Abstract: A reflective wire grid polarizer (WGP) can include an array of wires 12 on a face of a substrate 11, with channels 15 between adjacent wires 12. The wires 12 can have certain characteristics for WGP performance, such as index of refraction, alternating high/low index continuous thin films, thickness of layer(s), duty cycle, reflective rib shape, a curved side of transparent ribs 21 or 32, aspect ratio, or combinations thereof.

Abstract: A reflective wire grid polarizer (WGP) can include an array of wires 12 on a face of a substrate 11, with channels 15 between adjacent wires 12. The wires 12 can have certain characteristics for WGP performance, such as index of refraction, alternating high/low index continuous thin films, thickness of layer(s), duty cycle, reflective rib shape, a curved side of transparent ribs 21 or 32, aspect ratio, or combinations thereof.

Abstract: A reflective wire grid polarizer (WGP) can include an array of wires 12 on a face of a substrate 11, with channels 15 between adjacent wires 12. The wires 12 can have certain characteristics for WGP performance, such as index of refraction, alternating high/low index continuous thin films, thickness of layer(s), duty cycle, reflective rib shape, a curved side of transparent ribs 21 or 32, aspect ratio, or combinations thereof.

Abstract: An archery apparatus includes a combined adjustable neck support, handle and release mechanism for reducing the amount of force exerted by an archer to maintain a bowstring and associated arrow in a generally fully drawn position. In operation, the release mechanism is secured to the bowstring, the handle is grasped by the drawing hand of the archer, with the other hand of the archer on the bow frame, the bowstring is drawn by the archer to the generally fully drawn position so that the release mechanism is proximate the side of the head of the archer and the neck support is selectively and supportably disposed against the archer's neck. Thus, both the manual muscular force exerted by the drawing arm of the archer and the force supplied by the neck support are available in tandem for maintaining a bowstring and associated arrow in a generally fully drawn position. The release mechanism is then actuated to provide the normal proper triggering of the arrow into flight.

Abstract: An archery apparatus includes a combined adjustable neck support, handle and release mechanism for reducing the amount of force exerted by an archer to maintain a bowstring and associated arrow in a generally fully drawn position. In operation, the release mechanism is secured to the bowstring, the handle is grasped by the drawing hand of the archer, with the other hand of the archer on the bow frame, the bowstring is drawn by the archer to the generally fully drawn position so that the release mechanism is proximate the side of the head of the archer and the neck support is selectively and supportably disposed against the archer's neck. Thus, both the manual muscular force exerted by the drawing arm of the archer and the force supplied by the neck support are available in tandem for maintaining a bowstring and associated arrow in a generally fully drawn position. The release mechanism is then actuated to provide the normal proper triggering of the arrow into flight.

Abstract: Semiconductor devices containing nickel-titanium (NiTi or TiNi) compounds or alloys and methods for making such devices are described. The devices contain a silicon substrate with an integrated circuit, a contact layer contacting the substrate, a TiNi-containing soldering layer on the contact layer, an oxidation prevention layer on the soldering layer, a solder bump on the soldering layer, and a lead frame or PCB attached to the solder bump. The combination of the Ti and Ni materials in the soldering layer exhibits many features not found in the Ti and Ni materials alone, such as reduced wafer warpage, increased ductility for improved elasticity, decreased consumption of the Ni in the soldering layer, and decreased manufacturing costs. Other embodiments are described.

Abstract: Semiconductor devices containing nickel-titanium (NiTi or TiNi) compounds (or alloys) and methods for making such devices are described. The devices contain a silicon substrate with an integrated circuit having a drain on the backside of the substrate, a TiNi contact layer contacting the drain on the backside of the substrate, a soldering layer on the contact layer, an oxidation reducing layer on the soldering layer, a solder bump on the soldering layer, and a lead frame attached to the solder bump. The combination of the Ti and Ni materials in the contact layer exhibits many features not found in the Ti and Ni materials alone, such as reduced backside on-resistance, ability to form a silicide with the Si substrate at lower temperatures, reduced wafer warpage, increased ductility for improved elasticity, and good adhesion properties. Other embodiments are described.

Abstract: A home heating system which transfers heat generated in a fireplace, throughout the home using the duct work and furnace fan already installed in a home, having a natural gas fired forced air furnace; said home heating system being an inexpensive, simple closed loop system compatible with the existing forced air furnace heating system. The home heating system having a hydro-grate through which a heat transfer fluid flows, said hydro-grate being placed in the fireplace and the fire in the fireplace heating the heat transfer fluid. The home heating system then pumping the hot heat transfer fluid to cooling radiators which are placed in the cold air plenum of the forced air furnace, and the forced air furnace fan being automatically activated. The electrical circuitry of the activating mechanism of the furnace fan being in parallel with the existing temperature activation of the furnace fan, thus the operation of the forced air furnace is in no way affected.