Patents Issued in January 29, 2004
  • Publication number: 20040016836
    Abstract: A shut device for a discharge outlet in a grinder is disposed at a bottom of the grinder and the shut device includes a stationary part and a rotary part. The stationary part has two concentric arctic walls being opposite to each other symmetrically and each of the arctic walls at an inner side protrudes a tenon next to an end thereof respectively. The rotary part is a step-shaped cap with an abrupt fitting ring corresponding to the two arctic walls so as to fit with the two arctic walls such that the top of the fitting ring can keep contact with the discharge outlet at the circumference thereof. The rotary part has an annular surface with two L-shaped guide grooves corresponding to the two tenons so that the tenons can be inserted into the guide grooves to form an engagement respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Chung-Jen Pai
  • Publication number: 20040016837
    Abstract: A fishing reel which includes a body with a circular spool receiving cavity having a peripheral sidewall, an annular spool supporting surface which defines a central opening, and at least one line feed channel through the peripheral sidewall. An annular spool is positioned within the spool receiving cavity and is supported by the spool supporting surface. The spool has a circumferential line receiving cavity. The line receiving cavity is closed by the peripheral sidewall of the spool receiving cavity. The spool is rotated manually. A brake is provided for braking the rotation of the spool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Len Rodels, Simon Kotik
  • Publication number: 20040016838
    Abstract: A tape cartridge having a low stress tape cartridge leader and cartridge leader shock absorption system for improved reliability. The tape cartridge includes a cartridge housing and a supply reel rotatably connected within the cartridge housing. The supply reel includes a magnetic tape media spooled thereon that is terminated at one end by a tape cartridge leader. The tape cartridge leader includes a connector to attach the leader to a tape-handling device. The tape cartridge also includes a cartridge leader stop formed in the cartridge housing. The cartridge leader stop includes a shock absorbing material to absorb impact forces between the cartridge leader stop and the tape cartridge leader. In another embodiment of the invention, the cartridge leader is configured to uniformly contact the respective portions of the cartridge housing, e.g. the leader stop, to reduce stress concentration points and the overall working load on the leader.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: James J. Kuhar, Stephen Stamm
  • Publication number: 20040016839
    Abstract: A film container incorporating a light-blocking pile fabric composite disposed in bounding relation to a slit opening in the container. The pile fabric composite includes a heat curable resilient polymeric stiffening primer disposed across the underside of a pile fabric and a layer of substantially solvent free, heat activatable adhesive disposed below the primer and bonded to a bare or coated surface of the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Matthew G. Weir, Robert D. Miller
  • Publication number: 20040016840
    Abstract: The invention includes an apparatus for attachment to a camera. One embodiment of the invention includes an attachable storage container. Another embodiment of the invention includes an attachable retractable tether, and a third embodiment includes both an attachable storage container with a retractable tether.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Phillip Joseph Malvini, Daniel Cornell
  • Publication number: 20040016841
    Abstract: A simple windlass tool assembly device includes a position limiting plate, two fastening rods and a rope, wherein two through holes of the position limiting plate are disposed on two corresponding positioning portions on a wheel frame of a vehicle; the fastening rod is respectively inserted into the through hole of the position limiting plate with one end locked at the locking end on the positioning portion and the other end limiting the stop end of the position limiting plate; one end of the rope is fastened onto the two fastening rods and the other end is fastened to a proper fixed object in a nearby area. By virtue of this application, the driving rotation of the wheel tires wind the rope on the two fastening rods to enable the wheel tires to fast move away from the hole so as to achieve the objective of trap-escape and self-rescue.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Cheng-Wen Hsien
  • Publication number: 20040016842
    Abstract: A yarn dye tube includes end portions having male and female elements for aligned stacking of multiple tubes. The female end portion includes a cylindrical ring having non-perforating recesses defining reduced wall portions having a thickness of at least one-half of a wall thickness of ring. Each recess also includes arcuate ends for reducing stress concentrations. The diameter of the inner surface of the female element is greater than that of the inner surface of the ring defining an annular distance therebetween. A radially extending shoulder at the terminal end of the ring contacts the male element of an adjacent tube in a stack of aligned tubes. A fillet at the terminal end of the first end portion ring extends over a substantial portion of the annular distance for reducing stress concentrations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Brian P. Couchey
  • Publication number: 20040016843
    Abstract: An apparatus is available for transferring a flexible material web from an upstream section to at least one downstream section of a machine having a web running direction. The machine is configured for at least one of manufacturing and treating the material web. The apparatus includes two separation elements configured for splitting and thereby separating the material web into an edge strip, an adjoining transfer strip and a remaining web adjoining the transfer strip, the edge strip extending in the web running direction. The apparatus further includes at least one deflection device configured for deflecting the edge strip away from the transfer strip and simultaneously tautening the edge strip upon deflection thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: Voith Paper Patent GmbH
    Inventors: Rudolf Beisswanger, Wolfgang Drefs, Allan Broom, Sylvain Demers
  • Publication number: 20040016844
    Abstract: A device for winding a web of material includes a slotted shaft and a motor. The slot in the shaft is oriented along the longitudinal axis of the shaft, and the slot is open on one end of the shaft. The slot is adapted to receive the edge of the web. The motor is connected to the shaft and adapted to rotate the shaft to thereby wind the web.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Marie N. Felts, Nolan R. Felts
  • Publication number: 20040016845
    Abstract: An integrated and/or modular high-speed aircraft and method of design and manufacture. The aircraft can have a supersonic or near-sonic cruise Mach number. In one embodiment, the aircraft can include an aft body integrated with a delta wing and a rearwardly tapering fuselage to define a smooth forward-to-rear area distribution. A propulsion system, including an engine, inlet, and exhaust nozzle can be integrated into the aft body to be at least partially hidden behind the wing. In one embodiment, the entrance of the inlet can be positioned beneath the wing, and the exit of the nozzle can be positioned at or above the wing. An S-shaped inlet duct can deliver air to the aft-mounted, integrated engine. The aircraft can include aft-mounted elevators, wing-mounted elevons, and forward-mounted canards for pitch control. The construction of the aircraft can be modular to take advantage of commonalties between near-sonic and supersonic structures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Chester P. Nelson
  • Publication number: 20040016846
    Abstract: A modular payload carrier for use in a launch vehicle includes at least one module configured to fit in a payload bay of the vehicle and attachable to at least one other module configured to fit in the bay. The module includes an outer wall contoured generally to fit a bottom surface contour of the bay. The carrier can be used for the manifesting of both deployable and non-deployable payloads. Processing of payloads with the carrier can be performed, in large part, separately from launch vehicle processing. Thus launch costs and turnaround times can be reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Judith C. Blackwell-Thompson, John A. Graves, Anita E. Gale, Dilip K. Darooka, Cory Bird
  • Publication number: 20040016847
    Abstract: Luggage bins for use with aircraft passenger cabins, and aircraft passenger cabin ceilings, such as asymmetrical ceilings. In one embodiment, a luggage bin includes a first portion configured to support luggage and a second portion having an opening configured to receive the first portion when the luggage bin is in a closed configuration. In one aspect of this embodiment, the second portion is positioned proximate to a ceiling portion of an aircraft passenger cabin. A support member extends upwardly from the first portion and includes an upper region fixedly attached proximate to the second portion. In a further aspect of this embodiment, the support member is extendable and retractable along an operating axis to move the first portion up and down relative to the second portion to open and close the luggage bin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Michael A. Ritts
  • Publication number: 20040016848
    Abstract: There is provided a store ejection system and method that use a pressurized non-pyrotechnic gas as the source of energy and transfer mechanism for jettisoning a store from an aircraft. The ejection system includes an on-board pressure vessel for holding the pressurized gas, a releasable seal configured to hermetically seal the pressure vessel, and a pressure regulator fluidly connected to the releasable seal and configured to control a flow of the gas from the pressure vessel when the releasable seal is configured in an open position. The pressure vessel is releasably connected to the pressure regulator and the releasable seal is configured to be released after the pressure vessel is connected to the pressure regulator so that the releasable seal hermetically seals the pressure vessel before the pressure vessel is connected to the pressure regulator. The ejection system also includes at least one actuation system and at least one pneumatically-driven jettison mechanism for releasably retaining the store.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Thaddeus Jakubowski, John K. Foster
  • Publication number: 20040016849
    Abstract: There is provided a store ejection system and method that use a pressurized non-pyrotechnic gas as the source of energy and transfer mechanism for jettisoning a store from an aircraft. The ejection system includes an on-board pressure vessel for holding the pressurized gas, a releasable seal configured to hermetically seal the pressure vessel, and a pressure regulator fluidly connected to the releasable seal and configured to control a flow of the gas from the pressure vessel when the releasable seal is configured in an open position. The pressure vessel is releasably connected to the pressure regulator and the releasable seal is configured to be released after the pressure vessel is connected to the pressure regulator so that the releasable seal hermetically seals the pressure vessel before the pressure vessel is connected to the pressure regulator. The ejection system also includes at least one actuation system and at least one pneumatically-driven jettison mechanism for releasably retaining the store.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Thaddeus Jakubowski, John K. Foster
  • Publication number: 20040016850
    Abstract: An ejection escape system for passenger airplane that there is a locking mechanism at the connection of the left top cabin cover, the right top cabin cover with the airplane body, there is also a locking mechanism at the connection of the left top cabin cover and the right top cabin cover, the passenger seat is an ejection escape seat, the switches for the locking mechanism and the ejection escape seat are installed in the cockpit, where the pilot can turn on the locking mechanism switch to open the left and right top cabin covers and turn on the ejection escape switch to eject the seat out of the airplane through the opening of the left and right top cabin covers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Jung-Min Lin
  • Publication number: 20040016851
    Abstract: A ram air parachute of the present invention includes specific cross porting of the ribs between certain cells to create a two-stage or multi-stage deployments. Cross ports between certain sets of cells have reduced or no conductance. In this manner, the center cells of the canopy open first, slowing decent, before the outer cells. The staged deployment reduces the opening forces on the pilot particularly in high speed flights.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Daniel Preston
  • Publication number: 20040016852
    Abstract: A system for providing an interface between a launch vehicle and a payload of the launch vehicle includes payload integration points of the launch vehicle that remain unchanged relative to different payload configurations, such that a payload is configurable apart from the launch vehicle. The system makes it possible to de-couple payload installation and launch vehicle turnaround operations. Payloads can be configured off-line from launch vehicle processing, thus making it possible to accommodate unique payloads while reducing wear and tear on the launch vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Judith C. Blackwell-Thompson, John A. Graves, Anita E. Gale
  • Publication number: 20040016853
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising: an aerodynamic surface adapted for producing an adverse pressure gradient in a fluid flow; and a first pulse detonation actuator disposed adjacent the aerodynamic surface and adapted for impulsively detonating a fuel/air mixture to produce a pressure rise and velocity increase of combustion products therein, the aerodynamic surface having a plurality of separation control holes adapted for communicating combustion product flows from the first pulse detonation actuator to the aerodynamic surface for modulating separation of the fluid flow from the aerodynamic surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Seyed Gholamali Saddoughi
  • Publication number: 20040016854
    Abstract: A bin includes a wall structure, a first lid, a second lid, and a frame that supports the wall structure. The first lid and the second lid removably secure to the wall structure. The frame permits movement of the wall structure between a first storage position whereby the second lid forms a bottom of the bin and a second storage position whereby the first lid forms a bottom of the bin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Donald Timothy Hart
  • Publication number: 20040016855
    Abstract: The invention comprises a ring-shaped support base comprising a first outer skirt portion supporting a second inner ring portion extending upwardly from the first outer skirt portion. The second inner ring portion is adapted to slidably engage a base ring attached to the bottom of a gas cylinder, and is provided with a chamfered lip adapted to supportably communicate with the bottom of the cylinder. The support base can be fixedly attached to the base ring through threaded fasteners extending through the second inner ring and the cylinder base ring or a plurality of detents.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Steven J. Berry, Marianne E. Berry
  • Publication number: 20040016856
    Abstract: The invention relates to a musical-instrument stand, in particular for guitars, and comprises a first side and a second side, each of which defines a lower part and an upper part. The lower parts of the first and the second sides each comprises foot elements or setting the stand on a floor surface. In their upper parts, the first and the second sides respectively comprises a first and a second joint element, which together define a pivot joint in order that the sides can be pivoted with respect to one another about a predetermined axis of rotation. A releasable catch is also provided in the region of the joint elements to lock the guitar stand in at least one pivot position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Hans-Peter Wilfer
  • Publication number: 20040016857
    Abstract: The invention relates to a camera stand head comprising a device (17, 18, 19, 20) for attenuating a tilting movement, and a device for compensating gravity torque occurring during the tilting movement. The device for compensating the gravity torque comprises at least one first, fixed bearing (4), at least one second bearing (5) which is connected to an inclinable part, and at least one torsion spring (7) having adjustable torsion rigidity. Said torsion spring is arranged between the bearings (4, 5) and comprises at least one spring bar (8), the axis of the spring bar being spatially offset in relation to the central axis (15) of the torsion spring (7). The characteristic curve (torque over angle of rotation) of the torsion spring extends essentially in a sinusoidal manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Leonhard Jaumann
  • Publication number: 20040016858
    Abstract: Disclosed is a cup holder for use in an automobile. The cup holder is mounted in a console of the automobile. A jaw that serves to lift a cover for the cup holder is integrally formed at one side of an upper surface of the cover. In this cup holder, there is no necessity for employing additional guides in order to hold the beverage can or the beverage can. The cup holder is capable of independently receiving various sized articles with maintaining a good external appearance and it is convenient to use. When a user open a front cover among the total covers for opening or closing retaining grooves, there is no necessity for opening the back covers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Ha Kwon Bong
  • Publication number: 20040016859
    Abstract: A cup holder device includes an attachment base, a holder main member, and a holder arm formed of first to third arms. The first arm has one end part rotatably supported to the holder main member, and the other end part with a first placement portion where the container bottom can be placed. The second arm has one end part rotatably supported to the other end part of the first arm through a first link portion, and a second placement portion at the one end part. In an unfolded state, the second placement portion continues from the first placement portion to support the container bottom. The third arm includes one end part rotatably supported to the other end part of the second arm, and the other end part rotatably supported to the holder main member through a second link portion. Thus, the cup holder device can be made compact and stably hold a container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: NIFCO INC.
    Inventor: Satoshi Nishizawa
  • Publication number: 20040016860
    Abstract: A cat litter scoop holder that includes scoop retaining walls that define a pocket for receiving a cat litter scoop. The holder includes a base upon which it sets upright. Its sides can be open to promote airflow. The pocket includes a drain. The base preferably is hollow such that it forms a chamber with the floor to help retain drainage. The holder preferably includes flanges disposed on each side of the scoop to help keep it in the pocket and constrain lateral scoop movement. One wall preferably is inclined such that it forms an acute included angle with the other wall such that a pocket of vee-shaped cross section having its apex adjacent the base is formed. This pocket construction helps keep the scoop upright. The holder can include a hinged lid that can function as a retaining wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: G.H.L. International, Inc.
    Inventors: John M. Lipscomb, Timothy B. Strandell, Daniel J. DeLay
  • Publication number: 20040016861
    Abstract: A mounting system for detachably mounting an item (10) to a base. The mounting system includes a first engaging portion of the item (10) and a second engaging portion on the base. The first engaging portion includes a first flange portion (24) adapted to engage with a second flange portion (50) on the second engaging portion. The item includes a locking member (28) which is moveable between a first position in which it engages with the second flange portion (50) and prevents detachment of the item (10) from the base and a second position in which the locking member (28) does not engage with the second flange portion (50) and the item (10) is removable from the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: John Ordeman
  • Publication number: 20040016862
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for mounting a component using a mounting accessory is disclosed herein. The mounting accessory and the component are designed and configured to provide a variety of different mounting methods, as required by the environment. The component and the mounting accessory are designed to provide a variety of mated relationships therebetween. The component makes contact with the mounting accessory in at least two locations or contact points to provide a secure attachment that is easily changeable to provide a desired orientation. Connecting the component to the mounting accessory is carried out with at least two mated attachment points, a portion of the component is received into an orifice of the mounting accessory and a portion of the mounting accessory is received into an orifice of the component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: GN Netcom, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen R. Lyman, Benjamin J. Beck, Douglas A. Marsden
  • Publication number: 20040016863
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for vacuum thermoforming disposable drink cups lids including the step of imparting printing to the lids while they are in contact with the vacuum thermoforming platen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Ivonis M. Mazzarolo
  • Publication number: 20040016864
    Abstract: Solid rollers of a urethane material are formed in closed mold formed by a tube and two end plugs spaced by a shaft, the latter becoming the shaft for the roller. The closed mold avoids rough grinding to a cylindrical shape, as well as avoiding the resulting waste of material and introduction of defects that arise from rough grinding. The formation of bubbles during injection of the urethane material is avoided by filling the closed mold with carbon dioxide gas prior to injection. The formation of gate marks in the urethane material is avoided by repositioning the end caps after injection to separate the injection gate from the cylindrical cavity. The need to trim the ends of the roller is avoided by providing an annular cavity between the top end cap and the tube that receives excess urethane material to be drawn into the cylindrical cavity as the urethane shrinks during curing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Peter Wallace Bracken, Terry Cutshall, Wojciech Starski
  • Publication number: 20040016865
    Abstract: A pyranometer for measuring solar irradiance at a selected site comprises a light detector adapted to produce an output signal in response to incident solar radiation, a reversible motor having a curved shadowband attached to its output shaft, means for mounting the light detector and motor so that the shadowband is at a fixed distance from the light detector; and a motor controller that is adapted to periodically cause the motor to rotate the shadowband from one to the other of two limit positions, with the shadowband acting to momentarily shadow the light detector during its movement between its two limit positions. A datalogger stores and processes the light detector's signal output to provide a measure of total horizontal, direct normal and horizontal diffuse solar irradiance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: RWE Schott Solar, Inc.
    Inventor: Ruel D. Little
  • Publication number: 20040016866
    Abstract: A light source control method and apparatus of an image scanner is disclosed. The invention utilizes a determination means and an illumination control device to perform partial or full illumination and adjust brightness so that the light source can be operated more efficiently and more economically.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: VEUTRON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yin-Chun Huang, Chin-Lien Chang
  • Publication number: 20040016867
    Abstract: An amplifier circuit (200) having an amplifier chain comprising an input port (215) and an output port (235) with a plurality of interconnected gain stages (220-227) therebetween, where the output of one stage provides an input to the next stage within the amplifier chain, the output port (235) being operably coupled to the plurality of interconnected gain stages (220-227) such that the amplifier circuit output is generated from any one or more of the interconnected gain stages (220-227).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: Applied Materials Israel, Inc.
    Inventors: Erel Milshtein, Ron Naftali
  • Publication number: 20040016868
    Abstract: Apparatus are configured to perform optical scanning functions on scannable objects. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus includes an imaging portion and a scanning portion, wherein the scanning portion is operatively located below the imaging portion. In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus includes an enclosure, a scan head operatively mounted within the enclosure, and a movable platen that is extensible relative to the enclosure to facilitate placement of scannable objects on the platen. In accordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus can include a sheet feeding mechanism that can be employed to automatically feed image-bearing sheets across the platen for scanning when the platen is retracted in the scan position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Patrick A. Cherry, Diana L. Cherry, J. Michael Dunlap
  • Publication number: 20040016869
    Abstract: A shared photodetector active pixel sensor uses a single photodetector between two different active pixels. The photodetector has a number of connection portions, which allow connecting to the different photodetector portions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Scott Patrick Campbell, Eric R. Fossum
  • Publication number: 20040016870
    Abstract: An imaging system for a vehicle includes an imaging sensor and a control. The imaging sensor is operable to capture an image of a scene occurring exteriorly of the vehicle. The control receives the captured image, which comprises an image data set representative of the exterior scene. The control may apply an edge detection algorithm to a reduced image data set of the image data set. The reduced image data set is representative of a target zone of the captured image. The control may be operable to process the reduced image data set more than other image data, which are representative of areas of the captured image outside of the target zone, to detect objects present within the target zone. The imaging system may be associated with a side object detection system, a lane change assist system, a lane departure warning system and/or the like.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: John A. Pawlicki, Martha A. McMahon, Steven G. Chinn, Joel S. Gibson
  • Publication number: 20040016871
    Abstract: An image pickup device includes a ceramic package in which the image pickup device is mounted, and an optical member which seals a space defined between an image pickup surface of the image pickup device and the optical member within the ceramic package. The optical member is provided, on the surface thereof which is opposed to the image pickup surface, with a coating layer formed by ion-plating, the coating layer being adhered to the ceramic package by an adhesive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 16, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: PENTAX Corporation
    Inventors: Makoto Mogamiya, Teruo Sakai
  • Publication number: 20040016872
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method for producing an array (20) of p-intrinsic-n light detectors, as is an array produced in accordance with the method. The method includes providing a wafer (1); forming a first layer (2) having a first type of electrical conductivity (e.g., n-type) over a surface of the wafer; forming a second layer (3) that is an intrinsic layer on the first layer and, for each light detector, implanting or diffusing a region (9A) into a surface of the second layer that is opposite the surface on the first layer, the region (9A) having a second type of electrical conductivity (e.g., p-type). The method further includes forming an opening or aperture, referred to herein as a V-groove (6), through the second layer at least to the first layer; and electrically contacting with a first electrical contact (15, 9B, 13B) the first layer through the V-groove.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 26, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Andrew G. Toth, Le T. Pham, Jerry R. Cripe
  • Publication number: 20040016873
    Abstract: In a photoelectric device-part, a bonding pad is formed without increasing a plane area of a concave part for housing a photoelectric device to implement miniaturization and improvement of the light usability efficiency. A light reflecting surface 3 of nearly a parabola configuration or the like provided for light emission and reception by a photoelectric device 5 is formed on a slanting curved surface constituting a concave part 2 of a circuit substrate 1. A convex portion 9a projecting from the light reflecting surface 3 and a receding concave portion 9b are formed in the middle of the concave part 2. A stage 9 is formed by an upper and bottom surfaces of the convex and concave portions 9a and 9b, respectively. A bonding pad 7 for connecting circuits of the photoelectric device 5 is formed at the stage 9.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinobu Kida, Jun Tatsuta, Hiroyuki Yoshida, Mikio Masui
  • Publication number: 20040016874
    Abstract: An automatic polarization controller is described that includes an optical input that receives a polarization multiplexed optical pulse train that comprises a first and a second polarized optical pulse train. A dither modulation signal is superimposed on at least one of the first and the second polarized optical pulse trains. A polarization transformer transforms an input polarization state of the polarization multiplexed optical pulse train to an output polarization state in response to a control signal that is applied to a control input of the polarization transformer. A polarization selective element receives the transformed polarization multiplexed optical pulse train and passes a polarized optical pulse train including the dither modulation signal. A detector receives the polarized optical pulse train including the superimposed dither modulation signal and generates a signal that is proportional to the amplitude of the dither modulation signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2001
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Hemonth G. Rao, Michael J. LaGasse, John M. Jacob
  • Publication number: 20040016875
    Abstract: The relative position of two members is determined based upon a detected relative intensities of first and second colors of light. The intensity balance associated with relative occlusion of first and second color filter portions on one member by a mask on the other member. An exemplary use is in rotational position sensing within a limited rotation range. With a given compliance between the two members, the position sensing can be used as a proxy for torque sensing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Dana R. Yoerger, David K. Nergaard, Albert M. Bradley
  • Publication number: 20040016876
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for etching a semiconductor device which can perform an etching process without causing electrical and physical damages using a neutral beam generated by a simple apparatus. In the method, ions of an ion beam having a predetermined polarity are extracted from an ion source and accelerated. An accelerated ion beam is reflected by a reflector and neutralized. A substrate to be etched positioned in the path of the neutral beam in order to etch a special material layer on the substrate with the neutral beam. The gradient of the reflector is adjusted to control an angle of incidence of the ion beam incident on the reflector, and a voltage is applied to the reflector to control the path of an incident ion beam.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Geun-Young Yeom, Daebaing Lee
  • Publication number: 20040016877
    Abstract: A mass spectrometer is disclosed comprising a vortex mass filter/analyser. The vortex mass filter/analyser preferably comprises a chamber with a central rotatable shaft connected to a pressure reducing means. As the shaft rotates, a vortex is created within the chamber. The centrifugal force on an ion in the vortex is arranged to be balanced at a certain radius of rotation within the chamber by the electric force due to an opposed radial electric field. Ions having a certain mass to charge ratio are arranged to be maintained at a stable equilibrium at this radius and can then be selectively removed for further analysis. With this arrangement, no magnetic field is required and the apparatus can operate at pressures around that of atmospheric pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Robert Harold Bateman
  • Publication number: 20040016878
    Abstract: A droplet/electrospray device and a liquid chromatography-electrospray system are disclosed. The droplet/electrospray device comprises a substrate defining a channel between an entrance orifice on an injection surface and an exit orifice on an ejection surface, a nozzle defined by a portion recessed from the ejection surface surrounding the exit orifice, and an electrode for application of an electric potential to the substrate to optimize and generate droplets or an electrospray. A plurality of these electrospray devices can be used in the form of an array of miniaturized nozzles. The liquid chromatography-electrospray device comprises a separation substrate defining an introduction channel between an entrance orifice and a reservoir and a separation channel between the reservoir and an exit orifice, the separation channel being populated with separation posts perpendicular to the fluid flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Gary A. Schultz, Thomas N. Corso
  • Publication number: 20040016879
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for presenting an analyte of a liquid sample as an MS-analyte to a mass spectrometer. More particularly, the method comprises the steps of applying a liquid sample containing the analyte to a sample inlet port of a microchannel structure of a microfluidic device, said structure also comprising an outlet port (MS-port) that is capable of being interfaced with a mass spectrometer, passing the analyte to the MS-port thereby transforming it to an MS-analyte, and presenting the MS-analyte to mass spectrometer via the MS-port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: GYROS AB
    Inventors: Per Andersson, Helene Derand, Magnus Gustafsson, Anders Palm, Susanne Wallenborg
  • Publication number: 20040016880
    Abstract: The method relates to the preparation of a TEM lamella from a structured sample, in particular of a microelectronic device, which has a location to be examined, situated at an unknown position. Firstly, the structural element within which the region to be examined is situated is prelocalized. Afterwards, the TEM lamella is sectioned by means of an ion beam of an FIB apparatus with a thickness such that the entire structural element is contained in the TEM lamella. This method considerably increases the probability that the location to be examined will actually be situated in the TEM lamella, without the sample or lamella having to be transported too often.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: EMPA Eidg. Materialprufungs- und Forschungsanstalt
    Inventors: Joachim Reiner, Philippe Gasser
  • Publication number: 20040016881
    Abstract: An apparatus for preventing distortion to critical dimension line images formed by a SEM under the influence of external electromagnetic emissions generated by neighboring manufacturing equipment. The external emission causes a high three sigma A/C component. The correcting apparatus includes an external shielding coil mounted to the column housing of the SEM. A control electro-emission driver is mounted to the external shielding coil in which a variable voltage divider having a transformer with a variable resistor. The variable resistor is adjusted varying the amplitude of the sine wave of the A/C signal thus controlling the electro-emission driver while reducing the effects of the three sigma A/C component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: Chartered Semiconductor Manufacturing Ltd.
    Inventors: Kevin Chan Ee Peng, Yelehanka Ramachandramurthy Pradeep, Chua Thow Phock
  • Publication number: 20040016882
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a scanning electron microscope for reducing a process concerning inspection positioning or an input operation, thereby functioning with high precision at high speed. To accomplish the above object, the present invention provides a scanning electron microscope having a finction for identifying a desired position on the basis of a pattern registered beforehand, which includes a means for setting information concerning the pattern kind, the interval between a plurality of parts constituting the pattern, and the size of parts constituting the pattern and a means for forming a pattern image composed of a plurality of parts on the basis of the information obtained by the concerned means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: Hitachi, Ltd,
    Inventors: Satoru Yamaguchi, Takashi Ilzumi, Osamu Komuro, Hidetoshi Morokuma, Tatsuya Maeda, Juntaro Arima, Yasuhiko Ozawa
  • Publication number: 20040016883
    Abstract: A system and method for providing spatial, temporal, energy-resolving detection of single photons using superconducting transmission lines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Applicant: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Stanislav V. Polonsky, Roger H. Koch, Moyra K. McManus
  • Publication number: 20040016884
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for calibrating PET PMTs includes conducting a calibration procedure and determining whether a number of photons absorbed by a corresponding crystal exceeds a count threshold. If the threshold is exceeded the steps of conducting a calibration procedure and determining whether a number of photons absorbed by a corresponding crystal exceeds a count threshold would be repeated and if the threshold is not exceeded then the calibration procedure would be ended.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: John Jay Williams, Kelly Alan Stonger
  • Publication number: 20040016885
    Abstract: Disclosed is a radiation detector element assembly. The radiation detector assembly comprises a scintillator and a photo sensor, the scintillator including a first surface proximate to a photo sensor and a second surface distal to the first surface and receptive to a radiation beam. The radiation detector also includes a side portion of the scintillator configured to intercept impingement of a radiation beam thereon and reduce response of the photo sensor to said impingement on the side portion. Also disclosed herein is a method of detecting an incident radiation beam. The method comprising: receiving a radiation beam incident upon a second surface of a scintillator, the scintillator including a first surface proximate to a photo sensor and a second surface distal to the first surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventor: Abdelaziz Ikhlef