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Beck, CA

Alan Beck, Campbell, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090254774METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR RUN-TIME SCHEDULING DATABASE OPERATIONS THAT ARE EXECUTED IN HARDWARE - Embodiments of the present invention provide a run-time scheduler that schedules tasks for database queries on one or more execution resources in a dataflow fashion. In some embodiments, the run-time scheduler may comprise a task manager, a memory manager, and hardware resource manager. When a query is received by a host database management system, a query plan is created for that query. The query plan splits a query into various fragments. These fragments are further compiled into a directed acyclic graph of tasks. Unlike conventional scheduling, the dependency arc in the directed acyclic graph is based on page resources. Tasks may comprise machine code that may be executed by hardware to perform portions of the query. These tasks may also be performed in software or relate to I/O.10-08-2009
20090319486METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR REAL-TIME CONTINUOUS UPDATES - Embodiments of the present invention provide fine grain concurrency control for transactions in the presence of database updates. During operations, each transaction is assigned a snapshot version number or SVN. A SVN refers to a historical snapshot of the database that can be created periodically or on demand. Transactions are thus tied to a particular SVN, such as, when the transaction was created. Queries belonging to the transactions can access data that is consistent as of a point in time, for example, corresponding to the latest SVN when the transaction was created. At various times, data from the database stored in a memory can be updated using the snapshot data corresponding to a SVN. When a transaction is committed, a snapshot of the database with a new SVN is created based on the data modified by the transaction and the snapshot is synchronized to the memory. When a transaction query requires data from a version of the database corresponding to a SVN, the data in the memory may be synchronized with the snapshot data corresponding to that SVN.12-24-2009

Alan Lee Beck, Campbell, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120117027METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR HARDWARE ACCELERATION OF DATABASE OPERATIONS AND QUERIES FOR A VERSIONED DATABASE BASED ON MULTIPLE HARDWARE ACCELERATORS - Embodiments of the present invention provide a hardware accelerator that assists a host database system in processing its queries. The hardware accelerator comprises special purpose processing elements that are capable of receiving database query/operation tasks in the form of machine code database instructions, execute them in hardware without software, and return the query/operation result back to the host system.05-10-2012

Andrew E. Beck, San Diego, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120030198SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ANALYZING REQUIREMENTS - The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for improving the management of requirements in systems and systems of systems. Multiple requirements databases may be interfaced, and language processing tools may be used to identify requirements having related content. The relevancy of requirements may be based on the semantic distance between terms in the network, their semantic relations, the number of related terms in the requirements, etc. A user may be presented with a navigable cross-section of requirements data relevant to search terms. Thus, added visibility and ease of access is provided for systems and systems of systems.02-02-2012

Charles Beck, Chula Vista, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100086160HEARING AID TUBE MOLDING HEATER - An improved device for heating hearing aid microtubes is presented, the invention comprised of inexpensive electrical parts and a simple plastic base. The device possesses a heater flue that is shaped to concentrate the heat from the heating element along a short length of the hearing aid audio tube to be formed as well as a metal reflector to increase the efficiency of the heater element. The device has nonskid feet and air holes to improve the cooling of the device.04-08-2010

Christopher J. Beck, Costa Mesa, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090239682MUSCLE-BACK, WITH INSERT, IRON TYPE GOLF CLUB HEAD - A muscle-back iron golf club head includes a blade-like upper mass, a muscle-like lower mass, a planar front surface, a top surface, a sole surface, a heel surface, a toe surface, and a rear surface having a first contour. A recess is in the rear surface, the recess having a first portion in the blade-like upper mass and a second portion in the muscle-like lower mass. An insert may be provided in the recess, and such insert may substantially fill the recess and may include a back surface having a second contour which is different from the first contour of the club head rear surface.09-24-2009
20120077618Muscle-Back, with Insert, Iron Type Golf Club Head - A muscle-back iron golf club head includes a blade-like upper mass, a muscle-like lower mass, a planar front surface, a top surface, a sole surface, a heel surface, a toe surface, and a rear surface having a first contour. A recess is in the rear surface, the recess having a first portion in the blade-like upper mass and a second portion in the muscle-like lower mass. An insert may be provided in the recess, and such insert may substantially fill the recess and may include a back surface having a second contour which is different from the first contour of the club head rear surface.03-29-2012
20120077619Muscle-Back, with Insert, Iron Type Golf Club Head - A muscle-back iron golf club head includes a blade-like upper mass, a muscle-like lower mass, a planar front surface, a top surface, a sole surface, a heel surface, a toe surface, and a rear surface having a first contour. A recess is in the rear surface, the recess having a first portion in the blade-like upper mass and a second portion in the muscle-like lower mass. An insert may be provided in the recess, and such insert may substantially fill the recess and may include a back surface having a second contour which is different from the first contour of the club head rear surface.03-29-2012

Patent applications by Christopher J. Beck, Costa Mesa, CA US

Daniel J. Beck, Huntington Beach, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110277233Convertible Furniture Item - The present invention is directed to a furniture item having user-support frames that are convertible between a seat configuration and a bed configuration. In one embodiment, user-support frames include a head-support frame anchored by a link assembly to a furniture-item base and a back-support frame pivotably coupled to the head-support frame. The link assembly facilitates both pivoting and lateral shifting of the head-support frame relative to the furniture-item base. In the bed configuration, a cam and cam follower are disposed under the user-support frames, such that when the user-support frames laterally shift, the cam contacts the cam follower, thereby upwardly moving a junction at which user-support frames are hinged to one another.11-17-2011

David G. Beck, Tiburon, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100136396Cell Separator for Minimizing Thermal Runaway Propagation within a Battery Pack - A spacer assembly for use with a cell mounting bracket in a battery pack is provided. The spacer assembly, comprised of one or more spacers, maintains the positions of the batteries within the battery pack during a thermal event and after the cell mounting bracket loses structural integrity due to the increased temperature associated with the thermal event. By keeping the battery undergoing thermal runaway in its predetermined location within the battery pack, the minimum spacing between cells is maintained, thereby helping to minimize the thermal effects on adjacent cells while ensuring that the cooling system, if employed, is not compromised. As a result, the risk of thermal runaway propagation is reduced.06-03-2010
20100136404Thermal barrier structure for containing thermal runaway propagation within a battery pack - A battery pack is provided that includes one or more thermal barrier elements, the thermal barrier elements dividing the cells within the battery pack into groups of cells. The thermal barrier elements that separate the cells into groups prevent a thermal runaway event initiated in one group of cells from propagating to the cells within a neighboring group of cells.06-03-2010
20120034501Battery Pack Configuration to Reduce Hazards Associated with Internal Short Circuits - A battery pack, or battery pack module, is provided that is configured to respond to a short circuit of moderate current in a manner that minimizes the risk of an initial thermal runaway event propagating throughout the battery pack/battery pack module. In general, the battery pack/battery module allows pre-selection of which cell of the cells comprising the battery pack/battery pack module will be the last cell to respond to the short circuit. As a result, a thermal isolation barrier may be used to separate the preselected cell from the other cells of the battery pack/battery pack module, thereby minimizing the risk of excessive heating and extensive collateral damage.02-09-2012
20120041622Charge Rate Modulation of Metal-Air Cells as a Function of Ambient Oxygen Concentration - A system and method for charging a metal-air battery pack at the maximum possible rate while maintaining an ambient oxygen concentration below a preset concentration is provided, thereby minimizing the risks associated with generating oxygen during the charging cycle.02-16-2012
20120041623Charge Rate Modulation of Metal-Air Cells as a Function of Ambient Oxygen Concentration - A system and method for charging a metal-air battery pack at the maximum possible rate while maintaining an ambient oxygen concentration below a preset concentration is provided, thereby minimizing the risks associated with generating oxygen during the charging cycle.02-16-2012

Patent applications by David G. Beck, Tiburon, CA US

Dustin Beck, Los Angeles, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100174582EFFICIENT AND EFFECTIVE USER TARGETED ADVERTISING THROUGH USER DRIVEN SELECTIONS AND USE OF VIDEO AND ELECTRONIC GAMES - Systems, apparatus and methods for marketing through advertising video games are provided. In one embodiment, the method comprises presenting a list of the one or more products, services, brands or locations to one or more users; requesting the users select one or more products, services, brands or locations; receiving data indicating which of the one or more products, services, brands or locations the at users selected; presenting one or more video games to the users, presenting one or more instances of advertising related to the specific products, services, brands or locations selected by the users to the users; providing one or more incentives related directly to the specific products, services, brands or locations selected by the users to the users and receiving data from the users regarding their interest in, acceptance or rejection of the incentives provided to the users.07-08-2010

Gary L. Beck, Modesto, CA US

Gregory S. Beck, Templeton, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100319261ELECTRIC SWING PLUG DOOR OPERATOR WITH AUXILIARY DOOR LOCKING MECHANISM - The invention is directed to an electric swing plug door operator with a remotely powered auxiliary lock mechanism, door striker, catch and manual release system for use on light to medium duty shuttle or utility vehicles. The swing plug door system includes a door operator and base plate assembly, a shaft and arm assembly, a guide rod assembly, a lower shaft pivot, a door panel with a leading edge catch and lock striker assembly, an auxiliary lock and a manual release cable. The auxiliary lock assembly includes a lock bar engaging the lock striker mounted to the trailing edge of the door panel when the door reaches the fully closed position. The door operator includes a manual release lever and gear motor subassembly to drive the door system linkage and to manually disengage the door linkage and lock assembly to gain manual egress from the vehicle.12-23-2010

Gregory S. Beck, Hanford, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100154311Optical Pressure Switch, Door Operating System and Method - A door having a pneumatic sensing edge is operated automatically to open when an object and the edge make contact An optical pressure switch (06-24-2010

Hilary Beck, San Carlos, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100075974HETEROCYCLIC GPR40 MODULATORS - The present invention provides compounds useful, for example, for treating metabolic disorders in a subject. Such compounds have the general formula I:03-25-2010

Hilary Plake Beck, San Carlos, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110319378PIPERIDINONE DERIVATIVES AS MDM2 INHIBITORS FOR THE TREATMENT OF CANCER - The present invention provides MDM2 inhibitor compounds of Formula I,12-29-2011

Idan Beck, Cupertino, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110043274Apparatus and Methods for Registering Inputs from a User - Embodiments of an electronic apparatus and method for are registering inputs from a user a generating corresponding output provided. The electronic apparatus may comprise a switching system and a monitoring system. The switching system may comprise a base surface, insulating blocks disposed on the base surface, an array of conductive pads, and conductive wires. The array of conductive pads comprises one or more rows and one or more columns of conductive pads that are provided with a first electric potential. The switching system may further comprise conductive wires suspended from the insulating blocks and may be suspended at a physical distance over the rows of conductive pads. The conductive wires are provided with a second electric potential. The inputs are registered when the user contacts the conductive wires with the conductive pads. Thereafter, the monitoring system analyzes the inputs to generate a corresponding output to the user.02-24-2011
20110239848ELECTRONIC MUSICAL INSTRUMENT - Embodiments of the invention provide an electronic musical instrument. The electronic musical instrument comprises a base and a switch array disposed on the base. The switch array comprises multiple contacts disposed on the base and multiple strings suspended over the contacts. The array is configured to generate input signals by pressing the strings over the contacts. The electronic instrument further comprises a processor coupled to the switch array. The processor is configured to receive the input signals and generate output signals, wherein the output signals correspond to musical note information.10-06-2011
20120017748System and Methods for Sensing Finger Position in a Digital Musical Instruments - Embodiments of the invention provide a digital musical instrument. The instrument comprises a fretboard and one or more strings extended over the fretboard. The instrument further includes an electric circuit for generating digital signals based on positions associated with contacts of the strings on the fretboard and a transceiver for transmitting the digital signals to a processing device that generates musical notation based on the digital signals.01-26-2012
20120022796APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DETECTION OF MECHANICAL INPUTS - Embodiments of the invention provide apparatus and method for analyzing mechanical inputs. The apparatus comprises mechanical elements configured to receive mechanical inputs and a piezoresistive sensor configured to convert the mechanical inputs into electric signals. The apparatus further includes electrical elements configured to determine voltage components of the electric signals and a processor configured to analyze the voltage components, wherein the voltage components are analyzed to determine a plurality of characteristics of the mechanical inputs.01-26-2012

James Beck, Berkeley, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100317958INTEGRATED WIRELESS PATCH FOR PHYSIOLOGICAL MONITORING - A sensor system in accordance with the present invention comprises a plane member, a plurality of electrodes within the plane member, adapted to contact a human body to detect and monitor human generated voltages. The sensor can be applied to monitor a variety of applications relating to health, disease progression, fitness and wellness. Some of the specific applications include the monitoring of ECG, EEG, EMG, glucose, electrolytes, body hydration, dehydration, tissue state and wounds. Various aspects of the invention are shown by illustrating certain embodiments. Many other embodiments can be used to implement the invented schemes.12-16-2010
20110019595METHODS AND APPARATUS TO RETROFIT WIRED HEALTHCARE AND FITNESS SYSTEMS FOR WIRELESS OPERATION - Provided herein is an apparatus for converting a wired sensor system to a wireless sensor system. The apparatus can comprise a relay station comprising at least one antenna and at least one radio. The relay station can be adaptable to be integrated as at least one application specific integrated circuit and further adaptable to convert a wired sensor system into a wireless sensor system. Further provided are systems for converting wired sensor systems into wireless sensor systems and methods of use.01-27-2011

James Beck, Berketey, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110130092WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS USING MULTIPLE RADIOS - The present invention relates to a communication system and methods of use thereof. The system includes sets of complementary radios for transmitting and receiving signals to achieve high reliability and reduced costs. The sets of complementary radios are in wireless communication with each other. A new connection is made by selecting from amongst the complementary radios. Switching between complementary radios during a connection is also permitted. Optimized protocols and hardware for implementing the system are disclosed.06-02-2011

James C. Beck, Berkeley, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090054737WIRELESS PHYSIOLOGICAL SENSOR PATCHES AND SYSTEMS - The present invention provides methods, devices, and systems for wireless physiological sensor patches and systems which incorporate these patches. The systems and methods utilize a structure where the processing is distributed asymmetrically on the two or more types of ASIC chips that are designed to work together. The invention also relates to systems comprising two or more ASIC chips designed for use in physiological sensing wherein the ASIC chips are designed to work together to achieve high wireless link reliability/security, low power dissipation, compactness, low cost and support a variety of sensors for sensing various physiological parameters.02-26-2009
20110028822MULTI-ELECTRODE SENSING PATCH FOR LONG-TERM PHYSIOLOGICAL MONITORING WITH SWAPPABLE ELECTRONICS, RADIO AND BATTERY, AND METHODS OF USE - Provided herein is an electrode device comprising an interface comprising at least one magnetic contact. The interface can be adaptable to be in communication with an electronic member, wherein the magnetic contact on the interface is adaptable to align and position the electronic member with respect to the interface. The interface can be further adaptable to remain affixed to a patient while an electronic member is removed and/or inserted from the interface. Further provided herein are methods of using the electrode device and kits.02-03-2011
20110062241 FLEXIBLE WIRELESS PATCH FOR PHYSIOLOGICAL MONITORING AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - Provided herein is an integrated wireless patch comprising a contact layer, an electronics layer, and a battery layer. The contact layer is a substrate having gel cutouts. The electronics layer can be folded into contact with the contact layer. The battery layer can be folded into contact with the electronic layer. Further provided herein is a method of manufacturing a wireless integrated patch comprising folding a substrate comprising at least one cutout, at least one contact disk in communication with a surface of a patient through the cutout, and battery terminals, wherein the at least one cutout, the at least on contact, and the battery terminals are adaptable to be located in different layers after the substrate is folded.03-17-2011

James Hans Beck, Atascadero, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100174772Comprehensive data collecting, processing, and management system capable of being remotely managed and monitored in real time - A system, apparatus, and method for collecting, processing, and directing operators in the field in real time includes a client system, a server based management system, a field transceiver system, and a financial system. The client system comprises a network-based portal linked to a plurality of web pages for the purpose of interfacing with a client. The security system is included for the purpose of ensuring authorization and encryption protection. The software is adapted for the purpose of organizing, filtering, tabulating, and processing data gathered in the field according to client's preferred processing guidelines.07-08-2010

Jason Beck, Long Beach, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090022252Channel response calculation in an OFDM receiver - An efficient algorithm is described for use with OFDM receivers that characterizes the impulse response of a communication channel using frequency domain techniques that reduce computational and memory requirements, relative to time-domain cross-correlation methods, without sacrificing algorithm performance. An FFT engine is used to transform a time domain input sequence, the transformed sequence is multiplied by the conjugate of the expected sequence, the product of several sequences is averaged, then the FFT engine transforms the average back to a time domain sequence, the magnitude of which is the impulse response of the channel.01-22-2009
20120033763Method and Apparatus for Channel Response Calculation in an OFDM Receiver - An efficient algorithm is described for use with OFDM receivers that characterizes the impulse response of a communication channel using frequency domain techniques that reduce computational and memory requirements, relative to time-domain cross-correlation methods, without sacrificing algorithm performance. An FFT engine is used to transform a time domain input sequence, the transformed sequence is multiplied by the conjugate of the expected sequence, the product of several sequences is averaged, then the FFT engine transforms the average back to a time domain sequence, the magnitude of which is the impulse response of the channel.02-09-2012

Joseph Beck, Oxnard, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090200117SLIDER SCISSOR LIFT FOR A VEHICLE OPERATOR CONSOLE - An improved slider scissor lift results in forward or backward movement of a raised work platform. The forward or backward movement is achieved by positioning upper pins and sliders oppositely from lower pins and sliders. This oppositely pinned configuration results in an operation whereby the base of the scissor lift is moved toward the rear of the base platform and the work platform is drawn toward the rear of the scissor lift.08-13-2009
20090200836GUSSETED TORSION SYSTEM FOR AN OPEN FRAME VEHICLE - A gusseted torsion system minimizes torsional deflection in an open frame vehicle having a generally U-shaped frame with two generally parallel beams. The gusseted torsion system includes cross members extending between the parallel beams and gussets adjacent each end of the cross members. The gussets are affixed to the parallel beams to counter torsional forces created by loads exerted on the parallel beams.08-13-2009

Ken Beck, Morgan Hill, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110107358MANAGING REMOTE PROCEDURE CALLS WHEN A SERVER IS UNAVAILABLE - A server node can monitor the status of servers in a server cluster. The node may receive an alert indicating that a server in the server cluster is unavailable. In response to the alert, the node can send instructions that cause pending remote procedure call requests to be canceled and then reissued to another server in the server cluster instead of to the first server.05-05-2011

Kenneth Beck, Morgan Hill, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110191297Clustered filesystem with data volume snapshot maintenance - A computer system with read/write access to storage devices creates a snapshot of a data volume at a point in time while continuing to accept access requests to the mirrored data volume by copying before making changes to the base data volume. Multiple snapshots may be made of the same data volume at different points in time. Only data that is not stored in a previous snapshot volume or in the base data volume are stored in the most recent snapshot volume.08-04-2011
20120072558CLUSTERED FILESYSTEM WITH MEMBERSHIP VERSION SUPPORT - A computer system with read/write access to storage devices creates a snapshot of a data volume at a point in time while continuing to accept access requests to the mirrored data volume by copying before making changes to the base data volume. Multiple snapshots may be made of the same data volume at different points in time. Only data that is not stored in a previous snapshot volume or in the base data volume are stored in the most recent snapshot volume.03-22-2012

Kenneth S. Beck, Morgan Hill, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100154054Clustered File System for Mix of Trusted and Untrusted Nodes - A cluster of computer system nodes share direct read/write access to storage devices via a storage area network using a cluster filesystem. At least one trusted metadata server assigns a mandatory access control label as an extended attribute of each filesystem object regardless of whether required by a client node accessing the filesystem object. The mandatory access control label indicates the sensitivity and integrity of the filesystem object and is used by the trusted metadata server(s) to control access to the filesystem object by all client nodes.06-17-2010

Klaus D. Beck, Newbury Park, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090312433TREATMENT OF VR1-ANTAGONIST-INDUCED INCREASE IN BODY TEMPERATURE WITH AN ANTIPYRETIC AGENT - The present invention relates to a method of reducing a VR1-antagonist-induced increase in body temperature in a mammal in need thereof, comprising the step of administering an antipyretic agent to the mammal and the like.12-17-2009

Mark J. Beck, Los Gatos, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090049917Method for Cavitation Threshold Characterization and Control - A method for characterizing cavitation that occurs in a fluid exposed to acoustic energy. The method comprises the steps of exposing a volume of process fluid to acoustic energy at a specified power level; measuring the photon output from the fluid over a period of time; and when the photon output deviates from a desired level, initiating a remedial step to bring the photon output back to approximately the desired level.02-26-2009

Patent applications by Mark J. Beck, Los Gatos, CA US

Mark Jonathan Beck, Los Gatos, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080196742Particle removal method and composition - A method and cleaning solution for cleaning electronic substrates, such as a semiconductor wafers, hard disks, photomasks or imprint molds. The method comprises the steps of contacting a surface of the substrate with a cleaning solution comprised of a polyphosphate, and then removing the cleaning solution from the surface. Additional optional steps include applying acoustic energy to the cleaning solution while the cleaning solution is in contact with the surface, and removing the cleaning solution from the surface by rinsing the surface with a rinsing solution with or without the application of acoustic energy. The cleaning solution comprises a polyphosphate, such as any of the water soluble polyphosphates. Depending on the application, the cleaning solution may also comprise a base and/or a quantity of suspended particles. Complexing agents, amines, biocides, surfactants and/or other substances, may also be added to the cleaning solution.08-21-2008
20090149364Particle Removal Cleaning Method and Composition - A cleaning solution and method for removing submicron particles from the surface and/or the bevel of an electronic substrate such as a hard disk media substrate, or an imprint mold used in the manufacturing of the hard disk media or a read/write head assembly part. The cleaning solution comprises a polycarboxylate polymer or an ethoxylated polyamine. The method comprises the step of contacting a surface of the substrate with a cleaning solution comprised of a polycarboxylate polymer or an ethoxylated polyamine. Additional optional steps in the method include applying acoustic energy to the cleaning solution and/or rinsing the surface with a rinsing solution with or without the application of acoustic energy to the rinsing solution.06-11-2009
20090151755Method and Composition for Cleaning Wafers - A cleaning solution and method for removing submicron particles from the surface and/or the bevel of an electronic substrate such as a semiconductor wafer. The cleaning solution comprises a polycarboxylate polymer or an ethoxylated polyamine. The method comprises the step of contacting a surface of the substrate with a cleaning solution comprised of a polycarboxylate polymer or an ethoxylated polyamine. Additional optional steps in the method include applying acoustic energy to the cleaning solution and/or rinsing the surface with a rinsing solution with or without the application of acoustic energy to the rinsing solution.06-18-2009
20120060815Method For Shaping And Slicing Ingots Using An Aqueous Phosphate Solution - A method for slicing a workpiece into wafers in which a polyphosphate solution is applied to the workpiece during the slicing process. The method comprises the steps of positioning the workpiece, such as a silicon ingot, in the vicinity of a wire saw that can cut through the workpiece without the use of an abrasive slurry; causing an aqueous polyphosphate solution to contact the workpiece; and causing the wire saw to cut into the workpiece while the polyphosphate solution is in contact with the workpiece. After the workpiece has been cut into wafers, the polyphosphate solution is rinsed off of the wafers. Preferably, the wire saw used in this method is a diamond wire saw.03-15-2012
20120080051Particle Removal Method Using An Aqueous Polyphosphate Solution - A method and cleaning solution for cleaning electronic substrates, such as a semiconductor wafers, hard disks, photomasks or imprint molds. The method comprises the steps of contacting a surface of the substrate with a cleaning solution comprised of a polyphosphate, and then removing the cleaning solution from the surface. Additional optional steps include applying acoustic energy to the cleaning solution while the cleaning solution is in contact with the surface, and removing the cleaning solution from the surface by rinsing the surface with a rinsing solution with or without the application of acoustic energy. The cleaning solution comprises a polyphosphate, such as any of the water soluble polyphosphates. Depending on the application, the cleaning solution may also comprise a base and/or a quantity of suspended particles. Complexing agents, amines, biocides, surfactants and/or other substances, may also be added to the cleaning solution.04-05-2012

Patent applications by Mark Jonathan Beck, Los Gatos, CA US

Markus E. Beck, San Jose, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080223442PHOTOVOLTAIC APPARATUS HAVING A FILLER LAYER AND METHOD FOR MAKING THE SAME - Devices for converting light into electric current are provided. A representative device has an encasing structure having at least one portion transparent. The encasing structure is configured to pass light energy into an interior of the encasing structure. The device further has a photovoltaic device positioned within the interior of the encasing structure. The photovoltaic device is positioned to receive light energy. The photovoltaic device is operable to transform the light energy into electric current. The device further has a protective space material, disposed between the encasing structure and the photovoltaic device. The protective space material is operable to transmit the light energy. The protective space material is a non-solid material having a physical property such as a viscosity of less than 1×1009-18-2008
20080302415Elongated photovoltaic cells in casings with a filling layer - A solar cell unit comprising a cylindrical shaped solar cell and a transparent tubular casing is provided. The tubular shaped solar cell comprises a back-electrode, a semiconductor junction circumferentially disposed on the back-electrode and a transparent conductive layer disposed on the semiconductor junction. The transparent tubular casing is circumferentially sealed onto the transparent conductive layer of the cylindrical shaped solar cell. A solar cell unit comprising a cylindrical shaped solar cell, a filler layer, and a transparent tubular casing is provided. The cylindrical shaped solar cell comprises a cylindrical substrate, a back-electrode circumferentially disposed on the cylindrical substrate, a semiconductor junction circumferentially disposed on the back-electrode, and a transparent conductive layer disposed on the semiconductor junction. The filler layer is circumferentially disposed on the transparent conductive layer and the transparent tubular casing is circumferentially disposed onto the filler layer.12-11-2008
20090007963ELONGATED PHOTOVOLTAIC CELLS IN CASINGS WITH A FILLING LAYER - A solar cell unit comprising a cylindrical shaped solar cell and a transparent tubular casing is provided. The tubular shaped solar cell comprises a back-electrode, a semiconductor junction circumferentially disposed on the back-electrode and a transparent conductive layer disposed on the semiconductor junction. The transparent tubular casing is circumferentially sealed onto the transparent conductive layer of the cylindrical shaped solar cell. A solar cell unit comprising a cylindrical shaped solar cell, a filler layer, and a transparent tubular casing is provided. The cylindrical shaped solar cell comprises a cylindrical substrate, a back-electrode circumferentially disposed on the cylindrical substrate, a semiconductor junction circumferentially disposed on the back-electrode, and a transparent conductive layer disposed on the semiconductor junction. The filler layer is circumferentially disposed on the transparent conductive layer and the transparent tubular casing is circumferentially disposed onto the filler layer.01-08-2009
20090014055Photovoltaic Modules Having a Filling Material - A photovoltaic module comprising an elongated substrate in which at least a portion of the elongated substrate is rigid is provided. One or more solar cells are disposed on the elongated substrate and each comprise: (i) a back-electrode disposed on the elongated substrate, (ii) a semiconductor junction layer disposed on all or a portion of a surface of the back-electrode, and (iii) a transparent conductive layer, having a first refractive index, is disposed on all or a portion of a surface of the semiconductor junction. The photovoltaic module further comprises a filler material, having a second refractive index that is smaller or equal in value to the first refractive index, disposed on the transparent conductive layer of the one or more solar cells. The photovoltaic module further comprises a transparent casing disposed on the filler material thereby sealing the photovoltaic module.01-15-2009
20110000534Elongated photovoltaic cells in casings with a filling layer - A solar cell unit comprising a cylindrical shaped solar cell and a transparent tubular casing is provided. The tubular shaped solar cell comprises a back-electrode, a semiconductor junction circumferentially disposed on the back-electrode and a transparent conductive layer disposed on the semiconductor junction. The transparent tubular casing is circumferentially sealed onto the transparent conductive layer of the cylindrical shaped solar cell. A solar cell unit comprising a cylindrical shaped solar cell, a filler layer, and a transparent tubular casing is provided. The cylindrical shaped solar cell comprises a cylindrical substrate, a back-electrode circumferentially disposed on the cylindrical substrate, a semiconductor junction circumferentially disposed on the back-electrode, and a transparent conductive layer disposed on the semiconductor junction. The filler layer is circumferentially disposed on the transparent conductive layer and the transparent tubular casing is circumferentially disposed onto the filler layer.01-06-2011
20110232755PHOTOVOLTAIC APPARATUS HAVING A FILLER LAYER AND METHOD FOR MAKING THE SAME - Devices for converting light into electric current are provided. A representative device has an encasing structure having at least one portion transparent. The encasing structure is configured to pass light energy into an interior of the encasing structure. The device further has a photovoltaic device positioned within the interior of the encasing structure. The photovoltaic device is positioned to receive light energy. The photovoltaic device is operable to transform the light energy into electric current. The device further has a protective space material, disposed between the encasing structure and the photovoltaic device. The protective space material is operable to transmit the light energy. The protective space material is a non-solid material having a physical property such as a viscosity of less than 1×1009-29-2011

Patent applications by Markus E. Beck, San Jose, CA US

Markus E. Beck, Scotts Valley, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080302418Elongated Photovoltaic Devices in Casings - A solar cell unit comprising a solar cell and an at least partially transparent casing that encases the solar cell. The solar cell includes a nonplanar substrate defining a length of the solar cell, wherein a length of the nonplanar substrate is at least three times longer than a width of the nonplanar substrate. A back-electrode is disposed around all or a portion of the nonplanar substrate, and extends along all or a portion of the length of the nonplanar substrate. A semiconductor junction is disposed on the back-electrode, and has first and second layers, each of which has an inorganic semiconductor. An at least partially transparent conductive layer is disposed on the semiconductor junction. Optionally, filler material is disposed on the transparent conductive layer, which can for example be a liquid or gel.12-11-2008
20110046916Pyrometer - A position sensitive pyrometer includes a sensor.02-24-2011
20110165315Flux Monitor - A flux monitor system includes a light source and a sensor.07-07-2011
20110203655PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE PROTECTION LAYER - A photovoltaic structure can include a protective cap, which can include sodium.08-25-2011
20110212256DEPOSITION RATE CONTROL - An vapor deposition control system includes a multi-level control scheme.09-01-2011
20110214725PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE WITH GRADED BUFFER LAYER - A photovoltaic device can include a graded bandgap buffer layer.09-08-2011
20110223710Deposition Chamber Cleaning System and Method - An in-situ method of cleaning a vacuum deposition chamber can include flowing at least one reactive gas into the chamber.09-15-2011
20110249263PARTICLE DETECTOR - A particle detector for evaporation flux is disclosed. The particle detector includes a light source and at least one reflective surface.10-13-2011
20120012756Photoluminescence Spectroscopy - This invention relates to temperature-corrected photoluminescence spectroscopy which may be applied to semiconductors and, in particular, photovoltaic films.01-19-2012
20120017973IN-LINE DEPOSITION SYSTEM - A deposition system includes a load lock chamber for receiving a substrate and exposing a substrate to a load lock temperature and load lock pressure suitable to prepare a substrate for subsequent low-pressure and high-temperature processing or for ambient temperature and pressure conditions.01-26-2012
20120017983BUFFER LAYER FORMATION - Manufacturing a photovoltaic device can include a vapor transport deposition process.01-26-2012
20120018829TEMPERATURE-ADJUSTED SPECTROMETER - A temperature-adjusted spectrometer can include a light source and a temperature sensor.01-26-2012
20120021556DEPOSITION SYSTEM - A selenium deposition system can improve the selenium vapor distribution.01-26-2012
20120045855POSITION-SENSITIVE METROLOGY SYSTEM - A metrology system for analyzing a semiconductor device on a substrate can include a metrology sensor.02-23-2012
20120058576Deposition System - A pumping and valve control device can be used in an atomic layer deposition system.03-08-2012

Patent applications by Markus E. Beck, Scotts Valley, CA US

Nils Beck, San Mateo, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120092378SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND COMPUTER-READABLE MEDIA FOR INTEGRATING A FIT-TO-SIZE SCALE FACTOR IN A SEQUENCE OF SCALE FACTORS - Systems, methods, and computer-readable media are provided for integrating a fit-to-size scale factor in a sequence of scale factors. A fit-to-size scale factor can be determined based on original dimensions of information to be displayed and on dimensions of a window in which to display the information. The determined fit-to-size scale factor can be integrated in a listing of scale factors such that when a user steps through the sequence of scale factors, the user can select from the sequence the fit-to-size scale factor with which to display the information. In some cases, a auto-resize mode can be seamlessly enabled such that the information may automatically scale to its fit-to-size scale factor when the window is re-sized.04-19-2012
20120096343SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND COMPUTER-READABLE MEDIA FOR PROVIDING A DYNAMIC LOUPE FOR DISPLAYED INFORMATION - Systems, methods, and computer-readable media are provided for providing a dynamic loupe for displayed information of a document. The displayed information can be provided in various sub-regions of the document. Based on the position of an input relative to a particular sub-region, the loupe can be sized and positioned such that a portion of information from the sub-region is displayed in the loupe. The portion of information can be displayed using a loupe scale factor that may differ from a scale factor used for the rest of the displayed information. The loupe position can be selected such that the contents and or position of the loupe may be biased towards a particular sub-region.04-19-2012

Patricia A. Beck, Palo Alto, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080203055Method of forming one or more nanopores for aligning molecules for molecular electronics - A technique is provided for forming a molecule or an array of molecules having a defined orientation relative to the substrate or for forming a mold for deposition of a material therein. The array of molecules is formed by dispersing them in an array of small, aligned holes (nanopores), or mold, in a substrate. Typically, the material in which the nanopores are formed is insulating. The underlying substrate may be either conducting or insulating. For electronic device applications, the substrate is, in general, electrically conducting and may be exposed at the bottom of the pores so that one end of the molecule in the nanopore makes electrical contact to the substrate. A substrate such as a single-crystal silicon wafer is especially convenient because many of the process steps to form the molecular array can use techniques well developed for semiconductor device and integrated-circuit fabrication.08-28-2008
20080258103Method for preparation of anisotropic materials - Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to methods for manufacturing complex, anisotropic materials with desirable properties for information storage, processing, and display. Certain of these methods involve employing a magnetic field during manufacture to induce desired orientations of precursors, subunits, and/or molecular subassemblies. The applied magnetic field steers the precursors, subunits, and/or molecular subassemblies into desirable orientations while the precursors, subunits, and/or molecular subassemblies are assembled or self-assemble into a complex, anisotropic material. One embodiment of the present invention is a class of new, complex, well-ordered, network-like materials that include a ferromagnetic-material-based framework in which organic and/or organometallic compounds are organized. The ferromagnetic-molecule-based framework provides a scaffold for assembling the stable, precisely separated layers of organic and/or organometallic compounds and maintaining the layers of organic and/or organometallic compounds in well-ordered, anisotropic arrangements. Additional embodiments of the present invention are directed to methods for manufacturing the new ferromagnetic-molecule-based, network-like materials.10-23-2008
20090093775Microstructures - A microstructure array includes at least one microneedle and at least one ancillary microstructure on or adjacent to the microneedle configured to modulate the function of the microneedle.04-09-2009
20100276017MICROFLUIDIC DEVICE FOR CONTROLLED MOVEMENT OF MATERIAL AND A METHOD FOR DELIVERING A MATERIAL FROM A MICROFLUIDIC DEVICE - A microfluidic device (11-04-2010

Patent applications by Patricia A. Beck, Palo Alto, CA US

Robert Dean Beck, Corona, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090013935EZ-clean litter saver - Apparatus for receiving and disposing of animal wastes and particularly the bodily wastes of cats, include an upper chamber adapted to sift and separate. An internal sifting screen is mounted to sift there from the accumulated refuse. In another form, the screen is configured to be tilted to pass the litter through the centrally placed screen assembly for the separating of the preferably nonabsorbent litter bed for further use. The apparatus has an external container in which kitty litter will be separated and collected separate from the solid waste, and a removable internal container for the collection of solid waste. Once the solid material is separated from the kitty litter, and drops into the storage container, the cat owner can dispose of the cat waste when desired.01-15-2009

Stayce Beck, Menlo Park, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090117166Sequential coupling of biomolecule layers to polymers - A bio-mimetic or bio-implantable material based on a sequential process of coupling biomolecule layers to a polymer layer is provided. In general, the material could be based on two or more biomolecule layers starting with one of the layers covalently linked to the polymer layer via cross-linkers and the other layers sequentially and covalently linked using cross-linkers to the previously added layer. The polymer layer could be a hydrogel or an interpenetrating polymer network hydrogel. The first layer of biomolecules could be a collagen type, fibronectin, laminin, extracellular matrix protein, or any combinations thereof. The second layer of biomolecules typically is a growth factor, protein or stimulant. The cross-linkers are either water soluble or insoluble bifunctional cross-linkers or azide-active-ester crosslinkers. The material and process as taught in this invention are useful in the field of tissue engineering and wound healing.05-07-2009
20090280182Devices for the treatment of wounds and methods and kits therefor - Interpenetrating network hydrogels are described that may be incorporated into wound dressings and/or in implants. The properties of the interpenetrating network hydrogel may be tuned to control an amount of moisture in a wound environment. The devices, methods, and kits described herein may be adapted to treat a variety of wound types at a variety of healing stages over a range of time scales. Some hydrogels may be configured to deliver one or more vulnerary agents to a wound. The interpenetrating network hydrogels may also be adapted to control a rate and/or amount of moisture uptake so that the hydrogels may be used as expandable implants to expand tissue.11-12-2009

Stayce E. Beck, Menlo Park, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100113708Surface modification of interpenetrating polymer networks - Surface modification methods for an interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) hydrogel to provide a basis for cell or tissue attachment are provided. The method involves the activation of functional groups on the surface of the IPN hydrogel. The activated functional groups are then reacted with amine-containing molecules or hydroxyl-containing molecules. The methods (i) can be performed in an aqueous environment and do not require the use of any organic solvent, (ii) do not require UV treatment, thereby avoiding denaturation of the IPN hydrogel or proteins, and/or (iii) can be performed as a one pot reaction.05-06-2010

Steven Beck, Dana Point, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090206102Carrier for a bathroom wipe dispenser - A carrier for a dispenser of pre-moistened wipes of the kind that are saturated with a cleaning or antiseptic solution, a moisturizer, and the like, and having particular application for wiping clean the anal region of a user's body following use of dry toilet paper. The carrier is adapted to be detachably connected to a conventional holder for a roll of toilet paper that is typically mounted against a wall in a bathroom and located near a toilet. At the top of the carrier is an open shell that is sized and shaped to fit snugly within a correspondingly shaped receptacle of the toilet paper roll holder. Located opposite the shell of the carrier is a tail to which is removably attached the wipe dispenser. The carrier is advantageously adapted to be quickly and easily connected to and disconnected from an existing toilet paper roll holder without having to make any changes to the holder.08-20-2009

Thomas J. Beck, Los Gatos, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100317401Method, apparatus, and system for transferring data between mobile telephones and other digital devices - The improved method, apparatus and system of the present invention provide a means for users to transfer data from and to a cell phone memory using a plurality of data transfer methods. The apparatus of the present invention comprises a low complexity digital device having two I/O (Input/Output) connectors, one for the user's cell phone and one for connecting to some other device such as a PC. Central to the apparatus of the present invention is an Inter-device Data Transfer Processor (IDTP) which contains the necessary hardware and software to automatically move the data contents of a cell phone memory to one of a plurality of external digital devices.12-16-2010

Zachary Q. Beck, Palo Alto, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100086978INCREASED ISOPRENE PRODUCTION USING THE ARCHAEAL LOWER MEVALONATE PATHWAY - The invention features methods for producing isoprene from cultured cells using a feedback-resistant mevalonate kinase polypeptide, such as an archaeal mevalonate kinase polypeptide. The resulting isoprene compositions may have increased yields and/or purity of isoprene.04-08-2010
20110159557COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS OF PGL FOR THE INCREASED PRODUCTION OF ISOPRENE - Provided herein are improved compositions and methods for the increased production of isoprene. Also provided herein are improved compositions and methods for the increased production of heterologous polypeptides capable of biological activity.06-30-2011

Zachary Quinn Beck, Palo Alto, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100184178INCREASED ISOPRENE PRODUCTION USING MEVALONATE KINASE AND ISOPRENE SYNTHASE - The invention features methods for producing isoprene from cultured cells having increased expression levels and/or activity levels of a mevalonate kinase polypeptide and an isoprene synthase polypeptide. The invention also provides methods for producing isoprene from cultured cells having reduced accumulation of intermediates (such as mevalonate, isopentenyl diphosphate, 3,3-dimethylallyl diphosphate, geranyl diphosphate, or farnesyl diphosphate) in the biosynthesis of isoprene or isoprenoids that may otherwise cause undesirable amounts of growth inhibition, toxicity, or cell death. The resulting isoprene compositions may have increased yields and/or purity of isoprene.07-22-2010
20110076743THREE-DIMENSIONAL STRUCTURE OF ISOPRENE SYNTHASE AND ITS USE THEREOF FOR GENERATING VARIANTS - The present invention provides a three-dimensional structures of 03-31-2011