Patents by Inventor Nigel Smith
Nigel Smith has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
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Patent number: 7155240Abstract: A method of determining the position of a target comprising the steps of: providing a transmitter or a plurality of transmitters to transmit a signal to the target, providing a receiver or a plurality of receivers to receive signals reflected from said target. Determining the time of arrival information of said reflected signal at the or each receiver; using information pertaining to the position of the or each receiver and/or the or each transmitter and with the information obtained determining the target position. Preferably the signal includes a modulated or coded portion unique to the transmitter; and said signal portion is associated with the or each particular transmitter by virtue of said signal portion. The signal maybe a mobile phone transmission, DAB, digital TV, digital Radio or digital satellite transmissions.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2002Date of Patent: December 26, 2006Assignee: Roke Manor Research LimitedInventors: Simon John Atkinson, Adam Alexander Baker, Bryan Stephen Rickett, Christopher Nigel Smith, Robert John Weedon
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Publication number: 20060224481Abstract: A method for determining the current value of a future development is disclosed. The method includes receiving a set of data corresponding to a plurality of variables associated with the future development and converting the set of data to a financial gain distributed over an estimated production period. The method further includes calculating a net present value of the distributed financial gain to the start of production and risk reducing the net present value of the distributed financial gain according to risks associated with the future development. The method also includes determining a distributed cost of the future development and calculating a net present value of the distributed cost and the risk reduced net present value of the distributed financial gain of the future development.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 30, 2005Publication date: October 5, 2006Inventors: Brian Lee Boggs, Julie Ammon-Balk, Thomas Richards, Ulf Lindqwister, Dennis Kelly, Bappaditya Banerjee, Lisa Mirande, Nigel Smith, Steven Hofstetter, Robert Scott, Kenton Weaver, Justin Koch
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Publication number: 20060197950Abstract: In systems and methods measure overlay error in semiconductor device manufacturing based on target image asymmetry. As a result, the advantages of using very small in-chip targets can be achieved, while their disadvantages are reduced or eliminated. Methods for determining overlay error based on measured asymmetry can be used with existing measurement tools and systems. These methods allow for improved manufacturing of semiconductor devices and similar devices formed from layers.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 22, 2006Publication date: September 7, 2006Inventors: Nigel Smith, Yi-sha Ku, Hsiu-Lan Pang
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Publication number: 20060151890Abstract: In an overlay metrology method used during semiconductor device fabrication, an overlay alignment mark facilitates alignment and/or measurement of alignment error of two layers on a semiconductor wafer structure, or different exposures on the same layer. A target is small enough to be positioned within the active area of a semiconductor device combined with appropriate measurement methods, which result in improved measurement accuracy.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 13, 2005Publication date: July 13, 2006Inventors: Nigel Smith, Yi-Sha Ku, Hsin Pang
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Publication number: 20060146347Abstract: A system and method for efficiently and accurately determining grating profiles uses characteristic signature matching in a discrepancy enhanced library generation process. Using light scattering theory, a series of scattering signatures vs. scattering angles or wavelengths are generated based on the designed grating parameters, for example. CD, thickness and Line:Space ratio. This method selects characteristic portions of the signatures wherever their discrepancy exceeds the preset criteria and reforms a characteristic signature library for quick and accurate matching. A rigorous coupled wave theory can be used to generate a diffraction library including a plurality of simulated diffraction spectrums based on a predetermined structural parameter of the grating. The characteristic region of the plurality of simulated diffraction spectrums is determined based on if the root mean square error of the plurality of simulated diffraction spectrums is larger than a noise level of a measuring machine.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 28, 2005Publication date: July 6, 2006Inventors: Nigel Smith, Yi-sha Ku, Shih Wang, Chun-hung Ko
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Publication number: 20060117293Abstract: Precision in scatterometry measurements is improved by designing the reticle, or the target grating formed by the reticle, for greater overlay measurement sensitivity. Parameters of the structure and material of the substrate are first determined. These parameters may include the material composition, thickness, and sidewall angles of the sample substrate. The target grating is then designed so that the overlay measurement, on the sample substrate, is made more sensitive. A suitable measurement wavelength is selected, optionally via computer simulation, to further improve the sensitivity. This method increases the change of reflective signatures with overlay offsets, and thus improves the sensitivity of overlay measurement.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 28, 2005Publication date: June 1, 2006Inventors: Nigel Smith, Chun-hung Ko, Yi-sha Ku, Shih Wang
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Publication number: 20060100304Abstract: A nucleus pulposus of an intervertebral disc is supplemented or replaced by an elongated, physiologically fully hydrated hydrogel prosthesis inserted into the central region of an intervertebral disc, where it can fold upon itself to form a prosthesis body within the central region of the annulus fibrosus. The hydrogel prosthesis may have expanded portions that assist in preventing expulsion of the prosthesis through the insertion aperture. An instrument for inserting the prosthesis has a cutter for severing the elongated prosthesis within the central region of the intervertebral disc after a sufficient amount has been implanted.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 23, 2005Publication date: May 11, 2006Inventors: Edward Vresilovic, Michael Keane, Alastair Clemow, Nigel Smith
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Publication number: 20060029493Abstract: Noise control with respect to rotating machinery such as gas turbine engines is important to meet acceptable operational and environmental constraints. Buzz-saw noise in particular is due to differences in blade to blade geometries both as assembled and due to blade manufacturing tolerance variations. Generally, a plurality of blades rotate within a duct and some noise propagates forwards of the blade assembly. In order to abate such noise an acoustic lining is provided. By consideration of the acoustic attenuation effects of that lining, it is possible to rearrange the blades within the blade assembly such that the overall noise attenuation effects are improved.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 15, 2005Publication date: February 9, 2006Inventors: Peter Schwaller, Nigel Smith
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Publication number: 20050247725Abstract: The invention provides an adaptation to a rimstick dispenser of the type having a reservoir of active liquid and a flow controller to control the rate at which liquid is dispensed from the reservoir. In accordance with the invention a source of further active substance is provided so as to improve the efficacy of the dispenser, without otherwise affecting the assembly or operation of the dispenser. In one embodiment this source of further active is retained about the outlet neck of the reservoir so as to be sandwiched between the reservoir and the flow controller when the two components are assembled together.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2003Publication date: November 10, 2005Applicant: Robert McBride LimitedInventor: Nigel Smith
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Patent number: 6724278Abstract: An arrangement for multi-standard duplex filtering for mobile terminals in a telecommunications system. The arrangement includes a substrate on which a first array of filter elements and a second array of filter elements are formed. The filter elements have different frequency bands in accordance with mobile telecommunications standards. The first array filters an incoming signal received from an antenna and provides an output at port in accordance with a matched frequency band of one of the standards. The second array filters a signal to be applied to port in accordance with a matched frequency band of one of the standards prior to transmission through antenna. The filter elements may comprise surface acoustic wave devices formed on a single substrate.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2001Date of Patent: April 20, 2004Assignee: Roke Manor Research LimitedInventor: Christopher Nigel Smith
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Publication number: 20030188154Abstract: A system and a method for the creation and transmission of “pre-encrypted” digital content, which is encrypted before being placed on a distributed media transmission server. Preferably a plurality of such servers are used, for example in order to be able to place such a media transmission server in physical proximity to the end user client, whether in terms of geographical proximity or proximity through the network. Use of a plurality of transmission servers also optionally enables the media content to be transmitted flexibly, according to the request of the end user through the end user client.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 6, 2003Publication date: October 2, 2003Inventors: Nigel Stephen Dallard, Nigel Smith, David Samuel Chechik
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Publication number: 20030056697Abstract: There is described a merchandise display matrix (1) which comprises a support assembly (2) adapted to be fitted with one or more spacer bars (4), the distal end (6) of the spacer bar (4) being capable of supporting a hoarding (8) provided with at least one display aperture (9, 10) wherein one or more merchandise display trays (13) may be arranged to be visible through the display aperture. There is also described a method of displaying merchandise and also a kit comprising a support assembly (2), one or more spacer bars (4), a hoarding (8) provided with a display aperture (9, 10) and one or more merchandise display trays (13).Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2002Publication date: March 27, 2003Inventors: Peter Crown, Nigel Smith, Jared Bowmar
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Patent number: 6221108Abstract: A process for improving the start up and steady rate friction of soft/compliant polyurethane bearings uses a pre-treatment with Ringers solution. The process includes treating the polyurethane in a heated bath of the solution for 96 hours at a temperature of between 30° C. and 37° C.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 1998Date of Patent: April 24, 2001Assignee: Howmedica International Inc.Inventor: Nigel Smith
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Patent number: 5943370Abstract: A direct conversion receiver for a radio system has an antenna and blocking filter connected to an amplifier. The input signal is split and mixed with an in-phase signal and a quadrature phase signal generated by an oscillator in a mixer circuit. An output from each mixer circuit is applied to a low pass filter and to an input of a limiting circuit. The output from each low pass filter is applied to respective circuits, a first of which is arranged to sum the in-phase and quadrature phase signals, and the second of which is arranged to subtract the in-phase and quadrature phase signals to generate a respective output signal having an axis intermediate the in-phase and quadrature phase signal axes. These signals, together with the in-phase and quadrature phase signals are passed through a limiting circuit respectively, to a decoder circuit for recovering the data. The output of the limiting circuits represent signals quantized to eight possible phase states separated by 45.degree..Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 1997Date of Patent: August 24, 1999Assignee: Roke Manor Research LimitedInventor: Christoper Nigel Smith
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Patent number: 5382304Abstract: This invention provides a ferromagnetic material Fe.sub.60 M.sub.x N.sub.y where M is at least one element selected from Al, Ga, In and Tl, N is at least one element selected from P, As, Sb and Bi, x has a range of 1.ltoreq..times..ltoreq.39 and x+y=40 and excluding Fe.sub.60 Ga.sub.X AS.sub.y. A preferred ferromagnetic material is Fe.sub.60 Ga.sub.x As.sub.y , preferably when x has a range of 3.ltoreq..times..ltoreq.37, more preferably when x has a range of 20.ltoreq..times..ltoreq.37, and even more preferably when x has a range of 30.ltoreq..times..ltoreq.37. Typically, ferromagnetic materials of this type can be homogenised by annealing or melt spinning. Melt spun Fe.sub.60 Ga.sub.x As.sub.y can show Curie Temperatures (T.sub.c) of about 470.degree. C. and saturation magnestions of about 89 emu/g. Typically a ferromagentic material of the Fe.sub.60 M.sub.x N.sub.y has a B8.sub.2 type structure.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 1992Date of Patent: January 17, 1995Assignee: The Secretary of State for Defence in Her Britannic Majesty's Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern IrelandInventors: Brian Cockayne, William R. MacEwan, Ivor R. Harris, Nigel A. Smith
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Patent number: 5244434Abstract: A controllable slot ventilator has a housing and a closure member pivotably mounted on the housing to selectively close a vent in the housing. The closure member is supported on linking elements which are mounted on the closure member. The linking elements are arranged so as to rotate when the closure is moved between the open and closed position. The angle between a line, passing between the pivot points of the linking element, and the general plane of the closure member increases when the closure member moves to the open position.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 1991Date of Patent: September 14, 1993Assignee: Titon Hardware LimitedInventors: Arthur Stoney, Nigel Smith
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Patent number: 5114669Abstract: A ferromagnetic material having the formula MGa.sub.2-x As.sub.x where 0.15.ltoreq.x.ltoreq.0.99 and M represents one of Fe.sub.3, Fe.sub.3 partially substituted by manganese or Fe.sub.3 partially substituted by cobalt.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 1990Date of Patent: May 19, 1992Assignee: The Secretary of State for Defence in Her Britannic Majesty's Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern IrelandInventors: Brian Cockayne, William R. MacEwan, Ivor R. Harris, Nigel A. Smith