Patents Issued in August 27, 2019
  • Patent number: 10393667
    Abstract: Techniques for optical analysis of fluid samples using sensors and water enhancing agents for in-line measurements with a continuous flow of the fluid samples are provided. In one aspect, a device includes: at least one reagent dispenser located at an introduction point along a conduit, the conduit being configured to contain a flow of a fluid sample; at least one first detector located at a first detection point along the conduit downstream from the introduction point; and at least one second detector located at a second detection point along the conduit downstream from the first detection point, wherein the at least one first detector and the at least one second detector are configured to make optical measurements of the fluid sample. A method employing the device is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Russell Budd, Minhua Lu, Vince Siu, Evan Colgan
  • Patent number: 10393668
    Abstract: Provided is an article inspection apparatus which does not arrange the LED mounting body by mistake at the time of mounting or replacing or the like and does not cause unevenness of irradiation light. The article inspection apparatus 1 includes a conveying device 2 that places an article on a translucent conveyor belt 16 and moves the article, a support base 3 that supports the conveying device 2, an irradiation device 4 that irradiates the conveyor belt 16 from below by disposing the LED mounting body 53 on which a semiconductor light emitting element is mounted and fixed on a printed circuit board 57, and a control device 5 that operates and controls the conveyor belt 16 and controls light emission of the semiconductor light emitting element. In the LED mounting body 53, the white chip 58 and the RGB chip 59 are arranged in parallel on the printed circuit board 57 at predetermined intervals, and the wiring coupler 60 is disposed between the opposing white chip 58 and the RGB chip 59.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: SUM TECH INNOVATIONS CO., LTD
    Inventors: Tomohisa Takamoto, Kazuhiko Inao, Takeshi Tsuji, Masanori Yoshimura
  • Patent number: 10393669
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an apparatus for measuring a color parameter of a gemstone. The apparatus comprises a support structure for supporting the gemstone at a measurement location, an illumination system for illuminating the gemstone at the measurement location, an imaging device directed towards the measurement location for obtaining an image of the gemstone, and an image processor for analyzing the image of the gemstone. The image processor is configured to identify a set of stone pixels corresponding to the gemstone in the image and identify luminance and chrominance values for each stone pixel. A color vector is calculated from an expression of the chrominance values of the stone pixels in chrominance space, the color vector extending in chrominance space from stone pixels having a relatively high luminance value to stone pixels having a relatively low luminance value. This color vector is used in the determination of the color parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: De Beers UK Ltd
    Inventor: Alistair Fitch
  • Patent number: 10393670
    Abstract: A container inspection system is described herein. The container inspection system includes a light source that emits a flash of light when a container is detected as being in an inspection region. The container inspection system further includes a light director element that receives a portion of the flash of light and forms a tapering field of light that illuminates an exterior surface of a sidewall of the container when the container is in the inspection region. The container inspection system further comprises a camera that generates an image of the exterior surface when such surface is illuminated by the tapering field of light. A computing system receives the image and outputs an indication as to whether or not the container is defective based upon the image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Applied Vision Corporation
    Inventors: Richard A. Sones, Kris Brumbaugh, Michael Leo Kress, Bryan Murdoch
  • Patent number: 10393671
    Abstract: Methods and systems for detecting defects on a specimen are provided. One system includes one or more computer subsystems configured for acquiring images generated by an imaging subsystem at multiple instances of a pattern of interest (POI) within a die formed on the specimen. The multiple instances include two or more instances that are located at aperiodic locations within the die. The computer subsystem(s) are also configured for generating a POI reference image from two or more of the images generated at the multiple instances of the POI within the die. The computer subsystem(s) are further configured for comparing the images generated at the multiple instances of the POI within the die to the POI reference image and detecting defects in the multiple instances of the POI based on results of the comparing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: KLA-Tencor Corp.
    Inventors: Govindarajan Thattaisundaram, Hucheng Lee, Lisheng Gao
  • Patent number: 10393672
    Abstract: A substrate inspection system includes a substrate support, optics configured to irradiate a patterned structure on the substrate and capture images of the patterned structure from light reflected from the patterned structure, a focus adjustment operative to adjust a focal position of the incident light on the patterned structure, and an image processor configured to calculate an optimal value of a focus offset used to establish focal points of the light for defect detection in the patterned structure. The patterned structure may include a first pattern having an opening and a second pattern having top surfaces located at different heights relative to the substrate. The value of the focus offset is determined using images of the top surfaces of the second pattern obtained while changing the focal position of the incident light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jeongho Ahn, Jae-Man Oh, Seongsil Lee, Yusin Yang, Dongchul Ihm, Hyungsuk Cho
  • Patent number: 10393673
    Abstract: An inspection system for a vehicle includes a vision inspection device including a plurality of vision camera and a plurality of laser device which move along exterior and sides of a door, which will be inspected, and inspect segmented sections respectively, a hanger device clamping the hemmed door on a hanger frame, and a jig device which clamps the hanger frame of the hanger device, and moves the door toward the vision inspection device for the vision inspection device to inspect the door fixed to the hanger device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation, Dasannewtech Co., Ltd, Daewoo Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Young Soo Lim, Jin Cheol Kim, Kang Jae Jo, Bum-Hun Jun
  • Patent number: 10393674
    Abstract: Systems and methods for detecting gaps in netting include constructing a depth map from electromagnetic signals associated with netting surrounding an area, the depth map including measurements of distance of each strand of the netting along an axis perpendicular to a plane formed by the netting relative to the detector. Each segment of netting is identified including each strand of the netting in a side of the netting facing the detector. Locations of gaps in the netting are identified according to the depth map. A user is alerted to the presence and locations of gaps by sending a communication to a computing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathan Lenchner, Aisha Walcott, Charles Muchiri Wachira, Samuel Osebe, Sekou L. Remy, Stephen Oduor Odhiambo
  • Patent number: 10393675
    Abstract: An x-ray inspection system including a cabinet containing an x-ray source, a sample support for supporting a sample to be inspected, and an x-ray detector; an air mover configured to force air into the cabinet through an air inlet above the sample support, where the air mover and cabinet are configured to force air through the cabinet from the air inlet past the sample support to an air outlet in the cabinet below the sample support, and an assembly for positioning the sample support relative to the x-ray source and x-ray detector. The sample support includes an upper surface extending in a horizontal plane and the sample positioning assembly includes a vertical positioning mechanism for moving the sample support in a vertical direction, orthogonal to the horizontal plane, and a first horizontal positioning mechanism for moving the sample support and vertical positioning mechanism in a first horizontal direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Nordson Corporation
    Inventors: John Tingay, William T. Walker, Phil King, Simon White, Kate Donaldson-Stewart
  • Patent number: 10393676
    Abstract: A radiation image acquiring system is provided. An X-ray image acquiring system irradiates X-rays to a subject from an X-ray source, and detects X-rays transmitted through the subject. The X-ray image acquiring system includes a first detector for detecting X-rays that are transmitted through the subject to generate first image data, a second detector arranged in parallel to the first detector with a dead zone region sandwiched therebetween, for detecting X-rays that are transmitted through the subject to generate second image data, and a timing control section for controlling detection timing of the second detector based on a dead zone width of the dead zone region so that first image data to be generated by the first detector and second image data to be generated by the second detector mutually correspond.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: HAMAMATSU PHOTONICS K.K.
    Inventors: Toshiyasu Suyama, Tadashi Maruno, Toshihide Sasaki, Junichi Sonoda, Shinji Takihi
  • Patent number: 10393677
    Abstract: A method and an X-ray apparatus generate a projective X-ray representation of an examination object. Two projective images obtained from a phase contrast measurement are adapted to each other in respect of their representation format and a result image is generated by combining the adapted images. The result image allows extensive separation of different structures in the examination object that is used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Siemens Healthcare GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Bartl, Marcus Radicke, Ludwig Ritschl, Sven-Martin Sutter
  • Patent number: 10393678
    Abstract: Provided is a device capable of suppressing a drop in detection accuracy, and a manufacturing method of a structure. A detection device is a device that irradiates a subject with X-rays and detects the X-rays transmitting through the subject, and includes an X-ray source that emits X-rays, a table that holds the subject, a detector that detects at least a portion of the transmitted X-rays emitted from the X-ray source and transmitted through the subject, and a first guide device and a second guide device that guide movement of the table in a direction parallel to an optical axis of the X-ray source while supporting the table. In this detection device, a guide plane, which is parallel to the optical axis and is a plane to which the movement of the table is regulated, passes through the inside of a detection region of the transmitted X-rays of the detector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: NIKON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takashi Watanabe, Daniel Hilton, Sam Hawker
  • Patent number: 10393679
    Abstract: Provided are operation guide system for X-ray analysis to enable users to easily understand measurement of X-ray optical system to be selected. The operation guide system includes: measurement information acquisition unit for acquiring information on a sample and each X-ray measurement optical system part; sample magnification acquisition unit for acquiring magnification for display; incident X-ray shape deformation unit for determining distorted shape of an incident X-ray obtained by magnifying shape of the incident X-ray based on the magnification in a plane perpendicular to an optical axis direction; scattered X-ray shape deformation unit for determining distorted shape of a scattered X-ray obtained by magnifying shape of the scattered X-ray based on the magnification in the plane; and X-ray measurement optical system modeling unit for modeling a deformed shape of the sample, the distorted shape of the incident X-ray, and the distorted shape of the scattered X-ray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: RIGAKU CORPORATION
    Inventor: Akihiro Himeda
  • Patent number: 10393680
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for detecting gaps in composite parts. One method includes radiating a beam of x-rays in a firing direction towards surface of a multi-layer Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) part, acquiring data indicating intensity of sidescatter radiation received at an x-ray detector that extends along the CFRP part in the firing direction, and examining the acquired data for gaps at the CFRP part based on differences in intensity indicated by the data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Nathan R. Smith
  • Patent number: 10393681
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an X-ray Talbot interferometer including a source grating including a plurality of X-ray transmitting portions, configured to allow some of X-rays from an X-ray source to pass therethrough; a beam splitter grating having a periodic structure, configured to diffract X-rays from the X-ray transmitting portions by using the periodic structure to form an interference pattern; and an X-ray detector configured to detect X-rays from the beam splitter grating. The beam splitter grating diffracts an X-ray from each of the plurality of X-ray transmitting portions to form interference patterns each corresponding to one of the plurality of X-ray transmitting portions. The plurality of X-ray transmitting portions are arranged so that the interference patterns, each corresponding to one of the plurality of X-ray transmitting portions, are superimposed on one another to enhance a specific spatial frequency component in a sideband generated by modulation of the interference patterns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Soichiro Handa
  • Patent number: 10393682
    Abstract: A multiplexing x-ray fluorescence (MXRF) system and method are provided. The system can include a simple detector that counts x-rays with time resolution. A time-variable applied radiation source is used. The MXRF applied radiation source can produce an excitation spectrum with a peak average energy that grows with time and then recycles. Elemental identification can be achieved by time-correlating x-ray counts detected by the detector, with the time-variable applied radiation field. The system and method provide design flexibility for both commercial and NASA applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: U.S.A. as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
    Inventors: Keith C. Gendreau, Zaven Arzoumanian, Robert G. Baker, Norman Dobson, Richard Koenecke
  • Patent number: 10393683
    Abstract: X ray apparatus includes a sample stage (4) for supporting a sample (6), an X-ray source (2) and an energy dispersive X-ray detector (8). A conical X-ray collimator (10) is provided either between the sample and the X-ray source or between the sample and the energy-dispersive X-ray detector, the conical X-ray collimator including a plurality of truncated cones arranged concentrically around a central axis, the truncated cones having a common apex defining a central measurement spot on the sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: MALVERN PANALYTICAL B.V.
    Inventors: Petronella Emerentiana Hegeman, Gustaaf Christian Brons
  • Patent number: 10393684
    Abstract: A low-cost and bench-top magnetic resonance relaxometer can be used for ex-vivo biochemical stress tests on plasma/erythrocytes, enabling deep-phenotyping of an individual's oxidative status, susceptibility and capacity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignees: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, National University Hospital (S) Pte
    Inventors: Weng Kung Peng, Jongyoon Han, Tze Ping Loh
  • Patent number: 10393685
    Abstract: An impedance spectroscopy biosensor is provided that is fabricated on a stretchable substrate. The stretchable substrate is integrated with an impedance biosensor that undergoes cyclic strain without cracking. The biosensor is formed by curing an elastomer precursor while on a pre-tensioned membrane that includes a conductive electrode. The resulting elastomeric material is released from the support after curing which releases the pre-tensioned state to produce the biosensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Research Foundation of the City University of New York
    Inventors: Ioana Voiculescu, Xudong Zhang
  • Patent number: 10393686
    Abstract: A conductivity meter for measuring an electrical conductivity of a liquid medium having a housing, a conductive first measuring cell and a control device for controlling the first measuring cell, wherein the first measuring cell has a first conductivity measuring range, a first electrode and a second electrode, and wherein the first measuring cell and the control device are arranged at the housing. To provide a conductivity meter for measuring an electrical conductivity of a liquid medium, whose conductivity measuring range is increased, the conductivity meter has a second measuring cell with a second conductivity measuring range, that the second measuring cell is arranged at the housing, and that the control device is designed for controlling the second measuring cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: KROHNE MESSTECHNIK GMBH
    Inventors: Holger Glasmachers, Christoph Schmits
  • Patent number: 10393687
    Abstract: A multi-directional water sensor comprises a housing having multiple conductive pads on the outer surface of the housing at locations spaced around the periphery of the housing, an electrical power source coupled to the conductive pads, and multiple electrical conductors located inside the housing and connecting multiple pairs of the contacts so that electrical current can flow between different pairs of the contacts when they are connected by water. The housing may have a generally rectangular shape, with the contacts located at the corners of the housing. The multiple electrical conductors are connected to an alarm that is energized when electrical current flows between any pair of the contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Glentronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Ilya Ostashev
  • Patent number: 10393688
    Abstract: A sensor device includes a first electrode, a second electrode, and a functional element. The first electrode includes a porous body having holes in at least the vicinity of a surface of the first electrode, and includes a first metallic material in which either a first passivation film is formed on the surface or the first passivation film present on the surface is lost. The second electrode spaced apart from the first electrode includes a porous body having holes in at least the vicinity of a surface of the second electrode. The functional element is configured to measure a difference in electric potential between the first and second electrodes. A porosity of the first electrode and a porosity of the second electrode are different from each other. The sensor device is configured to measure a state of a site to be measured based on the difference in electric potential.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Juri Kato, Takao Miyazawa
  • Patent number: 10393689
    Abstract: In embodiments, a semiconductor gas sensor includes a substrate having a cavity, a first insulation layer formed on the substrate, including an exposure hole formed at a position corresponding to the cavity and a peripheral portion of the cavity, a second insulation layer formed on the first insulation layer, covering the exposure hole, a heating electrode formed on the second insulation layer, being formed at a position corresponding to the cavity, a sensing electrode formed over the heating electrode, being electrically insulated from the heating electrode and a detection layer covering the sensing electrode, being capable of having a variable resistance when acting with a predetermined kind of gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: DB HITEK CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Joo Hyeon Lee, Han Choon Lee
  • Patent number: 10393690
    Abstract: A flexible chemiresistor (CR) sensor for sensing a molecule of interest in a fluid (liquid or gas) is provided. The flexible CR sensor comprises a flexible chemiresistor (CR) module. The flexible CR module comprises a flexible substrate such polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) or polyimide (PI), and a thin film nanoparticle assembly assembled on the flexible substrate. The thin film nanoparticle assembly comprises metal or metal alloy core, ligand-capped nanoparticles and molecular linkers connecting the nanoparticles. The flexible CR sensor and an intelligent pattern recognition engine can be incorporated in a handheld device that can detect a molecule of interest in a fluid (e.g., a liquid or gas) accurately, rapidly, and without false positives. Any sensing array nanomaterial, pattern recognition, and compact/or electronic hardware can be integrated to achieve a desired detection limit and response speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: The Research Foundation of State University of New York
    Inventors: Chuan-Jian Zhong, Jin Luo, Lingyan Wang
  • Patent number: 10393691
    Abstract: A system and method for incorporating presence-sensing technology into furniture is provided. More particularly, the invention relates to incorporating a conductive medium into the periphery of a furniture item, such as an adjustable bed, for detecting the presence of a user or other body. The bed includes a mattress with a covering material and a tape edge surrounding the perimeter of the mattress. A capacitive wire is coupled the tape edge, and is adapted to have a voltage based on proximity of an object to the capacitive wire. The bed also includes a processor coupled to the capacitive wire. The processor receives information provided by the capacitive wire, determines when a change in voltage satisfies a threshold, and indicates whether presence is detected. Based on a determination of presence, or lack of presence, a variety of corresponding features of the adjustable bed may be activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: L&P Property Management Company
    Inventors: William Robert Rohr, Ryan Edward Chacon
  • Patent number: 10393692
    Abstract: An integrated electronic device, for detecting for detecting changes in an environmental parameter indicative of an environment surrounding the device, includes: a first conductive element and a second conductive element; a measurement circuit including a first measurement terminal and a second measurement terminal respectively coupled to the first conductive element and the second conductive element. The measurement circuit is configured to provide an electrical potential difference between the first conductive element and the second conductive element is configured to determine a change in an impedance of an electromagnetic circuit including the first conductive element and the second conductive element and formed between the first measurement terminal and the second measurement terminal. The device determines that an increase in a presence of water within the environment has occurred in response to a decrease in a real part of the impedance of the electromagnetic circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: STMICROELECTRONICS S.R.L.
    Inventors: Alberto Pagani, Bruno Murari
  • Patent number: 10393693
    Abstract: Provided is a flat plate-type oxygen sensor element. The flat plate-type oxygen sensor element according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention includes: a first electrolyte layer having a sensing electrode exposed to a target gas; a second electrolyte layer on which a reference electrode is disposed; and a heating unit having a heating resistor surrounded by an insulating layer and disposed between the sensing electrode and the reference electrode, wherein the heating unit is disposed so that the heating resistor is located at a position ranging from 40 to 60% of a total height from an upper surface of the first electrolyte layer to a lower surface of the second electrolyte layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: AMOTECH CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yeon-Soo Chung, Kil Jin Park, Sung-Jin Hong, Soo-Min Oh, Eun-Ji Kim
  • Patent number: 10393694
    Abstract: A gas sensor 1 includes a sensor element 2, a housing 13 and an element cover 3. The sensor element 2 is provided with a gas introduction part 271 for introducing a measurement gas thereinto at a distal end portion 201 thereof. The element cover 3 includes an inner cover 4 disposed so as to cover the distal end portion 201 of the sensor element 2 and an outer cover disposed outside the inner cover 4. The outer cover 5 is provided with outer inlet openings 52 for introducing the measurement gas into the outer cover 5. The inner cover 4 is provided with inner inlet openings 42 for introducing the measurement gas into the inner cover 4. The axial intermediate position C1 of the gas introduction part 271 of the sensor element 2 is more to the axial proximal end side X2 than the axial proximal end position D1 of the inner inlet opening 42 of the inner cover 4.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yuusuke Endo, Takashi Araki
  • Patent number: 10393695
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing an integrated circuit device includes providing a substrate comprising a semiconductor active layer, and forming source/drain regions, temperature sensors, and heating elements either in the semiconductor active layer or on the front side of the semiconductor active layer. The semiconductor active layer has channel regions between adjacent source/drain regions, and each of the heating elements is aligned over at least a portion of a corresponding temperature sensor. The method also includes forming a metal interconnect structure over the front side of the semiconductor active layer and exposing the channel regions from the back side of the semiconductor active layer substrate. A fluid gate dielectric layer is formed over the exposed channel regions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yi-Shao Liu, Jui-Cheng Huang, Tung-Tsun Chen
  • Patent number: 10393696
    Abstract: A gas sensor includes a sensor element. The sensor element includes; a solid electrolyte body that has oxygen ion conductivity and includes a first main surface exposed to a gas to be measured and a second main surface exposed to a reference gas; a sensor electrode that is provided on the first main surface and detects a specific gas component in the gas to be measured; and a reference electrode that is provided on the second main surface. The sensor electrode is made of a Pt—Rh alloy that contains 30 mass % to 70 mass % Pt and 70 mass % to 30 mass % Rh, when an overall noble metal component is 100 mass %. A variation amount of the Rh content of the Pt—Rh alloy from an outermost surface to a depth of 350 nm in a thickness direction of the sensor electrode is within a range of up to 10 mass %.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yusuke Todo, Mitsunobu Nakato, Hiroaki Yoto, Hiroki Ichikawa
  • Patent number: 10393697
    Abstract: An apparatus for analyzing ion kinetics in a dielectric probe structure includes an ion reservoir abutting the dielectric probe structure and configured to supply mobile ions to the dielectric probe structure, a capacitor structure configured to generate an electric field in the dielectric probe structure along a vertical direction, and an electrode structure configured to generate an electrophoretic force on mobile ions in the dielectric probe structure along a lateral direction. A method for analyzing ion kinetics in the dielectric probe structure of the apparatus is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventors: Sabine Gruber, Thomas Aichinger, Stefan Krivec, Thomas Ostermann
  • Patent number: 10393698
    Abstract: Methods that allow independently applied pressures to a BGE reservoir and a sample reservoir for pressure-driven injection that can inject a discrete sample plug into a separation channel that does not require voltage applied to the sample reservoir and can allow for in-channel focusing methods to be used. The methods are particularly suitable for use with a mass spectrometer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
    Inventors: John Scott Mellors, Erin Anne Redman, John Michael Ramsey
  • Patent number: 10393699
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a microfluidic analysis device (1) including: a substrate (20) wherein a separation channel (10) is arranged, in which an electrolyte flows, a portion of the separation channel (10) being covered with a polarizable surface (11); two longitudinal field electrodes (8a, 8b) arranged on either side of the separation channel (10); at least one control electrode (6a, 6b) positioned in the separation channel (10), the control electrode (6a, 6b) being suitable for polarizing the polarizable surface (11) so as to control the speed of the electro-osmotic flow in the separation channel (10); the microfluidic analysis device (1) being characterised in that the polarizable surface (11) includes an insulating sub-layer (12) made of amorphous silicon carbide (SiC) and an upper polarizable layer (13) in direct contact with the electrolyte, the control electrodes (6a, 6b) being positioned between the insulating sub-layer (12) and the upper polarizable layer (13).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignees: CENTRE NATIONAL DE LA RECHERCHE SCIENTIFIQUE (CNRS), UNIVERSITE PARIS—SUD
    Inventors: Anne-Marie Haghiri-Gosnet, Antoine Pallandre, Jean Gamby, Daniel Rose, Sebastien Meance
  • Patent number: 10393700
    Abstract: A method of identifying a molecule is disclosed. A molecule is drawn to a nanopore by applying a first voltage signal to a pair of electrodes during a first period, wherein the first voltage signal causes a first ionic current through the nanopore that is indicative of a property of a portion of the molecule proximate to the nanopore. The molecule is released from the nanopore by applying a second voltage signal to the pair of electrodes during a second period, wherein the second voltage signal causes a second ionic current through the nanopore. The first period and the second period are determined based at least in part on a net ionic current through the nanopore comprising the first ionic current and the second ionic current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Roche Sequencing Solutions, Inc.
    Inventor: Roger J. A. Chen
  • Patent number: 10393701
    Abstract: Microfluidic methods of assaying molecule switching are provided. Aspects of the methods include microfluidically separating a sample containing the molecule of interest and then employing the resultant separation pattern to determine a switching characteristic of the molecule. Also provided are microfluidic devices, as well as systems and kits that include the devices, which find use in practicing embodiments of the methods. The methods, devices, systems and kits find use in a variety of different applications, such as analytical and diagnostic assays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: The Regents of the University of California
    Inventors: Amy E. Herr, Augusto M. Tentori, Alex J. Hughes
  • Patent number: 10393702
    Abstract: An improved process for evaluating a defect in wellbore casing using a magnetic flux leakage tool is disclosed. According to the disclosed technique, signals recorded using a magnetic flux leakage tool are arranged into a matrix that defines a magnetic flux leakage image, and a defect in the evaluated wellbore casing is identified in the image. A portion of the image in which the defect appears is enhanced using an iterative image enhancement process to determine a geometry of the defect. A characteristic value of the defect is then used in conjunction with a characteristic value-degree of penetration relationship that is specific to the determined geometry in order to determine the degree of penetration of the defect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Weatherford Technology Holdings, LLC
    Inventor: David Guoyu Hu
  • Patent number: 10393703
    Abstract: A calibration system for an electromagnetic (EM) tool includes a processor. The processor employs the EM tool to measure responses at each of a plurality of channels. The processor records the measured responses at each of the channels in an EM data log for the channel. The processor determines a nominal value of each of the channels, as being equal to a histogram peak of the EM data log. The processor selects one or more calibration points from the EM data log for a particular channel, based on a difference between the nominal value of the particular channel and the measured response at the calibration point being greater than a particular threshold. The processor determines a plurality of parameters by reducing a misfit between synthetic data and both the nominal values of the channels and the measured responses of the channels at the selected one or more calibration points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Ahmed E. Fouda, Burkay Donderici, Luis Emilio San Martin
  • Patent number: 10393704
    Abstract: A sensing system utilizes a channel, a BAW resonator structure including piezoelectric material with a c-axis having an inclined orientation, at least one functionalization material arranged over an active region of the BAW resonator structure, and a driving circuit configured to apply AC signals at different frequencies to cause the piezoelectric material to selectively exhibit a dominant shear response or a dominant longitudinal response. Driving the piezoelectric material in longitudinal mode induces localized fluid mixing proximate to the active region, whereas driving in shear mode permits detection of analyte bound to the at least one functionalization material in a liquid environment. Recesses may be defined in a surface of a top side electrode to enhance longitudinal mode mixing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: QORVO US, INC.
    Inventors: Kevin McCarron, Rio Rivas
  • Patent number: 10393705
    Abstract: A method and system for determination of geometric features in an object is provided. The method includes receiving at least one geometric feature response to an ultrasound beam incident on the object. The incident ultrasound beam is produced from one of a plurality of ultrasound transducers. Further, a volumetric representation of the object is generated based on a plurality of object parameters. The volumetric representation of the object and a plurality of transducer parameters are used to generate a predicted beam traversal path in the object. The predicted beam traversal path is utilized to generate a temporal map of predicted time of flight geometric feature response to the ultrasound beam. A position on the volumetric representation of the object is determined as the location of the geometric feature, when the received geometric feature response is equivalent to the predicted time of flight geometric feature response corresponding to the position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Baskaran Ganesan, Satheesh Jeyaraman, Albrecht Maurer
  • Patent number: 10393706
    Abstract: An ultrasonic transducer includes a housing, a driving device, and a detecting device. The housing internally includes an ultrasound transmitting/receiving unit, the housing sealing ultrasonic propagation liquid. The driving device includes a driving motor and an intermediate member. The driving device is configured to transmit a rotary driving force from the driving motor to swing the ultrasound transmitting/receiving unit. The detecting device includes a detecting member and is configured to detect an origin position serving as a reference in control of the swing of the ultrasound transmitting/receiving unit. The driving device is configured to transmit the rotary driving force to the intermediate member, extract a rotation of the intermediate member, decelerate the rotation of the intermediate member and transmit the rotation to the detecting member thereof in a route different from the driving device, and detect the rotation of the detecting member by a sensor to detect an origin position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: NIHON DEMPA KOGYO CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Yoji Naka
  • Patent number: 10393707
    Abstract: A method for estimating a variation in a preload applied to a linear guideway of a machine tool includes steps of: a) obtaining, via each of vibration sensors, first and second vibration signals that are generated according to detection of vibration of a table disposed on the linear guideway respectively at first and second time instants; b) determining, via the computation module, first and second natural frequencies based on a theoretical mode shape and respectively on the first and second vibration signals; and c) determining, via the computation module, the variation in the preload based on the first and second natural frequencies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Hiwin Technologies Corp.
    Inventors: Chih-Chun Cheng, Ping-Chun Tsai, Wen-Nan Cheng, Yu-Hsin Kuo, Yin-Chun Cheng, Hsi-Hsun Cheng, Kuan-Te Yu
  • Patent number: 10393708
    Abstract: An apparatus for detecting a presence of at least one analyte in a gas sample. The apparatus comprises a pump for drawing a gas sample from an ambient air, a passage having first and second ends, a chamber connected to the first end and containing a concentrating element for collecting at least one analyte from the gas sample, a chromatographic separator connected to a second end of the passage, and a gas source for streaming a carrier gas via the chamber to transfer the at least one analyte toward at least one chemical detector, via the chromatographic separator, in a first direction. The pump draws the gas sample via the chamber in a second direction and the first and second directions are substantially opposing to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: S.T.I. Security Technology Integration Ltd.
    Inventors: Yuval Ovadia, Amos Linenberg
  • Patent number: 10393709
    Abstract: A holding system for holding and hoisting a chromatography column of one or more chromatography columns is disclosed. The holding system includes an upright member and a plurality of holding members movably arranged along the upright member. A first supporting member is positioned at an end portion of the chromatography column, wherein a holding member of the plurality of holding members is configured to be engaged to the first supporting member. A second supporting member is positioned at another end portion of the chromatography column. A holding member of the plurality of holding members is configured to be engaged to the second supporting member. One or more hoist assisting members may be also present. A hoist assisting member is operatively connected to the holding member engaged to the first supporting member. The hoist assisting member is operable to move the holding member connected to the first supporting member for hoisting the chromatography column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: GE HEALTHCARE BIO-SCIENCES AB
    Inventors: Manoj Ramakrishna, Kishore Chengalvarayan, Nikhil Kamble
  • Patent number: 10393710
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for analyzing samples, which includes a spectrometry system for detecting components of a sample; a gas chromatography column for separating the components of a sample; a first sample unit for receiving a first sample from a sample source; and a second sample unit for receiving a second sample from a sample source. Each sample loop unit allows independent processing of samples in preparation for analysis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: MLS ACQ, INC.
    Inventors: Martin L. Spartz, Anthony S. Bonanno, Peter P. Behnke
  • Patent number: 10393711
    Abstract: A system for identifying or distinguishing materials, comprising at least one local apparatus and a central station. Each local apparatus comprises at least one measuring device for recording at least one actual signature for materials each and at least one local computer communicatively connected to the at least one measuring device, the at least one local computer having a local database for storing and/or processing the actual signature. The at least one central station comprises a server having a central database for storing and/or processing the actual signatures of the local apparatus. Furthermore, the system comprises a network, which communicatively connects the local computers of the local units via the server of the center. The invention further relates to a corresponding method for operating a system, to an analysis method for identifying or distinguishing the materials, and to a measuring device for recording material properties of the materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen GmbH
    Inventor: Stefan Nettesheim
  • Patent number: 10393712
    Abstract: An apparatus includes an aggregation circuit and a calibration circuit. The aggregation circuit is structured to interpret fuel data indicative of a fuel composition of a fuel provided by a fuel source from a plurality of gas quality sensors. Each gas quality sensor is associated with an individual engine system. Each engine system is positioned at a respective geographic location. The calibration circuit is structured to compare the fuel data received from each of the plurality of gas quality sensors that are located within a geographic area, determine a gas quality sensor miscalibration value for the plurality of gas quality sensors within the geographic area based on the fuel data received from each of the plurality of gas quality sensors within the geographic area, and remotely calibrate a miscalibrated gas quality sensor based on the gas quality sensor miscalibration value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Cummins Inc.
    Inventor: Shu Li
  • Patent number: 10393713
    Abstract: A method for operating a probe having a pumped reference cell. A pulse-width-modulated pump current is applied to the reference cell at a first point in time. In accordance with the first point in time, a first voltage characteristic value (representing the voltage applied to the reference cell) is determined within a first time frame. The pulse-width-modulated pump current applied to the reference cell is switched off at a second point in time. A third point in time is determined, at which a pulse-width-modulated pump current applied to the reference cell is switched off. In accordance with the third point in time, a second voltage characteristic value (representing the voltage applied to the reference cell) is determined within a second time frame. The first and second voltage characteristic values are used to determine a diagnostic characteristic value, which is representative of an error in determining the nitrogen oxide concentration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: Continental Automotive GmbH
    Inventors: Bertrand Lemire, Johannes Bentner, Sabrina Kolbeck, Muammer Kilinc
  • Patent number: 10393714
    Abstract: Techniques for monitoring particulate matter (PM) mass concentration using relatively low cost devices are described. A computer-implemented method comprises determining, by a device operatively coupled to a processor, relationships between: first PM mass data determined by a monitor station device for a first atmospheric area over a period of time; first PM count data determined by a reference PM count device for the first atmospheric area over the period of time; and first conditional information comprising first values for defined conditional parameters, wherein the first values are associated with the first atmospheric area over the period of time. The method further includes generating an initial conversion model based on the relationships, wherein the conversion model converts a PM count to a PM mass based on one or more conditional parameters of the defined conditional parameters and features for updating the conversion model.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Junsong Wang, Lingyun Wang
  • Patent number: 10393715
    Abstract: A gas sensor includes a gas sensor element having a detection portion, a metallic shell holding the gas sensor element, and a tubular body made of metal, which is welded in a state of being externally fitted to a front side or a rear side of the metallic shell. In the present invention, the tubular body is tightly fitted to a tapered portion that is provided at an outer surface of the metallic shell and is radially narrowed toward the tubular body. The tubular body is welded at the tapered portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: NGK SPARK PLUG CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kunihiko Yonezu, Takehiro Oba
  • Patent number: 10393716
    Abstract: Control logic, device and method including same configured to receive a measured carbon dioxide (CO2) related parameter of a patient, to obtain a patient specific baseline for said CO2 related parameter, the patient specific baseline determined based on a characteristic of the patient; to compute a deviation of the measured CO2 related parameter from the patient specific baseline; and to trigger an alarm when the deviation crosses a predetermined threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2019
    Assignee: ORIDION MEDICAL 1987 LTD.
    Inventors: Seamus Maguire, Moshe Mandelbaum