardiopulmonary bypass procedure, and a combination of cardiopulmonary bypass priming solution and cardiopulmonary bypass apparatus.
US08969320B2

Disclosed are hyaluronic acid derivatives functionalized with S-nitrosothiol groups of the general formula: wherein HA indicates hyaluronic acid and G indicates a suitable spacer.
US08969312B2

A pharmaceutical composition for treating tuberculotic diseases with no side effect/low side effect is provided by the present invention, which pharmaceutically effective amount of one or more compounds chosen from isoniazid, rifampin, pyrazinamide and ethambutol, and pharmaceutically effective amount of substances which can reduce the side effect of the antituberculosis agents.
US08969310B2

The present invention relates to carriers, conjugate and pharmaceutical compositions and their use to increase the potency of drugs and to modify the pharmacokinetics of compounds. More particularly, the present invention relates to conjugates comprising the carrier described herein and their use in the treatment and diagnostic of cancer.
US08969293B2

Embodiments of the invention provide swallowable devices, preparations and methods for delivering drugs and other therapeutic agents within the GI tract. Many embodiments provide a swallowable device for delivering the agents. Particular embodiments provide a swallowable device such as a capsule for delivering drugs into the intestinal wall or other GI lumen. Embodiments also provide various drug preparations that are configured to be contained within the capsule, advanced from the capsule into the intestinal wall and degrade to release the drug into the bloodstream to produce a therapeutic effect. The preparation can be operably coupled to delivery means having a first configuration where the preparation is contained in the capsule and a second configuration where the preparation is advanced out of the capsule into the intestinal wall. Embodiments of the invention are particularly useful for the delivery of drugs which are poorly absorbed, tolerated and/or degraded within the GI tract.
US08969279B2

This invention relates to solvent systems useful for foam nozzle cleaning, which solvent systems are formed by combining at least a brominated compound, an alcohol and a stabilizer in amounts such that the solvent system has no flash point.
US08969278B2

The present invention refers to an aqueous composition comprising one or more amphoteric, organic polynitrogen-compounds having at least 3 nitrogen atoms contained in the molecule in the form of an amine and/or amide and one or more types of inorganic nanoparticles, a concentrate comprising said composition and to a method for treating and/or cleaning a surface which uses said composition.
US08969277B2

An object of the invention is to remove effectively metallic contaminants adhering to the glass substrate surfaces without increasing roughness of the glass substrate surfaces in the glass substrate for a magnetic disk. In a manufacturing method of a glass substrate for a magnetic disk having a cleaning step of the glass substrate, the cleaning step comprising a cleaning treatment of contacting the glass substrate with an alkaline aqueous solution having a gluconate in concentration of not less than 0.05 wt % and not more than 2 wt % added thereto and a pH of not less than 9 and not more than 11 is appended.
US08969271B2

Certain polyalkylene glycols, useful as lubricant additives, are soluble with all four types of hydrocarbon base oils (Groups I-IV) at a wide variety of ratios of oil to polyalkylene glycol and under a variety of conditions. These polyalkylene glycols are prepared by reacting a C8-C20 alcohol and a mixed butylene oxide/propylene oxide feed, wherein the ratio of butylene oxide to propylene oxide ranges from 3:1 to 1:1. The invention provides a means of providing desirable lubricant compositions which may pose fewer environmental problems.
US08969268B2

The present invention deals with a process for the preparation of multifunctional additive for aqueous lubricants. These I multifunctional additive for aqueous lubricant comprises of co-polymer having vinyl group containing polyhydric alcohol along with monomer selected from aqueous soluble acrylate co-monomer in different mole fraction for addition polymerization to facilitate the sequencing of monomer in polymer chain. Thus the polymeric molecule has been designed for improving tribological properties i.e. low wear, low friction and EP property of aqueous lubricants.
US08969249B2

Bicyclic abscisic acid (ABA) analogs of Formula (I) and (II) and the process for their production are disclosed. The bicyclic ABA analogs include the structural elements and functional groups of the parent molecule that are required for activity, and have an aromatic ring fused to the ring replacing the vinyl methyl group of absicisie acid. Methods for using the bicyclic ABA analogs to inhibit cell growth and seed germination are also disclosed.
US08969248B2

The present invention relates to novel 5-iodotriazole derivatives, to processes for preparing these compounds, to compositions comprising these compounds, and to the use thereof as biologically active compounds, especially for control of harmful microorganisms in crop protection and in the protection of materials and as plant growth regulators.
US08969239B2

A method of hydroprocessing a heavy hydrocarbon feedstock using a hydroprocessing catalyst having specific properties making it effective in the hydroconversion of at least a portion of the heavy hydrocarbon feedstock to lighter hydrocarbons. The hydroprocessing catalyst comprises a Group VIB metal component (e.g., Cr, Mo, and W), a Group VIII metal component (e.g., Ni and Co) and, optionally, a potassium metal component that are supported on a support material comprising alumina. The alumina has novel physical properties that, in combination with the catalytic components, provide for the hydroprocessing catalyst. The hydroprocessing catalyst is particularly effective in the conversion of the heavy hydrocarbon feedstock. The alumina is characterized as having a high pore volume and a high surface area with a large proportion of the pore volume being present in the pores within a narrow pore diameter distribution about a narrowly defined range of median pore diameters. The support material preferably does not contain more than a small concentration of silica. The alumina component is preferably made by a specific method that provides for an alumina having the specific physical properties required for the hydroprocessing catalyst.
US08969230B2

The present invention describes the process of preparing ceramics for the absorption of ACIDIC gases, which worsen the greenhouse effect, that are released in combustion systems, or that are present in closed environments. In relation to carbon dioxide, principal target of the present invention, the process of absorption, transport, processing and transformation of the gas into other products is described. The process uses ceramic materials prepared through the solid mixture of one or more metallic oxides, with one or more binding agents and an expanding agent. The product generated can be processed and the absorbent system regenerated. The carbon dioxide obtained in the processing can be used as analytic or commercial carbonic gas, various carbamates and ammonium carbonate.
US08969229B2

The present invention generally relates to high rate adsorbents and a method for their manufacture involving the steps of component mixing, extrusion, spheronization and calcination. The component mixing can involve both dry mixing in addition to wet mixing of an adsorbent with a binder, if required, and a fluid such as water. The paste so formed from the mixing stage is extruded to produce pellets which are optionally converted to beads by spheronization using in one embodiment, a marumerizer. The product is harvested and calcined to set any binder or binders used and/or burn out any additives or processing aids. This basic manufacturing scheme can be augmented by extra processing steps including ion exchange and activation to alter the composition of the adsorbents, as required.
US08969219B2

The present invention relates to a method for preparation of an ultraviolet (UV)-curable inorganic-organic hybrid resin containing about or less than 4% volatiles and less than 30% organic residues. The UV-curable inorganic-organic hybrid resin obtained according to this method can be UV-cured within a markedly very short time and enables, upon curing, the formation of a transparent shrink-and crack-free glass-like product having high optical quality, high thermal stability and good bonding properties. In view of these properties, this hybrid resin can be used in various applications such as electro-optic, microelectronic, stereolithography and biophotonic applications.
US08969215B2

Methods of fabricating semiconductor devices and semiconductor devices fabricated thereby are provided. Two photolithography processes and two spacer processes are performed to provide final patterns that have a pitch that is smaller than a limitation of photolithography process. Furthermore, since initial patterns are formed to have line and pad portions simultaneously by performing a first photolithography process, there is no necessity to perform an additional photolithography process for forming the pad portion.
US08969209B2

A method for removing oxide is described. A substrate is provided, including an exposed portion whereon a native oxide layer has been formed. A removing oxide process is performed to the substrate using nitrogen trifluoride (NF3) and ammonia (NH3) as a reactant gas, wherein the volumetric flow rate of NF3 is greater than that of NH3.
US08969206B1

A NAND flash memory array is initially patterned by forming a plurality of sidewall spacers according along sides of patterned portions of material. The pattern of sidewall spacers is then used to form a second pattern of hard mask portions including first hard mask portions defined on both sides by sidewall spacers and second hard mask portions defined on only one side by sidewall spacers.
US08969203B2

There is described a method for creating a thermally-isolated microstructure on a slab of mono-crystalline silicon which uses a hybrid dry-then-wet etch technique that when controlled, can produce microstructures without any silicon adhering underneath, microstructures having small masses of silicon adhering underneath, and microstructures that are still attached to the slab of mono-crystalline silicon via a waisted silicon body. When creating the microstructures with a waisted silicon body, the thermal isolation of the microstructure can be designed by controlling the depth of the etching and the size of the waist.
US08969198B2

A perforating ohmic contact to a semiconductor layer in a semiconductor structure is provided. The perforating ohmic contact can include a set of perforating elements, which can include a set of metal protrusions laterally penetrating the semiconductor layer(s). The perforating elements can be separated from one another by a characteristic length scale selected based on a sheet resistance of the semiconductor layer and a contact resistance per unit length of a metal of the perforating ohmic contact contacting the semiconductor layer. The structure can be annealed using a set of conditions configured to ensure formation of the set of metal protrusions.
US08969196B2

A semiconductor device can include an insulation layer on that is on a substrate on which a plurality of lower conductive structures are formed, where the insulation layer has an opening. A barrier layer is on a sidewall and a bottom of the opening of the insulation layer, where the barrier layer includes a first barrier layer in which a constituent of a first deoxidizing material is richer than a metal material in the first barrier layer and a second barrier layer in which a metal material in the second barrier layer is richer than a constituent of a second deoxidizing material. An interconnection is in the opening of which the sidewall and the bottom are covered with the barrier layer, the interconnection is electrically connected to the lower conductive structure.
US08969189B2

After formation of a replacement gate structure, a template dielectric layer employed to pattern the replacement gate structure is removed. After deposition of a dielectric liner, a first dielectric material layer is deposited by an anisotropic deposition and an isotropic etchback. A second dielectric material layer is deposited and planarized employing the first dielectric material portion as a stopping structure. The first dielectric material portion is removed selective to the second dielectric material layer, and is replaced with gate cap dielectric material portion including at least one dielectric material different from the materials of the dielectric material layers. A contact via hole extending to a source/drain region is formed employing the gate cap dielectric material portion as an etch stop structure. A contact via structure is spaced from the replacement gate structure at least by remaining portions of the gate cap dielectric material portion.
US08969180B2

A semiconductor structure includes a GaN substrate having a first surface and a second surface opposing the first surface. The GaN substrate is characterized by a first conductivity type and a first dopant concentration. The semiconductor structure also includes a first GaN epitaxial layer of the first conductivity type coupled to the second surface of the GaN substrate and a second GaN epitaxial layer of a second conductivity type coupled to the first GaN epitaxial layer. The second GaN epitaxial layer includes an active device region, a first junction termination region characterized by an implantation region having a first implantation profile, and a second junction termination region characterized by an implantation region having a second implantation profile.
US08969175B2

A method for producing singulated semiconductor components includes providing a starting substrate. An etching process is carried out to form depressions at a side of the starting substrate. The depressions are arranged in the region of the semiconductor components to be produced. Walls present between the depressions are arranged in the region of separating regions provided for severing the starting substrate. The method furthermore comprises forming a metallic layer on the side of the starting substrate with the depressions and walls and carrying out a further etching process for severing the starting substrate in the separating regions and forming the singulated semiconductor components.
US08969172B2

[Problem] To provide a method for forming an isolation structure having a low shrinkage percentage and a low tensile stress.[Means for Solving] A first polysilazane composition containing a porogen is cast on the surface of a substrate to form a coat, and then the coat is fired to form a porous siliceous film having a refractive index of 1.3 or less. Thereafter, the surface of the porous siliceous film is soaked with a second polysilazane composition, and then fired to form an isolation structure of a siliceous film having a refractive index of 1.4 or more.
US08969169B1

A method for forming a capacitor stack includes forming a first bottom electrode layer including a conductive metal nitride material. A second bottom electrode layer is formed above the first bottom electrode layer. The second bottom electrode layer includes a conductive metal oxide material, wherein the crystal structure of the conductive metal oxide material promotes a desired high-k crystal phase of a subsequently deposited dielectric layer. A dielectric layer is formed above the second bottom electrode layer. Optionally, an oxygen-rich metal oxide layer is formed above the dielectric layer. Optionally, a third top electrode layer is formed above the oxygen-rich metal oxide layer. The third top electrode layer includes a conductive metal oxide material. A fourth top electrode layer is formed above the third top electrode layer. The fourth top electrode layer includes a conductive metal nitride material.
US08969166B2

An apparatus for selectively improving integrated circuit performance is provided. In an example, an integrated circuit is fabricated according to an integrated circuit layout. A critical portion of the integrated circuit layout determines a speed of the integrated circuit, where at least a part of the critical portion includes at least one of a halo implant region, lightly doped drain (LDD) implant region, and source drain extension (SDE) implant region. A marker layer comprises the part of the critical portion that includes the at least one of the halo implant region, the lightly doped drain (LDD) implant region, and the source drain extension (SDE) implant region, and includes at least one transistor formed therefrom.
US08969152B2

A field-effect transistor (FET) and methods for fabricating such. The FET includes a substrate having a crystalline orientation, a source region in the substrate, and a drain region in the substrate. Gate spacers are positioned over the source region and the drain region. The gate spacers include a gate spacer height. A source contact physically and electrically contacts the source region and extends beyond the gate spacer height. A drain contact physically and electrically contacts the drain region and extends beyond the gate spacer height. The source and drain contacts have the same crystalline orientation as the substrate.
US08969149B2

A structure is provided that includes at least one multilayered stacked semiconductor material structure located on a semiconductor substrate and at least one sacrificial gate material structure straddles a portion of the at least one multilayered stacked semiconductor structure. The at least one multilayered stacked semiconductor material structure includes alternating layers of sacrificial semiconductor material and semiconductor nanowire template material. End segments of each layer of sacrificial semiconductor material are then removed and filled with a dielectric spacer. Source/drain regions are formed from exposed sidewalls of each layer of semiconductor nanowire template material, and thereafter the at least one sacrificial gate material structure and remaining portions of the sacrificial semiconductor material are removed suspending each semiconductor material. A gate structure is formed within the areas previously occupied by the at least one sacrificial gate material structure and remaining portions of the sacrificial semiconductor material.
US08969145B2

In one aspect, a method of fabricating a nanowire FET device includes the following steps. A layer of III-V semiconductor material is formed on an SOI layer of an SOI wafer. Fins are etched into the III-V material and SOI layer. One or more dummy gates are formed over a portion of the fins that serves as a channel region of the device. A gap filler material is deposited onto the wafer. The dummy gates are removed selective to the gap filler material, forming trenches in the gap filler material. The SOI layer is removed from portions of the fins within the trenches thereby forming suspended nanowire channels in the channel regions of the device. The trenches are filled with at least one gate material to form one or more replacement gates surrounding the nanowire channels in a gate-all-around configuration.
US08969130B2

An amorphous region with low density is formed in an oxide insulating film containing zirconium. The amount of oxygen released from such an oxide insulating film containing zirconium by heating is large and a temperature at which oxygen is released is higher in the oxide insulating film than in a conventional oxide film (e.g., a silicon oxide film). When the insulating film is formed using a sputtering target containing zirconium in an oxygen atmosphere, the temperature of a surface on which the insulating film is formed may be controlled to be lower than a temperature at which a film to be formed starts to crystallize.
US08969122B2

Processes for fabricating photovoltaic devices in which the front side contact metal semiconductor alloy metallization patterns have a uniform thickness at edge portions as well as a central portion of each metallization pattern are provided. In one embodiment, a method of forming a photovoltaic device is provided that includes a p-n junction with a p-type semiconductor portion and an n-type semiconductor portion one on top of the other, wherein an upper exposed surface of one of the semiconductor portions represents a front side surface of the semiconductor substrate; forming a plurality of patterned antireflective coating layers on the front side surface of the semiconductor surface to provide a grid pattern including a busbar region and finger regions; forming a mask atop the plurality of patterned antireflective coating layers, the mask having a shape that mimics each patterned antireflective coating; electrodepositing a metal layer on the busbar region and the finger regions; removing the mask; and performing an anneal, wherein during the anneal metal atoms from the metal layer react with semiconductor atoms from the busbar region and the finger regions forming a metal semiconductor alloy.
US08969120B2

A two-stage packaging method of image sensors is disclosed. The packaging method includes the following steps: providing a substrate, fixing an image sensor chip on the substrate, fixing a transparent board on the image sensor chip, electrically connecting the image sensor chip and the substrate, forming a first encapsulant lay, and forming a second encapsulant layer. The two-stage packaging method prevents excessive pressure from being generated by formation of the encapsulant layers during the image sensor packaging process. Such excessive pressure, if generated, may result in position shift of the image sensor chip or damage of the bonding wires. The two-stage packaging method can increase the yield of the image sensor packaging process as well as the sensitivity of image sensors, thereby improving the quality and production of image sensor packaging while lowering the manufacturing costs.
US08969118B2

A mechanism is provided for base recognition of an integrated transistor and nanochannel. A target molecule is forced down to a carbon nanotube a single base at a time in the nanochannel by applying a gate voltage to a top electrode, and/or a narrow thickness of the nanochannel. The nanochannel exposes an exposed portion of the carbon nanotube at a bottom wall, and the top electrode is positioned over the exposed portion. The exposed portion of the carbon nanotube is smaller than the distance between bases to only accommodate the single base at a time. The target molecule is stretched by the narrow thickness and by applying a traverse voltage across a length direction of the nanochannel. The target molecule is frictionally restricted by the narrow thickness of the nanochannel to stretch is restrictedly translocates in the length direction. Current is measured to determine an identity of the single base.
US08969109B1

A method of forming a light-emitting diode including determining a first level of tensile stress to be applied to a base substrate including a plurality of quantum well layers to adjust a band-gap of the base substrate to a predetermined band-gap. The first level of tensile stress is generated in the base substrate by forming a tensile-stressing layer on the base substrate.
US08969106B2

A laser irradiation apparatus including a chamber configured to receive a panel including an organic layer on a substrate, a laser oscillator outside the chamber, and configured to irradiate a laser beam onto the panel in the chamber, and a transparent window at a side of the chamber, and configured to allow the laser beam to pass therethrough, wherein the laser beam is configured to remove at least a portion of the organic layer on the substrate.
US08969101B1

A method and structure for a three-axis magnetic field sensing device. An IC layer having first bond pads and second bond pads can be formed overlying a substrate/SOI member with a first, second, and third magnetic sensing element coupled the IC layer. One or more conductive cables can be formed to couple the first and second bond pads of the IC layer. A portion of the substrate member and IC layer can be removed to separate the first and second magnetic sensing elements on a first substrate member from the third sensing element on a second substrate member, and the third sensing element can be coupled to the side-wall of the first substrate member.
US08969100B2

Regions where metastatic cancer cells can exist are detected with high accuracy in a sentinel lymph node. Quantum dots are injected into the vicinity of a cancer in a living body, thereby identifying the location of the sentinel lymph node by means of fluorescence. Subsequently, the sentinel lymph node is extracted. With respect to the sentinel lymph node extracted with quantum dots injected, structural analysis is conducted by means of precision fluorescence measurement which uses a confocal fluorescence microscope for monomolecular observation. Specifically, the fluorescence intensity is measured with respect to each of multiple areas in the sentinel lymph nodes, and out of the multiple areas measured, one or more areas are detected as afferent lymph vessel inflow regions in descending order of fluorescence intensity.
US08969095B1

The present invention is directed to methods and systems for detecting the presence of explosive elements. A sample element may be used to swipe an object for a test sample. The sample element may be positioned in a sample holder of a testing device having a heater. The heater may be programmed to heat the sample element and sample in a controlled manner through two or three temperature increases from approximately 35 degrees to 165 degrees centigrade in approximately 40 seconds. Prior to each temperature increase a first, second and third reagent fluid is applied to the sample holder, and during the temperature rise the sample holder is observed for the presence of various explosive elements by detecting colors as compared to a color chart. The color observations may be based on time and temperature variations using a testing device.
US08969092B2

Provided is a gel particle measurement reagent effective in quickly measuring a time point of initiation of production of gel particles. A gel particle measurement reagent R is a gel particle measurement reagent to be used to be agitated continuously with a sample S containing a target substance St as a measuring object to turn the target substance St into gel particles, including: a reagent base material 1 that undergoes a gelation reaction with the target substance St; and a biologically inactive particle formation accelerating factor 2 that is added to the reagent base material, has solubility in the sample S and dissolves therein at a concentration of 0.002 to 1%, and accelerates production of gel particles G whose particle sizes are centered in a predetermined range.
US08969079B2

The present invention relates to a technique of using monocytic blood cells to effectively culture and proliferate blood adult stem cells and progenitor cells that only exist in small quantities to effectively obtain large quantities of stem cells. According to the present invention, the limitation of being able to derive only small quantities of stem cells from blood can be overcome, and the pluripotency of stem cells can easily be obtained.
US08969072B2

The present invention is directed to a method and automated unloading means for unloading a container from an apparatus. The apparatus of the present invention may include a means for automated loading, a means for automated transfer and/or a means for automated unloading of a container (e.g., a specimen container). In one embodiment, the apparatus can be an automated detection apparatus for rapid non-invasive detection of a microbial agent in a test sample. The detection system also including a heated enclosure, a holding means or rack, and/or a detection unit for monitoring and/or interrogating the specimen container to detect whether the container is positive for the presence of a microbial agent. In other embodiment, the automated instrument may include one or more, bar code readers, scanners, cameras, and/or weighing stations to aid in scanning, reading, imaging and weighing of specimen containers within the system.
US08969071B2

An apparatus for passive sorting of microdroplets including a main flow channel, a flow stream of microdroplets in the main flow channel wherein the microdroplets have substantially the same diameter and wherein the flow stream of microdroplets includes first microdroplets having a first degree of stiffness and second microdroplets having a second degree of stiffness wherein the second degree of stiffness is different than the first degree of stiffness. A second flow channel is connected to the main flow channel for the second microdroplets having a second degree of stiffness. A separator separates the second microdroplets having a second degree of stiffness from the first microdroplets and directs the second microdroplets having a second degree of stiffness into the second flow channel.
US08969069B2

Disclosed are a glycated protein measurement sensor and a portable glycated protein measurement apparatus. The glycated protein measurement sensor includes: a sensing film (300) formed on a predetermined base material (100); and first and second unit sensors (10′, 10″) including a positive (+) electrode (400) and a negative (−) electrode (500) disposed facing each other at a predetermined distance on both ends of the sensing film (300). A ligand composition (600′) including an aromatic boron acid combined with a first target material (700) as an effective component is disposed on the first sensing film (300) of the first unit sensor (10′). Also, a receptor (600″) combined with the first or second target material (700) is disposed on the second sensing film (300) of the second unit sensor (10″). Here, the first target material (700) is a glycated protein (700′), and the second target material (700) is a protein (700″).
US08969067B2

There is provided a process of growing a phototrophic biomass in a reaction zone. Gaseous exhaust material is produced with a gaseous exhaust material producing process, wherein the gaseous exhaust material includes carbon dioxide. A discharge of the gaseous exhaust material is supplied to the reaction zone and is modulated. A bypass gaseous exhaust material, being supplied to another unit operation, is also modulated.
US08969066B2

The present invention provides compositions and methods for producing flocculation moieties in photosynthetic organisms. The photosynthetic organisms are genetically modified to effect production, secretion, or both, of the flocculation moieties. Also provided are methods of flocculating organisms.
US08969065B2

A high flux in conversion of pyruvate to acetolactate was achieved in yeast through expression of acetolactate synthase in the cytosol in conjunction with reduction in pyruvate decarboxylase activity. Additional manipulations to improve flux to acetolactate are reduced pyruvate dehydrogenase activity and reduced glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase activity. Production of compounds having acetolactate as an upstream intermediate benefit from the increased conversion of pruvate to acetolactate in the described strains.
US08969062B2

The present invention provides a mutant 27 kDa NIa proteinase having reduced self-cleavage activity relative to the self-cleavage activity of its wild-type proteinase. The mutant has the same substrate cleavage activity as the wild-type proteinase but is more stable than the wild-type proteinase. The present invention also provides a method of obtaining large quantities of active 27 kDa NIa proteinase for use as a tool for purification of other proteins.
US08969058B2

The present invention relates to systems for releasing genetic materials from a solid medium. The present invention also relates to methods for releasing genetic materials from a solid medium. The present invention further relates to methods for isolating genetic material from a biological sample.
US08969037B2

The present invention provides a recombinant gram-negative bacterial cell comprising a mutant spr gene encoding a mutant spr protein and wherein the cell comprises a non-recombinant wild-type chromosomal Tsp gene.
US08969027B2

The present invention provides a diagnostic reagent or assay for assessing the activity of a protease in vivo or in vitro and methods of detecting the presence of a cancerous or precancerous cell. The assays are comprised of two particles linked via an oligopeptide linkage that comprises a consensus sequence specific for the target protease. Cleavage of the sequence by the target protease can be detected visually or using various sensors, and the diagnostic results can be correlated with cancer prognosis.
US08969026B2

Methods for liquid-liquid extraction, as can be effected using polymeric reverse micelles, such methods as can be used in conjunction with various mass spectrometric techniques.
US08969017B2

The present invention provides methods for differentiating a pediatric subject with pediatric septic shock from a healthy pediatric subject or one having sudden inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). Also provided is a method of predicting pediatric septic shock mortality in a pediatric septic shock patient.
US08969006B2

The present invention provides for soybean plant and seed comprising transformation event MON89788 and DNA molecules unique to these events. The invention also provides methods for detecting the presence of these DNA molecules in a sample.
US08969005B2

Compositions and methods for diagnosis and treatment of ALS are provided.
US08968995B2

Embodiments of the invention provide methods, polyclonal antibodies, monoclonal antibodies, assays, and kits for detecting HPV infection, including infection by various HPV genotypes, early and/or late HPV-associated or HPV-specific proteins or antibodies. Mononoclonal antibodies are used to detect oncogenic high risk and low risk HPV types in a single assay, which is not limited to assay type or format. Useful tools for specific detection of various HPV associated cancers are provided. HPV associated cancer biomarkers are identified and can be used in a screening method for early stage precancerous lesions as well as late stage cancer progression.
US08968982B2

In a chemically amplified positive resist composition comprising a base resin and an acid generator in a solvent, the base resin contains both an alkali-insoluble or substantially alkali-insoluble polymer having an acid labile group-protected acidic functional group having a Mw of 1,000-500,000 and an alkyl vinyl ether polymer having a Mw of 10,000-500,000. The composition forms on a substrate a resist film of 5-100 μm thick which can be briefly developed to form a pattern at a high sensitivity and a high degree of removal or dissolution to bottom.
US08968981B2

Organic coating compositions, particularly antireflective compositions, that comprise a component that comprises one or more parabanic acid moieties. Preferred compositions of the invention can reduce reflection of exposing radiation from a substrate back into an overcoated photoresist layer and can serve as a planarizing, conformal or via-fill layer.
US08968972B2

In the chromium-containing material film of the present invention, an element is added thereto and is capable of bringing a mixture of the element and the chromium into a liquid phase at a temperature of 400° C. or lower. The use of such a chromium-containing material film as an optical film (e.g., a light-shielding film, an etching mask film, or an etching stopper film) of a photo mask blank can achieve an improvement in chlorine-dry etching while retaining the same optical characteristics and the like as those of the conventional chromium-containing material film, thereby increasing the patterning precision.
US08968971B2

Pellicles for photomasks used in photolithographic manufacturing are described. A frame of a pellicle may include a recess formed in a side member and a locking member dimensioned to secure a membrane to the frame when the membrane is disposed between the recess and the locking member. A pellicle may be secured to a photomask using non-adhesive attachment members that contact a side surface of the photomask.
US08968970B2

A phase shift mask having a first region and a second region in a transverse direction includes a transparent layer, a phase shift pattern disposed in the first region, a transmittance control layer pattern disposed in the second region, and a shading layer pattern disposed on the transmittance control layer pattern. The phase shift pattern has a first pattern including a transparent material and a second pattern including metal. The phase shift mask may prevent haze effects through a cleaning process using an alkaline cleaning solution.
US08968955B2

A method of operating a fuel cell system includes characterizing the fuel or fuels being provided into the fuel cell system, characterizing the oxidizing gas or gases being provided into the fuel cell system, and calculating at least one of the steam:carbon ratio, fuel utilization and oxidizing gas utilization based on the step of characterization.
US08968954B2

A target value of each of factors in a fuel cell system is determined based on a correspondence relationship of a change in each of the factors determining reaction conditions of fuel in a fuel cell to a change in an external environment of the fuel cell system, and peripheral devices of the fuel cell affecting the reaction conditions of the fuel in the fuel cell are controlled according to a target value of each of the factors.
US08968945B2

A humidifier for a fuel cell has a stacked unit of several water-permeable membranes which are parallel to each other and are arranged spaced apart form each other. On the edges of the membranes, a sealant is applied which closes a flow space between neighboring membranes fluid-tightly and serves as a spacer.
US08968933B2

Disclosed is a method for preparing an anode active material comprising a core composed of a crystalline carbon-based material, and a composite coating layer comprising (a) mixing a precursor for a raw material of one or more materials selected from the group consisting of low crystalline carbon and amorphous carbon with silicon oxide enabling intercalation and deintercalation of ions, followed by purification, to prepare a mixture for coating, (b) mixing the mixture for coating with a crystalline carbon-based material to prepare a core-shell precursor comprising the raw material mixture for coating applied to the core composed of the crystalline carbon-based material, and (c) baking the core-shell precursor to carbonize the raw material of the one or more materials selected from the group consisting of low crystalline carbon and amorphous carbon into the one or more materials selected from the group consisting of low crystalline carbon and amorphous carbon.
US08968932B2

A compound having a high reduction resistance and being capable of sufficiently performing a function as an electronic conductive additive when added to a positive electrode active material as an electronic conductive additive is provided. In a method for producing a cobalt cerium compound including a step of depositing a hydroxide containing cobalt and cerium in an aqueous solution containing cobalt ions and cerium ions by changing the pH of the aqueous solution and thereafter performing a treatment of oxidizing the hydroxide, the ratio of the cerium ions contained in the aqueous solution containing the cobalt ions and the cerium ions is set to be more than 5% by atom and 70% by atom or less with respect to the sum of the cobalt ions and the cerium ions before the hydroxide is deposited.
US08968925B2

A method is provided for synthesizing a metal-doped transition metal hexacyanoferrate (TMHCF) battery electrode. The method prepares a first solution of AxFe(CN)6 and Fe(CN)6, where A cations may be alkali or alkaline-earth cations. The method adds the first solution to a second solution containing M-ions and M′-ions. M is a transition metal, and M′ is a metal dopant. Subsequent to stirring, the mixture is precipitated to form AxMcM′dFez(CN)n.mH2O particles. The AxMcM′dFez(CN)n.mH2O particles have a framework and interstitial spaces in the framework, where M and M′ occupy positions in the framework. Alternatively, the method prepares AaA′bMyFez(CN)n.mH2O particles. A and A′ occupy interstitial spaces in the AaA′bMyFez(CN)n.mH2O particle framework. A metal-doped TMHCF electrode is also provided.
US08968914B2

The positive electrode substrate exposed portions or the negative electrode substrate exposed portions, or both, of an electrode assembly is split into two groups, and therebetween is disposed an intermediate member made of a resin material and holding one or more connecting conductive members. Collector members for the substrate exposed portions split into two groups is electrically joined by a resistance welding method to the substrate exposed portions split into two groups, together with the connecting conductive member(s) of the intermediate member. The resin material portion of the intermediate member protrudes, in the extension direction of the substrate exposed portions split into two groups, beyond the ends of the substrate exposed portions split into two groups and the ends of the collector member to a prismatic outer can. This structure enables enhanced resistance between the substrate exposed portions and the collector member and curbs variation in the welding strength.
US08968905B2

A secondary battery including an electrode assembly, the electrode assembly including a positive electrode plate, a negative electrode plate, and a separator; a pouch accommodating the electrode assembly; and a dissipation member, the dissipation member contacting the electrode assembly and protruding to an exterior of the pouch from an interior of the pouch.
US08968901B2

Disclosed herein is a middle- or large-sized battery module comprising: a battery cell stack including a plurality of battery cells or unit modules electrically connected with each other; a first module case constructed in a structure to entirely surround one side end of the battery cell stack and to partially surround the upper and lower ends of the battery cell stack; a second module case coupled with the first module case, the second module case being constructed in a structure to entirely surround the other side end of the battery cell stack and to partially surround the upper and lower ends of the battery cell stack; a sensing member mounted to the first module case or the second module case; and a battery management system (BMS) mounted to the first module case or the second module case.
US08968900B2

A battery holder apparatus and method includes a sleeve with an inside surface and an outside surface where the sleeve is flexible. A battery receiving space is created within the sleeve where the battery receiving space expands and the sleeve flexes to accommodate a battery when inserted therein and the inside surface at least partially contacts the battery. And a connection device is provided on the outside surface of the sleeve.
US08968893B2

A secondary battery having a compact design by using planar lead plates. In the secondary battery, a third lead plate is arranged on a top side of a protective circuit module, while the first and second lead plates are planar and are arranged on a bottom side of the protective circuit module. Therefore, a coupling height of a bare cell to the protective circuit module can be minimized to allow for an increased capacity of the bare cell. The protective circuit module may include an accommodation portion, such as a groove or a through hole, to accommodate a plug of an electrolyte injection hole in the cap plate.
US08968883B2

There is provided an electroluminescent composition. The composition includes a material having Formula I In Formula I: R1 is the same or different at each occurrence and is selected from D, alkyl, alkoxy, silyl, and siloxane, or adjacent R1 groups may be joined together to form a 5- or 6-membered aliphatic ring; Ar1 and Ar2 are the same or different and are aryl groups; a is an integer from 0 to 6; b is an integer from 0 to 2; and c is an integer from 0 to 3.
US08968882B2

The invention relates to a clad sheet product, ideally suitable for automotive body sheet, including a core sheet and a cladding layer on one or both core sheet surfaces, the core sheet has an aluminum alloy of the AA6000-series alloys and at least one cladding consisting of an aluminum alloy of the AA6000-series alloys having a Cu-content of less than 0.25 wt. %.
US08968878B2

Certain example embodiments relate to Ni-inclusive ternary alloy being provided as a barrier layer for protecting an IR reflecting layer comprising silver or the like. The provision of a barrier layer comprising nickel, chromium, and/or molybdenum and/or oxides thereof may improve corrosion resistance, as well as chemical and mechanical durability. In certain examples, more than one barrier layer may be used on at least one side of the layer comprising silver. In still further examples, a NixCryMoz-based layer may be used as the functional layer, rather than or in addition to as a barrier layer, in a coating.
US08968877B2

Provided herein is a reflective optical construction containing a fluoropolymer barrier layer, wherein the fluoropolymer is selected from the group consisting of homopolymers and copolymers of at least one tetrafluoropropene or pentafluoropropene, preferably 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene. Also disclosed is a method of forming a reflective optical construction including (a) applying a barrier layer comprising one or more fluoropolymers selected from the group consisting of homopolymers and copolymers of at least one tetrafluoropropene or pentafluoropropene, and (b) curing.
US08968873B2

A microfluidic device to produce polymersomes having three coaxial passageways of increasing size with fluid flowing in one direction. The first and smallest passageway contains the content of the polymersome, the middle passageway contains a block copolymer, and the largest and outer passageway contains an aqueous medium or water. The device can produce polymersomes with control of size and membrane thickness. The device will allow quantitative loading of the polymersomes in high quantities. The device is robust and easily assembled and has the ability to independently control the three streams involved in making the polymersomes.
US08968868B2

A curable composition comprises (a) at least one inorganic or organic compound comprising reactive silane functionality comprising at least one hydrosilyl moiety; (b) at least one inorganic or organic compound comprising reactive silane functionality comprising at least one hydroxysilyl moiety, the hydroxysilyl moiety optionally being generated in situ by hydrolysis of at least one hydrosilyl moiety; and (c) at least one photoactivatable composition that, upon exposure to radiation, generates at least one base selected from amidines, guanidines, phosphazenes, proazaphosphatranes, and combinations thereof; with the proviso that, when component (a) is an organic polymer, then component (b) is different from component (a) and is not generated in situ by hydrolysis of component (a).
US08968867B2

The present invention relates to a horizontal thermoelectric tape and a method for manufacturing same, and more particularly, to a horizontal thermoelectric tape for an effective blocking of an electromagnetic wave and an excellent heat dissipation effect. The horizontal thermoelectric tape of the present invention unifies the double layer structure of an adhesion layer and a heat dissipation layer, more effectively achieving the heat dissipation effect, and simplifying the manufacturing process thereof, and by using a non-evaporated metal foil as a conductive base material, enables a horizontal thermoelectric tape having an excellent heat conductivity, and using a conductive base material not containing impurities.
US08968857B2

There is provided an imprint material from which a film having a high hardness can be formed. An imprint material comprising a component (A), a component (B) and a component (C), the component (A) being a compound having, in the molecule thereof, five or more polymerizable groups, the component (B) being a compound having, in the molecule thereof, two polymerizable groups, and the component (C) being a photo-radical generator.
US08968847B2

Packaging materials are disclosed, along with packages formed therefrom and methods for forming the packages.
US08968842B2

A liquid crystal display device includes a first substrate, a second substrate facing the first substrate, and a liquid crystal layer between the first and second substrates. The liquid crystal layer includes a liquid crystal composition including an alkenyl liquid crystal and an antioxidant component including at least one selected from an antioxidant and a derivative thereof. In an embodiment, the antioxidant component is present in an amount of greater than 0 ppm and equal to or less than about 10,000 ppm relative to the total weight of the liquid crystal composition.
US08968841B2

A binaphthyl compound represented by General Formula (G1) is provided. In General Formula (G1), Ar2 represents any of an arylene group, a cycloalkylene group, and a cycloalkenylene group, and m is any of 0 to 3; R3 represents any of hydrogen, an alkyl group, and an alkoxy group; and one of R and R1 represents a substituent represented by General Formula (G2) and the other thereof represents hydrogen. In General Formula (G2), Ar1 represents any of an arylene group, a cycloalkylene group, and a cycloalkenylene group, and k is any of 1 to 3; and R2 represents any of hydrogen, an alkyl group, and an alkoxy group.
US08968833B2

An antiballistic article and method of making the antiballistic article. The antiballistic article is made by applying a resin on the surface of at least one fabric layer such that the resin forms a network with a degree of cross-linking of at least 80% within no more than 350 seconds at a temperature of 130° C. at most.
US08968832B2

The present invention relates to an ink-jet print head for an ink-jet printer comprising at least a substrate and a photopolymer barrier applied onto said substrate, said photopolymer barrier comprising an adhesive first layer and a second layer made of a photopolymerizable material and applied above said first layer, characterized in that said adhesive first layer is made of a cationically polymerizable material partially polymerized that, when contacted ny a water-based ink containing acidic species, is able to further polymerize, thus improving the photopolymer barrier adhesion on said surface of said substrate with time, the present invention also relates to a process of manufacturing said ink-jet print head and to its use in combination with a water-based ink containing acidic species.
US08968824B2

A silver conductive film is formed on a substrate in a continuous roll-to-roll system by applying a fine silver particle dispersing solution, which contains 30 to 70 wt % of fine silver particles dispersed in a water based dispersing medium, to a halide, such as a chlorine compound, which is applied to the substrate, by flexographic printing, and thereafter, heating the substrate at 60 to 200° C. for 0.1 to 5 seconds in an infrared (IR) heating open, which is installed on the printing path, to carry out calcination.
US08968821B2

An apparatus for spraying spacers with an alignment liquid, including a container for transporting the alignment liquid mixed with the spacers therein and a plurality of nozzles provided on a bottom of the container. The alignment liquid with spacers mixed therein is sprayed through the plurality of nozzles under a same inner pressure, thereby forming an alignment layer on the substrate supported.
US08968820B2

This invention provides a process for producing a hybrid nano-filament composition for use in a lithium battery electrode. The process comprises: (a) providing a porous aggregate of electrically conductive nano-wires that are substantially interconnected, intersected, physically contacted, or chemically bonded to form a porous network of electrically conductive filaments, wherein the nano-wires have a diameter or thickness less than 500 nm; and (b) depositing an electro-active coating onto a surface of the nano-wires, wherein the electro-active coating is capable of absorbing and desorbing lithium ions and the coating has a thickness less than 10 μm, preferably less than 1 μm. This process is applicable to the production of both an anode and a cathode. The battery featuring an anode or cathode made with this process exhibits an exceptionally high specific capacity, an excellent reversible capacity, and a long cycle life.
US08968804B2

The invention provides methods for promoting weight loss by an animal, promoting weight loss by an animal while preventing or minimizing loss of lean body mass by the animal, preventing a reduction in energy metabolism by an animal, reducing the risk of regaining weight by an animal after weight loss, and ameliorating undesirable animal behaviors associated with reduced caloric intake by intermittently feeding an animal a first diet containing calories that meet the animal's maintenance energy requirements and a second diet containing calories that do not meet the animal's maintenance energy requirements. In preferred embodiments, the described feeding pattern and diets are fed in conjunction with one or more weight loss agents.
US08968799B2

The present invention is directed to a time-release energizing supplement of the present invention comprising energizing ingredients coated by an enteric coating. The energizing ingredients comprise guarana seed extract, eleuthero root extract, tyrosine, and high amounts of B-complex vitamins. The B-complex vitamins preferably comprise thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12. The enteric coating of the time-release energizing supplement controls the release of the energizing ingredients inside the user's body and energizes the user by enhancing physical and metal performance over an extended period of time.
US08968791B2

The present invention provides a dietary supplement that promote the growth, repair, and maintenance of mammalian bone and joint connective tissue. In particular, the dietary supplement comprises a combination of at least one metal chelate and at least one chondroprotective agent.
US08968790B2

A nanoformulation that includes loaded nanoparticles. Each nanoparticle includes a modified chitosan polymer encapsulating at least one vitamin D derivative, at least one vitamin D metabolite, or combinations thereof. The modified chitosan polymer includes chitosan covalently linked to at least one entity selected from the group consisting of fatty acids (omega-3-fattay acids), amino acids, deoxycholic acid, alginate, arginine-alginate, hyaluronic acid, collagen, collagen-hydroxyapatite, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), and combinations thereof. A structure includes a medium and the nanoformulation, wherein the nanoparticles are dispersed in the medium. A method of using the nanoformulation to treat a disorder and improve efficacy of current therapies where resistance develop in a patient includes administering to the patient a therapeutically effective amount of the nanoformulation for treating the disorder. A nano-cosmetic formulation, comprising a cosmetic includes the nanoformulation, wherein the modified chitosan polymer encapsulates the at least one vitamin D derivative, and wherein the at least one vitamin D derivative encompasses 0.1 to 20.0 wt % of the nano-cosmetic formulation's total weight.
US08968785B2

The present disclosure relates to multi-component hydrogels. The hydrogels may include a natural component having nucleophilic functional groups as well as an electrophilic component. In embodiments, at least one of the components may be branched, having drugs, antibodies, enzymes, and the like incorporated therein, which may react with at least one of the other components of the hydrogel.
US08968784B2

A method for preparing hydro/organo gelators from disaccharide sugars by biocatalysis and their use in enzyme-triggered drug delivery. Controlled delivery of an anti-inflammatory, chemopreventive drug is achieved by an enzyme-triggered drug release mechanism via degradation of encapsulated hydrogels. The hydro- and organo-gelators are synthesized in high yields from renewable resources by using a regioselective enzyme catalysis and a known chemopreventive and anti-inflammatory drug, curcumin, is encapsulated in the gel matrix and released by enzyme triggered delivery. The release of the drug occurs at the physiological temperature and control of the drug release rate is achieved by manipulating the enzyme concentration and temperature. The by-products formed after the gel degradation clearly demonstrated the site specificity of degradation of the gelator by enzyme catalysis. The present invention has applications in developing cost effective, controlled drug delivery vehicles from renewable resources, with a potential impact on pharmaceutical research and molecular design and delivery strategies.
US08968777B2

Tranexamic acid formulated in an oral dosage form with at least one agent that decreases tranexamic acid release in the stomach. Such formulations minimize nausea, vomiting, and other adverse gastric effects that may accompany tranexamic acid therapy, for example, to treat heavy menstrual bleeding. One embodiment is an extended release formulation with waxes, polymers, etc. that prevent a bolus release of tranexamic acid in the stomach. An alternative embodiment is a delayed release formulation with polymers that prevent release of tranexamic acid in the acid environment of the stomach and delay its release until the formulation reaches the less acid environment of the intestines. Such formulations enhance patient compliance with therapy because adverse effects of tranexamic acid therapy are reduced.
US08968775B2

Provided are pharmaceutical carriers based on oil-in-water microemulsions and methods of making same. Also provided are pharmaceutical compositions comprising a carrier of the invention and a lipophilic active pharmaceutical ingredient (API), as well as methods for making same. The pharmaceutical compositions are particularly suitable for use in formulating lipophilic APIs for topical administration to the eye. Specifically included are pharmaceutical compositions comprising fenofibrate or fenofibric acid as API. Also provided is a method of treating a disease of the posterior segment of the eye. Also provided is a pharmaceutical composition comprising a compound represented by formulated for topical administration to the eye.
US08968772B2

A water-soluble pressure sensitive adhesive comprises a homogeneous blend comprising (a) a polymer selected from the group consisting of N-vinyl caprolactam homopolymers, N-vinyl pyrrolidone copolymers, and mixtures thereof and (b) a non-volatile plasticizer comprising a monohydric or polyhydric alcohol having hydrophilic-lipophilic balance of about 2 to about 10. The N-vinyl pyrrolidone copolymers comprise about 60% or less by weight N-vinyl pyrrolidone.
US08968769B2

The present invention features an orally disintegrating dosage form including from about 5% to about 40%, by weight, of at least one hydrated salt and a pharmaceutically active agent, wherein the at least one hydrated salt has a dehydration temperature of from about 20 to about 120 ° C.
US08968768B2

The invention provides a nutritional supplement which includes phytosterol to facilitate reduction of cholesterol. The nutritional supplement may be a swallowable tablet, chewable tablet, sachet, capsule or suspension. The invention further provides a method for tableting one fourth to one half of the daily effective dosage of a phytosterol containing nutritional supplement in a practical sized swallowable tablet and a method for reducing blood cholesterol in humans.
US08968757B2

The present disclosure relates to water dispersible granular pesticide compositions, and methods of making and using the compositions. The pesticide compositions include an inner layer including a first pesticide coated on to a substrate, and an outer layer comprising a second pesticide coated on the inner layer. The outer layer increases the water dispersibility of the granular composition, and protects the first pesticide against hydrolysis and photolysis.
US08968753B2

Pharmaceutical compositions can include ceftolozane lyophilized in the absence of tazobactam.
US08968745B2

Disclosed are: a peptide comprising an amino acid sequence composed of contiguous nine amino acid residues derived from a WT1 protein, wherein an amino acid residue at position 2 in the amino acid sequence is selected from the group consisting of Ala, Ile, Leu, Val, Phe, Tyr, Ser and Asp and an amino acid residue at position 9 in the amino acid sequence is Arg; a polynucleotide encoding the peptide; a pharmaceutical composition comprising the peptide; and a method of treating cancer using the peptide.
US08968740B2

The present invention is based, in part, on the discovery that galectin-1 (Gal1) plays a role in viral-associated PTLD, e.g., EBV-associated PTLD and hypoxia associated angiogenesis disorders. Accordingly, the invention relates to compositions, kits, and methods for diagnosing, prognosing, monitoring, treating and modulating viral-associated PTLD, e.g., EBV-associated PTLD and hypoxia associated angiogenesis disorders.
US08968731B2

The present invention relates generally to the use of antagonists of G-CSF, and/or its receptor (G-CSFR) in the treatment of uveitis. The present invention contemplates, therefore, the inhibition of G-CSF or G-CSFR systemically or locally and/or the down-regulation of expression of a G-CSF or G-CSFR in the treatment of uveitis.
US08968730B2

The present invention relates to antibodies or fragments thereof that specifically bind the extracellular domain of FcγRIIB, particularly human FcγRIIB, and block the Fc binding site of human FcγRIIB. The invention provides methods of treating cancer and/or regulating immune complex-mediated cell activation by administering the antibodies of the invention to enhance an immune response. The invention also provides methods of breaking tolerance to an antigen by administering an antigen-antibody complex and an antibody of the invention.
US08968728B2

New thrombolytic protein molecules such as recombinant staphylokinase or streptokinase, urokinase, tissue plasminogen activator and the like, and suitable variants thereof, for targeting to brain tissue or any other tissue by either fusing to, or by synthesizing the candidate thrombolytic molecule(s) with a protein sequence comprising a strong amphipathic alpha helix containing protein transduction domain. Thrombolytic protein molecule(s) so engineered with the protein transduction domain is useful for enhanced uptake of such protein thrombolytic molecule(s) across the cell membranes and tissues including the blood brain barrier and find their use in the treatment of vascular thrombosis including cerebrovascular disorders caused by cerebral thrombosis or cerebral haemorrhage when used a as a therapeutic. The design and processes for cloning, expression, purification and protein transduction of such proteins across cell membranes.
US08968721B2

The disclosure relates to a solid glass matrix of polysaccharides, monossaccharides or disaccharides in combination with polyols as delivery vehicles for preservation and post gastric administration of a probiotic. The delivery vehicle is capable of releasing the probiotic at their site of action. The present invention further includes methods of making and using the solid glass matrix delivery vehicle of the invention.
US08968717B2

The invention provides a multi-compartmented container suitable for the delivery of pharmaceuticals, medicines, vitamins, and the like.
US08968713B2

An antibacterial, non-aqueous liquid hair removing composition. The composition includes a solubilizing oil effective for solubilizing the ingredients, e.g., mineral oil, and an effective antibacterial amount of an antibacterial agent, e.g., triclosan and/or benzethonium chloride. The composition further includes botanical oils and rosins, e.g., soybean oil, gum rosin, rosin esters and titanium dioxide. The composition may also include fragrances and additional bacteriocides, e.g., phenoxyethanol. The hair removal composition is applied to a person's skin, and after a sufficient amount time, removed from the person's skin with the hair entrapped therein.
US08968709B2

Dental compositions are provided comprising a compound of Formula (I) or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof: wherein n is an integer from about 2 to about 5.
US08968708B2

The inventions disclosed herein relate to the discovery of the use of compounds having the formula shown below and certain subgenera or species thereof, as flavor or taste modifiers, particularly, savory (“umami”) taste modifiers, savory flavoring agents and savory flavor enhancers in foods, beverages, and other comestible compositions.
US08968707B2

The present disclosure is directed to a composition packaged in an aerosol device comprising at least one anionic fixing polymer, at least one α and ω oxyalkylenated silicone and at least one propellant, and also to a cosmetic hair treatment process using such compositions and to a process of styling the hair using such a composition.
US08968706B2

The invention is directed to a method of detecting a biological substance in the nasal secretion and diagnosing a disease following the detection of the biological substance wherein the biological substance is not related to a respiratory disease. The invention also provides treatment of the diseases following the detection of the biological substance and/or diagnosis of the disease. In some embodiments, the diseases are cancer, hepatitis, smell loss, taste loss, diabetes, and leprosy. The invention also provides a kit for diagnosing a disease.The present invention includes methods of analyzing samples from the nose for the detection of biological substances. In particular, nasal secretion or nasal mucus is collected and analyzed for biological substances. The results of this analysis are then suitable for use in diagnosis, prognosis, and determination of suitability of therapeutic interventions.
US08968704B2

Provided is a fluorescent labeling material, including zinc oxide nanoparticles each surface-modified with an organic compound having an amino group placed at an outer end thereof. Also provided is a fluorescent labeling agent to be used in vivo or in vitro, including the fluorescent labeling material, in which: EDC or the like is bound thereto through the amino group; and a substance capable of selectively binding to a target to be fluorescently labeled, such as an antibody, is linked thereto.
US08968702B2

The presently disclosed subject matter generally relates to methods and compositions for inhibiting the expression and/or activation of hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) genes in a hypoxic cell. More particularly, the methods disclosed herein relate to inhibition of HIF-1 activation in a cell, increasing sensitivity of a tumor cell to radiation and/or chemotherapy, delaying tumor growth, inhibiting tumor blood vessel growth, inhibiting inflammatory responses in a cell through the use of compositions that prevent the nitrosylation of HIF-1, and methods for screening for new inhibitors of HIF-1 activiation. Additionally, the compositions disclosed herein relate to compositions that can be employed in, and are identified by, the disclosed methods.
US08968699B2

The invention provides nanodevices or products of manufacture for use as drug delivery vehicles. In one aspect, the invention provides nanodevices or products of manufacture having on-off release mechanisms, e.g., that are “switchable”, or “actuatable” (for example magnetically or ultrasonically switchable), for compounds contained within, e.g., for use as drug delivery nano-vehicles having on-off drug release mechanisms, and their therapeutic applications.
US08968694B2

A method for preparing high purity ammonia is provided, which comprises the following three steps of: (1) obtaining the required feed gases (i.e., hydrogen-nitrogen gas mixture) by catalytic cracking ammonia; (2) purifying the hydrogen-nitrogen gas mixture; and (3) synthesizing high purity ammonia by using the hydrogen- nitrogen gas mixture with high purity. In the provided method, the obtained ammonia with undesired purity is fed back to an ammonia catalytic cracking unit. The whole production system is a closed system without any discharging of ammonia and thus is environment friendly. Each step of the method can reduce cost.
US08968676B2

A hand-held device for measuring an analyte concentration in a sample of a body liquid includes a display means for displaying measured values; a measured-value storage for storing measured values; a measuring unit for generating measured values through measurements of the analyte concentration; a clock; a control unit for generating measured value datasets, each containing a measured value supplied by the measuring unit as well as the date and hour of the measurement by which the measured value was obtained, and for writing them into the measured-value storage; and operating elements that can be actuated by the user to set the clock, in which case the control unit will generate a time-correction dataset indicating the amount and direction of the setting effected. The control unit writes time-correction datasets into the measured-value storage so that a chronologically ordered sequence is generated containing time-correction datasets and measured value datasets.
US08968671B2

A system for mixing ortho-xylene with an oxygen-containing gas such as air comprises an evaporator vessel fed with the gas and having a lance projecting into the gas. The lance is provided with a metal spray nozzle for injecting droplets of hot liquid ortho-xylene into the gas stream, concurrently with the direction of flow of the gas. The metal at the surface of the spray nozzle, that in use is in contact with the liquid ortho-xylene, has a high surface hardness to resist erosion, particularly by cavitation. The system is useful in the production of phthalic anhydride by the oxidation of ortho-xylene with air, whereby the risk for deflagrations is reduced. A soft metal seal is the preferred gasket between the spray nozzle and the lance.
US08968670B2

A process and system for separating and upgrading bio-oil into renewable fuels is provided. The process comprises separating bio-oil into a light fraction and heavy fraction based on their boiling points. The heavy fraction is then subjected to hydrotreatment, while the light fraction is not subjected to hydrotreatment. At least a portion of the un-hydrotreated light fraction and at least a portion of the hydrotreated heavy fraction are blended with petroleum-derived gasoline to thereby provide a renewable gasoline, and at least a portion of the hydrotreated heavy fraction is blended with petroleum-derived diesel to thereby provide a renewable diesel.
US08968666B2

A catalytic converter includes an inlet end, an outlet end and a catalyst body. The inlet end is configured to receive an exhaust gas from an engine. An outlet end is configured to output the exhaust gas. A catalyst body includes partitioning members disposed between the inlet end and the outlet end. The catalyst body includes exhaust channels and fluid channels. The exhaust channels are configured to guide the exhaust gas from the inlet end to the outlet end. The fluid channels are configured to receive a fluid from and return the fluid to a waste heat recovery circuit. Each of the exhaust channels and each of the fluid channels includes a respective ones of the partitioning members.
US08968663B2

An apparatus for examining membrane-bound proteins in a cell can include a chamber with an insulating partition dividing the chamber into an upper well and a lower well, and a pore penetrating the insulating partition. The pore can have a size and shape so as to snugly hold a cell in place therein. The apparatus can further include circuitry for delivering a radio frequency signal to the cell. A belt electrode for delivering electrical signals to the cell can be located within the insulation partition and substantially encircling the pore. A measuring circuit for measuring cell membrane impedance to the radio frequency signal is also provided, and changes in the impedance can signal a change in state of a protein in the cell membrane.
US08968662B2

The present invention is generally in the field of measuring and indicating techniques and relates to a time-temperature indicator and methods of manufacturing and use thereof. More specifically, the time-temperature indicator comprises at least one metal layer or metal containing layer, and in direct contact to the metal layer or to the metal containing layer at least one pad member affixed onto a pad carrier layer,wherein the pad member comprises a pad made of an absorbent material and a dopant medium, whereby the dopant medium comprises a liquid medium or a viscous medium or a viscoelastic medium which is doped with a dopant that destroys the metal/metal containing layers such as an acid, a base or a salt or a photolatent acid or a photolatent base.
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