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Lafontaine, US

Bruno M. Lafontaine, Pleasanton, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080198453Optical polarizer with nanotube array - According to one exemplary embodiment, an optical polarizer positioned before a light source for use in semiconductor wafer lithography includes an array of aligned nanotubes. The array of aligned nanotubes cause light emitted from the light source and incident on the array of aligned nanotubes to be converted into polarized light for use in the semiconductor wafer lithography. The amount of polarization can be controlled by a voltage source coupled to the array of aligned nanotubes. Chromogenic material of a light filtering layer can vary the wavelength of the polarized light transmitted through the array of aligned nanotubes.08-21-2008
20080239269Laser beam formatting module and method for fabricating semiconductor dies using same - According to one exemplary embodiment, a laser beam formatting module for use in a lithographic system to fabricate a semiconductor wafer comprises an aperture plate having, for example, a circular aperture and capable of being situated between a laser source and a target, and a lens assembly, in a light path between the aperture plate and the target. The laser beam formatting module can produce a substantially uniform laser beam intensity across a target during fabrication of a semiconductor wafer in a laser-produced plasma (LPP) lithographic process using, for example, extreme ultraviolet light (EUV). In one embodiment, a laser beam formatting module improves energy conversion efficiency, reduces out-of-band radiation emission, avoids heating of reflective optics, and eliminates the need for an out-of-band radiation filter.10-02-2008
20080259458EUV diffractive optical element for semiconductor wafer lithography and method for making same - According to one exemplary embodiment, an EUV (extreme ultraviolet) optical element in a light path between an EUV light source and a semiconductor wafer includes a reflective film having a number of bilayers. The reflective film includes a pattern, where the pattern causes a change in incident EUV light from the EUV light source, thereby controlling illumination at a pupil plane of an EUV projection optic to form a printed field on the semiconductor wafer. The EUV optical element can be utilized in an EUV lithographic process to fabricate a semiconductor die.10-23-2008
20090011524Method for determining suitability of a resist in semiconductor wafer fabrication - In one disclosed embodiment, the present method for determining resist suitability for semiconductor wafer fabrication comprises forming a layer of resist over a semiconductor wafer, exposing the layer of resist to patterned radiation, and determining resist suitability by using a scatterometry process prior to developing a lithographic pattern on the layer of resist. In one embodiment, the semiconductor wafer is heated in a post exposure bake process after scatterometry is performed. In one embodiment, the patterned radiation is provided by an extreme ultraviolet (EUV) light source in a lithographic process. In other embodiments, patterned radiation is provided by an electron beam, or ion beam, for example. In one embodiment, the present method determines out-gassing of a layer of resist during exposure to patterned radiation.01-08-2009

Patent applications by Bruno M. Lafontaine, Pleasanton, CA US

Charles Y. Lafontaine, Berthoud, CO US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080211330CONTROLLER FOR AC GENERATOR - A control system that can accommodate the wide variations in the output of a generator, such as a permanent magnet alternator, while providing an output with relatively uniform phase ripple. The control system includes a zero crossing detector and variable ramp generator for generating control signals to a switching rectifier to generate a regulated DC signal.09-04-2008
20090200884COMPACT HIGH POWER ALTERNATOR - An apparatus for converting between mechanical and electrical energy, particularly suited for use as a compact high power alternator for automotive use and “remove and replace” retrofitting of existing vehicles. Various aspects of the invention provide a means of significantly increasing the output of permanent magnet alternators while addressing the issues of radial loading applied to a permanent magnet alternator rotor. Another aspect of the invention allows for the production of power in two discrete voltages. An aspect of this invention allows for a marked increase in output capability without increasing axial length through the use of magnetic fringing. One aspect of the invention offers an effective means of mounting a skewed stack that eliminates or reduces cogging that is present in a permanent magnet machine without negatively impacting airflow. Another aspect of the invention reduces cogging by radially offsetting opposing magnets of a dual rotor permanent magnet machine.08-13-2009
20110025143CONTROLLER FOR AC GENERATOR - A control system that can accommodate the wide variations in the output of a generator, such as a permanent magnet alternator, while providing an output with relatively uniform phase ripple. The control system includes a zero crossing detector and variable ramp generator for generating control signals to a switching rectifier to generate a regulated DC signal.02-03-2011
20110025152COMPACT HIGH POWER ALTERNATOR - An apparatus for converting between mechanical and electrical energy, particularly suited for use as a compact high power alternator for automotive use and “remove and replace” retrofitting of existing vehicles. The apparatus comprises a rotor with permanent magnets, a stator with a winding, and a cooling system. Mechanisms to prevent the rotor magnets from clashing with the stator by minimizing rotor displacement, and absorbing unacceptable rotor displacement are disclosed. The cooling system directs coolant flow into thermal contact with at least one of the winding and magnets, and includes at least one passageway through the stator core. Various open and closed cooling systems are described. Cooling is facilitated by, for example, loosely wrapping the winding end turns, use of an asynchronous airflow source, and/or directing coolant through conduits extending through the stator into thermal contact with the windings.02-03-2011
20120038234COMPACT HIGH POWER ALTERNATOR - An apparatus for converting between mechanical and electrical energy, particularly suited for use as a compact high power alternator for automotive use and “remove and replace” retrofitting of existing vehicles. Various aspects of the invention provide a means of significantly increasing the output of permanent magnet alternators while addressing the issues of radial loading applied to a permanent magnet alternator rotor. Another aspect of the invention allows for the production of power in two discrete voltages. An aspect of this invention allows for a marked increase in output capability without increasing axial length through the use of magnetic fringing. One aspect of the invention offers an effective means of mounting a skewed stack that eliminates or reduces cogging that is present in a permanent magnet machine without negatively impacting airflow. Another aspect of the invention reduces cogging by radially offsetting opposing magnets of a dual rotor permanent magnet machine.02-16-2012

Patent applications by Charles Y. Lafontaine, Berthoud, CO US

Charles Y. Lafontaine, Lafayette, CO US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100253163COMPACT HIGH POWER ALTERNATOR - A compact, high power, power conversion apparatus including a rotor and a stator. The rotor includes a cylindrical casing, and a predetermined number of permanent magnets disposed on the casing, and is adapted for rotation about the axis of the casing. The stator includes a core and a plurality of sets of conductive windings, each set including a predetermined number of individual conductive windings and associated with an electrical phase. A respective collecting conductor is associated with each set of conductive windings, with each individual conductive winding of the set being electrically connected to the associated collecting conductor. The respective collecting conductors are disposed in a coolant flow path a coolant flow path directing coolant into contact with the stator windings, electrically isolated from each other and spaced apart from each other and from the windings. Collecting conductors in the form of continuous rings and in the form of a plurality of arcs are disclosed.10-07-2010

Grant B. Lafontaine, Kennebunk, ME US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080226872Plastic sheet product offering matte appearance and method of preparation - A plastic sheet product having a matte finish comprises a core layer of a thermoplastic polymer and at least one layer of a capstock composition which overlies, and is bonded to, at least one face of the core layer. The capstock composition comprises the same or different thermoplastic polymer and contains a plurality of discrete particles immiscible with and dispersed in the thermoplastic polymer of the capstock composition. The sheet product may be prepared by the co-extrusion of the thermoplastic polymer and the capstock composition, and in a particular embodiment, such co-extrusion may be conducted by means of a feedblock. In a particular embodiment, the thermoplastic polymer of the core layer and that of the capstock composition may be the same, such as in the instance of a methylmethacrylate-methylacrylate copolymer. Sheet products prepared in accordance with the invention exhibit improved post-processability and ease of surface maintenance, and may be fabricated into a variety of products including light diffusers, projection screens, and the like.09-18-2008

Grant Bernard Lafontaine, Kennebunk, ME US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110011390CONTINUOUS LAMINATION OF POLYMETHYLEMETHACRYLATE (PMMA) FILM IN THE MANUFACTURE OF A FRESNEL LENS - A method for forming a laminated product includes providing a film (01-20-2011

Gregg Lafontaine, Lebanon, CT US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100224737Adjustable Cable Management Bar And System - Apparatus, systems and methods are provided for facilitating cable management. More particularly, an adjustable cable management bar is provided including a plurality of mounting brackets, a plurality of fasteners and a support member having a plurality of mounting flanges for translational association with said mounting brackets by means of said fasteners. Thus, the mounting brackets may be used to secure the support member in an adjustable arrangement relative to a patch panel. The cable management bar may be coupled with one or more swiveling cable management clips each clip including a top element, defining a channel for receipt of patch cables, a bottom element, having a clasp mechanism for effecting a translationaly relationship with the cable management bar and a shaft for rotationally relating the top element relative to the bottom element. Thus, a user may adjust the position and/or orientation of the clip to direct the patch cables as desired.09-09-2010

Gregg J. Lafontaine, Lebanon, CT US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100173528Connector Assembly And Related Methods of Use - Connector assemblies for use in wiring/cabling applications are disclosed. The connector assemblies include first and second jack openings that facilitate interaction between plugs that feature contact layouts according to the IEC 60603-7-7 standard. Cable/plug combinations are also provided wherein the cable features shielded twisted pair (STP) fully shielded twisted pair (FTP) and unshielded twisted pair (UTP) wires. The cable/plug interface includes a housing wherein individual wires are brought into electrical communication with electrical contacts that are exposed relative to the exterior of the housing. The electrical contacts are positioned in quadrants of the plug housing, when viewed in cross-section, such that the plug complies with the contact geometry set forth in the IEC 60603-7-7 standard. The cable/plug is generally a preterminated assembly, whereby the plug is pre-mounted to the cable before shipment to an installation location or distribution channel. A pulling eye assembly may be provided that defines a cavity sized and configured to receive the plug housing and a portion of the cable.07-08-2010
20120064760Port Replication Assembly With Adapter Cable and Related Methods of Use - Improved connectors and plug/cable assemblies are provided for use in distributing data. The present disclosure provides for electrical connector assemblies for use with electrical wires/cables (e.g., preterminated wires/cables) that include at least one plug member. More particularly, the present disclosure provides for connector assemblies (e.g., port replication connector assemblies) and associated plugs and cables that are adapted for use in multi-connector panels and with patch panels, e.g., for distributing data to computers and computer networks.03-15-2012

Jennifer Anne Lafontaine, San Diego, CA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100105905EP2 Agonists - The invention provides EP2 agonists, methods for their preparation, pharmaceutical compositions containing these compounds, and methods of using these compounds and compositions for lowering intraocular pressure and thereby treating glaucoma.04-29-2010

Johnny Lafontaine, North Troy, VT US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120024927Utility Belt for Carrying Tools - A utility belt for carrying tools comprises an elongated band for wrapping around a waist of a user and a tool holder capable of holding a tool in an upright vertical position. The tool holder comprises a plate, a first ring and a second ring. The plate has a proximal end portion, an intermediate portion, and a distal end portion. The proximal end portion of the plate is coupled to the elongated band. The first ring is coupled to the intermediate portion of the plate and extending transversely therefrom. The second ring is coupled to the distal end portion of the plate and extending transversely therefrom. The tool comprises a cartridge receiving body and a handle portion. The cartridge receiving body passes through the first ring with the handle portion resting on the first ring, and only the nozzle passes through the second ring.02-02-2012

Marvin R. Lafontaine, Kingston, NH US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100110603WAFER GROUNDING METHOD FOR ELECTROSTATIC CLAMPS - An electrostatic chuck and method for clamping and de-clamping a workpiece is provided. The ESC comprises a clamping plate having a clamping surface, and one or more electrodes. An electric potential applied to the one or more electrodes selectively clamps the workpiece to the clamping surface. An arc pin operably coupled to the clamping plate and a power source provides an arc for penetrating an insulating layer of the workpiece. The arc pin is selectively connected to an electrical ground, wherein upon removal of the insulative layer of the workpiece, the arc pin provides an electrical ground connection to the workpiece.05-06-2010
20100110604ELECTROSTATIC CHUCK GROUND PUNCH - An electrostatic chuck and method for clamping a workpiece is provided. The ESC comprises a clamping plate having a clamping surface, and one or more electrodes. An electric potential applied to the one or more electrodes selectively clamps the workpiece to the clamping surface. A punch is operably coupled to the clamping plate and an electrical ground, wherein the punch comprises a trigger mechanism and a punch tip. The punch tip translates between extended and retracted positions, wherein a point of the punch tip is proud of the clamping surface when the punch tip is in the extended position. The punch tip is configured to translate toward the clamping surface upon clamping the workpiece to the clamping plate. Upon reaching the retracted position, the trigger mechanism imparts an impact force to the punch tip, forcing the punch tip into the workpiece and providing an electrical ground connection to the workpiece.05-06-2010
20100142113DE-CLAMPING WAFERS FROM AN ELECTROSTATIC CHUCK - One embodiment of the present invention relates to a method for declamping a semiconductor wafer that is electrically adhered to a surface of an electrostatic chuck by a clamping voltage. In this method, the clamping voltage is deactivated. For a time following the deactivation, a first region of the wafer is lifted an first distance from the surface of the electrostatic chuck while a second region of the wafer remains adhered to the surface of the electrostatic chuck. A predetermined condition is monitored during the time. The second region is lifted from the surface of the electrostatic chuck when the predetermined condition is met.06-10-2010
20100142114ELECTROSTATIC CHUCK WITH COMPLIANT COAT - The present invention is directed to an electrostatic chuck (ESC) with a compliant layer formed from TT-Kote® and a method of forming a clamping plate for an ESC. The ESC comprises a compliant layer having a low friction surface for reducing or eliminating particulates generated from thermal expansion. The method comprises forming a clamping member for a substrate comprising a ceramic material and a ceramic surface, and coating the ceramic surface with a compliant layer comprising an organic silicide or TT-Kote®.06-10-2010
20100171044Vapor Compression Refridgeration Chuck for Ion Implanters - Aspects of the present invention relate to ion implantation systems that make use of a vapor compression cooling system. In one embodiment, a thermal controller in the vapor compression system sends refrigeration fluid though a compressor and a condenser according to an ideal vapor compression cycle to help limit or prevent undesired heating of a workpiece during implantation, or to actively cool the workpiece.07-08-2010
20100187447NON-CONDENSING THERMOS CHUCK - The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method of forming a thermos layer surrounding a chuck for holding a wafer during ion implantation. The thermos layer is located below a clamping surface, and comprises a vacuum gap and an outer casing encapsulating the vacuum gap. The thermos layer provides a barrier blocking condensation to the outside of the chuck within a process chamber by substantially preventing heat transfer between the chuck when it is cooled and the warmer environment within the process chamber.07-29-2010

Patent applications by Marvin R. Lafontaine, Kingston, NH US

Marvin Raymond Lafontaine, Kingston, NH US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090273878GAS BEARING ELECTROSTATIC CHUCK - An electrostatic clamp is provided having a clamping plate, wherein the clamping plate has a central region and an annulus region. A plurality of gas supply orifices are defined in the central region of the clamping plate, wherein the plurality of gas supply orifices are in fluid communication with a pressurized gas supply, and wherein the pressurized gas supply is configured to provide a cushion of gas between the clamping surface and the workpiece in the central region of the clamping plate via the plurality of gas supply orifices. One or more gas return orifices defined in one or more of the central region and annulus region of the clamping plate, wherein the one or more gas return orifices are in fluid communication with a vacuum source, therein generally defining an exhaust path for the cushion of gas. A seal is disposed in the annulus region of the clamping plate, wherein the seal is configured to generally prevent a leakage of the cushion of gas from the central region to an environment external to the annulus region. One or more electrodes are further electrically connected to a first voltage potential to provide a first clamping force.11-05-2009

Matthew R. Lafontaine, Fort Wayne, IN US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090096629REUSABLE, HERMETIC, MEDICAL GRADE RFID TAG - An RFID tag includes a circuit board assembly having a circuit board, an RFID circuit, an antenna, and a metallic ground plane. The circuit board has a first side and a second side. The circuit board carries the antenna on the first side and the ground plane on the second side. The RFID circuit is coupled with each of the antenna and the ground plane. A backplane is coupled with the ground plane, on a side of the ground plane opposite the circuit board. An overmolded housing surrounds and hermetically seals the circuit board assembly. The housing is comprised of a material which is both autoclavable and has a low dielectric constant of between approximately 1 to 5.04-16-2009
20100090004SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INVENTORY MANAGEMENT OF MEDICAL ASSETS - A system for identification, tracking and management of medical assets, includes a plurality of RFID tagged medical assets, and a completely networked supply chain. The supply chain includes at least one end user location; at least one distributor location; an offsite data management system; a plurality of RFID readers; and at least one data network. Each RFID reader is interspersed at a respective location throughout the networked supply chain and configured to electronically read data from the plurality of RFID tagged medical assets. The one or more data networks interconnect each end user location, each distributor location, and the offsite data management system. The one or more data networks provide real time information from at least one of the plurality of RFID readers to the offsite data management system concerning a current attribute associated with at least one of the RFID tagged medical assets.04-15-2010
20110169608METHOD OF OPERATING AN RFID READER IN AN RFID SYSTEM - A method of operating a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) reader used in an RFID system for use with a device includes the steps of: providing that the RFID system includes the RFID reader and an RFID tag, the RFID tag being attached to the device; controlling dynamically the RFID reader; monitoring constantly a plurality of outputs of the RFID reader; and determining, dependent on the steps of controlling and monitoring, whether the RFID reader senses the RFID tag in an actual location of the RFID tag.07-14-2011

Patent applications by Matthew R. Lafontaine, Fort Wayne, IN US

Serge R. Lafontaine, Lincoln, MA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120098481Apparatus and Method for Rapidly Charging Batteries - An apparatus and methods for ultra-fast charging one or more batteries, including, for example, lithium ion batteries. A charging current is determined by optimization of a model based on functions of a set of internal state variables associated with a battery, and a set of model parameters or nonparametric data characterizing the battery. Instantaneous internal state variables are determined, and an optimized charging current is applied to the battery subject to a set of battery-specific constraints. Internal state variables are updated recursively based on behavior of the battery under charge as well as the behavior, stored in a database, or acquired via a network, of cognate batteries.04-26-2012