Patents Issued in February 18, 2014
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Patent number: 8654565Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate generally to semiconductors and memory technology, and more particularly, to systems, integrated circuits, and methods to generate access signals to facilitate memory operations in scaled arrays of memory elements, such as memory implemented in third dimensional memory technology formed BEOL directly on top of a FEOL substrate that includes data access circuitry. In at least some embodiments, a non-volatile memory device can include a cross-point array having resistive memory elements disposed among word lines and subsets of bit lines, and an access signal generator. The access signal generator can be configured to modify a magnitude of a signal to generate a modified magnitude for the signal to access a resistive memory element associated with a word line and a subset of bit lines. The modified magnitude can be a function of the position of the resistive memory element in the cross-point array.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Unity Semiconductor CorporationInventors: Christophe Chevallier, Chang Hua Siau
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Patent number: 8654566Abstract: The semiconductor device includes a memory cell including a first transistor including a first channel formation region, a first gate electrode, and first source and drain regions; a second transistor including a second channel formation region provided so as to overlap with at least part of either of the first source region or the first drain region, a second source electrode, a second drain electrode electrically connected to the first gate electrode, and a second gate electrode; and an insulating layer provided between the first transistor and the second transistor. In a period during which the second transistor needs in an off state, at least when a positive potential is supplied to the first source region or the first drain region, a negative potential is supplied to the second gate electrode.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Semiconductor Energy Laboratory Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shuhei Nagatsuka, Takanori Matsuzaki, Hiroki Inoue, Kiyoshi Kato
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Patent number: 8654567Abstract: A semiconductor memory device includes a bit line; two or more word lines; and a memory cell including two or more sub memory cells that each include a transistor and a capacitor. One of a source and a drain of the transistor is connected to the bit line, the other of the source and the drain of the transistor is connected to the capacitor, a gate of the transistor is connected to one of the word lines, and each of the sub memory cells has a different capacitance of the capacitor.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Semiconductor Energy Laboratory Co., Ltd.Inventor: Toshihiko Saito
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Patent number: 8654568Abstract: An integrated circuit including a ram array with SRAM cells containing a write port with a write word line and two read buffers with read word lines. The write port includes passgate transistors connected to each data node of the SRAM cell. A process of operating the integrated circuit in which source nodes of read buffer driver transistors are biased during a read operation. A process of operating the integrated circuit in which source nodes of read buffer driver transistors are floated during a read operation. A process of operating the integrated circuit in which the write port and the read ports share data lines and the source nodes of read buffer driver transistors are floated during a write operation.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2009Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Texas Instruments IncorporatedInventor: Theodore W. Houston
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Patent number: 8654569Abstract: An integrated circuit including an array of SRAM cells containing a write port with a write word line and two read buffers with read word lines. The write port includes passgate transistors connected to each data node of the SRAM cell. A process of operating the integrated circuit in which source nodes of read buffer driver transistors are biased during a read operation. A process of operating the integrated circuit in which source nodes of read buffer driver transistors are floated during a read operation. A process of operating the integrated circuit in which the write port and the read ports share data lines and the source nodes of read buffer driver transistors are floated during a write operation.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Texas Instruments IncorporatedInventor: Theodore W. Houston
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Patent number: 8654570Abstract: A memory cell is formed by storage latch coupled between a true bit line node and a complement bit line node. The latch has an internal true node and an internal complement node. The cell additionally includes a first transistor that is source-drain coupled between the internal true node and a word line node. A control terminal of the first transistor is coupled to receive a signal from the complement bit line node and functions to source current into the true node during write mode. The cell further includes a second transistor that is source-drain coupled between the internal complement node and the word line node. A control terminal of the second transistor is coupled to receive a signal from the true bit line node and functions to source current into the complement node during write mode.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: STMicroelectronics International N.V.Inventors: Anuj Grover, Gangaikondan Subramani Visweswaran
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Patent number: 8654571Abstract: A static random-access memory (SRAM) cell which includes: a sampling switch and a feedback switch; and a first inverter and a second inverter connected in series whereby an output of the first inverter is connected to an input of the second inverter. An input of the first inverter is connected to a data input of the SRAM cell via the sampling switch, and to a data output of the SRAM cell independent of the feedback switch, an output of the second inverter is connected to the input of the first inverter via the feedback switch, and first and second clock inputs of the SRAM cell are configured to control the sampling switch and the feedback switch, respectively.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Gareth John, Patrick Zebedee
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Patent number: 8654572Abstract: An integrated circuit including an array of SRAM cells containing a write port with a write word line and two read buffers with read word lines. The write port includes passgate transistors connected to each data node of the SRAM cell. A process of operating the integrated circuit in which source nodes of read buffer driver transistors are biased during a read operation. A process of operating the integrated circuit in which source nodes of read buffer driver transistors are floated during a read operation. A process of operating the integrated circuit in which the write port and the read ports share data lines and the source nodes of read buffer driver transistors are floated during a write operation.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Texas Instruments IncorporatedInventor: Theodore W. Houston
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Patent number: 8654573Abstract: A memory module that includes a buffer and a plurality of synchronous memory devices. The memory module also includes bidirectional bus lines, and each of the synchronous memory devices has bidirectional data terminals. The buffer is configured to regenerate signals received on the bus lines for receipt by the synchronous memory devices, and to regenerate signals received from any one of the synchronous memory devices for receipt by the bus lines. The memory module may further include command lines and a clock line for providing commands and a clock signal to the synchronous memory devices via a command buffer. The combined data bus width of the memory module may be greater than the data bus width of any single one of synchronous memory device, and the total address space provided by the memory module may be larger than the data space for any single synchronous memory device.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2013Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: MOSAID Technologies IncorporatedInventors: Peter B. Gillingham, Bruce Millar
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Patent number: 8654574Abstract: An SRAM having two capacitors connected in series between respective bit storage nodes of each memory cell. The two inverters of the memory cell are powered by a positive voltage and a low voltage. The two capacitors are connected to each other at a common node. A leakage current generator is coupled to the common node. The leakage current generator supplies to the common node a leakage current to maintain a voltage which is approximately halfway between the voltages of the high and low SRAM supplies.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2013Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignees: STMicroelectronics, Inc., STMicroelectronics S/A, Medtronics, Inc.Inventors: Kevin K. Walsh, Paul F. Gerrish, Larry E. Tyler, Mark A. Lysinger, David C. McClure, François Jacquet
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Patent number: 8654575Abstract: A solid-state memory in which each memory cell includes a cross-point addressable write element. Each memory cell includes a storage element, such as a pair of cross-coupled inverters, and a read buffer for coupling one of the storage nodes to a read bit line for the column containing the cell. The write element of each memory cell includes one or a pair of write select transistors controlled by a write word line for the row containing the cell, and write pass transistors connected to corresponding storage nodes and connected in series with a write select transistor. The write pass transistors are gated by a write bit line for the column containing the cell. In operation, a write reference is coupled to one of the storage nodes of a memory cell in the selected column and the selected row, depending on the data state carried by the complementary write bit lines for that column.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Texas Instruments IncorporatedInventor: Xiaowei Deng
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Patent number: 8654576Abstract: Provided is a spin valve element capable of performing multi-value recording, which includes a pair of ferromagnetic layers having different coercivities from each other, and sandwiching an insulating layer or a non-magnetic layer. The ferromagnetic layer having the smaller coercivity has a substantially circular in-plane profile, and a plurality of island-shaped non-magnetic portions IN, IE, IW, and IS are included. In addition, a storage device is manufactured by using such a spin valve element.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2008Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Fuji Electric Co., Ltd.Inventors: Haruo Kawakami, Yasushi Ogimoto
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Patent number: 8654577Abstract: An array of rows and columns of SMT MRAM cells has each of the columns associated with one of its adjacent columns. Each of the SMT MRAM cells of the column is connected to a true data bit line and each of the SMT MRAM cells of the associated pair of columns is connected to a shared complement data bit line. A shunting switch device is connected between each of the true data bit lines and the shared complement data bit line for selectively connecting one of the true data bit lines to the shared complement data bit line to effectively reduce the resistance of the complement data bit line and to eliminate program disturb effects in adjacent non-selected columns of the SMT MRAM cells.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2013Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignees: MagIC Technologies, Inc., International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Hsu-Kai Yang, Yutaka Nakamura, John Debrosse
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Patent number: 8654578Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are provided for storing a quantum bit. One apparatus includes a first phase qubit, a second phase qubit, and a common bias circuit configured to provide a first bias to the first phase qubit and a second bias to the second phase qubit, such that noise within the first bias is anti-correlated to noise within the second bias.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Northrop Grumman Systems CorporationInventors: Rupert M. Lewis, Ofer Naaman
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Patent number: 8654579Abstract: A non-volatile memory device includes a plurality of memory cells stacked along a channel protruded from a substrate, a first select transistor connected to one end of the plurality of memory cells, a first interlayer dielectric layer for being coupled between a source line and the first select transistor, and a second interlayer dielectric layer disposed between the first select transistor and the one end of the plurality of memory cells, and configured to include a first recess region.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Hynix Semiconductor Inc.Inventors: Beom Yong Kim, Kwon Hong, Kee Jeung Lee, Ki Hong Lee
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Patent number: 8654580Abstract: A method is for programming a memory block of a non-volatile memory device. The non-volatile memory device is operatively connected to a memory controller, and the memory block defined by a plurality of word lines located between a string select line and a common source line corresponding to the string select line. The method includes programming a first sub-block of the memory block, determining in the non-volatile memory device when a reference word line is programmed during programming of the first sub-block, and partial erasing a second sub-block of the memory block upon determining that the reference word line is programmed during programming of the first sub-block.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Dong Ku Kang, Seung-Bum Kim, Tae-Young Kim, Sun-Jun Park
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Patent number: 8654581Abstract: The disclosure relates to an integrated circuit electrically powered by a supply voltage and comprising a memory electrically erasable and/or programmable by means of a second voltage greater than the supply voltage. The integrated circuit comprises means for receiving the second voltage by the intermediary of a reception terminal of the supply voltage or by the intermediary of a reception or emission terminal of a data or clock signal. Applicable in particular to electronic tags comprising a reduced number of interconnection terminals.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: STMicroelectronics (Rousset) SASInventor: Francois Tailliet
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Patent number: 8654582Abstract: An object is to provide a semiconductor device in which stored data can be retained even when power is not supplied, and there is no limitation on the number of write cycles. The semiconductor device includes a source line, a bit line, a first signal line, a second signal line, a word line, a memory cell connected between the source line and the bit line, a first driver circuit electrically connected to the bit line, a second driver circuit electrically connected to the first signal line, a third driver circuit electrically connected to the second signal line, and a fourth driver circuit electrically connected to the word line and the source line. The first transistor is formed using a semiconductor material other than an oxide semiconductor. The second transistor is formed using an oxide semiconductor material.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2013Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Semiconductor Energy Laboratory Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shunpei Yamazaki, Jun Koyama, Kiyoshi Kato
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Patent number: 8654583Abstract: A semiconductor memory cell and arrays of memory cells are provided In at least one embodiment, a memory cell includes a substrate having a top surface, the substrate having a first conductivity type selected from a p-type conductivity type and an n-type conductivity type; a first region having a second conductivity type selected from the p-type and n-type conductivity types, the second conductivity type being different from the first conductivity type, the first region being formed in the substrate and exposed at the top surface; a second region having the second conductivity type, the second region being formed in the substrate, spaced apart from the first region and exposed at the top surface; a buried layer in the substrate below the first and second regions, spaced apart from the first and second regions and having the second conductivity type; a body region formed between the first and second regions and the buried layer, the body region having the first conductivity type; a gate positioned between theType: GrantFiled: July 9, 2013Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Zeno Semiconductor, Inc.Inventor: Yuniarto Widjaja
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Patent number: 8654584Abstract: Nonvolatile memory devices include an electrically insulating layer on a semiconductor substrate and a NAND-type string of nonvolatile memory cells on an upper surface of the electrically insulating layer. The NAND-type string of nonvolatile memory cells includes a plurality of vertically-stacked nonvolatile memory cell sub-strings disposed at side-by-side locations on the electrically insulating layer. A string selection transistor is provided, which includes a gate electrode extending between the electrically insulating layer and the semiconductor substrate and source and drain regions in the semiconductor substrate. A ground selection transistor is provided, which includes a gate electrode extending between the electrically insulating layer and the semiconductor substrate and source and drain regions in the semiconductor substrate.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kinam Kim, Yongjik Park, Siyoung Choi, Hyoungsub Kim, Jaehoon Jang
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Patent number: 8654585Abstract: An integrated circuit includes a NAND string including a string selection transistor SST and a ground selection transistor GST disposed at either end of series-connected memory storage cells MC. Each of the memory storage cells is a memory transistor having a floating gate, and at least one of the string selection transistor SST and the ground selection transistor GST is a memory transistor having a floating gate. The threshold voltage Vth of programmable string selection transistors SST and the ground selection transistor GST is variable and user controllable and need not be established by implantation during manufacture. Each of the programmable string selection transistors SST and the ground selection transistors GST in a memory block may be used to store random data, thus increasing the memory storage capacity of the flash memory device.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Dong-Yean Oh, Woon-Kyung Lee, Seung-Chul Lee
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Patent number: 8654586Abstract: A nonvolatile semiconductor memory device includes a memory unit and a control unit. The memory unit includes a multilayer structure including electrode films and inter-electrode insulating films alternately stacked in a first direction; a semiconductor pillar piercing the multilayer structure in the first direction; a memory layer provided between the semiconductor pillar and the electrode films; an inner insulating film provided between the memory layer and the semiconductor pillar; an outer insulating film provided between the memory layer and the electrode films; and a wiring electrically connected to the first semiconductor pillar. In an erasing operation, the control unit sets the first wiring at a first potential and sets the electrode film at a second potential lower than the first potential, and then sets the first wiring at a third potential and sets the electrode film at a fourth potential higher than the third potential.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2013Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventors: Masaru Kito, Ryota Katsumata, Yoshiaki Fukuzumi, Masaru Kidoh, Hiroyasu Tanaka, Yosuke Komori, Megumi Ishiduki, Junya Matsunami, Tomoko Fujiwara, Hideaki Aochi, Ryouhei Kirisawa, Yoshimasa Mikajiri, Shigeto Oota
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Patent number: 8654587Abstract: Non-volatile memory device channel boosting methods in which at least two strings are connected to one bit line, the channel boosting methods including applying an initial channel voltage to channels of strings in a selected memory block, floating inhibit strings each having an un-programmed cell among the strings, and boosting channels of the floated inhibit strings.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2013Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: ChiWeon Yoon, Donghyuk Chae, Sang-Wan Nam, Sung-Won Yun
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Patent number: 8654588Abstract: An operating method of a semiconductor memory device includes erasing all memory cells of a selected cell block, performing a soft program operation on the erased memory cells by supplying a soft program pulse to word lines of the selected cell block, performing a first verify operation using a first voltage level lower than a target voltage level of the soft program operation, performing a second verify operation using the target voltage level, setting voltages of bit lines, and repeating the soft program operation, the first verify operation, the second verify operation, and an operation of setting the voltages of bit lines while raising the soft program pulse gradually.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Hynix Semiconductor Inc.Inventor: Seiichi Aritome
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Patent number: 8654589Abstract: A memory includes a word line, a charge pump coupled to the word line, and a charge pump control circuit coupled to the charge pump. The charge pump control circuit is configured to turn on the charge pump if the word line voltage is lower than a first threshold voltage and turn off the charge pump if the word line voltage is higher than a second threshold voltage.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2010Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Ltd.Inventors: Hung-Chang Yu, Yue-Der Chih
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Patent number: 8654590Abstract: A programming method of a nonvolatile memory device includes inputting even data and odd data to be programmed into even memory cells coupled to even bit lines and odd memory cells coupled to odd bit lines, respectively, setting a sense signal as a first sense signal or a second sense signal having a lower voltage level than the first sense signal, based on odd data of odd memory cells adjacent to each of the even memory cells to be programmed, programming the even data into the even memory cells by supplying a program voltage, performing a program verify operation on each of the even memory cells in response to the set sense signal, and programming the odd data into the odd memory cells by supplying a program voltage.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Hynix Semiconductor Inc.Inventors: Seiichi Aritome, Soon Ok Seo
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Patent number: 8654591Abstract: In a local word line driver of an NOR flash memory and its flash memory array device, the local word line driver is provided for driving a local word line in a sector of a memory array, and the local word line driver has two transistors including a first transistor and a second transistors, and the first and second transistors are NMOS transistors, and thus achieving the effects of reducing the area occupied by circuits on the local word line driver and the die size, and saving the area for the use by memory units.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2010Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Eon Silicon Solution Inc.Inventor: Takao Akaogi
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Patent number: 8654592Abstract: Memory devices and methods of programming and forming the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, a memory device has memory cells contained within dielectric isolation structures to isolate them from at least those memory cells in communication with other bit lines, such as to facilitate forward-bias write operations. The dielectric isolation structures contain an upper well having a first conductivity type and a buried well having a second conductivity type. By forward biasing the junction from the buried well to the upper well, electrons can be injected into charge-storage nodes of memory cells that are contained within the dielectric isolation structures.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2007Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.Inventors: Badih El-Kareh, Leonard Forbes
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Patent number: 8654593Abstract: A stacked semiconductor memory device according to the inventive concepts may include a plurality of memory chips stacked above a processor chip, a plurality of TSVs, and I/O buffers. The TSVs may pass through the memory chips and are connected to the processor chip. I/O buffers may be coupled between all or part of the memory chips and the TSVs and may be selectively activated on the basis of defective states of the TSVs.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tae-Young Oh, Kwang-Il Park, Yun-Seok Yang, Young-Soo Sohn, Si-Hong Kim, Seung-Jun Bae
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Patent number: 8654594Abstract: An integrated circuit structure comprises a static random access memory (SRAM) structure and a logic circuit. A power supply is operatively connected to the SRAM structure, and provides a first voltage to the SRAM structure. A voltage limiter is operatively connected to the power supply. The voltage limiter comprises a switching device operatively connected to the power supply. The switching device receives the first voltage and a second voltage supplied to structures external to the SRAM structure. A resistive element is operatively connected to the switching device. The switching device connects the resistive element to the power supply. The resistive element is selected to enable an output from the switching device to the logic circuit when a difference between the first voltage and the second voltage is greater than a voltage threshold value of the switching device.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Igor Arsovski, George M. Braceras, Harold Pilo
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Patent number: 8654595Abstract: A nonvolatile memory device comprises a nonvolatile cell array comprising a memory cell and a reference cell, a clamping circuit electrically connected to the memory cell and configured to clamp a voltage applied to a data sensing line during a read operation, and a clamping voltage generation unit configured to generate a clamping voltage responsive to a first voltage having a level based on the reference cell, and to feed back the clamping voltage to the clamping circuit.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Chan-Kyung Kim, Hong-Sun Hwang, Chul-Woo Park, Sang-Beom Kang, Hyung-Rok Oh
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Patent number: 8654596Abstract: A semiconductor storage device includes plural bit lines and plural word lines. The memory cell array has plural memory cells that are connected with the bit lines and word lines, and can store data. Plural sense amplifiers detect the data stored in the memory cells. Plural write drivers write data in the memory cells. A comparison buffer temporarily stores the write data to be written in the memory cells by the write driver. In a series of write sequences, the comparison buffer stores the read data from the memory cells selected as the write object and the write data to be written in the selected memory cells. After a series of write sequences, when the pre-charge command for resetting the voltage of the bit lines is received, the write execution command is executed so that the comparison buffer executes write in the selected memory cells.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventor: Katsuhiko Hoya
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Patent number: 8654597Abstract: A fail address storage circuit includes a fail address storage unit configured to store a fail address and a discrimination information storage unit configured to store information indicating whether a value stored in the fail address storage unit is a row address or column address.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Hynix Semiconductor Inc.Inventor: Yong-Ho Kong
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Patent number: 8654598Abstract: A redundancy scheme for Non-Volatile Memories (NVM) is described. This redundancy scheme provides means for using defective cells in non-volatile memories to increase yield. The algorithm is based on inverting the program data for data being programmed to a cell grouping when a defective cell is detected in the cell grouping. Defective cells are biased to either “1” or “0” logic states, which are effectively preset to store its biased logic state. A data bit to be stored in a defective cell having a logic state that is complementary to the biased logic state of the cell results in the program data being inverted and programmed. An inversion status bit is programmed to indicate the inverted status of the programmed data. During read out, the inversion status bit causes the stored data to be re-inverted into its original program data states.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2013Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Sidense Corp.Inventors: Wlodek Kurjanowicz, Mourad Abdat
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Patent number: 8654599Abstract: A bit line precharge circuit includes a precharge signal generation unit configured to generate first and second precharge signals that are enabled at different timing points by receiving a bit line equalizing signal; a first precharge unit configured to connect a pair of bit lines to each other in response to the first precharge signal and supply a bit line precharge voltage to the pair of bit lines; and a second precharge unit configured to supply the bit line precharge voltage to the bit line in response to the second precharge signal.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Hynix Semiconductor Inc.Inventor: Hyung Sik Won
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Patent number: 8654600Abstract: In one embodiment, an integrated programmable device has a plurality of current sense amplifiers for reading data from non-volatile memory and a reference generator that provides common bias reference voltages to the sense amplifiers. The sense amplifiers can read data from the non-volatile memory at low power supply voltage levels (e.g., 750 mV) relative to the nominal supply level (e.g., 1.2V). Each sense amplifier has a trans-impedance amplifier that converts a memory bit-line current into a voltage level indicative of whether a selected memory cell is programmed or erased. The trans-impedance amplifier has a current mirror with a high-threshold regeneration device that lowers the sense amplifier's range of operating voltages. Each sense amplifier also has a level-shifted inverter that further lowers the sense amplifier's operating voltage range.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Lattice Semiconductor CorporationInventor: Robert Gary Pollachek
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Patent number: 8654601Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method for controlling data transfer to an output port of a serial data link interface in a semiconductor memory is disclosed. In one example, a flash memory device may have multiple serial data links, multiple memory banks and control input ports that enable the memory device to transfer the serial data to a serial data output port of the memory device. In another example, a flash memory device may have a single serial data link, a single memory bank, a serial data input port, a control input port for receiving output enable signals. The flash memory devices may be cascaded in a daisy-chain configuration using echo signal lines to serially communicate between memory devices.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2013Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: MOSAID Technologies IncorporatedInventors: HakJune Oh, Hong Beom Pyeon, Jin-Ki Kim
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Patent number: 8654602Abstract: A circuit made on a semiconductor-on-insulator substrate. The circuit includes a first transistor having a first channel, a second transistor having a second channel, with the transistors provided in serial association between first and second terminals for applying a power supply potential, each of the transistors comprising a drain region and a source region in the thin layer, a channel extending between the source region and the drain region, and a front control gate located above the channel. Each transistor has a back control gate formed in the base substrate below the channel of the transistor and capable of being biased in order to modulate the threshold voltage of the transistor. At least one of the transistors is configured for operating in a depletion mode under the action of a back gate signal which will sufficiently modulate its threshold voltage.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: SoitecInventors: Carlos Mazure, Richard Ferrant, Bich-Yen Nguyen
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Patent number: 8654603Abstract: A nonvolatile memory device is provided relating to a test operation for a Low Power Double-Data-Rate (LPDDR) nonvolatile memory device. The nonvolatile memory device comprises a command decoder configured to decode a test mode signal in a test mode to output program and erasure signals into a memory, an address decoder configured to decode a command address inputted through an address pin in the test mode to output a cell array address into the memory, and an overlay window configured to store a data inputted through a data pin in the test mode.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: SK Hynix Inc.Inventors: Jung Mi Tak, Ji Hyae Bae
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Patent number: 8654604Abstract: A circuit configuration for evaluating and/or for activating sound transducers for application in vehicles, particularly as a part of a parking assistance, the circuit configuration including a transformer having a primary winding and a secondary winding, and the windings lead to a transformation ratio of greater than 1, terminals being provided for a sound transducer at the secondary winding and terminals being provided at the primary winding for activating device(s) which generate a voltage that changes with time at the primary winding of the transformer; on the side of primary winding (primary side) an antenna being provided which is suitable for receiving electrical fields generated by interference signals, and which is connected to the side of secondary winding (secondary side) via a coupling path; a device for phase shifting being provided in the coupling path, which brings about a phase shift by 180° in the electrical interference signals received by the antenna.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2007Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Roland Beckers, Karl-Heinz Richter
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Patent number: 8654605Abstract: A seismic source array includes at least one float. A plurality of rigid conduit sections each includes a bracket for suspension from the float at a selected depth in a body of water and configured to suspend a seismic energy source therefrom. At least one bend strain relief is coupled between adjacent rigid conduit sections. Each bend strain relief includes a coupling at each longitudinal end. Each bend strain relief includes woven fiber molded into flexible plastic for transmitting axial loading while absorbing bending and torsional stress. A seismic energy source is suspended from each bracket. Lines for operating the seismic energy sources pass through the rigid conduit sections and the at least one bending strain relief.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2010Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: PGS Geophysical ASInventors: Wayne Russell Paull, Karl Petter Elvestad
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Patent number: 8654606Abstract: A sensor assembly has first sensors spaced apart along a first direction, and second sensors oriented in a second direction generally orthogonal to the first direction. Differencing of outputs of the first sensors is performed, and differencing of outputs of the second sensors is performed. A signal output is produced by combining the differenced outputs of the first sensors and the differenced outputs of the second sensors, where the signal output represents a seismic response of a subterranean structure.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2010Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: WesternGeco L.L.C.Inventors: Everhard Muyzert, Pascal Edme, Julian Edward Kragh
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Patent number: 8654607Abstract: A system and a method for determining one or more wave characteristics from a moving platform are disclosed. A sonar system, such as an Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler, can profile the water motion relative to the platform, and an earth reference can determine a measure of the platform motion relative to a fixed earth reference. Both water profile and earth reference measurements can be synergistically employed to compensate for motion of the platform. Directional wave spectra and non-directional wave spectrum can be computed and translated via linear wave theory to surface height spectra and used to calculate characteristics, such as significant wave height, peak period, and peak direction.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2010Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Teledyne RD Instruments, Inc.Inventor: Brandon S. Strong
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Patent number: 8654608Abstract: In the use of a backhoe digger an indication of the precise depth of the bucket is required. This may be done by measuring the angles and extensions of the elements of the backhoe and calculating the result. This is commonly done by means of angle resolvers and linear encoders. Retro-fitting and calibration of such equipment is very difficult, and according to the invention the same data may be obtained by means of an inclinometer and length measuring devices based on pulsed ultrasound.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Mikrofyn A/SInventor: Anders Lindskov
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Patent number: 8654609Abstract: A target detection device includes: a sound source which projects a sound pulse; a transducer array disposed in a region for receiving a forward scattered wave from an object in the propagation environment; an addition processing unit which extracts only a signal of the forward scattered wave by applying vector addition processing on a reference signal in a reference sound field received when an obstacle exists in the propagation environment and a mixed signal in a mixed sound field received when the target exists with the obstacle; a phase conjugation determination unit which checks whether a phase conjugacy is established by receiving the signal of the extracted forward scattered wave and employing a passive phase conjugation for determining the reference sound field; and a time reversal processing unit which generates a time reversal signal on condition that the phase conjugation determination unit judges that the phase conjugacy is established.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2009Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: NEC CorporationInventors: Yoshiaki Tsurugaya, Toshiaki Kikuchi
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Patent number: 8654610Abstract: An acoustic underwater navigation system is disclosed. For instance, an underwater receiver determines its position using signals broadcast from an array of acoustic transmitters located near the surface. The position of the array is measured using global positioning system (GPS) technology and the transmitters collectively produce an acoustic signal in which the position and attitude of the array and the GPS time of transmission are encoded. An underwater receiver which is synchronized with the GPS time uses the transmitted position and attitude of the array and the transmission time information to calculate its position.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2010Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: SHB Instruments, Inc.Inventors: Barry Megdal, Hans Scholze
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Patent number: 8654611Abstract: A method for detecting series of substantially periodic bursts of substantially sinusoidal signals, in particular, but not exclusively, series of bursts of signals transmitted recurrently (by pingers for example), this method making it possible to ensure the quick and reliable detection of such signals in the presence of significant interference noise. This method includes slightly delayed processing of received signals, spectral analysis and time integration, and presentation of the results in the form of a two-dimensional image of the successive recurrences of the bursts according to time slots of the received signals.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2010Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: IXWaves SARLInventors: Laurent Kopp, Michel Eyries
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Patent number: 8654612Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and method for detecting bats from a remote location. In one aspect the invention provides a bat detection system comprising an upper detection unit connected to a base computer unit. The upper detection unit can be positioned on a vertical structure, and a second lower detection unit, or additional detection units, can also be positioned on the vertical structure. Each detection unit comprises a housing which is connected to, and contains, an audio detector. The base computer unit is enclosed by a housing and comprises a data processor, a data storage device, and a remote communication interface device. The data processor is operatively connected to the data storage device, remote communication interface device, and the audio detectors of any detection units positioned on the vertical structure. The base computer unit communicates with a remote computer transferring information regarding the bat sounds detected by the detection units.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2012Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Normandeau Associates, Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Adler, Christian M. Newman, Christine L. Sutter, Carla Ebeling, Chris Ribe, Peter West
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Patent number: 8654613Abstract: A measuring apparatus includes an acoustic wave detecting unit that detects acoustic waves generated from a subject irradiated with light, and a member that is disposed between the acoustic wave detecting unit and the subject and that has an acoustic speed value smaller than an average acoustic speed value inside the subject. The thickness of the member is greater than a value obtained by dividing the acoustic speed value inside the subject by the minimum frequency detectable by the acoustic wave detecting unit.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Kazuhiko Fukutani
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Patent number: 8654614Abstract: Provided is a transducer in which electrodes in a movable region are less likely to affect the mechanical characteristics of the movable region and in which nonuniform electrical potential distribution of the surface of the electrodes in the movable region is suppressed. The transducer includes first electrodes and second electrodes opposing the first electrodes with gaps interposed between therebetween. The resistance per unit area of the first electrodes differs in a movable region relative to the second electrodes and an unmovable region relative to the second electrodes. The first electrodes in the movable region and the first electrodes in the unmovable region have different thicknesses.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2011Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Atsushi Kandori, Masao Majima