Patent application number | Description | Published |
20130118555 | SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTORS AND METHODS FOR CAPTURING SOLAR ENERGY - A solar energy collector or tower adapted to position photovoltaic devices in urban and suburban settings is provided. The tower includes an elongated pole, a plurality of photovoltaic modules pivotally mounted to the pole at a plurality of elevations, wherein each of the plurality of modules includes a housing, and a plurality of photovoltaic devices mounted in the housing; a drive mechanism adapted to rotate each of the pivotally mounted photovoltaic modules; and a base assembly adapted to pivotally support the pole. The tower and modules are designed to minimize wind load. The photovoltaic modules include a solar energy heat exchanger having a plurality of photovoltaic devices mounted with a plurality of reflective surfaces positioned to concentrate solar energy upon the photovoltaic devices. The photovoltaic devices and reflective surfaces may be positioned on panels or pyramidal structures. Methods and devices for collecting solar energy are also included. | 05-16-2013 |
20130170949 | WIND TURBINES AND METHODS FOR CAPTURING WIND ENERGY - Wind turbines and energy capturing assemblies for capturing fluid energy are provided. The wind turbines includes a plurality of helical air foil blades mounted for rotation about an axis, and a cylindrical airfoil mounted along the axis and shaped to direct a flow of fluid, such as, air or water, toward the plurality of helical airfoil blades. Incorporating photovoltaic devices within the turbines can enhance the energy capturing capacity of some turbines. The energy capturing assemblies include a plurality of airfoil blades mounted for rotation about an axis, a structure having an outer surface shaped to direct a flow of fluid toward the plurality of airfoil blades; and an electrical generator operatively connected to the plurality of airfoil blades. The structure may be a building, a residence, a tower, a tank, or a vessel. Methods and devices for capturing fluid energy are also included. | 07-04-2013 |
20130257208 | PERMANENT MAGNET ELECTRICAL GENERATOR AND METHOD OF PRODUCING ELECTRICAL ENERGY - Permanent magnet electric generators and methods of generating electrical energy are provided. The generators include two rack assemblies each including concentric circular cylindrical cores having circular arrangements of permanent magnets and electrical conductors. The two rack assemblies are axially engaged wherein magnets of the concentric circular cylindrical cores repel adjacent magnets and thereby rotate the cylindrical cores. The rotation of the adjacent magnets in the cores induces an electric current within the electrical conductors, which can be extracted and used in a broad range of applications. Various mechanisms adapted to engage and disengage the two rack assemblies are provided, including the introduction of a vacuum into the generator housing. Methods of generating electrical energy and electrical cores having permanent magnets and conductors are also disclosed. | 10-03-2013 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090037866 | ALTERNATING PHASE SHIFT MASK OPTIMIZATION FOR IMPROVED PROCESS WINDOW - A method for designing alternating phase shift masks is provided, in which narrow phase shapes located between densely spaced design shapes are colored to allow a maximum amount of light transmission. After assigning and ensuring binary legalization of the phase shapes, the narrow phase shapes are assigned a color, such as 0° phase shift, that allows the more light transmission than the alternate or opposite color (e.g. 180° phase shift), which helps avoid printing errors such as resist scumming between closely spaced shapes, and maximizes the lithographic process window. | 02-05-2009 |
20090065956 | MEMORY CELL - Methods of forming line ends and a related memory cell including the line ends are disclosed. In one embodiment, the memory cell includes fa first device having a first conductive line extending over a first active region and having a first line end of the first conductive line positioned over an isolation region adjacent to the first active region; and a second device having a second conductive line extending over one of a second active region and a contact element and having a second line end of the second conductive line positioned over the isolation region adjacent to the one of the second active region and the contact element, wherein the first line end and the second line end each include a bulbous end that is distanced from a respective active region or contact element. | 03-12-2009 |
20090068837 | LINE ENDS FORMING - Methods of forming line ends and a related memory cell including the line ends are disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes forming a first device element and a second device element separated from the first device element by a space; and forming a first line extending from the first device element, the first line including a bulbous line end over the space and distanced from the first device element, and a second line extending from the second device element, the second line including a bulbous line end over the space and distanced from the second device element. | 03-12-2009 |
20090117737 | POLYCONDUCTOR LINE END FORMATION AND RELATED MASK - Methods of forming adjacent polyconductor line ends and a mask therefor are disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes forming a polyconductor layer over an isolation region; forming a mask over the polyconductor layer, the mask including shapes to create the polyconductor line ends and a correction element to ensure a designed proximity of the polyconductor line ends; and etching the polyconductor layer using the patterned photoresist mask to create the adjacent polyconductor line ends, wherein the correction element is removed during the etching. | 05-07-2009 |
20110289470 | Methods and Systems to Meet Technology Pattern Density Requirements of Semiconductor Fabrication Processes - Techniques, systems, and methods are provided for optimizing pattern density fill patterns for integrated circuits. The method includes adjusting an area of a scribe line and a density of dummy fill shapes in the adjusted scribe line, while maintaining an area of the die, to achieve a pattern density associated with technology ground rules for a particular design of the die. | 11-24-2011 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090283712 | SESQUITERPENE STABILIZED COMPOSITIONS - Provided is a composition comprising (a) at least one halogenated compound selected from the group consisting of C | 11-19-2009 |
20110126558 | USE OF LOW GWP REFRIGERANTS COMPRISING CF3I WITH STABLE LUBRICANTS - The invention pertains to heat transfer compositions, particularly to automobile refrigerants comprising a hydrofluoroalkene, an iodocarbon, and at least one lubricant having hydrogen atoms and carbon atoms, wherein no more than 17% of the total number of hydrogen atoms which are attached to a carbon atom are tertiary hydrogen atoms. | 06-02-2011 |
20120184697 | COPOLYMERS FOR BARRIERS - A polyvinylidene difluoride copolymer with a fluoroolefin selected from 2,3,3,3-tetrafluoropropene, 1,1,3,3,3-pentafluoropropene, 2-chloro-pentafluoropropene, hexafluoropropylene, trifluoroethylene, chlorotrifluoroethylene, 3,3,3-trifluoro-2-trifluoromethylpropene and a mixture thereof, wherein the stoichiometry of the co-monomers defines the barrier properties of the copolymer. Such polymers include moisture barrier copolymers and oxygen barrier copolymer. Processes for preparing such moisture barrier copolymers and oxygen barrier copolymers are also provided. | 07-19-2012 |
20140005335 | POLYMER PROCESSING SIMPLIFICATION | 01-02-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090154910 | Camera with Acceleration Sensor - A method and system for determining camera positioning information from an accelerometer mounted on a camera. The accelerometer measures the orientation of the camera with respect to gravity. Orientation measurement allows user interface information to be displayed in a “right side up” orientation on a viewfinder for any camera orientation. Alternatively, an artificial horizon indicator may be displayed in the viewfinder. The accelerometer may also measure camera movement. Camera movement information together with camera orientation can be used to determine camera usage. Additionally, camera movement information can be used to determine a minimum shutter speed for a sharp picture. | 06-18-2009 |
20090235717 | Sensor Self-Test Transfer Standard - A system, computer program product and method of obtaining a performance parameter associated with a sensor, such as an accelerometer, is provided. The method includes applying an acceleration to the accelerometer and a first frequency to obtain a sensitivity of the accelerometer at the first frequency. A first self-test is performed on the accelerometer. The first self-test includes stimulating the accelerometer with a first self-test stimulation signal encoded with the first frequency, such that the accelerometer outputs a first signal. A self-test equivalent acceleration is then determined based, at least in part, on the first signal and the accelerometer sensitivity at the first frequency. A second self-test is performed on the accelerometer. The second self-test includes stimulating the accelerometer with a second self-test stimulation signal encoded with the second frequency, such that the accelerometer outputs a second signal. A parameter of the accelerometer is determined at the second frequency based, at least in part, on the second signal and the self-test equivalent acceleration. The parameter may be sensitivity of the accelerometer at the second frequency. | 09-24-2009 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090309613 | Anti-Capture Method and Apparatus for Micromachined Devices - A MEMS device has a movable beam, a differential capacitor with a movable electrode that moves in response to the displacement of the movable beam and that is disposed between two stationary electrodes, and a voltage circuit for applying a first voltage to the first stationary electrode, second voltage to the second stationary electrode, and a third voltage to the movable electrode. The MEMS device also has a monitor operably coupled with the movable beam to monitor the displacement of the movable beam. In some embodiments, the monitor may monitor the distance between the movable electrode and at least one of the stationary electrodes. The MEMS device further has a voltage reducing circuit operatively coupled with the monitor, the movable electrode, and the stationary electrodes. The voltage reducing circuit reduces the differential between the third voltage and the voltages on the stationary electrodes when the monitor detects that the displacement of the movable beam is greater than or equal to a threshold value. | 12-17-2009 |
20110221454 | Anti-Capture Method and Apparatus for Micromachined Devices - A MEMS device has a movable beam, a differential capacitor with a movable electrode that moves in response to the displacement of the movable beam and that is disposed between two stationary electrodes, and a voltage circuit for applying a first voltage to the first stationary electrode, second voltage to the second stationary electrode, and a third voltage to the moveable electrode. The MEMS device also has a monitor operably coupled with the movable beam to monitor the displacement of the movable beam. In some embodiments, the monitor may monitor the distance between the movable electrode and at least one of the stationary electrodes. The MEMS device further has a voltage reducing circuit operatively coupled with the monitor, the movable electrode, and the stationary electrodes. The voltage reducing circuit reduces the differential between the third voltage and the voltages on the stationary electrodes when the monitor detects that the displacement of the movable beam is greater than or equal to a threshold value. | 09-15-2011 |
20120020139 | Apparatus and Method for Testing One-Time-Programmable Memory - An apparatus and method of testing one-time-programmable memory limits current through a one-time-programmable memory to less than a threshold amplitude, where the memory has a fuse configured to blow upon receipt of a signal having the threshold amplitude. The method also uses blow signal assertion circuitry to attempt to assert a blow signal to the fuse. When not defective, blow signal assertion circuitry is configured to permit the low amplitude signal to flow through the fuse when the fuse is not blown and the blow signal is asserted. The method then produces an output signal having a success value if the limited current flows through the fuse, and a failure value if the current does not flow through the fuse. | 01-26-2012 |
20120092916 | Built-In Self Test for One-Time-Programmable Memory - An apparatus and method of testing one-time-programmable memory provides one-time-programmable memory having one or more memory locations for storing data and corresponding programming circuitry for each memory location. In addition, each programming circuitry has a circuit element configured to permanently change state to store the data in the memory. The method also reads each memory location to verify that the memory location is unprogrammed and activates the programming circuitry for each memory location, which applies a test current to the programming circuitry. The test current is less than a threshold current needed to permanently change the state of the circuit element. The method then determines whether the programming circuitry is functioning properly. | 04-19-2012 |
20120300965 | Hearing Instrument Controller - A hearing instrument has a plurality of electronic components within a body, and an inertial sensor mechanically coupled with the body. The inertial sensor is configured to monitor the motion of the body and generate a movement signal representative of the body motion. A controller operatively coupled with the inertial sensor controls power usage by at least one or more of the electronic components as a function of the movement signal. | 11-29-2012 |
20130154742 | Low Noise Amplifier for Multiple Channels - An amplifier system has an amplifier for amplifying a plurality of input signals from a plurality of different channels, and a plurality of demodulators each operatively coupled with the amplifier for receiving amplified input signals from the amplifier. Each demodulator is configured to demodulate a single amplified input channel signal from a single channel of the plurality of different channels. The system thus also has a plurality of filters, coupled with each of the demodulators, for mitigating the noise. | 06-20-2013 |
20130294143 | Built-In Self Test for One-Time-Programmable Memory - An apparatus and method of testing one-time-programmable memory provides one-time-programmable memory having one or more memory locations for storing data and corresponding programming circuitry for each memory location. In addition, each programming circuitry has a circuit element configured to permanently change state to store the data in the memory. The method also reads each memory location to verify that the memory location is unprogrammed and activates the programming circuitry for each memory location, which applies a test current to the programming circuitry. The test current is less than a threshold current needed to permanently change the state of the circuit element. The method then determines whether the programming circuitry is functioning properly. | 11-07-2013 |
20140056452 | Portable Device with Power Management Controls - A wearable device has a motion detector configured to detect motion of the device and produce a motion signal relating to motion of the device, a contact sensor configured to detect if the device is in contact with an object and produce a contact signal relating to whether the device is in contact with an object, and a controller operatively coupled with the motion detector and the contact sensor. The controller is configured to switch between on and off-states as a function of at least one of the motion signal and contact signal. The device also has a sound transducer or other transducer operatively coupled with the controller. The controller is configured to change the state of the sound transducer between on and off-states in response to receipt of the motion signal, and the contact signal. | 02-27-2014 |
20140251011 | Tilt Mode Accelerometer with improved Offset and Noise Performance - A single-axis tilt-mode microelectromechanical accelerometer structure. The structure includes a substrate having a top surface defined by a first end and a second end. Coupled to the substrate is a first asymmetrically-shaped mass suspended above the substrate pivotable about a first pivot point on the substrate between the first end and the second end and a second asymmetrically-shaped mass suspended above the substrate pivotable about a second pivot point on the substrate between the first end and the second end. The structure also includes a first set of electrodes positioned on the substrate and below the first asymmetrically-shaped mass and a second set of electrodes positioned on the substrate and below the second asymmetrically-shaped mass. | 09-11-2014 |
20150256133 | Low Noise Amplifier for Multiple Channels - An amplifier system has an amplifier for amplifying a plurality of input signals from a plurality of different channels, and a plurality of demodulators each operatively coupled with the amplifier for receiving amplified input signals from the amplifier. Each demodulator is configured to demodulate a single amplified input channel signal from a single channel of the plurality of different channels. The system thus also has a plurality of filters, coupled with each of the demodulators, for mitigating the noise. | 09-10-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20110015952 | LIFE INSURANCE OPTION - A method of providing deferred life insurance through a life insurance option. The deferred life insurance becomes effective later in the life of an insured after the option matures. The insured pays at least one payment during a first period for the deferred life insurance policy option. The deferred life insurance policy is inactive during the first period, and becomes effective at the beginning of the second period when the option matures. The insured pays at least one payment during a second period, which follows the first period, for the deferred life insurance policy, assuming the insured lives this long. The insured is entitled to a benefit based on the deferred term life insurance policy only in the event of death of the insured occurs during the second period. Payments for the life insurance option can be made by a person who is the insured or on behalf of another person who is the insured, such as a child or other third party. The individual payments and sum of payments can be structured to suit the insured's financial objectives, while providing incoming funds to an insurance company. The deferred life insurance policy can be used in conjunction with a conventional life insurance policy, such as conventional term and whole life insurance policies. | 01-20-2011 |
20120259663 | LIFE INSURANCE OPTION - A method of providing deferred life insurance through a life insurance option. The deferred life insurance becomes effective later in the life of an insured after the option matures. The insured pays at least one payment during a first period for the deferred life insurance policy option. The deferred life insurance policy is inactive during the first period, and becomes effective at the beginning of the second period when the option matures. The insured pays at least one payment during a second period, which follows the first period, for the deferred life insurance policy, assuming the insured lives this long. The insured is entitled to a benefit based on the deferred term life insurance policy only in the event of death of the insured occurs during the second period. | 10-11-2012 |
20140188520 | LIFE INSURANCE OPTION - A method of providing deferred life insurance through a life insurance option. The deferred life insurance becomes effective later in the life of an insured after the option matures. The insured pays at least one payment during a first period for the deferred life insurance policy option. The deferred life insurance policy is inactive during the first period, and becomes effective at the beginning of the second period when the option matures. The insured pays at least one payment during a second period, which follows the first period, for the deferred life insurance policy, assuming the insured lives this long. The insured is entitled to a benefit based on the deferred term life insurance policy only in the event of death of the insured occurs during the second period. | 07-03-2014 |
20150154710 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CALCULATING A PREMIUM FOR A LIFE INSURANCE OPTION - A method for identifying a premium for a guarantee of future insurability includes: receiving a premium guarantee request, the request including an age, deferral period, and risk class; identifying a selected class based on the risk class; receiving a plurality of lapse rates, base mortality rates, and subclass mortality rates, each based on the received age and identified selected class and associated with a policy year and/or subclass; identifying an assumed lapse proportion; calculating a zero-lapsed selected mortality rate based on the received lapse rates, base mortality rates, and subclass mortality rates; calculating a premium based on the calculated zero-lapse mortality rate using a calculation pricing model, the premium corresponding to a guarantee for future insurability of a policy holder at the age after the deferral period at the selected class; and transmitting the calculated premium in response to the premium guarantee request. | 06-04-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100032883 | Kiosk-Installable Printer with Duplex Path Utilized to Deliver Printed Media Sheets to Lower Front Exterior of Printer - An image forming device includes an image formation path extending from an entrance end adjacent to a source of supply of media sheets, past an image forming station, to an exit end adjacent to a top collection site adapted to receive media sheets, a duplex path extending from an inlet end adjacent the top collection site to an outlet end adjacent a lower front opening in the device, a media sheet directing mechanism disposed between the exit end of the image formation path, top collection site and inlet end of the duplex path and selectively operable to deliver printed media sheets to the top collection site or the inlet end of the duplex path, and a deflector mechanism between the lower front opening and the outlet end of the duplex path and operable to divert printed media sheets from the duplex path through the lower front opening to exterior of the device. | 02-11-2010 |
20100166469 | System and Drive Arrangement for Using Fuser Temperature Cycling to Change Rotational Position of a Fuser Roller Wiper - A system and drive arrangement for using fuser temperature cycling to change rotational position of a fuser roller wiper includes a frame, a hot roll, a fuser roller, and a drive arrangement. The frame of the fuser unit has side panels spaced apart from one another and positioned alongside a media path through the fuser unit. The hot roll on the fuser unit is rotatably mounted to the side panels of the frame and extends between the side panels across the media path. The fuser roller wiper is rotatably mounted between the side panels of the frame and performs a wiping action on the hot roll to remove foreign matter therefrom and supply of lubricant thereto. The drive arrangement is coupled to the fuser roller wiper and is operable in response to decrease in temperature of the fuser unit to rotate the fuser roller wiper. | 07-01-2010 |
20110133615 | Electronic Locking System to Secure Consumable Item in an Image Forming Device and a Method Therefor - An electronic locking system to secure consumable items in an image forming device and a method therefore. In one embodiment of the invention, an electronic locking system to secure media sheets includes a media tray to hold media sheets, a tray receiving member for receiving the media tray, and a controller. The tray receiving member includes a drive device and a plunger. The plunger is moved by the drive device between a locked and an unlocked position. The controller is configured to control the drive device to move the plunger to engage a portion of the media tray in the locked position and to move the plunger to disengage from the portion of the media tray in the unlocked position. The electronic locking system, incorporating the controller, provides an effective and efficient way to lock/unlock the media tray and eliminates the use of mechanical keys. | 06-09-2011 |
20140300045 | METHOD OF USING SEPARATOR ROLL POSITIONER IN A REMOVABLE MEDIA DAM AND SEPARATOR ROLL SPEED TO CORRECT FEED ERRORS - A method of using a separator roll positioner and separator roll rotational speed to correct media feed errors by angularly rotating a separator roll between a retracted position and an extended position to adjust the height of the separator roll with respect to a media contact surface or by varying separator roll rotational speed thereby varying the media sheet separation force. | 10-09-2014 |
20140300046 | REMOVABLE MEDIA DAM WITH SEPARATOR ROLL POSITIONER FOR A MEDIA TRAY - A removable media dam for a media input tray. The removable media dam is mountable in a front wall of the media tray and may contain one or more rollers for feeding media from the media input tray. The removable media dam includes a separator roll positioner for angularly rotating a separator roll between a retracted position and an extended position to adjust the height of the separator roll with respect to a media contact surface thereby varying the media sheet separation force applied by the separator roll to media sheets being fed from the media tray. In one form, the removable media dam is mountable by a user without the use of tools. | 10-09-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20120277941 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A MARINE VESSEL THROUGH A WATERWAY - A system for controlling a marine vessel includes a processor, a propulsion system, and a directional system. The processor is disposed onboard the marine vessel and obtains a trip plan that includes designated operational settings of the marine vessel for a trip along a waterway. The propulsion system is communicatively coupled with the processor and generates propulsion to move the marine vessel according to the designated operational settings of the trip plan. The directional system is communicatively coupled with the processor and steers the marine vessel according to the designated operational settings of the trip plan. Operating the propulsion system and the directional system according to the designated operational settings of the trip plan reduces at least one of fuel consumed or emissions generated by the marine vessel relative to the marine vessel being propelled or steered according to one or more plans other than the trip plan. | 11-01-2012 |
20120290182 | OFF-BOARD SCHEDULING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ADJUSTING A MOVEMENT PLAN OF A TRANSPORTATION NETWORK - A system includes a monitoring module, a congestion module, a modification module, and a communication module. The monitoring module monitors vehicles in a transportation network. The congestion module calculates a throughput parameter that is representative of a statistical measure of adherence to a movement plan by the vehicles. The modification module determines a confidence parameter representative of a probability that changing the original meet event does not reduce the throughput parameter. The modification module modifies the original meet event to an updated meet event when the confidence parameter exceeds a predetermined threshold. The communication module transmits the updated meet event to the yielding vehicle and/or the passing vehicle, for the yielding vehicle and/or the passing vehicle to receive the updated meet event from the communication module and change a speed of the yielding vehicle or the passing rail vehicle to arrive at the updated meet event. | 11-15-2012 |
20120290185 | SCHEDULING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR A TRANSPORTATION NETWORK - A system is provided that includes a control unit configured to be disposed on-board at least one of a first vehicle or a second vehicle. The control unit also is configured to receive an updated time of an event involving the first vehicle and the second vehicle traveling in a transportation network. The control unit also is configured to change a speed of said at least one of the first vehicle or the second vehicle in response to the updated time to arrive at the event. A method is provided that includes, at one of a first vehicle or a second vehicle, receiving an updated time of an event involving the first vehicle and the second vehicle in a transportation network. The method also includes changing a speed of said one of the first vehicle or the second vehicle in response to the updated tune to arrive at the event. | 11-15-2012 |
20130116865 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CHANGING WHEN A VEHICLE ENTERS A VEHICLE YARD - A system includes a control unit that is configured to be disposed on-board a first vehicle that moves along a route of a transportation network having a vehicle yard. The control unit also is configured to receive, from off-board the first vehicle, an updated time of entry into the vehicle yard for the approaching vehicle and to change a speed of the first vehicle in response to the updated time of entry. A method includes receiving an updated time of entry into a vehicle yard at a first vehicle that is moving along a route of a transportation network that includes the vehicle yard and changing a speed of the first vehicle in response to the updated time of entry. The updated time is received from off-board the first vehicle. | 05-09-2013 |
20130117054 | TRANSPORTATION NETWORK SCHEDULING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system includes a scheduling module and a monitoring module. The scheduling module is configured to generate schedules for vehicles to concurrently travel in a transportation network formed of interconnected routes over which the vehicles travel. The monitoring module is configured to determine financial costs of fuel at refueling locations within the transportation network that are used by one or more of the vehicles to acquire additional fuel. The scheduling module is configured to coordinate the schedules of the vehicles based on the financial costs of the fuel while maintaining a throughput parameter of the transportation network above a designated threshold. The throughput parameter represents adherence by the vehicles to the schedules as the vehicles travel through the transportation network. | 05-09-2013 |
20130144466 | TRANSPORTATION NETWORK SCHEDULING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system includes a scheduling module and a resolution module. The scheduling module determines plural initial schedules for plural different vehicles to concurrently travel in a transportation network. The initial schedules include locations and times for the vehicles to travel. The resolution module modifies at least one of the initial schedules to one or more modified schedules based on an anomaly in at least one of the vehicles or the routes that prevents one or more of the vehicles from traveling in the transportation network according to the initial schedules. The scheduling module communicates the modified schedules to the vehicles so that energy management systems disposed on the vehicles modify travel of the vehicles according to the modified schedules. | 06-06-2013 |
20130144467 | TRANSPORTATION NETWORK SCHEDULING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A method includes forming a first schedule for a first vehicle to travel in a transportation network. The first schedule includes a first arrival time of the first vehicle at a scheduled location. The method also includes receiving a first trip plan for the first vehicle from an energy management system. The first trip plan is based on the first schedule and designates at least one of tractive efforts or braking efforts to be provided by the first vehicle to reduce at least one of an amount of energy consumed by the first vehicle or an amount of emissions generated by the first vehicle when the first vehicle travels through the transportation network to the scheduled location. The method further includes determining whether to modify the first schedule to avoid interfering with movement of one or more other vehicles by examining the trip plan for the first vehicle. | 06-06-2013 |
20130158742 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COMMUNICATING IN A TRANSPORTATION NETWORK - A system includes a communication unit configured to communicate with a scheduling system that determines schedules for plural vehicles to travel in a transportation network and with a control system that forms a trip plan for a first vehicle of the plural vehicles comprising operational settings for controlling movement of the first vehicle during a trip in the transportation network. The communication unit is configured to convey information between the scheduling system and the control system such that the scheduling system coordinates the schedules of the vehicles to maintain a throughput parameter of the transportation network and the control system forms the trip plan that reduces at least one of an amount of fuel consumed or an amount of emissions generated by the first vehicle during the trip according to the schedule associated with the first vehicle. | 06-20-2013 |
20140136025 | Transportation Network Scheduling System And Method - A method includes forming a first schedule for a first vehicle to travel in a transportation network. The first schedule includes a first arrival time of the first vehicle at a scheduled location. The method also includes receiving a first trip plan for the first vehicle from an energy management system. The first trip plan is based on the first schedule and designates at least one of tractive efforts or braking efforts to be provided by the first vehicle to reduce at least one of an amount of energy consumed by the first vehicle or an amount of emissions generated by the first vehicle when the first vehicle travels through the transportation network to the scheduled location. The method further includes determining whether to modify the first schedule to avoid interfering with movement of one or more other vehicles by examining the trip plan for the first vehicle. | 05-15-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100022414 | Droplet Libraries - The present invention generally relates to droplet libraries and to systems and methods for the formation of libraries of droplets. The present invention also relates to methods utilizing these droplet libraries in various biological, chemical, or diagnostic assays. | 01-28-2010 |
20120122714 | SANDWICH ASSAYS IN DROPLETS - The invention generally relates to performing sandwich assays in droplets. In certain embodiments, the invention provides methods for detecting a target analyte that involve forming a compartmentalized portion of fluid including a portion of a sample suspected of containing a target analyte and a sample identifier, a first binding agent having a target identifier, and a second binding agent specific to the target analyte under conditions that produce a complex of the first and second binding agents with the target analyte, separating the complexes, and detecting the complexes, thereby detecting the target analyte. | 05-17-2012 |
20120220494 | COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR MOLECULAR LABELING - The invention provides barcode libraries and methods of making and using them including obtaining a plurality of nucleic acid constructs in which each construct comprises a unique N-mer and a functional N-mer and segregating the constructs into a fluid compartments such that each compartment contains one or more copies of a unique construct. The invention further provides methods for digital PCR and for use of barcode libraries in digital PCR. | 08-30-2012 |
20130210659 | MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTIC SCREENING ASSAY - The invention generally relates to method for screening for a condition in a subject. In certain embodiments, methods of the invention involve obtaining a pool of nucleic acids from a sample, incubating the nucleic acids with first and second sets of binders, in which the first set binds uniquely to different regions of a target nucleic acid in the pool, the second set binds uniquely to different regions of a reference nucleic acid in the pool, and the first and second sets include different detectable labels, removing unbound binders, detecting the labels, and screening for a condition based upon results of the detecting step. | 08-15-2013 |
20140113300 | METHODS FOR ANALYZING DNA - The invention generally relates to methods for increasing the amount of DNA available for analysis when using partitioned samples and parallel processing. For example, double-stranded DNA can be dissociated into two single-stranded components, and the single strands partitioned into different droplets prior to analysis. The disclosed methods are useful for performing digital PCR analysis on samples where the target DNA is not in abundance, for example when the sample originates from a body fluid or an FFPE sample. | 04-24-2014 |
20140303005 | RARE CELL ANALYSIS AFTER NEGATIVE SELECTION - The invention generally relates to rare cell analysis after negative selection. | 10-09-2014 |
20150099266 | DIGITAL ANALYSIS OF NUCLEIC ACID MODIFICATION - In certain aspects, methods of the invention involve performing modification state specific enzymatic reaction of nucleic acid in a sample, determining a value associated with efficiency of the modification state specific enzymatic reaction based on a control, determining an amount of target nucleic acid in the sample, and normalizing the amount of target nucleic acid based on the efficiency value. Based on the normalized amount of target nucleic acid, the method further includes determining whether the normalized amount of target nucleic acid is indicative of a condition. | 04-09-2015 |
20150126400 | MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTIC SCREENING ASSAY - The invention generally relates to method for screening for a condition in a subject. In certain embodiments, methods of the invention involve obtaining a pool of nucleic acids from a sample, incubating the nucleic acids with first and second sets of binders, in which the first set binds uniquely to different regions of a target nucleic acid in the pool, the second set binds uniquely to different regions of a reference nucleic acid in the pool, and the first and second sets include different detectable labels, removing unbound binders, detecting the labels, and screening for a condition based upon results of the detecting step. | 05-07-2015 |
20150184256 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTION OF RNA SPECIES - The invention includes methods for determining the presence of a latent viral population by analyzing an RNA population from the virus with digital techniques, such as digital PCR or by sequencing cDNA produced from the RNA. The invention additional includes methods for determining the presence of latent viral populations by detecting and/or quantifying enzymes that are uniquely associated with the virus, e.g., reverse transcriptases. | 07-02-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080203184 | Pneumatic Seasoning System - A pneumatic seasoning system and method utilizing a rotating drum for seasoning, a funnel-fed pneumatic eductor, line splitters, and a plurality of specially-designed swirl-inducing nozzle spools for inducing a broad and even seasoning plume. In a preferred embodiment, a pneumatic seasoning system transports seasoning from a seasoning hopper to food items within a rotating drum using a combination of an eductor and four in-line vacuum generators, which vacuum generators operate on compressed air. Each vacuum generator comprises a distributing nozzle roughly shaped like a collared spool, wherein compressed air is supplied to the annular region defined between the spool and its collar, and said compressed air exits through swirl ports distributed about the circumference of the spool exit. Each swirl port preferably has a pitch angle of 15° and a yaw angle of 15°. | 08-28-2008 |
20110020514 | PNEUMATIC SEASONING SYSTEM - A pneumatic seasoning system and method utilizing a rotating drum for seasoning, a funnel-fed pneumatic eductor, line splitters, and a plurality of specially-designed swirl-inducing nozzle spools for inducing a broad and even seasoning plume. In a preferred embodiment, a pneumatic seasoning system transports seasoning from a seasoning hopper to food items within a rotating drum using a combination of an eductor and four in-line vacuum generators, which vacuum generators operate on compressed air. Each vacuum generator comprises a distributing nozzle roughly shaped like a collared spool, wherein compressed air is supplied to the annular region defined between the spool and its collar, and said compressed air exits through swirl ports distributed about the circumference of the spool exit. Each swirl port preferably has a pitch angle of 15° and a yaw angle of 15°. | 01-27-2011 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20110173844 | Molded snowshoe with compound deck - A molded or plastic composite snowshoe is formed of two assembled sections, in a way that imparts flexibility to the snowshoe, allowing some degree of torsional twisting or warping flexibility so that the snowshoe adapts to uneven terrain. In a principal embodiment the molded snowshoe is divided into forward and aft sections along a line slightly behind the nose area and near the pivot axis in the case of a pitch-pivoting binding. Joints between sections are in narrow rims at left and right, at opposed sides of a large central opening for the crampon/binding and boot. The joints are designed to securely hold the forward and aft molded sections together but to allow a degree of torsion between them when needed. Steel structural traction rails extend across the joints but are constructed and secured to the snowshoe sections in a manner that preserves the desired flexibility. | 07-21-2011 |
20130107111 | CAMERA MOUNTING ASSEMBLY | 05-02-2013 |
20140105589 | CAMERA MOUNT VIBRATION DAMPENER - A vibration dampener for a camera mount is structured to reduce the movement of a first mount component relative to a second mount component. An upper camera mount component securing a camera couples to a lower camera mount component, which in turn couples to a base mount component configured to couple to a user, a sports board, a helmet, a vehicle, and the like. The vibration dampener is compressibly inserted between the lower mount component and the base mount component, causing the vibration dampener to exert an outward force on the lower mount component, and securing the lower mount component against a portion of the base mount component. The movement of the lower mount component relative to the base mount component is accordingly reduced by the vibration dampener. | 04-17-2014 |
20150030320 | Camera Housing - A camera housing comprises a four-sided frame. A first side of the four-sided frame includes a first segment, a second segment, and a latch mechanism with a first latch component and a second latch component. The first latch component and the second latch component are pivotally coupled such that in a closed position, the frame securely encloses a camera and in an open position, the first segment and the second segment are separable. | 01-29-2015 |
20150049243 | Camera Heat Sink - A camera includes a camera body having a camera lens structured on a front surface of the camera body and electronics internal to the camera body for capturing images via the camera lens. A thermally conductive material is thermally coupled to the electronics and exposed on an external face of the camera body. The thermally conductive material transfers heat produced by the electronics to the external face of the camera, and a removable heat sink removably couples to the thermally conductive material. The camera further includes a housing structured to at least partially enclose the camera body. The housing is structured to enable at least a portion of the removable heat sink to protrude through the housing. | 02-19-2015 |
20150103236 | CAMERA MOUNTABLE ARM - A camera mountable arm includes a first segment, a second segment, and a third segment. The first segment includes a recess extending substantially along a length of the first segment, and is configured to detachably couple to a camera. The first segment is rotatably coupled to the second segment and the second segment is rotatably coupled to the third segment. The arm is operable in a plurality of positions, including: a folded position, where the first, second, and third segments are aligned to be mutually length-wise parallel such that the second segment is enclosed within the recess along the first segment, and the first and second segments are substantially flush with the third segment; and an outstretched position, where the first and second segments are separated by a first angular displacement and the second and third segments by a second angular displacement. | 04-16-2015 |
20150130998 | CAMERA MOUNTING ASSEMBLY - A camera mounting assembly is configured to couple to a camera housing. The camera mounting assembly includes a plurality of indentations configured to allow for the passage of light through the indentations and upon the image sensor of a camera enclosed by the camera housing. The camera mounting assembly can further include recessed channels within an inner-front surface of the camera mounting assembly configured to further allow for the passage of light through the indentations, through the recessed channels, and upon the image sensor. | 05-14-2015 |
20150189131 | CAMERA MOUNTABLE ARM - A camera mountable arm includes a first segment, a second segment, and a third segment. The first segment includes a recess extending substantially along a length of the first segment, and is configured to detachably couple to a camera. The first segment is rotatably coupled to the second segment and the second segment is rotatably coupled to the third segment. The arm is operable in a plurality of positions, including: a folded position, where the first, second, and third segments are aligned to be mutually length-wise parallel such that the second segment is enclosed within the recess along the first segment, and the first and second segments are substantially flush with the third segment; and an outstretched position, where the first and second segments are separated by a first angular displacement and the second and third segments by a second angular displacement. | 07-02-2015 |
20150192841 | Camera Mount for Sports Board - A camera system is configured to detachably couple to a camera mount, which in turn can be attached to an apparatus such as a sports board. The camera mount includes a top mount portion and a bottom screw portion. The top mount portion includes a buckle component that can detachably couple to a camera system, and includes blade components having cutting edges that can cut through a sports board. The blade components surround a screw hole component, and when the blade components have pierced a surface of the sports board and cut through the board, an opening to the screw hole component is accessible from the underside of the board surface. The bottom screw portion includes a screw thread that can be inserted and screwed into the screw hole component, thus securing the camera mount to the sports board. | 07-09-2015 |
20150195436 | Camera Housing for A Square-Profile Camera - A square camera housing accommodates a square camera with a substantially square profile. The square camera housing includes a latching mechanism to secure the camera in the housing, a mounting mechanism to secure the housing to a mounting device, and multiple openings in the housing body to accommodate the camera interface. These features allow the square camera to be inserted and secured in the square camera housing in one of a plurality of orientations relative to the square camera housing. | 07-09-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090313659 | Campus Audio-Visual Control and Communication System - A method and system for distributing audio, visual, data, annunciator and other information within an educational facility utilizes a bit-wise addressing scheme to route UDP message packets to individual classrooms. The audio/video network system includes a central processor that controls a plurality of audio/video sources (e.g., DVD players, cable TV receivers, etc.). Output from audio/video sources is encoded by audio/video encoders for transmission via a local area network. Classroom control hubs within each classroom recognize data packets addressed with the bit-wise addressing scheme and in combination with a video decoder, recover the encoded audio/video signal for presentation within the classroom, such as by a video projector and classroom speakers. Transmitting audio/video information in UDP packets addressed with the bit-wise addressing scheme enables near simultaneous presentation of audio and video programs throughout the educational facility. The system can also manage traditional school bells and public address functions. | 12-17-2009 |
20140036914 | Campus Audio-Visual Control and Communication System - A method and system for distributing audio, visual, data, annunciator and other information within an educational facility utilizes a bit-wise addressing scheme to route UDP message packets to individual classrooms. The audio/video network system includes a central processor that controls a plurality of audio/video sources (e.g., DVD players, cable TV receivers, etc.). Output from audio/video sources is encoded by audio/video encoders for transmission via a local area network. Classroom control hubs within each classroom recognize data packets addressed with the bit-wise addressing scheme and in combination with a video decoder, recover the encoded audio/video signal for presentation within the classroom, such as by a video projector and classroom speakers. Transmitting audio/video information in UDP packets addressed with the bit-wise addressing scheme enables near simultaneous presentation of audio and video programs throughout the educational facility. The system can also manage traditional school bells and public address functions. | 02-06-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090317545 | ALUMINIDE COATINGS - Disclosed herein are aluminide coatings. In one embodiment coatings are used as a barrier coating to protect a metal substrate, such as a steel or a superalloy, from various chemical environments, including oxidizing, reducing and/or sulfidizing conditions. In addition, the disclosed coatings can be used, for example, to prevent the substantial diffusion of various elements, such as chromium, at elevated service temperatures. Related methods for preparing protective coatings on metal substrates are also described. | 12-24-2009 |
20100147770 | FUNCTIONALIZED CARBON SORBENT AND PROCESS FOR SELECTIVE CAPTURE OF PRESELECTED METALS - A composition and process are described that provide for selective capture of targeted materials, including metals and chemical targets. The composition includes an activated carbon scaffold that is chemically modified to include ligands with a high affinity for selective capture of metals and chemical targets. The invention finds use, e.g., as heavy metal sorbents, as catalyst supports, in analytical applications such as ion chromatography, and in devices such as analytical instruments and chemical sensors. | 06-17-2010 |
20120305831 | Compositions for Deicing/Anti-Icing - A non-toxic deicing/anti-icing fluid includes at least 20% by weight of a freeze point depressant selected from short chain polyols having 3 to 5 carbon atoms. The fluid further includes at least 10% by weight of water, a thickener, a surfactant, and a pH moderator. The fluid meets the requirements of SAE/AMS 1428 or its revisions for a non-Newtonian, Type II, III, or IV aircraft deicing/anti-icing fluid. | 12-06-2012 |
20140042357 | Compositions for Deicing/Anti-Icing - A non-toxic deicing/anti-icing fluid includes at least 20% by weight of a freeze point depressant selected from short chain polyols having 3 to 5 carbon atoms. The fluid further includes at least 10% by weight of water, a thickener, a surfactant, and a pH moderator. The fluid meets the requirements of SAE/AMS 1428 or its revisions for a non-Newtonian, Type II, III, or IV aircraft deicing/anti-icing fluid. | 02-13-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090208505 | Mutations of the pik3ca gene in human cancers - Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinases (PI3Ks) are known to be important regulators of signaling pathways. To determine whether PI3Ks are genetically altered in cancers, we analyzed the sequences of the P13K gene family and discovered that one family member, PIK3CA, is frequently mutated in cancers of the colon and other organs. The majority of mutations clustered near two positions within the P13K helical or kinase domains. PIK3CA represents one of the most highly mutated oncogenes yet identified in human cancers and is useful as a diagnostic and therapeutic target. | 08-20-2009 |
20110319477 | MUTATIONS OF THE PIK3CA GENE IN HUMAN CANCERS - Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinases (PI3Ks) are known to be important regulators of signaling pathways. To determine whether PI3Ks are genetically altered in cancers, we analyzed the sequences of the PI3K gene family and discovered that one family member, PIK3CA, is frequently mutated in cancers of the colon and other organs. The majority of mutations clustered near two positions within the PI3K helical or kinase domains. PIK3CA represents one of the most highly mutated oncogenes yet identified in human cancers and is useful as a diagnostic and therapeutic target. | 12-29-2011 |
20150079593 | Mutations of the PIK3CA Gene in Human Cancers - Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinases (PI3Ks) are known to be important regulators of signaling pathways. To determine whether PI3Ks are genetically altered in cancers, we analyzed the sequences of the PI3K gene family and discovered that one family member, PIK3CA, is frequently mutated in cancers of the colon and other organs. The majority of mutations clustered near two positions within the PI3K helical or kinase domains. PIK3CA represents one of the most highly mutated oncogenes yet identified in human cancers and is useful as a diagnostic and therapeutic target. | 03-19-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20110262437 | USE OF ERBB4 AS A PROGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC MARKER FOR MELANOMA - It is disclosed herein that members of the protein tyrosine kinase (PTK) family are highly mutated in patients with melanoma. Described herein are novel somatic mutations in the ERBB4 gene that result in increased kinase activity, transformation ability and anchorage-independent growth. These ERBB4 mutations contribute to the tumorogenicity of melanoma. Thus, provided herein is a method of predicting the prognosis of a patient with melanoma by detecting the presence or absence of a mutation in the ERBB4 gene. In some examples, the ERBB4 mutation is selected from G949A, G1354A, G1624A, C1630T, G1687A, G2506A and G2614A (numbering based on SEQ ID NO: 1). Also provided are methods of selecting a patient as a candidate for treatment with an ERBB4 and/or PI3K/AKT pathway inhibitor, and a method of identifying a therapeutic agent for the treatment of a subject diagnosed with melanoma. Oligonucleotides that specifically hybridize with an ERBB4 nucleic acid molecule comprising a novel mutation, and arrays comprising such oligonucleotides, are also provided. | 10-27-2011 |
20130190374 | GRM3 MUTATIONS AND USE THEREOF FOR THE DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF MELANOMA - Described herein is a G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR)-directed mutational analysis of tumor DNA obtained from melanoma tissue samples. The GPCR gene glutamate receptor, metabotropic 3 (GRM3) was identified as the most highly mutated GPCR gene in this screen. Functional characterization of GRM3 mutants revealed that these mutants promote activation of MEK, anchorage-independent cell growth and metastasis. Thus, provided herein are methods of diagnosing a subject as having melanoma, or susceptible to developing melanoma, by detecting the presence of at least one mutation in GRM3. Also provided are methods of treating a subject with melanoma by detecting the presence of at least one mutation in GRM3 and administering an appropriate therapy. Further provided are methods of selecting a subject diagnosed with melanoma as a candidate for treatment with a GRM3 inhibitor, an MEK inhibitor, or both, by detecting the presence of at least one mutation in GRM3. | 07-25-2013 |
20130309254 | TRRAP AND GRIN2A MUTATIONS AND USE THEREOF FOR THE DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF MELANOMA - Described herein is the identification of 68 genes with an elevated frequency of somatic mutations in melanoma. Nine genes were identified that exhibited recurring mutations in melanoma. The TRRAP gene was mutated at nucleotide 2165 (C2165T) in six different melanoma tumor samples. In addition, 16 genes were identified that were highly mutated in melanoma samples. The most highly mutated gene identified was GRIN2A, which was mutated in 34% of melanoma tumor samples. The study disclosed herein identified 34 different nonsynonymous somatic mutations in GRIN2A among 36 melanoma tumor samples. Provided is a method of diagnosing a subject as having melanoma or susceptible to developing melanoma by detecting one or more mutations in the TRRAP or GRIN2A genes. Further provided is a method of selecting an appropriate therapy for a subject diagnosed with melanoma by detecting the presence or absence of a mutation in TRRAP or GRIN2A. | 11-21-2013 |