Patents Issued in February 21, 2017
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Patent number: 9575051Abstract: A test strip port connector of a test meter receives an analytical test strip comprising a sample chamber for receiving a fluid sample. The fluid sample is prevented from contaminating an interior region of the test strip port connector by a sealing mechanism having a seal configured to be moved into a sealing position across the test strip.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Cilag GmbH InternationalInventors: David Elder, Steven Setford, Allan Faulkner, Ryan Walsh
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Patent number: 9575052Abstract: A diagnostic device is provided that comprises a light source for transmitting a light beam through a blood sample to a light detector, and a permanent magnet, wherein one of the permanent magnet and blood sample is automatically movable relative to the other between a “HIGH” magnetic state position and a “LOW” magnetic state position, such that a substantially high magnetic field is applied to the blood sample causing any hemozoin in the blood sample to tend toward perpendicular orientation to the substantially magnetic field and the suppression, or enhancement of light based on its polarization, and a zero-to-near-zero magnetic field is applied to the blood sample causing the randomization of any hemozoin in the blood sample and a baseline amount of light to pass through the blood sample in the “LOW” magnetic state position.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Case Western Reserve UniversityInventors: Brian T. Grimberg, Robert Deissler, William Condit, Robert Brown, Jason Jones, Richard Bihary
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Patent number: 9575053Abstract: A novel method that enables prostate cancer testing that is noninvasive and more accurate than conventional methods is disclosed. The present inventors intensively analyzed urine samples from prostate cancer patients, and non-cancer subjects, who are free of prostate cancer, and, as a result, newly discovered urinary peptides that can be used as indicators in prostate cancer testing. Use of these urinary peptides as indicators enables various prostate cancer-related tests including detection of prostate cancer, discrimination between prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia, monitoring of a therapeutic effect of prostate cancer therapy and monitoring of postoperative recurrence.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: KYOTO UNIVERSITYInventors: Kenji Nakayama, Kazuharu Shimizu, Jun Utsumi, Takahiro Inoue, Osamu Ogawa
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Patent number: 9575054Abstract: Provided herein are methods of evaluating potential antitumor compounds, and thereby identifying antitumor compounds, using placenta or a portion thereof and tumor cells, and compositions for accomplishing the same. In one embodiment, provided herein is a method of determining whether a potential antitumor compound is effective against a plurality of tumor cells, comprising introducing a plurality of tumor cells to, e.g., into or onto, a mammalian placenta or portion thereof; contacting said plurality of tumor cells for a period of time with said antitumor compound; and determining whether said antitumor compound is effective against said tumor cells, wherein said antitumor compound is effective against said tumor cells if said antitumor compound over said period of time reduces the number of said tumor cells or reduces the growth rate of said tumor cells.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Anthrogenesis CorporationInventors: Robert J. Hariri, Mohit B. Bhatia, Qian Ye
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Patent number: 9575055Abstract: Disclosed herein are bioreactor systems and methods of utilizing said systems.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2010Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: KIYATEC INC.Inventors: Matthew R. Gevaert, David E. Orr
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Patent number: 9575056Abstract: The present invention relates to a strip for an improved lateral flow assay of a biological sample on a single plane and a lateral flow chromatography assay using a test device containing the same. The strip of the present invention consists of a single-pad, which can improve lateral flow assay by providing an easy and simple procedure and clear visual reading. The strip of the present invention is consisted of sample application (sample) zone and reactant-resultant zone where the reaction mixture is deposited (reactant) are all on a same plane. In addition, the present invention provides a chromatographic method wherein hemoglobin is separated from analyte by a differential chromatography on the solid phase. Any interference of detection of the result by hemoglobin is removed by the present invention. The present invention provides advantages including an easy and simple procedure with a quick and clear response.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2012Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: ACCESS BIO, INC.Inventors: Hyeon Suk Kim, Tae-Hee Koo, Young Ho Choi
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Patent number: 9575058Abstract: The present invention provides fluidic devices and systems that allow detection of analytes from a biological fluid. The methods and devices are particularly useful for providing point-of-care testing for a variety of medical applications.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Theranos, Inc.Inventors: Shaunak Roy, Malissa Takahashi, Ian Gibbons, Edmond Ku, Thanh Dang, Tammy Burd, Adam Vollmer, Elizabeth A. Holmes
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Patent number: 9575059Abstract: A concentration agent for microorganisms is provided that contains both lanthanum and carbonate. Additionally, articles that include the concentration agent and methods of concentrating a microorganism using the concentration agent are provided.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: Manjiri T. Kshirsagar, Evan Koon Lun Yuuji Hajime, Andrew W. Rabins
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Patent number: 9575060Abstract: Provided is a method for detecting a target particle that is a method for detecting a non-luminescent target particle dispersed and randomly moving in a sample solution using an optical system of a confocal microscope or multi-photon microscope, having: (a) preparing a sample solution containing target particles, and labeling particles of which the average outer diameter is less than 15% of the diameter of a photodetection region of the optical system, binding two or more molecules of the labeling particles per molecule of the target particles in the sample solution, and forming a non-luminescent complex of which the outer diameter is 15% or more of the diameter of the photodetection region; and, (b) calculating the number of molecules of the complex in the sample solution prepared in the (a) using an inverse scanning molecule counting method.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: OLYMPUS CORPORATIONInventors: Kazutaka Nishikawa, Takuya Hanashi
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Patent number: 9575061Abstract: The present invention provides simple and inexpensive assays for the detection of virtually any analyte in any sample that is in liquid form or that can be solubilized. The assays utilize the fluid dynamics of drop evaporation whereby soluble materials, including analytes and particles binding thereto, are drawn to the edge of the drop and ultimately form a concentrated residual ring. The presence or absence of certain reagents can then be detected through a number of different approaches.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2010Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: VANDERBILT UNIVERSITYInventors: Frederick R. Haselton, Joshua Robert Trantum, David W. Wright
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Patent number: 9575062Abstract: Hydrophilic, chemiluminescent acridinium compounds containing zwitterions are disclosed. These acridinium compounds, when used as chemiluminescent labels in immunochemistry assays and the like, exhibit decreased non-specific binding to solid phases and provide increased assay sensitivity.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: SIEMENS HEALTHCARE DIAGNOSTICS INC.Inventors: Anand Natrajan, David Sharpe, Qingping Jiang
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Patent number: 9575063Abstract: An optical engine for use in a bench top flow cytometer, the optical engine comprising a set of lasers; a different set of beam shaping optics for each laser, wherein each set comprises two lenses to adjustably focus light horizontally along an x-axis to a same horizontal position and vertically along a y-axis to a different vertical position along a same plane; collection optics for collecting fluorescence from the flow cell; filtration optics that filter the collected fluorescence from the flow cell into different detection channels according to wavelength ranges; and a detector for each detection channel that converts the filtered fluorescence to electrical signals, wherein electrical signals are processed so that the fluorescence from each laser at the different vertical positions is distinguished at the same detector.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: ACEA Biosciences, Inc.Inventors: Nan Li, Ye Chen, Hyunsun Chung, Zengqiang Li, Xiaobo Wang
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Patent number: 9575064Abstract: Processes are provided that include additive compounds suitable for detecting the activity of an enzyme such as a lysosomal storage enzyme where the additive is a salt of oleic acid. Inclusion of a salt of oleic acid unexpectedly improves enzyme activity and reproducibility.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: PerkinElmer Health Sciences, Inc.Inventor: Anna M. Potier
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Patent number: 9575065Abstract: Diagnostic tests for characterizing an individual's risk of developing or having a cardiovascular disease. In one embodiment the present diagnostic test comprises determining the level of myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity in a bodily sample obtained from the individual or test subject. In another embodiment, the diagnostic test comprises determining the level of MPO mass in a bodily sample obtained from the test subject. In another embodiment, the diagnostic test comprises determining the level of one or more select MPO-generated oxidation products in a bodily sample obtained from the test subject. The select MPO-generated oxidation products are dityrosine, nitrotyrosine, methionine sulphoxide or an MPO-generated lipid peroxidation products.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2016Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: The Cleveland Clinic FoundationInventors: Stanley L. Hazen, Renliang Zhang
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Patent number: 9575066Abstract: The present invention provides antibody-based arrays for detecting the activation state and/or total amount of a plurality of signal transduction molecules in rare circulating cells and methods of use thereof for facilitating cancer prognosis and diagnosis and the design of personalized, targeted therapies.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: NESTEC S.A.Inventors: Jeanne Harvey, Sharat Singh, Phillip Kim, Xinjun Liu, Robert Barham, Limin Liu
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Patent number: 9575067Abstract: Certain disclosed embodiments of the present invention concern the synthesis, derivatization, conjugation to immunoglobulins and signal amplification based on discrete, relatively short polymers having plural reactive functional groups that react with plural molecules of interest. Reactive functional groups, such as hydrazides, may be derivatized with a variety of detectable labels, particularly haptens. The remaining reactive functional groups may be conjugated directly to a specific binding molecule, such as to the oxidized carbohydrate of the Fc region of the antibody. Disclosed conjugates display large signal amplification as compared to those based on molecules derivatized with single haptens, and are useful for assay methods, particularly multiplexed assays.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2015Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Ventana Medical Systems, Inc.Inventors: Jerry W. Kosmeder, II, Casey A. Kernag, Donald Johnson, Christopher Bieniarz
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Patent number: 9575068Abstract: A method of detecting a target within a population of molecules comprising: contacting a plurality of labeled probe molecules with the population of molecules potentially containing a target of the probe molecules; acquiring a probe specific signal emitted by said labeled probe molecules that bound to said target together with a background signal; preferentially modulating said probe specific signal by at least one of modulating said acquisition and modulating an emission of said probe specific signal; and detecting said probe specific signal over said background signal using said preferential modulation.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Ramot at Tel-Aviv University Ltd.Inventors: Ady Arie, Amos Danielli
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Patent number: 9575069Abstract: Compositions, methods and kits for labeling proteins and uses in reporter systems for detecting, quantifying and/or characterizing analytes.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: APPLIED BIOSYSTEMS, LLCInventors: Steven Menchen, Joe Y. Lam, Zhaochun Ma, Khairuzzaman Bashar Mullah
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Patent number: 9575070Abstract: A diagnostic device for and method of detecting the presence of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) in a patient including a detector device for detecting a presence of at least one marker indicative of HNSCC, the detector device including a panel of markers for HNSCC. A diagnostic device for and method of staging HNSCC in a patient including a detector device for detecting a presence of at least one marker indicative of stages of HNSCC, the detector device including a panel of markers for HNSCC. Markers for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma selected from the markers listed in Table 5. Methods of personalized immunotherapy, making a personalized anti-cancer vaccine, and predicting a clinical outcome in a HNSCC patient. A method of making a panel of HNSCC markers.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2007Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Wayne State UniversityInventors: Michael A. Tainsky, Sorin Draghici, Ho-Sheng Lin
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Patent number: 9575072Abstract: The invention is directed, in part, to the use of gelsolin to diagnose, monitor, and treat subjects with renal failure (e.g., chronic renal failure subjects on dialysis).Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2009Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignees: The Brigham and Women's Hospital, Inc., Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Inc., The General Hospital CorporationInventors: Ravi Thadhani, Thomas P. Stossel, Po-Shun Lee, Ananth Karumanchi
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Patent number: 9575073Abstract: The present invention relates to diagnostic, prognostic and clinical methods of distinguishing high-risk IPMN from more benign IPMN as well as high-grade PanIN and PDAC from low-grade PanIN with moderate sensitivity and very high specificity using Das-1 and related antibodies.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2012Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignees: RUTGERS, THE STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW JERSEY, MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITALInventors: Kiron M. Das, Koushik K. Das, Mari Mino-Kenudson
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Patent number: 9575074Abstract: The present invention provides a method and a means for evaluating atherosclerotic lesions by identifying a protein (marker protein) group, the expression level of which varies according to the progression of the atherosclerotic lesion, and using the proteins. Specifically, the present invention relates to a method for evaluating atherosclerotic lesions, comprising the steps of detecting a marker protein exhibiting an expression pattern (expression variation) characteristic at a specific disease stage of atherosclerotic lesions in a subject, and evaluating the atherosclerotic lesions in the subject based on the detection result.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2015Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignees: Hitachi, Ltd., National University Corporation Hokkaido UniversityInventors: Takeshi Sakamoto, Hiroko Hanzawa, Naomi Manri, Yuji Kuge
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Patent number: 9575075Abstract: The present disclosure concerns a pharmaceutical composition comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier and a compound selected in the group comprising (i) a polypeptide comprising an amino acid sequence selected in the group comprising the amino acid sequence of the long isoform in Homo sapiens of the RdCVF2 gene (SEQ ID NO:10), orthologs, derivatives and fragments thereof, (ii) a polynucleotide coding for said polypeptide, (iii) a vector comprising said polynucleotide, and (iv) a host cell genetically engineered expressing said polypeptide; the use of such a composition for the manufacture of a medicament for treating and/or preventing a neurodegenerative disorder in a subject; and a method of testing a subject thought to have or be predisposed to having a neurodegenerative disorder.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2008Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignees: INSERM (Institut National de la Sante et Recherche Medicale), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS)Inventors: Thierry Leveillard, José-Alain Sahel, Céline Jaillard, Olivier Poch
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Patent number: 9575076Abstract: The invention relates to low wash Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) immunoassays using an ELISA sandwich assay having limited or no wash step between the antigen capture, detection antibody addition and substrate introduction steps. This invention exhibits low cross reactivity with biologically similar interfering cross reacting species, such as Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Chorionic Gonadotropin (CG).Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2015Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Abbott Point of Care Inc.Inventors: Dan Wang, Gordon Bruce Collier, Joseph P. Skinner, Qiaoqiao Ruan, Sergey Y. Tetin
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Patent number: 9575077Abstract: The invention relates to antibody characteristics used to design a whole blood Point of Care Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) immunoassay using an ELISA sandwich assay lacking one or more wash steps between the antigen capture, detection antibody addition and substrate introduction steps. This invention exhibits low cross reactivity with biologically similar interfering cross reacting species, such as Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Chorionic Gonadotropin (CG).Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2015Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Abbott Point of Care Inc.Inventors: Dan Wang, Gordon Bruce Collier, Joseph P. Skinner, Qiaoqiao Ruan, Sergey Y. Tetin
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Patent number: 9575078Abstract: A sample testing cartridge is usable to perform a variety of tests on a visco-elastic sample, such hemostasis testing on a whole blood or blood component sample. The cartridge includes a sample processing portion that is in fluid communication with a sample retention structure. A suspension, such as a beam, arm, cantilever or similar structure supports or suspends the sample retention portion relative to the sample processing portion in a unitary structure. In this manner, the sample retention portion may be placed into dynamic excitation responsive to excitation of the cartridge and correspondingly dynamic, resonant excitation of the sample contained within the sample retention portion, while the sample processing portion remains fixed. Observation of the excited sample yields data indicative of hemostasis. The data may correspond to hemostasis parameters such as time to initial clot formation, rate of clot formation, maximum clot strength and degree of clot lysis.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Coramed Technologies, LLCInventors: Peter Delmenico, Carlos G. Lopez-Espina, Gabriel Raviv
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Patent number: 9575079Abstract: Disclosed are an apparatus and a method for effectively measuring cholesterol using a small amount of blood. The apparatus for measuring cholesterol includes a cartridge where an upper case having a sample transferring membrane is movably coupled to a lower case having a sample measuring membrane; a cartridge accommodation unit configured to accommodate the cartridge therein; a memory configured to store therein setting information for sample measurement; and a controller configured to align the membranes of the upper case and the lower case with each other, by horizontally moving the lower case of the cartridge, according to the stored setting information, and configured to contact the membranes of the upper case and the lower case with each other, by vertically moving the upper case for sample transfer on each alignment position.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2015Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.Inventors: Jisu Kim, Seokjung Hyun, Yongju Yang, Kangsun Lee, Hyunho Oh, Guhan Kwon, Younjae Lee, Bongchu Shim, Gyoungsoo Kim, Dayeon Kang, Yonghyun Kim
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Patent number: 9575080Abstract: The present application provides for a compound of Formula IV, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, solvate, and/or ester thereof, compositions containing such compounds, therapeutic methods that include the administration of such compounds, and therapeutic methods and include the administration of such compounds with at least one additional therapeutic agent.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2008Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Gilead Sciences, Inc.Inventors: Manoj C. Desai, Hongtao Liu, Lianhong Xu
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Patent number: 9575081Abstract: The invention provides a device for detecting drugs of abuse or other compounds in saliva. The invention thus provides a device for detecting the presence of one or more analytes in a saliva sample, comprising: (a) One or more pre-treatment regions for specifically or non-specifically removing at least a part of the fraction of the saliva sample interfering with detection of the one or more analytes; and (b) A detection region comprising a biosensor surface, the surface comprising: molecules capable of specifically binding the one or more analytes; or the one or more analytes and/or analyte analogues.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS N.V.Inventors: Jeroen Hans Nieuwenhuis, Ahmed Mohammed Taki Jehanli, Femke Karina De Theije, Eduard Gerard Marie Pelssers
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Patent number: 9575082Abstract: The automatic analysis device includes an analysis unit that corrects, based on a measured value at the time of a first light amount measurement with water dispensed in the reaction cell before the sample is dispensed therein; a measured value at the time of a second light amount measurement after the sample and a preprocessing reagent are dispensed into the reaction cell; a liquid amount in the reaction cell at the time of the second light amount measurement; and a liquid amount in the reaction cell at the time of a third light amount measurement after the reaction reagent has been dispensed into the reaction cell and before the reaction reagent and the substance to be measured react with each other.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Hitachi High-Technologies CorporationInventors: Sakuichiro Adachi, Hajime Yamazaki, Masahiko Iijima, Shigeki Matsubara
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Patent number: 9575083Abstract: An automatic analysis apparatus measures a concentration of an intended component in a biological sample, such as blood or urine, or determines whether such component is contained in the sample or not, and includes a function such that, with respect to the optical system, a part whose lifetime has ended is specified or the degree of deterioration of a part is detected to provide a user with the information. The automatic analyzer has a storage unit for storing a transmitted light distribution for a plurality of wavelengths detected by a receptor element for transmitted light which has passed through a substance to be measured, and a control unit for comparing a first, stored transmitted light distribution with a second transmitted light distribution acquired at the time of measurement to determine a deteriorating part from a plurality of parts based on the result of the comparison and output the result.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Hitachi High-Technologies CorporationInventor: Kenichi Nishigaki
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Patent number: 9575084Abstract: Specimen collection slides, methods of fabricating and methods of utilizing such specimen collection slides whereby each specimen collection slide includes a top rigid layer with an opening, a bottom rigid layer with an opening substantially the same size as the top layer opening, a middle rigid section having an opening larger than the openings in both the top and bottom layers, and a filtration media residing within the opening in the middle section. The top, bottom and middle are secured together to provide the resultant slide with thickness and rigidity that lends the slide to be utilized in automated handling processes and instruments. The middle section of the slide encases the filtration media and sandwiches it between the top and bottom layers so that the filtration media is protected from damage. Each slide may have its own unique identifier.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2010Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Inventor: Thomas W. Astle
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Patent number: 9575085Abstract: In an automatic analysis device, when an external force acts on a probe guard 26 in a horizontal direction, the probe guard 26 moves in a direction escaping from the external force around a center portion 47 of a test body container installing mechanism 1, and the probe guard 26 is separated from a fixed position. An outer circumferential wall 29 of the probe guard 26 invades a test body sampling mechanism track 28, and thus a risk that a sampling nozzle 23 of a test body sampling mechanism 5 invades the test body container installing mechanism 1 is avoided by the outer circumferential wall 29. When the probe guard 26 is separated from the fixed position, this is detected, and thus the operation of the test body sampling mechanism 5 and the test body container installing mechanism 1 is stopped.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Hitachi High-Technologies CorporationInventors: Takeshi Setomaru, Masato Ishizawa, Hideyasu Chiba
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Patent number: 9575086Abstract: A laboratory sample distribution system is presented. The laboratory sample distribution system comprises a plurality of container carriers. The container carriers each comprise at least one magnetically active device such as, for example, at least one permanent magnet, and carry a sample container containing a sample. The system further comprises a transport plane to carry the multiple container carriers and a plurality of electro-magnetic actuators stationary arranged below the transport plane. The electro-magnetic actuators move a container carrier on top of the transport plane by applying a magnetic force to the container carrier. The system also comprises at least one transfer device to transfer a sample item, wherein the sample item is a container carrier, a sample container, part of the sample and/or the complete sample, between the transport plane and a laboratory station such as, for example, a pre-analytical, an analytical and/or a post-analytical station.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2015Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.Inventors: Michael Heise, Hans Schneider
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Patent number: 9575087Abstract: Single-use, pre-sterilized, and pre-calibrated, pre-validated sensors are provided. These sensors are designed to store sensor-specific information, such as calibration and production information, in a non-volatile memory chip on the sensor or in a barcode printed on the sensor. These sensors may be utilized with in-line systems, closed fluid circuits, bioprocessing systems, or systems which require an aseptic environment while avoiding or reducing cleaning procedures and quality assurance variances. The sensors exhibit both their primary sensing function such as conductivity, pH level, dissolved oxygen, pressure or temperature, as well as at least one secondary sensing function of risk management or risk mitigation.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Parker-Hannifin CorporationInventors: Karl G. Schick, David Uhen
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Patent number: 9575088Abstract: The invention relates to a capacitive micromechanical acceleration sensor comprising a first sensor, a second sensor, and a third sensor. The first sensor comprises a rotor electrode and stator electrode. The sensor comprises a first beam that is connected to a rotor electrode support structure and that is connected to the rotor electrode. The sensor comprises a second beam that is connected to the rotor electrode support structure and that is connected to the rotor electrode. The second sensor is situated in a first space circumscribed by the first beam, the first sensor, and the rotor electrode support structure. The third sensor is situated in a second space circumscribed by the second beam, the first sensor, and the rotor electrode support structure.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: MURATA MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.Inventors: Matti Liukku, Ville-Pekka Rytkönen, Anssi Blomqvist
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Patent number: 9575089Abstract: Various embodiments of the invention allow to cancel demodulation phase error. In certain embodiments, cancellation is accomplished by determining the phase delay of a drive front end signal that is in phase with an undesired signal and digitally adjusting the demodulation signal with a calibrated signal. The phase delay may be adaptively compensated during regular circuit operation, only at predetermined times, or during a factory calibration.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.Inventors: Gabriele Cazzaniga, Luciano Prandi, Carlo Caminada, Federico Forte
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Patent number: 9575090Abstract: An atomic force microscope (AFM) and corresponding method to provide low force (sub-20 pN) AFM control and mechanical property measurement is provided. The preferred embodiments employ real-time false deflection correction/discrimination by adaptively modifying the drive ramp to accommodate to deflection artifacts.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Bruker Nano, Inc.Inventors: Changchun Liu, Bede Pittenger, Shuiqing Hu, Chanmin Su
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Patent number: 9575091Abstract: Devices and methods for enhancing electrical safety are provided herein. Devices testing the safety of light fixtures are provided. Also provided are a variety of testing tools for improving electrical safety. The devices are generally capable of wirelessly communicating with a computer, particularly a hand-held device such as a smart-phone or tablet. Methods for using the devices are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Inventor: Kenneth Mark Reeder, III
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Patent number: 9575092Abstract: An embodiment of a device for positioning a miniaturized piece, including: a positioning structure, which forms a first cavity, designed to receive with play the miniaturized piece, and a second cavity communicating with the first cavity; at least one electrical-contact terminal, facing the second cavity and electrically coupleable to an electronic testing device, designed to carry out an electrical test on the miniaturized piece; and an actuator device, which causes a vibration of the positioning structure, the vibration being such that the miniaturized piece translates, in use, towards the second cavity, until it penetrates at least in part into the second cavity.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: STMicroelectronics S.r.l.Inventors: Fabiano Frigoli, Giuseppe Ballotta, Massimo Greppi, Luca Giuseppe Falorni, Paolo Aranzulla
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Patent number: 9575093Abstract: A system for testing MEMS-structures includes a microforce sensor, two or more multi-axis micropositioning units, at least one electrical probe and a sample holder on which a MEMS-structure is mounted. At least one of the multi-axis micropositioning units is motorized and at least one additional micropositioning unit is equipped with at least one electrical probe to apply electrical signals or to measure electrical signals at one or multiple locations on the MEMS structure. The system with the aforementioned components allows a combined electrical and probe-based mechanical testing of MEMS-structures.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Femtotools AGInventors: Felix Beyeler, Christoph Bolliger, Daniel Frost, David Beyeler, Simon Muntwyler
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Patent number: 9575094Abstract: A current sensor includes a casing including a pair of arms and coupling part, multiple magneto-electric transducers arranged on the circumference of a virtual ellipse whose major axis or minor axis extends between the arms, a support disposed obliquely relative to the major axis or the minor axis of the virtual ellipse within an angle formed by the major axis and the minor axis so as to be close to one of the arms when viewed from the center of a wire disposed and fastened between the arms, and a band wound around a circumferential surface of the wire fastened between the arms, part of the band being caught by the support, the wire being fastened by the band such that the central axis or center of the wire is held close to the support.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: ALPS ELECTRIC CO., LTD.Inventor: Shinji Mitsuya
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Patent number: 9575095Abstract: Systems and methods for sensing voltage on a chip are described herein. In one embodiment, a voltage sensor comprises a voltage-controlled oscillator coupled to a voltage being sensed, and a plurality of transition detectors, wherein each of the transition detectors is coupled to a different location on the oscillator, and wherein each of the transition detectors is configured to count a number of transitions at the respective location over a time period. The voltage sensor also comprises an adder configured to add the numbers of transitions from the transition detectors to generate an output value that is approximately proportional to the voltage.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: QUALCOMM IncorporatedInventors: Junmou Zhang, Chuang Zhang, Yuancheng Christopher Pan, Nan Chen
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Patent number: 9575096Abstract: Various embodiments of the invention increase current monitoring accuracy in switching converters. In particular, certain embodiments of the invention allow reduce noise associated with transients that are typically generated at transitions when power FETs are turn on and off and allow to accurately sense inductor DC current of switching converters, thereby, increase current monitoring accuracy without requiring any blanking circuitry. In certain embodiments of the invention, this is accomplished by an acquisition circuit that dynamically monitors current in various operating modes. A phase frequency detector (PFD) and control circuit in the acquisition circuit automatically align a narrow sampling window and the midpoint of a turn-on signal. Certain embodiments utilize an analog multiplier circuit to sense current in skip mode operation.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.Inventors: Jian Wang, Kevin Wendell Dowdy, Dale Alan Kemper
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Patent number: 9575097Abstract: Composite material sheets containing conductive fibers are laminated, and release films are interposed between the sheets so as to extend from one end to the center of the sheets. The sheets are heated under pressure to shape a composite material. Discrete conductive wires through which a measurement current is passed are connected to end surfaces of the respective layers in the composite material on the side on which the release films are interposed. A common conductive wire through which the measurement current is passed is connected to a surface of one of an uppermost layer and a lowermost layer at an end of the composite material opposite to the side on which the release films are interposed. A current is passed between the common conductive wire and the discrete conductive wires. Currents in the respective layers are sequentially or simultaneously measured using an ammeter.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: FUJI JUKOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Ai Kawashima, Hiroyasu Fujita, Naoyuki Sekine
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Patent number: 9575098Abstract: An electronic apparatus includes a first voltage detection circuit which detects when a voltage, becomes higher than a first level after the voltage starts to be supplied to a peripheral circuit, and detects when the voltage becomes lower than a second level after a supply of the voltage to the peripheral circuit starts to be interrupted, and a second voltage detection circuit which detects when the voltage becomes lower than a reference level while the peripheral circuit operates. The second level is lower than the reference level.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2016Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: SK Hynix Inc.Inventor: Hyun Chul Lee
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Patent number: 9575100Abstract: A circuit arrangement including a rectifier circuit and a current determining circuit. The rectifier circuit is configured to rectify an alternating signal into a rectified signal. The current determining circuit is configured to determine a current of the alternating signal from at least a current of the rectified signal.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: INFINEON TECHNOLOGIES AUSTRIA AGInventors: Davide Piombo, Angelo Cavo, Fabio Parodi, Davide Flamini, Wolfgang Meier, Sergio Rossi
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Patent number: 9575101Abstract: The present disclosure is a system for monitoring power that has a unified polyphase distribution transformer monitoring (PDTM) device that interfaces with at least three electrical conductors electrically connected to a transformer. In addition, the PDTM device measures a current and a voltage of each of the three electrical conductors. Additionally, the system has logic that calculates values indicative of power corresponding to the transformer based upon the currents and the voltages measured and transmit data indicative of the calculated values.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: GRID20/20, Inc.Inventors: Lan Xu, Eric George de Buda
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Patent number: 9575102Abstract: A dispersed state monitoring device for distributed generation includes a power module, an input conditioning module, a data processing module and a network communication module which are connected one after another in this order. The power is input, via a civil plug and a 220V power socket, to the power module and the input conditioning module in the device at the same time. The power module ensures normal operation of the device through conditioning of a voltage. The input conditioning module is configured to condition input voltage signals, extract voltage transient-state and steady-state signals to be analyzed, and inputting the signals to the data processing module. The data processing module is configured to analyze the voltage transient-state and steady-state signals, judge the operating state of the distributed power source, and output a judging result to the network communication module. The result is output from the network communication module via a standard RJ45 Ethernet interface.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2012Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignees: JINING POWER SUPPLY COMPANY OF STATE GRID SHANDONG ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY, STATE GRID CORPORATION OF CHINAInventors: Qinglin Qian, Yanliang Wang, Shuxi Xu, Xiaohong Chen, Lifeng Zhu, Zongjie Liu, Ping Kong, Lei Xu, Zijia Ding, Yundong Xiao, Bing Yuan
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Patent number: 9575103Abstract: An integrated circuit includes an output circuit having a first terminal adapted to couple to an external power supply, a second terminal adapted to couple to a reference potential, and a third, control terminal. The first and second terminals of the output circuit provide output terminals of the integrated circuit. The integrated circuit further includes an impedance measurement circuit responsive to the external power supply to generate a control signal for coupling to the control terminal of the output circuit. The control signal controls a current level associated with the output circuit. A corresponding method is also described.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2014Date of Patent: February 21, 2017Assignee: ALLEGRO MICROSYSTEMS, LLCInventors: Glenn A. Forrest, Wei Zhang