Electrolytic Patents (Class 204/194)
  • Patent number: 7041203
    Abstract: Multi-directional currents are generated in a medium by cyclically reversing the direction of a conventional current applied to at least one of at least two electrodes so that an electromotive force (EMF) pulse travels from side of the electrode to the other, changing the direction of current in the medium. The multi-directional currents may be used to accelerate electrolytic processes such as generation of hydrogen by water electrolysis, to sterilize water for drinking, to supply charging current to a battery or capacitor, including a capacitive thrust module, in a way that extends the life and/or improves the performance of the battery or capacitor, to increase the range of an electromagnetic projectile launcher, and to increase the light output of a cold cathode light tube, to name just a few of the potential applications for the multi-directional currents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Inventor: John Timothy Sullivan
  • Patent number: 7022290
    Abstract: A structural system for accurately reproducible in situ x-ray studies of operating rechargeable electrochemical battery cell electrode components comprises an hermetically sealed cell component enclosure incorporating an x-ray transmissive window member of beryllium or the like. A research embodiment of the system comprises means for rapidly and consistently interchanging electrode compositions for operative comparison and evaluation, while a laminated cell system embodiment enables accurate testing of electrode components in commercial configurations such as unitary polymeric Li-ion battery cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Rutgers, the State University
    Inventors: John Gural, Jean-Bernard Leriche, Mathieu Morcrette, Jean-Marie Tarascon
  • Patent number: 7005268
    Abstract: A method for detecting the presence of target molecules bound to a working electrode in a first location. The first location is coated with a detection solution containing labeling molecules that include a first charge-separation moiety attached to a first molecule that binds to the target molecule. The first charge-separation moiety includes a material that generates hole-electron pairs in response to being illuminated by light in a first band of wavelengths. After removing any unbound labeling, the working electrode is immersed in a solution containing a compound that is oxidized by the generated holes. The first location is then selectively illuminated with light in the first band; and the change in the current and/or potential is measured between the working electrode and a reference electrode in contact with the solution. The first charge-separation moiety is preferably constructed from particles of a semiconducting material such as TiO2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel B. Roitman, Calvin B. Ward, Seiji Inaoka
  • Patent number: 6964732
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for slicing a semiconductor substrate. In one embodiment, the invention allows repetitive etching of a surface of the semiconductor substrate with a time dependent concentration of fluorine ions and a time dependent current I, such that multiple porous layers are obtained. The porous layer is released, and the released porous layer is removed from the surface of the substrate. The surface roughness of the porous layer is maintained within an acceptable or desired level of roughness value. The invention also provides an apparatus including a container having an etching solution. The semiconductor substrate may be protected by a tube covering at least a potion of said semiconductor substrate from said etching solution. The rate of insertion of said semiconductor substrate into the container is controlled to synchronize the lift-off with the insertion of the correct thickness of the semiconductor substrate. The anodising current is provided between two electrodes during operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2005
    Assignee: Interuniversitair Microelektronica Centrum (IMEC)
    Inventor: Chetan Singh Solanki
  • Patent number: 6951632
    Abstract: The present invention provides microfluidic devices, systems and methods for using the same, which facilitate the introduction of fluid to and from a microfluidic channel located within the microfluidic devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2005
    Assignee: Fluidigm Corporation
    Inventors: Marc A. Unger, Hou-Pu Chou, Ian D. Manger, Dave Fernandes, Yong Yi
  • Patent number: 6921604
    Abstract: A device and a method for simply and accurately evaluating-performance of fuel cells have been provided. Hydrogen gas and carbon monoxide gas are caused to flow into a sample holder where an electrode catalyst sample is laid, and the amount of carbon monoxide gas discharged therefrom is detected. The amount of carbon monoxide gas adsorbed by the electrode catalyst sample is calculated based on the amount of supplied carbon monoxide gas and the amount of detected carbon monoxide gas. The output voltage of a fuel cell is calculated based on a correlation between calculated amounts of carbon monoxide gas adsorbed by the electrode catalyst and output voltages of the fuel cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2005
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hisao Kato, Tatsuya Kawahara, Toshiaki Ozaki
  • Patent number: 6913731
    Abstract: Intended for application on ducts through which flow a fluid at a high temperature, and particularly at a high pressure, comprising two bodies (4) and (8) which axially screw onto each other, one body (4) provided with a threaded neck (5) for attachment to the orifice of duct wall (3), which body (4) houses within it sensor element (2) of the probe which is thus placed inside the duct, with second body (8) screwed onto first body (4) and exerting on sensor element (2) the pressure required to secure it in its housing, with second body (8) further provided with an axial orifice through which passes a metallic tube (9) open to the exterior and which is provided with a metallic washer (10), soldered to said tube (9), which is separated from second body (8) by an electrically insulating washer (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: Union Fenosa Generacion, S.A.
    Inventors: José Manuel Bueno Harto, Francisco Javier Perosanz Lopez
  • Patent number: 6905655
    Abstract: An electronic system for selectively detecting and identifying a plurality of chemical species, which comprises an array of nanostructure sensing devices, is disclosed. Within the array, there are at least two different selectivities for sensing among the nanostructure sensing devices. Methods for fabricating the electronic system are also disclosed. The methods involve modifiying nanostructures within the devices to have different selectivity for sensing chemical species. Modification can involve chemical, electrochemical, and self-limiting point defect reactions. Reactants for these reactions can be supplied using a bath method or a chemical jet method. Methods for using the arrays of nanostructure sensing devices to detect and identify a plurality of chemical species are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Assignee: Nanomix, Inc.
    Inventors: Jean-Christophe P. Gabriel, Philip G. Collins, Keith Bradley, George Gruner
  • Patent number: 6902670
    Abstract: A hemodialysis machine includes a purified water tube connected with at least one or tow water pumps in parallel. Each of the water pumps is connected with a reagent jug for taking reagent or disinfectant into water tubes so as to run dialysis process or sterilize tubes. The present invention features on that an ozone water device is coupled with a water inlet end of the purified water tube so that the ozone water is used to clean the tubes of the hemodialysis machine for avoiding the problem of disinfectant residuals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Inventor: Kuo-Hsin Ho
  • Patent number: 6858184
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are apparatuses and devices, and methods for using and making the same, for use in performing desired activities in an automated, microscale format. Microparticles are ushered about within a microscale apparatus, to selectively move between various stations in a selected order and manner. Some embodiments include reaction, micro-weighing, micro-analysis, reagent acquisition and deposition, and incubation stations. Microparticles can individually move, or move as trains. Samples, including particulate and solid tissue samples may be manipulated and analyzed within the device. Some embodiments may engage in micro-fabrication activities or micro-deconstruction activities. Systems for controlling such apparatuses are included as well as methods of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: SRI International
    Inventors: Ronald E. Pelrine, Subramanian Venkat Shastri, Jose P. Joseph
  • Patent number: 6841056
    Abstract: A process tool for electrochemically treating a substrate is configured to reduce the oxygen concentration and/or the sulfur dioxide concentration in the vicinity of the substrate so that corrosion of copper may be reduced. In one embodiment, a substantially inert atmosphere is established within the process tool including a plating reactor by providing a continuous inert gas flow and/or by providing a cover that reduces a gas exchange with the ambient atmosphere. The substantially inert gas atmosphere may also be maintained during further process steps involved in electrochemically treating the substrate including required transportation steps between the individual process steps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.
    Inventor: Axel Preusse
  • Patent number: 6833631
    Abstract: A wave power generator is characterized by an elongate inner member extending vertically in a body of water with its lower end constrained against vertical movement beneath the surface of the water, and an elongate outer flotation member mounted for linear movement along the length of the inner member in response to wave action. The outer member moves along the inner member with the length of the outer member extending along the length of the inner member. Movement of the outer member relative to and along the inner member effects relative linear movement between a coil and magnet to generate electrical power. The wave power generators may be used to supply electrical power to deep water hydrogen generators in which water is electrolyzed at great depths underwater to generate compressed hydrogen gas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Inventor: Martinus Van Breems
  • Patent number: 6833205
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for an electrochemical cell system. The electrochemical cell system includes: an electrochemical cell; an energy source configured for providing a quantity of energy to the electrochemical cell; a sensing apparatus in operable communication with a gas output from the electrochemical cell, the sensing apparatus provides an output signal indicating a parameter of the gas output; and a computer in operable communication with the sensing apparatus. The computer includes a memory device configured to store a first operational parameter, and a processor configured to receive a digital representation of the output signal and the first operational parameter. The processor compares the digital representation of the output signal to the first operational parameter for regulating the quantity of energy provided to the electrochemical cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Assignee: Proton Energy Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: A. John Speranza, Lawrence C. Moulthrop, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20040245105
    Abstract: An electrolyte solution for driving an electrolytic capacitor having a solvent composed of 20 to 80 wt % of an organic solvent and 80 to 20 wt % of water, characterized in that it comprises one or more nitro compounds or nitroso compounds exclusive of nitrophenol, nitrobenzoic acid, dinitrobenzoic acid, nitroacetophenone and nitroanisole; an electrolytic capacitor comprising the electrolyte solution for driving an electrolytic capacitor; and an electrolytic capacitor comprising one or more nitro compounds or nitroso compounds located at another portion than an electrolyte solution therein. The electrolyte solution preferably contains a carboxylic acid or a salt thereof or an inorganic acid or a salt thereof as an electrolyte.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2004
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Inventors: Akihiko Komatsu, Tetsushi Ogawara
  • Patent number: 6818104
    Abstract: In a process for producing a semiconductor member, and a solar cell, making use of a thin-film crystal semiconductor layer, the process includes the steps of: (1) anodizing the surface of a first substrate to form a porous layer at least on one side of the substrate, (2) forming a semiconductor layer at least on the surface of the porous layer, (3) removing the semiconductor layer at its peripheral region, (4) bonding a second substrate to the surface of the semiconductor layer, (5) separating the semiconductor layer from the first substrate at the part of the porous layer, and (6) treating the surface of the first substrate after separation and repeating the above steps (1) to (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yukiko Iwasaki, Shoji Nishida, Kiyofumi Sakaguchi, Noritaka Ukiyo
  • Patent number: 6759013
    Abstract: A modular microchannel apparatus for analysis of an analyte. The apparatus includes a separation unit and a reservoir unit. The separation unit has a microchannel. The analyte can be driven to pass through the microchannel such that the time for the analyte to pass through the microchannel is indicative of the molecular characteristics of the analyte. The reservoir unit has one or more reservoirs for coupling operatively modularly with the separation unit to supply liquid reagents to the separation unit. The reservoirs has prepackaged liquid reagents in it before the reservoir unit is coupled with the separation unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: Agilent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick Kaltenbach, Tom A. van de Goor
  • Publication number: 20040069619
    Abstract: An automatable measuring, cleaning and calibrating device for pH-electrodes or electrodes for measuring redox potentials, specifically in process engineering, having an electrode armature which keeps the measuring electrode in an operating position or in a maintenance position, whereby the electrode is retained in the maintenance position in a rinsing chamber in which a cleaning and calibration procedure can be performed. The device has a pump device to supply cleaning fluid and calibration solutions to the rinsing chamber over a delivery line connecting the pump device and the rinsing chamber. In order to configure the device more compactly, the pump device includes several feeds on its intake side, and a device is furnished to selectively activate a particular feed, and the media (cleaning fluid, calibration solution, etc.) brought selectively over the particular feeds to the pump device reach the rinsing chamber over the common delivery line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Ralf Koenemann, Bernhard Beck, Detlev Wittmer
  • Patent number: 6696020
    Abstract: An electrochemiluminescence apparatus comprises a reaction vessel; means for generating an electric field (140, 160) within at least a region (120) of the reaction vessel; and one or more reaction electrodes (180) disposed in the electric field region of the reaction vessel, the reaction electrodes being arranged to float in or on a solution in the reaction vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine
    Inventors: Andreas Manz, Arun Arora
  • Publication number: 20030173209
    Abstract: Contact assemblies, electroplating machines with contact assemblies, and methods for making contact assemblies that are used in the fabrication of microelectronic workpieces. The contact assemblies can be wet-contact assemblies or dry-contact assemblies. A contact assembly for use in an electroplating system can comprise a support member and a contact system coupled to the support member. The support member, for example, can be a ring or another structure that has an inner wall defining an opening configured to allow the workpiece to move through the support member along an access path. In one embodiment, the support member is a conductive ring having a plurality of posts depending from the ring that are spaced apart from one another by gaps. The contact system can be coupled to the posts of the support member. The contact system can have a plurality of contact members projecting inwardly into the opening relative to the support member and transversely with respect to the access path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Inventors: Robert W. Batz, John M. Pedersen, John L. Klocke, LinLin Chen
  • Publication number: 20030164301
    Abstract: Electroplating station S has head 1 with anode 2, to one side of which there is located an electrically-neutral wall 3. A passageway 4 for electrolyte 5 is between anode 2 and wall 3.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2002
    Publication date: September 4, 2003
    Inventor: John Michael Lowe
  • Patent number: 6613512
    Abstract: Electrokinetic devices having a computer for correcting for electrokinetic effects are provided. Methods of correcting for electrokinetic effects by establishing the velocity of reactants and products in a reaction in electrokinetic microfluidic devices are also provided. These microfluidic devices can have substrates with channels, depressions, and/or wells for moving, mixing and monitoring precise amounts of analyte fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: Caliper Technologies Corp.
    Inventors: Anne R. Kopf-Sill, Andrea W. Chow, Claudia B. Jaffe, Steven A. Sunberg, John Wallace Parce
  • Publication number: 20030108481
    Abstract: A carbon black is provided which is useful as an electrocatalyst carrier. The carbon black has a DBP oil absorption of 170 to 300 cm3/100 g, a specific surface area as measured by a BET method of 250 to 400 m2/g, a primary particle diameter value of 10 to 17 nm, and a total volume of open pores at the surface which have a pore radius of 10 to 30 nm of 0.40 to 2.0 cm3/g. The electrocatalyst can be used in electrochemical devices such as solid polymer electrolyte fuel cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2002
    Publication date: June 12, 2003
    Applicants: N.E. CHEMCAT CORPORATION, MITSUBISHI CHEMICAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hiroshi Igarashi, Masamichi Ueda, Mitsuo Suzuki, Shushichi Yoshimura, Shinichi Kanamaru
  • Patent number: 6576460
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a filtration-detection device for detecting or quantifying an analyte in a test sample including a filtration device having a first binding material immobilized thereto, wherein the first binding material is capable of binding to a portion of the analyte, and a detection assembly positioned relative to the filtration device to detect or quantify analyte bound to the first binding material. The present invention also relates to methods of using the filtration-detection device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2003
    Assignees: Cornell Research Foundation, Inc., Innovative Biotechnologies International, Inc.
    Inventors: Antje J. Baeumner, Richard A. Montagna
  • Patent number: 6555392
    Abstract: An improvement in the immunofixation electrophoresis procedure for detecting proteins in serum, urine or cerebral spinal fluids. Multiple samples from a single patient are placed on a gel and subjected to electrophoresis for resolving or separating proteins. A container has multiple receptacles which store, separately, various antisera. The separate antisera are withdrawn from the receptacles and simultaneously applied to the sample areas for subsequent incubation. The receptacles are preferably arranged in multiple series in the container, each series offset from, and partially overlapping, the receptacles of the next series.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: Helena Laboratories Corporation
    Inventor: Eric Petersen
  • Publication number: 20030064158
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for improving the corrosion resistance of chrome plated materials. After the materials to be chrome plated are mechanically abrasively polished, but before they are reverse etched, they are power washed with a high-pressure liquid. A sprayer with nozzles directed inwardly towards the materials directs water onto the material at pressures in the range of 1000 or 2500 to 3000 psi. After the materials are chrome plated, they are heated above the melting point of a buffing compound, and then the heated materials with the buffing compound applied are buffed. An induction heater is used, before or after the buffing compound is applied. Computer controls, responsive to operator input of the cross-sectional size, composition and/or speed of movement of the chrome plated materials, to in turn regulate the power to an induction coil heater.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Publication date: April 3, 2003
    Inventor: C. G. Thirkeldsen
  • Publication number: 20030056890
    Abstract: Apparatus for forming a thin film pattern on the surface of a substrate. This apparatus is provided with: a transfer member having a thin film carrying surface which carries a thin film pattern; and a thin film transfer mechanism for joining the transfer member to a substrate for transferring, to the substrate, the thin film pattern on the thin film carrying surface. The thin film pattern may be a wiring film pattern. A gelatinous film may previously be formed on the substrate, and the thin film pattern may be transferred as embedded in the gelatinous film.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2002
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Applicant: Dainippon Screen Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tsutomu Ueyama, Izuru Iseki
  • Patent number: 6534295
    Abstract: A micromachined cell lysis device with electrodes that are spaced by less than 10 &mgr;m from one another. The cells are attracted to the space between the.electrodes and then lysed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Yu-Chong Tai, Sang-Wook Lee
  • Patent number: 6525263
    Abstract: The present invention provides a removably securable blind or awning having solar modules for converting solar energy into another energy form. The awning has an electrolyzer and fuel cells, or a reformer and fuel cells, for additional storage of that surplus energy produced by the solar modules for which the customarily provided storage elements lack sufficient storage capacity. Hydrogen and oxygen tanks, electrolyzers, reformers, and fuel cells can be disposed by appropriate measures in the available space in and/or on the frame body of the awnings such that space outside of the awnings for such items need only be found on an exception basis. The storage and release from storage of energy is regulated by a bus system. Water from one of a number of different sources can be conducted to the electrolyzer via guide drains mounted on the awnings and/or via other assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Inventor: Hermann-Frank Müller
  • Patent number: 6524790
    Abstract: Electrokinetic devices having a computer for correcting for electrokinetic effects are provided. Methods of correcting for electrokinetic effects by establishing the velocity of reactants and products in a reaction in electrokinetic microfluidic devices are also provided. These microfluidic devices can have substrates with channels, depressions, and/or wells for moving, mixing and monitoring precise amounts of analyte fluids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Caliper Technologies Corp.
    Inventors: Anne R. Kopf-Sill, Andrea W. Chow, Claudia B. Cohen, Steven A. Sundberg, John Wallace Parce
  • Patent number: 6524475
    Abstract: A portable oxidant generator for generating oxidants suitable for sterilizing contaminated drinking water, thereby providing potable water. The oxidant generator optionally comprises an electrolytic cell and a power supply or source for powering the generator. In a preferred embodiment, the cell holds an electrolyte solution such that the solution contacts an anode and a cathode. The power supply provides electrical charge that is passed to the electrolyte solution and/or other electrolyte substance. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the power supply includes an energy storage device that is charged to predetermined voltage. The energy storage device is preferably charged by a generator that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. The present invention optionally includes an electrolyte storage compartment in the cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: Miox Corporation
    Inventors: Rodney E. Herrington, Curtis M. Mitchke, John K. Hickerson, Timothy A. Cushman, John F. White
  • Publication number: 20030015416
    Abstract: A control unit for an apparatus for removal of electrostatic charge and electricity from fluids, including a probe apparatus for extending into the contained fluids, a control unit, circuitry interconnecting between the grounding apparatus and the control unit, control unit providing for monitoring the conductivity or mineral content of the fluid stream, while the grounding apparatus removes the mineral salts and trace minerals and other electrolytic charge from the fluids, while additional circuitry within the control unit reduces the fouling of a re-circulating fluid stream normally caused by the growth of various kinds of algae, molds or bacteria.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Inventors: Robert F. Meeeh, Stephen C. Scott
  • Patent number: 6508920
    Abstract: A method for filling recessed microstructures at a surface of a microelectronic workpiece, such as a semiconductor wafer, with metallization is set forth. In accordance with the method, a metal layer is deposited into the microstructures with a process, such as an electroplating process, that generates metal grains that are sufficiently small so as to substantially fill the recessed microstructures. The deposited metal is subsequently subjected to an annealing process at a temperature below about 100 degrees Celsius, and may even take place at ambient room temperature to allow grain growth which provides optimal electrical properties. Various novel apparatus for executing unique annealing processes are also set forth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: Semitool, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas L. Ritzdorf, E. Henry Stevens, LinLin Chen, Lyndon W. Graham, Curt Dundas
  • Publication number: 20030000830
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for processing a panel stack having one or more panels are provided. The panel stack is provided with at least one through hole. Fluid or gas may be passed through the through hole. By inhibiting the contact of the fluid or gas from the flat surfaces of the panels, processing of the through holes can be accomplished with reduced resources and more quickly. Panel stacks can include one to at least hundreds of panels. Various applications include electroless copper deposition, electroplating of copper for a printed circuit board, chemical etchback or desmear, honing of the through hole wall using a slurry of pumice as a replacement for chemical etchback or desmear, chemical microetching of a through hole wall, and through hole blasting with pressurized water or air to clean away any debris.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2002
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Applicant: TechQuip International, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Spain, Steven P. Glassman
  • Patent number: 6495003
    Abstract: A process of producing an aluminum beverage can body having a decorative surface exhibiting a dichroic effect when observed in white light. In the process, a can body is formed from a sheet of metal selected from aluminum and aluminum alloy by drawing and ironing, surfaces of the can body are cleaned to produce a cleaned can body, a decorative structure exhibiting a dichroic effect is applied to a surface of the cleaned can body, and the can body is subjected to finishing operations. The decorative structure is applied by the steps of: applying a layer of dielectric material directly onto the metal of the cleaned can body without pre-treatment of the metal with a metal brightener, and forming a semi-transparent metal layer on or within the dielectric layer, the thickness of the dielectric material beneath the semi-transparent metal layer, and the thickness of the semi-transparent metal layer being made effective to produce a visible dichroic pattern when the can body is observed in white light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Alcan International Limited
    Inventor: Aron Marcus Rosenfeld
  • Patent number: 6482298
    Abstract: An electroplating bath includes two electrolytes that are separated by a low ionic mobility barrier substance. Electroplating substrates can be transferred between the two electrolytes, through the barrier substance. Successive layers can be deposited by alternately electroplating in the two electrolytes. The substrate need not be brought through an air-liquid interface in transferring it between the two electrolytes. More than one anode can be provided in each electrolyte for depositing alloy film layers. A dummy electrode can be provided in each electrolyte to be used in lieu of the substrate in order to change concentrations of compounds in each electrolyte so that sharp compositional transitions between successive layers deposited on the substrate can be obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: Parijat Bhatnagar
  • Patent number: 6458600
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a structure, on the surface of the support material of which structure molecular layers are immobilized so as to be electrically addressable, a method for the electrically addressable immobilization of molecules, a device for carrying out this method, and the use of this structure as a chemo- and/or biosensor, in particular as a multisensor system for chemical, biological, and physical assays, and for applications in the combinatorial synthesis on the boundary surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2002
    Inventors: Vladimir M. Mirsky, Michael Riepl
  • Patent number: 6447954
    Abstract: Light weight, low resistance electrode plates for lead-acid batteries are formed from a highly conductive non-lead substrate such as aluminum or copper, coated with a continuous layer of a corrosive resistant conductive materials, such as lead, applied from a fused salt bath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Assignee: Concorde Battery Corporation
    Inventors: John B. Timmons, Joseph A. Orsino, Ramesh Bhardwaj
  • Patent number: 6398964
    Abstract: A process for treating aqueous waste comprising a copper plating waste stream, a copper rinse stream containing organic carbon and solid particles, and a copper chemical mechanical planarization stream (CMP) containing solid particles is provided. This process includes electrowinning the copper plating waste stream to remove copper and create a blow down stream, filtering the rinse stream to remove solid particles, adding the blow down stream to the CMP stream, treating the blow down stream and the CMP stream with a flocculant or coagulant to form larger solid particles, removing the larger solid particles from the CMP stream and separating the resulting stream into a liquid containing copper, a concentrated regenerant, and a dilute regenerant, adding the concentrated regenerant to the waste stream before the electrowinning step, adding the dilute regenerant to the rinse stream before filtering to remove solid particles, and adding the liquid containing copper to the CMP stream during the treating step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: Koch Microelectronic Service Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Daun Marie Brady, Michael Andrew Frisch, Deon Eugene Campbell, Thuy Nguyen, Dustin Kimbel James
  • Patent number: 6358752
    Abstract: A test device and method for detecting or quantifying an analyte in a test sample employs an interdigitated electrode array and electroactive marker-encapsulating liposomes for signal generation and detection. The test device includes a contact portion on a first absorbent material, a capture portion either on the first absorbent material, or on a second absorbent material in fluid flow contact with the first absorbent material. The capture portion has a binding material specific for a portion of the analyte bound thereto. The device further includes an electrode array including first and second conductors each having a plurality of fingers, wherein the fingers of the conductors are interdigitated. The electrode array is positioned to induce redox cycling of an electroactive marker released either in or beyond the capture portion, depending upon whether direct (proportional) or indirect (inversely proportional) detection or measurement is desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Assignees: Cornell Research Foundation, Inc., Innovative Biotechnologies International, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Allen Durst, Richard A. Montagna, Antje J. Bäumner, Sui Ti A. Siebert, Geoffrey S. Rule
  • Publication number: 20020020628
    Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and apparatus for plating a conductive material on a substrate surface in a highly desirable manner. The invention removes at least one additive adsorbed on the top portion of the workpiece more than at least one additive disposed on a cavity portion, using an indirect external influence, thereby allowing plating of the conductive material take place before the additive fully re-adsorbs onto the top portion, thus causing greater plating of the cavity portion relative to the top portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Publication date: February 21, 2002
    Inventor: Bulent M. Basol
  • Publication number: 20020012856
    Abstract: A method of fabricating a color filter with a small number of processes and at low cost is provided, for which a transparent conductive film for liquid crystal driving need not be formed, a voltage drop during liquid crystal driving is restrained, and a black matrix is easily formed; an apparatus for fabricating the color filter; the color filter; and a liquid crystal display apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2001
    Publication date: January 31, 2002
    Applicant: FUJI XEROX CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Shigemi Ohtsu, Yoshinori Yamaguchi, Keishi Shimizu, Eiichi Akutsu
  • Publication number: 20020005349
    Abstract: Electrode device for electrochemical baths, particularly for electrolytic tinning contrivances, comprising a container (10) having at least one liquid-permeable wall (14) and comprised of a material which remains unaffected by the electrochemical fluid, whereby said container (10) is provided for the accommodating of a material substance necessary for the electrochemical process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Publication date: January 17, 2002
    Inventor: Johannes Katz
  • Patent number: 6333200
    Abstract: The invention is a sensor for the presence of bio-specific (e.g., immunological) molecules. It is aimed to giving an alternative, highly advanced method for performing different tests for the presence of immuno-specific molecules in liquid environments such as body liquids, biological cultures, environmental samples, etc. Gold patterns are photolithoghraphyically fabricated onto glass substrates to form addressable electrodes of micron size. The sensor is assembled when colloidal particles from suspension are deposited dielectrophoretically in the microscopic gaps between the electrodes. The surfaces of these particles carry immuno-active binding sites that collect the target molecules. The sensor readout is accomplished by secondary tagging of the target molecules with colloidal gold and its enhancement by silver nucleation, which leads to short-circuiting of the electrodes. The device allows extreme miniaturization and direct electric readout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2001
    Assignee: University of Delaware
    Inventors: Eric W. Kaler, Orlin D. Velev
  • Patent number: 6319705
    Abstract: A microchip device for electrophoresis includes not only a microchip having a separation flow route for separating a sample electrophoretically and an electrical power source for applying a migration potential difference along the separation flow route but also a grating for dispersing light received from each position within a specified range along the separation flow route in a direction perpendicular to the separation flow route, a two-dimensional light-receiving device such as charge-coupled devices for receiving dispersed light from the grating at light-receiving positions which are two-dimensionally distributed parallel to and and perpendicular to the separation flow route, and a data processor for receiving measured values obtained repeatedly by said two-dimensional light-receiving means and carrying out multi-point averaging on the measured values for each of the light-receiving positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2001
    Assignee: Shimadzu Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroshi Tanaka
  • Patent number: 6287831
    Abstract: A micromachined cell lysis device with electrodes that are spaced less than 100 &mgr;m from one another. The cells are attracted to the space between the electrodes and then lysed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: California Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Yu-Chong Tai, Sang-Wook Lee
  • Publication number: 20010011635
    Abstract: An apparatus for manufacturing a solid electrolytic capacitor includes an anodization part, a polymerization part, a cathode layer formation part, an assembly part, and a molding part. The polymerization part includes a plurality of polymerization baths of a substantially same structure and a conveyance mechanism. In addition the plurality of polymerization baths are placed around the conveyance mechanism within a conveyance range.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2001
    Publication date: August 9, 2001
    Inventors: Mitsuo Terada, Motonobu Ueno, Masaki Shiragami
  • Patent number: 6261464
    Abstract: A portable oxidant generator for generating a chlorine or chloro-oxygen solution suitable for sterilizing contaminated drinking water, thereby providing potable water. The oxidant generators include an electrolytic chamber and a power supply or source. The chamber holds a salt brine solution such that the solution is in contact with an anode and cathode included in the chamber. The power supply provides electrical charge which is passed between the anode and cathode through the salt brine solution. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the power supply includes an energy storage device that is charged to predetermined voltage. The energy storage device is preferably charged by a generator that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy. The present invention includes a brine storage compartment in the cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Miox Corporation
    Inventors: Rodney E. Herrington, Curtis M. Mitchke, John K. Hickerson, Timothy A. Cushman, John F. White
  • Patent number: 6261425
    Abstract: An electroplating machine is disclosed as including an electrode positioning apparatus, an electrolyte delivery apparatus, an apparatus for covering a roller, an apparatus for dissolving copper oxide powder in an electrolyte passing through the apparatus, and an apparatus allowing the variation of the distance between two rollers. The electrode positioning apparatus has a first open end and a second end joined by two sets of connecting members. The electrolyte delivery apparatus includes a pipe connected to a source of electrolyte and a nozzle through which the electrolyte is deliverable to an electrode mounted on the electrode positioning apparatus. The electrode positioning and the electrolyte delivery apparatus are slidably engageable with each other. As to the apparatus allowing the variation of the distance between an upper roller and a lower roller, such includes a primary part attachable to a wall of the electroplating machine, and a second part movable relative to the primary part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignees: Process Automation International, Ltd., Shipley Company, LLC
    Inventors: Pin Chun Huang, Fang Hao Lee
  • Patent number: 6251234
    Abstract: An electroplating machine is disclosed as including an electrode positioning apparatus, an electrolyte delivery apparatus, an apparatus for covering a roller, an apparatus for dissolving copper oxide powder in an electrolyte passing through the apparatus, and an apparatus allowing the variation of the distance between two rollers. The electrode positioning apparatus has a first open end and a second end joined by two sets of connecting members, in which the connecting members in each set are parallel to one another and equally spaced from the adjacent member. The electrolyte delivery apparatus includes a pipe connected to a source of electrolyte and a nozzle through which the electrolyte is deliverable to an electrode mounted on the electrode positioning apparatus. The covering apparatus is elongate in shape and includes a cavity for accommodating a majority part of the outside surface of a roller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2001
    Assignees: Process Automation International, Ltd., Shipley Company, LLC
    Inventors: Paul Henington, Kwok Wah Li, Kwok Wing Ng, Chi Chung Lee, Pin Chun Huang, Fang Hao Lee, Marlin Vance Marsh, Carl John Colangelo
  • Patent number: 6245847
    Abstract: An electrolyte comprises a composite of a polymer and a molten salt electrolyte immobilized within the polymer. The electrolyte is stable and ionically conducting at a temperature substantially equal to the melting point of the molten salt electrolyte. In this form, the electrolyte is suitable for use in electrochemical cells, supercapacitors or electrochromic windows and displays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Assignee: The Secretary of State for Defence in Her Britannic Majesty's Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
    Inventors: Kevin John Green, James Charles Wilson