Abstract: A method of forming a semiconductor device includes etching a semiconductor layer to form a plurality of mesa stripes in the semiconductor layer. The plurality of mesa stripes extend in a first direction and include mesa sidewalls that extend in the first direction and mesa surfaces at opposite ends of the mesa stripes. An additional mesa region is formed at an end of at least one of the mesa stripes. The additional mesa region is electrically insulated from the at least one of the mesa stripes. A semiconductor device structure includes a plurality of mesa stripes that extend in a first direction and include mesa sidewalls that extend in the first direction and mesa end surfaces at opposite ends of the mesa stripes. An additional mesa region that is electrically insulated from the at least one of the mesa stripes is at an end of at least one of the mesa stripes.

Abstract: A virtual profilograph is disclosed that can provide measurements indicative of the ride quality of a roadway as the road is being constructed. As a result, a more timely, less costly indication of the ride quality of a roadway is obtained as compared to prior methods. In a first embodiment a Global Navigation Satellite System antenna is attached to a vehicle. When the vehicle travels over a roadway, measurements of the position of the antenna are recorded at different times. A profile of the roadway is created by measuring the elevation of the antenna as a function of the distance traveled from a starting point. In another embodiment, tilt sensors are used to measure the slope of the roadway and the tilt of the vehicle so that a precise orientation of the vehicle and, hence, the contours of the roadway, can be determined.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for using satellite positioning systems to more precisely locate the position of a portion of an attachment on an earthmoving machine is disclosed. More specifically, satellite positioning system antennas are mounted to an arm or other point relative to the arm of an illustrative excavator. A reference point relative to these antennas is used to determine the precise location of a portion of an attachment to the excavator, such as the prongs of a bucket. In one embodiment, an angle sensor or inclinometer is used to ascertain the position of the prongs when the bucket is scooped. In another embodiment, an angle sensor or inclinometer is used to measure the tilt of the body of the excavator, such as would occur when the excavator is resting on a sloped surface.