Patents Issued in August 7, 2008
  • Publication number: 20080185501
    Abstract: With the related art, the choice of locations for disposition of ambient light photosensors is narrow, and consequently it is difficult to respond flexibly to user specifications for differing structures of the case. With a display device of the invention however, ambient light photosensors can be disposed laterally and longitudinally, enabling the intensity of light in longitudinal or lateral directions to be sensed at the same levels. Also, bridge-connecting together the longitudinally-disposed ambient light photosensors enables ambient light photosensors to be disposed close to the outer periphery of the display area in both the longitudinal and lateral directions. Thereby, the problems with the related art can be resolved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Takashi Kunimori, Yasushi Yamazaki, Masanori Yasumori
  • Publication number: 20080185502
    Abstract: An amplification type solid-state image pickup device of the invention includes a plurality of photoelectric conversion sections 10 each having an embedded photodiode 1 and a transfer transistor 2, a switched capacitor amplifier section 20 whose input side is connected to a charge detection node 8 to which output terminals of the plurality of photoelectric conversion sections 10 are connected in common, and a current amplification section 21 connected between the switched capacitor amplifier section 20 and a vertical signal line 9. Signal charge from the plurality of photoelectric conversion sections 10 is converted into voltage by the switched capacitor amplifier section 20, and the converted signal is current-amplified by the current amplification section 21 and outputted to the vertical signal line 9. Thus, a less-noise, high-quality image can be obtained while a reduction of the pixel size is achieved by reducing the number of transistors per pixel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Eiji Koyama
  • Publication number: 20080185503
    Abstract: An image analysis and enhancement system is provided with an image processor, imaging metrics, an image storage depository, and a reconfigurable sensor device that can be present at the same location. A remote reconfigurable sensor device is connected to the image processor via a communication link. Both the reconfigurable sensor device and the remote reconfigurable sensor device are equipped with selectable optical elements and imaging elements that are selected in a desired combination and orientation to capture desired image frames from a target scene or object. The selectable optical and imaging elements are provided with actuating devices to move and translate the selected optical and imaging elements into a desired orientation with one another, so that a desired imaging technique can be employed to obtain an enhanced image. The system is applicable to industrial, medical and military use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: United States of America as Represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Paul R. Ashley, William C. Pittman
  • Publication number: 20080185504
    Abstract: Disclosed are pharmaceutical dosage unit manufacturing process control apparatus and methods. These can include acquiring a plurality of multi-pixel images of a flow of pharmaceutical dosage units at different wavelengths along an axis that is perpendicular to a direction of the flow of pharmaceutical dosage units, processing the images acquired in the step of acquiring, and providing an indication about the flow of pharmaceutical dosage units based on the step of processing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2004
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: E. Lewis, David Strachan, Linda Kidder
  • Publication number: 20080185505
    Abstract: There is provided an encoder in which the absolute angle can be detected with high accuracy even when the irradiated position of light to be detected with respect to a scale is displaced from a reference, and a photodetecting device for an encoder used for such an encoder. In the encoder 1, by passing light to be detected through a straight-line light transmitting portion 17, a bright portion 19 to which the light to be detected is irradiated is formed in an area of a scale plate 11 containing mutually separate parts of arranged lines L1 and L2 and also a dark portion 20 to which no light to be detected is irradiated is formed in the other area. Accordingly, a relative angle between light intensity peaks P1 and P2 (reference relative angle) can be uniquely calculated based on the shape of the light transmitting portion 17.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2006
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Seiichiro Mizuno, Yoshitaka Terada, Hitoshi Inoue, Takayuki Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20080185506
    Abstract: An illumination light to be used for position measurement of a movable scale is spatially (or physically) split into a first illumination light and a second illumination light using a triangle prism, and the first and second illumination lights are made to be incident on the same position on the movable scale, so that positional information of the movable scale is detected by utilizing interference of the first and second illumination lights. The spatially split first and second illumination lights interfere with each other even when they are made to be incident on the same position of the movable scale and are completely overlapped with each other, which is different, for example, from the case of the ±1st order diffracted lights that are generated by an illumination light being ±1st order diffracted by a diffraction grating. Therefore, wasted illumination lights that do not contribute to the interference can be minimized and the use efficiency of illumination lights can be improved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: SENDAI NIKON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Susumu Makinouchi, Akihiro Watanabe, Toru Imai
  • Publication number: 20080185507
    Abstract: A photosensor with customizable angular-response characteristics is presented. This photosensor includes a light-modifier located between the photosensor and a target area to be monitored by the photosensor, wherein the light-modifier provides a customizable angular response for light received at the photosensor from the target area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
    Inventors: Erik Page, Keith Graeber, Konstantinos Papamichael, Michael Siminovitch
  • Publication number: 20080185508
    Abstract: An improved packaging module of an optical sensor includes a circuit board and an optical sensor module. The optical sensor module comprises a linear optical sensor, and an illuminating unit respectively electronically connected with the circuit board, and a second protective body packaging the linear optical sensor and the illuminating unit. A first protective body covers the linear optical sensor and illuminating unit, the second protective body defines a first aperture corresponding to the linear optical sensor and a second aperture corresponding to the illuminating unit. A first light pipe set at the first aperture and a second light pipe set at the second aperture, the linear optical sensor, illuminating unit, first protective body and second protective body are combined integrally, which makes the packaging module process simple, adjustment of the optical sensor module's components achieved automatically, and the space of the optical sensor is reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Chia-Chu Cheng, Ya-Lun Lee, Yu-Wei Lu
  • Publication number: 20080185509
    Abstract: A particle-optical apparatus, such as an ESEM®, for simultaneous observing a sample with particles and photons. A pressure limiting aperture (PLA) is placed in a diaphragm between the objective lens of the ESEM® and the sample position. The distance between the sample position and the aperture is sufficiently small to allow a large collection angle of the photons through this aperture. A mirror is placed between the diaphragm and the objective lens. Due to the large collection angle for photons a large NA is achieved. The small distance between sample position and aperture also result in less scattering of electrons than occurs in ESEM's where a mirror is placed between aperture and sample position, as the electrons have to travel through only a limited length in a high pressure area. Embodiments describe combinations where e.g. an immersion lens is used.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: FEI COMPANY
    Inventor: William Ralph Knowles
  • Publication number: 20080185510
    Abstract: Systems and methods for reducing background noise in a mass spectrum. The method includes the following steps of: (a) obtaining an original mass spectrum; (b) determining a noise mass spectrum corresponding to background noise in the original mass spectrum; and (c) determining a corrected mass spectrum by subtracting the noise mass spectrum from the original mass spectrum. Step (b) of the method may include the steps of: A) effecting a transformation of the original mass spectrum into the frequency domain to obtain an original frequency spectrum; B) identifying at least one dominant frequency in the original frequency spectrum; C) generating a noise frequency spectrum by selectively filtering for said dominant frequencies; and D) determining the noise mass spectrum by effecting a transformation of the noise frequency spectrum into the mass domain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicants: MDS Analytical Technologies, a business unit of MDS Inc, doing business through its Sciex division, APPLERA CORPORATION
    Inventor: Gordana Ivosev
  • Publication number: 20080185511
    Abstract: A tandem mass spectrometer includes a two-dimensional ion trap that has an elongated ion-trapping region extending along a continuously curving path between first and second opposite ends thereof. The elongated trapping region has a central axis that is defined substantially parallel to the curved path and that extends between the first and second opposite ends. The two-dimensional ion trap is configured for receiving ions through the first end and for mass selectively ejecting the ions along a direction that is orthogonal to the central axis, such that the ejected ions are directed generally toward a common point. The tandem mass spectrometer also includes a collision cell having an ion inlet that is disposed about the common point for receiving the ions that are ejected therefrom and for causing at least a portion of the ions to undergo collisions and form product ions by fragmentation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: Michael W. Senko
  • Publication number: 20080185512
    Abstract: A ion mobility-based analyzer system including a first ion mobility-based filter for passing selected ions through a time-varying field where the time-varying field being compensated by an adjustable compensation setting. The analyzer also includes a second ion mobility-based filter for receiving a first portion of ions from the first ion mobility-based filter. The second ion mobility-based filter includes a voltage gradient for separating ions of the first portion of ions where the ions have associated retention times based on their times of flight through the voltage gradient. The second ion mobility-based filter includes a detector for detecting the ions at their retention times. The analyzer system further includes a display that displays the detected ions in a plot relating the retention times of the ions in the second ion mobility-based filter with compensation settings of the first ion mobility-based filter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: SIONEX CORPORATION
    Inventors: Raanan A. Miller, Evgeny Krylov, Erkinjon G. Nazarov, Gary A. Eiceman, John A. Wright
  • Publication number: 20080185513
    Abstract: A method for analyzing analytes from a sample introduced into a Spectrometer by generating a pseudo random sequence of a modulation bins, organizing each modulation bin as a series of submodulation bins, thereby forming an extended pseudo random sequence of submodulation bins, releasing the analytes in a series of analyte packets into a Spectrometer, thereby generating an unknown original ion signal vector, detecting the analytes at a detector, and characterizing the sample using the plurality of analyte signal subvectors. The method is advantageously applied to an Ion Mobility Spectrometer, and an Ion Mobility Spectrometer interfaced with a Time of Flight Mass Spectrometer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Mikhail E. Belov, Richard D. Smith
  • Publication number: 20080185514
    Abstract: An ion beam device is described. The ion beam device includes an ion beam source for generating an ion beam, the ion beam being emitted along a first axis, an aperture unit adapted to shape the ion beam, and an achromatic deflection unit adapted to deflect ions of the ion beam having a predetermined mass by a deflecting angle. The achromatic deflection unit includes: an electric field generating component for generating an electric field, and a magnetic field generating component for generating a magnetic field substantially perpendicular to the electric field. The device further includes a mass separation aperture adapted for blocking ions with a mass different from the predetermined mass and for allowing ions having the predetermined mass to trespass the mass separator, and an objective lens having a second optical axis, wherein the second optical axis is inclined with regard to the first axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: JUERGEN FROSIEN, Helmut Banzhof
  • Publication number: 20080185515
    Abstract: A MEMS device with an overhanging ‘polymer’ capillary provides vital and significant improvements in interfacing a MEMS electrospray nozzle to an MS inlet or other macroscopic instrumentation. The fabrication methodology associated therewith is easily expanded to include built-in micro particle filters and centimeter long serpentine micro channels provided on-chip and fabricated using a low temperature process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Yu-Chong TAI, Xuan-Qi WANG, Amish DESAI, Terry D. LEE, Lawrence Licklider
  • Publication number: 20080185516
    Abstract: The present invention provides a mass spectrometry capable of high-efficiency and high-throughput ECD. An electron source and a two-dimensional combined ion trap in which a magnetic field along and generally parallel to a central axis is applied are used, thereby to achieve the foregoing object. First, precursor ions are trapped. By adopting the two-dimensional combined ion trap, it is possible to obtain a high ion trapping efficiency upon being injected and trapping. Subsequently, electrons are made incident thereon in such a manner as to be wound along the central axis to which no radio frequency is applied by using a magnetic field. For this reason, it is possible to allow energy-controlled electrons to reach the precursor ions. It is possible to implement a mass spectrometer capable of avoiding heating due to a radio frequency electric field, and effecting high-throughput/high-efficiency ECD.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Takashi Baba, Yuichiro Hashimoto
  • Publication number: 20080185517
    Abstract: An apparatus for in-situ specimen preparation is described. The apparatus includes an ion beam column 21 including at least: an liquid metal alloy ion source 56 including a first element for providing a light ion species with a mass of 10 g/mol to 60 g/mol and a second element for providing a heavy ions species with a mass of 150 g/mol or higher, a mass separator 58 for selectively separating the light ion species and the heavy ion species, and a focusing element for focusing the ion beam on a specimen. The apparatus further includes a specimen-beam-tilt unit for tilting the ion beam with respect to the specimen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: JUERGEN FROSIEN
  • Publication number: 20080185518
    Abstract: A method of aligning sets of cylindrical electrodes in the geometry of a miniature quadrupole electrostatic lens, which can act as a mass filter in a quadrupole mass spectrometer is provided. The electrodes are mounted in pairs on microfabricated supports, which are formed from conducting parts on an insulating substrate. Complete segmentation of the conducting parts provides low capacitative coupling between co-planar cylindrical electrodes, and allows incorporation of a Brubaker prefilter to improve sensitivity at a given mass resolution. A complete quadrupole is constructed from two such supports, which are spaced apart by further conducting spacers. The spacers are continued around the electrodes to provide a conducting screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: Richard Syms
  • Publication number: 20080185519
    Abstract: A technology whereby removal of magnetic hysteresis is enabled in short time in parallel with a process for stage transfer, and so forth. There is executed a magnetic hysteresis removal sequence whereby current for exciting an electromagnetic coil prior to acquisition of an image is always set to a predetermined variation value against a target value, thereby obtaining information on an image, and so forth, when a diameter of a primary electron beam, converged on the specimen, becomes smaller than dimensions displayed by one pixel of an image to be acquired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Noritsugu Takahashi, Muneyuki Fukuda, Hiroyuki Ito, Atsuko Fukada, Masashi Sakamoto, Satoshi Takada
  • Publication number: 20080185520
    Abstract: This photothermal examination camera (16) comprises: a system (22) for shaping a laser beam (4), which includes a device (40) for elongating the cross section of the beam in order to form, on a surface of a part (1) to be examined, an elongate heating zone along a direction; a matrix (8) of infrared detectors for detecting infrared radiation emitted by a detection zone on the surface (1a) of the part (1) relative to the heating zone; and a signal processing unit (46) for processing the signals delivered by the infrared detectors in order to construct a thermographic image of the surface (1a) of the part (1) by scanning the surface (1a) with the heating zone. The camera includes a system for mechanically adjusting an offset between the elongate heating zone and the detection zone. Application to the non-destructive inspection of parts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2006
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: AREVA NP
    Inventors: Marc Piriou, Laurent Legrandjacques
  • Publication number: 20080185521
    Abstract: Systems and apparatus enhance transmission of electromagnetic energy through a sub-wavelength aperture. A metal film has an input surface and an output surface and forms the sub-wavelength aperture between the input and output surfaces, a first plurality of grooves on the input surface, and a cavity around the sub-wavelength aperture. The width of the cavity determines a resonant wavelength of electromagnetic energy transmitted through the sub-wavelength aperture. The patterned metal film provides plasmon coupling of electromagnetic energy incident upon the input surface transmit electromagnetic energy through the sub-wavelength aperture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: ITN ENERGY SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventor: Russell E. Hollingsworth
  • Publication number: 20080185522
    Abstract: Infrared sensors and methods for manufacturing the infrared sensors are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, the method includes A method for manufacturing an infrared sensor in accordance with another exemplary embodiment is proved. The method includes depositing a germanium layer on a silicon substrate. The method further includes depositing a first electrically conductive layer on both the germanium layer and a portion of the silicon substrate. The method further includes depositing a ferroelectric layer on the first electrically conductive layer opposite the germanium layer. The method further includes depositing a second electrically conductive layer on both the ferroelectric layer and a portion of the silicon substrate. The method further includes removing the germanium layer by applying a liquid on the germanium layer that dissolves the germanium layer such that a cavity is formed between the first electrically conductive layer and the silicon substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Shih-Chia Chang, Joseph Mantese
  • Publication number: 20080185523
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for sensing infrared radiation. The apparatus includes a sensor element that is positioned in a magnetic field during operation to ensure a ? shaped relationship between specific heat and temperature adjacent the Curie temperature of the ferroelectric material comprising the sensor element. The apparatus is operated by inducing a magnetic field on the ferroelectric material to reduce surface charge on the element during its operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: Los Alamos National Laboratory
    Inventors: Jason Charles LASHLEY, Cyril P. OPEIL, James Lawrence SMITH
  • Publication number: 20080185524
    Abstract: Method and sensor for infrared measurement of gas comprising one infrared radiation source which illuminates two detectors at different distances from the radiation source, a spectrally selective element for infrared radiation adapted to be absorbed in a gas a to be measured arranged between the IR source and each of the detectors, and another infrared radiation source that illuminates those same two detectors possibly via a spectrally selective element for infrared radiation which by preference is not absorbed by any present gas. The radiation sources are excited at different patterns in time, and an electronic unit is adapted to select and separately amplify the resulting signals at said patterns from the detectors and to use the mutual ratios between such signals to calculate the concentration of said gas a.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2004
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: KANSTAD TEKNOLOGI AS
    Inventor: Svein Otto Kanstad
  • Publication number: 20080185525
    Abstract: A method and device are revealed to non-invasively identify hidden foreign objects in proximity of living tissue. More specifically to a method and device find a foreign object hidden under the clothes of a person by measuring an anomaly in an infrared radiation signal emitted by the human subject; the anomaly caused by the presence of the foreign object. A spectral scan at the identified location is used to identify the object. Even when the object is hidden behind clothes, the object is positively identified based on the interaction of optical radiation naturally emitted by the human body in the infrared frequency spectrum with every component of the examined object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2006
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicants: Passive Medical Systems Engineering Ltd.
    Inventors: Yakov Lyubchik, Yafim Smolyak, Nathan Blaunshtein
  • Publication number: 20080185526
    Abstract: Reflective movable mirrors are used to reflect an image from a desired direction into the lens of a camera. This apparatus is preferably used with infrared (IR) cameras. To capture images from different directions, the orientations of the mirrors are modified. The mirrors are light, requiring only miniature motors and actuators for moving them. The mirrors are also much smaller than the focal plane electronics and the IR lens, requiring much less space for moving them than would be required for moving the camera. This provides a pointing capability for an airframe-fixed IR camera and this capability is provided with minimum additional payload, space and power requirements. The apparatus and method can be used for IR and electro-optical (EO) cameras.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2006
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Dan T. Horak, Emray R. Goossen, Steven D. Martinez
  • Publication number: 20080185527
    Abstract: The invention relates to an equipment for imaging a target organ in a small animal by SPECT, by using the LOrA technique, wherein each gamma detector of the imaging system comprises a plurality of sensitive crystals, curved to a segment of an essentially annular body, and a rake collimator with a small slit width.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2006
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Adrianus A. Van Dulmen, Stephen Walrand
  • Publication number: 20080185528
    Abstract: Conventional optoconductive compounds, such as CIS or CdTe include scarce indium or environmentally-unfriendly cadmium. On the other hand, an optoconductive compound according to the present invention has high optoconductive efficiency without inclusion of indium and cadmium, wherein the optoconductive compound according to the present invention is represented by AXYY? where A is a Group 11 element, X is a Group 15 element, and Y and Y? are Group 16 elements in which Y and Y? can be identical to or different from each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Kibong SONG, Kyeongam KIM, Sang Su LEE, Doo-Hee CHO
  • Publication number: 20080185529
    Abstract: In a flat X-ray detector, Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) is reduced by either opening a pickup loop between the common lines (28) and the reference plane (29) of the PCB, or by reducing the size of a pickup loop by providing a permanent connection (33) between the common supply line and the reference plane (29) in respect of each row of photoconductors (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2006
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS, N.V.
    Inventors: Lex Alving, Dirk Willem Harberts, Hans Stouten, Stephanus Berardus Worm
  • Publication number: 20080185530
    Abstract: Ultraviolet light is used for checking the authenticity of sheet material, in particular bank notes, whereby the ultraviolet light transmitted, i.e., pervading the sheet material to be checked, is used for checking authenticity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: Giesecke & Devrient GmbH
    Inventors: Lothar SCHUETT, Hans-Uwe Richter
  • Publication number: 20080185531
    Abstract: A waveform detector may include multiple stages.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: Searete LLC
    Inventors: Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Edward K.Y. Jung, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Clarence T. Tegreene, Lowell L. Wood
  • Publication number: 20080185532
    Abstract: A radiation-shielding assembly can contain any of multiple containers of different sizes in a predetermined, fixed location within the assembly. A clamping system in of the assembly is able to clamp any of the containers so that they are held in the same fixed location within the assembly. The containers, regardless of size, are always located in the desired position within the shield. The positive location is achieved with out the use of separate components not attached to the assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2006
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: David W. Wilson
  • Publication number: 20080185533
    Abstract: Provided is a scanning laser microscope including a first laser light source for emitting ultrashort pulsed laser light; a scanning unit for two-dimensionally scanning the ultrashort pulsed laser light on a specimen; a second laser light source for emitting continuous laser light; an irradiation-position adjusting unit for performing two-dimensional adjustment of an irradiation position of the continuous laser light on the specimen; an objective lens for focusing the ultrashort pulsed laser light and the continuous laser light onto the specimen and for collecting fluorescence generated in the specimen; a light-detecting unit for detecting the fluorescence, which is split off from a light path between the objective lens and the scanning unit; and a continuous-laser-light switching unit for permitting radiation of the continuous laser light when the light-detecting unit is not detecting required fluorescence from the specimen on the basis of the ultrashort pulsed laser light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: Olympus Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Kimura, Kenichi Kusaka, Katashi Ishihara
  • Publication number: 20080185534
    Abstract: A disposable device for monitoring exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) over a single period of time and a cumulative period of time. The device includes a base upon which is applied a UVR sensitive material that irreversibly changes after exposure to UVR. A protective covering is applied over the UVR sensitive material and includes segments that are individually removable to reveal a portion of the UVR sensitive material thereunder. A UVR exposure scale and first and second keys are provided on the base. A first segment of the covering is removed and the base is placed in an appropriate location. After a period of time, the change in the UVR sensitive material is compared to the scale and first key to determine if the level of exposure is safe for that time period. The procedure may be repeated over a number of time periods with a new segment of the protective covering being removed for each time period.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Barrington L. Simon, Robert G. Dickie
  • Publication number: 20080185535
    Abstract: A computed radiography (CR) system for imaging an object is provided. The system includes a radiation source, a storage phosphor screen, an illumination source and a two dimensional imager. The radiation source is configured to irradiate the storage phosphor screen, and the storage phosphor screen is configured to store the radiation energy. The illumination source is configured to illuminate at least a sub-area of the storage phosphor screen to stimulate emission of photons from the storage phosphor screen. The two dimensional (2D) imager is configured to capture a two dimensional image from the storage phosphor screen using the stimulated emission photons. A method of reading a storage phosphor screen is also provided. The method includes illuminating at least a sub-area of the storage phosphor screen using an illumination source to stimulate emission of photons from the storage phosphor screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Clifford Bueno, Nelson Raymond Corby, Kenneth Gordon Herd
  • Publication number: 20080185536
    Abstract: A treatment system or treatment reactor (1) comprising at least one dielectric barrier discharge lamp (2) with a first electrode (20) and a housing (10) for containing a medium (3) like a fluid and/or a gas and/or a solid material which is to be treated by means of the radiation generated by the lamp (2) is disclosed which is especially characterized in that at least one second electrode of at least one lamp (2) is provided in the form of at least one intermediate counter electrode (3, 4) which is positioned within a volume (31) between at least one dielectric barrier discharge lamp (2) and the housing (10). By this, influences of the treated medium on the electrical behavior of the treatment system or reactor (1) and especially power losses in the medium can be avoided or considerably be decreased. Furthermore, losses of the lamp light due to absorption and/or shadowing at an outer electrode surrounding the lamp are avoided as well.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2006
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: Koninklijke Philips Electronics, N.V.
    Inventors: Wolfgang Schiene, Georg Greuel, Jacques Maria Jozef Geboers, Arjan Van Der Pol
  • Publication number: 20080185537
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus that introduce, within the ion implant chamber or an isolated chamber in communication therewith, the capability to remove contaminants and oxide surface layers on a wafer surface prior to ion implantation, are disclosed. The mechanisms for removal of contaminants include conducting: a low energy plasma etch, heating the wafer and application of ultraviolet illumination, either in combination or individually. As a result, implantation can occur immediately after the cleaning/preparation process without the contamination potential of exposure of the wafer to an external environment. The preparation allows for the removal of surface contaminants, such as water vapor, organic materials and surface oxides.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: VARIAN SEMICONDUCTOR EQUIPMENT ASSOCIATES, INC.
    Inventors: Steve Walther, Sandeep Mehta, Naushad Variam, Ukyo Jeong
  • Publication number: 20080185538
    Abstract: A pattern forming method includes performing a first resist development during a first time period to a substrate obtained by coating a resist film having a predetermined thickness onto a predetermined film to be etched, measuring the film thickness of the resist film after the first resist development, writing a predetermined pattern corrected in dimension on the basis of an amount of reduction in thickness of the resist film on the resist film by using a charged particle beam, performing a second resist development during a second time period which is longer than the first time period to the substrate after writing the pattern, and etching the predetermined film to be etched by using the resist film after the second resist development as a mask.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: NuFlare Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Takayuki OHNISHI, Hirohito Anze
  • Publication number: 20080185539
    Abstract: An identification system for a light radiation source (103) having a control circuit (107) for communicating with an identification circuit (108) associated with the light radiation source, wherein the identification circuit is arranged for storing data relating to the light radiation source. During operation, the control circuit communicates with the identification circuit via a signal path comprising at least a portion of a first electric wire (112) provided for energizing the light radiation source such that it is used as a first transmitting antenna for communicating with the identification circuit. The operation of the light radiation source is controlled in dependence on the data retrieved from the identification circuit. Depending on the result of the identification, operation of the light radiation source can be authorized or prevented, thus blocking the use of an incorrect radiation source for a given application.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2006
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS, N.V.
    Inventors: Olaf Mastenbroek, Klaas Jacob Lulofs
  • Publication number: 20080185540
    Abstract: Shielding of a particular material and geometry is interposed between a radio frequency identification (“RFID”) antenna transceiver and a zone to be monitored by the antenna. The shielding has an aperture therein that to some extent defines a degree of focusing of the radio frequency (“RF”) field associated with the antenna. RFID tags having appropriate RFID circuitry are only detected by the antenna when they pass within the focused RF field. The shielding is formed of a thin metalized plastic material, such as film used in forming anti-static material for storage of sensitive electronics. One particular formulation is primarily polyethylene film with an aluminum coating or layer thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Florrie Turner, Douglas Ahlers
  • Publication number: 20080185541
    Abstract: A flow-regulating valve has at least one active material component that may be passively activated (e.g., in response to changes in surrounding temperature) to control fluid flow through the valve. Additionally, an actuator, which may be of any type, such as a solenoid or even another active material component, actuates due to active activation, such as resistive heating in response to a sensor/control signal, which could be due to external conditions (such as existence of high acceleration) or internal conditions (such as change in fluid temperature) to provide an active level of control of fluid flow through the valve. The flow-regulating valve may be used in an oil level control system of a transmission to ensure adequate oil availability during various operating conditions while minimizing the adverse effects such as spin and windage losses. Similar applications can be made in other fluid flow or fluid level control systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Ukpai I. Ukpai, Norman K. Bucknor
  • Publication number: 20080185542
    Abstract: The invention relates to a ball poppet valve, in particular an electromagnetically actuated ball poppet valve, having a valve body, an accommodating aperture disposed in the valve body for a ball poppet, and a valve bore also disposed in the valve body, a ball poppet for closing the valve bore and a control stem acting on the ball poppet. The accommodating aperture of the valve body, starting from a cylindrical wall part of constant diameter in which the ball poppet sits, widens at an end opposite the control stem in at least approximately a funnel shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Florian Schulz, Gerd Strobel
  • Publication number: 20080185543
    Abstract: A guide body for an electromagnetic valve device is provided. The device includes a coil assembly surrounding the guide body, a plunger driven by magnetic force and slidably disposed inside the guide body. The guide body slidably guides the plunger in an open/close direction of the valve body along a guide face thereof. The guide body includes a first nonmagnetic section that supports a pole body and a part of the plunger at which the pole body and the plunger oppose each other, a second nonmagnetic section that supports the valve body, and extends at least throughout a sliding range of the valve body, and a magnetic section intermediate the first and second sections so that a portion of the lines of magnetic force passes therethrough. The guide face is formed so as to coaxially support the plunger and the valve body displaceable in the open/close direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Kaoru Nomichi, Makoto Ninomiya, Yutaka Suzuki, Yuko Funakubo
  • Publication number: 20080185544
    Abstract: A structure for air control valve of oxygen concentrator is provided, including a main body, a side cover, an electromagnetic valve, and a linkage unit. The side cover is engaged to the side of main body, the electromagnetic valve is located on side cover, and the linkage unit is located inside main body. The inside of main body is a space, divided by separating plates to form a plurality of communicating chambers, including intake chamber, main chamber, and expel chamber. The linkage unit includes a linkage rod with two sealing pads on the outer surface for opening or sealing the chambers during airflow switching. The main chamber is only connected to either intake chamber or expel chamber at a time. The inside of side cover includes a moveable piston to provide driving force for linkage unit movement. The electromagnetic valve is on side cover to control the piston timing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: Cheng-Kang Yeh
  • Publication number: 20080185545
    Abstract: To enable a control valve to be easily mounted, not by bolt fastening. A thread portion is formed in a mounting hole of a compressor, in which a control valve is to be mounted, and as for the control valve as well, a thread portion mating with the thread portion in the mounting hole is threadedly formed on a yoke surrounding a coil of a solenoid of the control valve. A gasket is disposed between a flange portion of the control valve, formed in a manner opposed to a stepped portion inside the mounting hole, and the stepped portion inside the mounting hole. The yoke is provided in a manner pivotally movable with respect to the flange portion having the gasket disposed thereon, and is configured to be brought into contact with the flange portion in a direction of insertion of the control valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: TGK CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hisatoshi HIROTA
  • Publication number: 20080185546
    Abstract: A pulse width modulated solenoid control valve is described, wherein the valve includes a polymer fluid control body. The body includes a segmented fluid flow path for providing strength to the fluid control body assembly. Stand off ribs are provided to improve assembly into a control manifold. A casing forms an integral flux tube. A tapered push rod is used to reduce flux shorting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: BorgWarner Inc.
    Inventors: David Mills, Ryan True, Aaron Biefer
  • Publication number: 20080185547
    Abstract: A fluid pressure control device includes a body, a valve unit, a solenoid externally fitted to the valve unit, a board, and a solenoid terminal connected with the board. The fluid pressure control device further includes a spacer which is made of elastic material and located between the solenoid and the board. The fluid pressure control device also includes a case accommodating the solenoid, the board, and the spacer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: ADVICS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Matsuhisa Tsuruta
  • Publication number: 20080185548
    Abstract: An electromagnetic valve has a fixed core, a movable core, a coil attract the fixed core and the movable core each other, a valve body and a valve seat member including a funnel-shaped valve seat surface and an inlet path. The flow path is closable by retreat/advance of the valve body relative to the valve seat surface. The valve body includes a semi-spherical seal portion and a stem portion extending from the seal portion towards the movable core, a diameter of an end portion of the seal portion at the stem portion side is larger than a diameter of an end portion of the stem portion at the seal portion side. A space is defined in an area located on an extended line extending from a small diameter end portion to a large diameter end portion of the valve seat surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Applicant: NISSIN KOGYO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Michio Takahashi, Takaaki Komaba, Takuyo Shimono
  • Publication number: 20080185549
    Abstract: A differential valve assembly that maintains an outlet pressure at a predetermined difference from an inlet pressure. It can be used to keep a large vehicle frame horizontal despite a permanent extra load on a first side of the frame. In that case, the system includes a simple air refill valve device (52) that connects a pressured air supply S to the first air bag (12), to vary the first air bag pressure so as to maintain the frame at a predetermined height above a location on the axle. The system also includes a differential valve assembly (54) that includes a first valve (72) that can fill the second air bag if its pressure is too low, and a second valve (80) that can vent the second air bag to the atmosphere if the second air bag pressure is too high.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventors: Herman J. Steinbuchel, Michel Glukhov
  • Publication number: 20080185550
    Abstract: A ball valve assembly for use as a control valve for controlling the flow of gas through a continuous stroke pneumatic tool. The valving element is generally spherical and non-magnetizable. The generally spherical valving element is loosely confined between two concave generally conical surfaces, which are provided on valve seat members. The concave generally conical surfaces are opposed to one another to define a valve chamber therebetween. Sufficient clearance is provided so the generally spherical valving element is free to roll and tumble as it moves in the valve chamber between the concave generally conical surfaces. This allows the ball valve assembly to be self purging of excess lubricant, dust, and the like. Wear is distributed over the entire generally spherical surface of the valving element. The loose confinement is also sufficient to provide a relatively large cross-section of gas passageway through the control valve assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2008
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: Andrew Hall