Abstract: A simplified implementation of molecular field programmable gate arrays described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,215,327 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,331,788, reducing the complexity in a tiled array template to that of a 1-input lookup table.

Abstract: A variable permittivity structure is proposed based on composition of two different dielectrics in a transmission line. The composition is adjusted through a thermally-actuated MEMS structure, and this compositional adjustment alters the relative permittivity at least at a macro level. Adjusting the permittivity leads to tune-able impedances in the associated transmission line. The proposed invention can also be used as a variable capacitor, and it can be used to create variable capacitor, and it can be used to create variable couplers and other structures. Since the approach does not alter any conducting surfaces in the transmission line, it is believed to lead to a superior technique for impedance matching to reduced physical discontinuity.

Abstract: A method for solving a wide variety of linear partial differential equations by exploiting the normally undesirable parasitic resistances present in flexible digital switching components. The terminal relationships of these field programmable interconnect devices can be manipulated under program control to directly mimic the nodal relationships defined in finite difference method models of a partial difference equation problem. Adding analog-to-digital/digital-to-analog converters (“ADCs/DACs”) to automate the solution process can extend the method of analog equation solving. It is also possible to segment larger problems using this approach, feeding sections into the device and injecting/capturing voltages as appropriate to produce an overall solution that will eventually converge after a number of presentation/solution sub-cycles.

Abstract: An adaptive electrical manifold is comprised of switchbox assemblies containing a plurality of non-volatile MEMS relay switches, apparatus for controlling these switches, and apparatus for controlling a daisy-chained group of switchbox assemblies.

Abstract: A tool for removing ball grid array (BGA) packaged integrated circuit or multi-chip modules from printed circuit boards is comprised of a two-tined fork with a heated wire stretched between the tips of the tines and a thin sheet of material filling the area between the tines.

Abstract: An adaptive electrical manifold is described comprised of switchbox assemblies containing a plurality of non-volatile MEMS relay switches, a means of controlling these switches, and a means of controlling a daisy-chained group of switchbox assemblies.

Abstract: PRS07010 A simplified implementation of molecular field programmable gate arrays described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,215,327, reducing the complexity of a single site in a tiled array template to that of a 2-input lookup table.

Abstract: A micro-zero insertion force socket is fabricated capable of connecting pins with diameters of 25 to 200 microns and minimum pitches of from 3:1 to 10:1 using micro-fabrication techniques, MEMS components, and high-density interconnections.

Abstract: An architectural concept for field programmable gate array circuits is presented based on a universal fabric of cells called look-up tables arranged in a direct, repeatable spatial grid. It is predicated upon an analogy between Boolean functions and cellular automata wherein an m-variable look-up table defines a universal cellular automata of neighborhood size m. Its unique features include universal implementation of Boolean functions, low interconnect demand, no specialized routing resources, high regularity (periodic structures), fault tolerance, and ease in testability.

Abstract: The Advanced Instrument Controller (AIC) is a stand-alone low-to-medium performance microcontroller with versatile interface and operating options. A tightly coupled MCM design incorporates a CPU, volatile and non-volatile memories, an analog ASIC, a resistor ASIC, internal oscillator, an agile analog capability to implement a gain, offset, impedance, and filter control on all input channels, and an embedded smart power convertor. The AIC uses switch matrices built from micro-mechanical systems technology to reconfigure the signal lines. It also has in-situ reprogrammability and state preservation capability for discontinuous operations. It is designed to operate under extreme conditions of temperature, shock, and radiation and is characterized by ultra-low power requirements, size, and weight.

Abstract: The cross-link register allows multiple digital processors to pass data and control parameters to a common region. The N-port wide bandwidth crosslink register (WBCR) represents a method for interconnection of N different digital interconnection units (DIUs). The WBCR comprises a group of registers, multiplexers, and a clock circuit, in which: (1) each DIU has write access to only one register which is dedicated to it; (2) each DIU has guaranteed read access to the dedicated registers of any other DIU; and (3) all DIUs may be run asynchronously. The output of each register is routed to the input of each multiplexer. The address lines of each port allow the selection of the output of the particular register, including the register associated with the calling port (for example, port 1 can access all registers, including register 1). The clock establishes the refresh interval of the registers, which are assumed to be collections of master-slave data flip-flops.