Récipient comportant un col et un bouchon venu de fabrication avec ce dernier, procédé pour la fabrication de ce récipient et machine pour la mise en oeuvre de ce procédé

METHOD OF MAKING A CONTAINER WITH AN OPENING.

DEVICE CONTAINER FROM A PARISON.

CONTAINER WITH AN OPENING AT THE UPPER PORTION.

Drain mechanism.

Packing.

Düse für ein Behältner zum Ausgeben von Flüssigkeitstropfen

Verfahren zum Sterilisieren einer Füllmaschine.

FULL WITHDRAWAL CONTAINER AND METHOD

A container having a neck with a non-tapered cylindrical upper drain portion, and a frictional interference fit collar type gripper for the withdrawal member is disclosed which results in tight interference fit. Also total effective withdrawal of the contents of the container is promoted by providing a ring like stop or seat at the bottom of the neck. The construction also will accommodate flaws and defects in the manufacture of the withdrawal member or the drain portion resulting from scratches which will otherwise permit leakage upon withdrawal of the contents. The method of the present invention is directed to manufacturing the container by which the mandrel for insertion in the neck has a lower end portion providing a seating ring, and an upper portion defining the interior portion, with an interference collar protruding inwardly in a portion spaced from the lower end portion. The radius and draft angle permits the mandrel to be withdrawn from the molded plastic product without deforming ...

MOULDED CONTAINERS AND METHOD OF AND APPARATUS FOR PRODUCING SUCH CONTAINERS

MOLDED CONTAINER WITH A TOP OPENING

Embodiments of a container with an insert at the top are disclosed along with apparatus and methods for molding, forming and filling the container. In one form of the invention a length of a hollow tube parison is extruded and then cut, molded, and filled while positioned between main mold halves. A stopper, nozzle, or like insert is transferred to a placement arm and, when a blowing and filling assembly has been withdrawn from the top opening of the filled container, both the blowing and filling assembly and the placement arm that is carrying the insert are moved together to position the arm and insert over the container. The arm is then moved downwardly to deposit the insert within the upwardly extending portion of the parison tube at the container top opening. Before or after the arm is withdrawn, upper sealing molds may be closed to form the upwardly extending portion of the parison around the insert to at least partially encapsulate the insert. A frangible web may also be formed by ...

Hermetisch verschlossener Behälter mit Verschlusseinsatz

SPENDER MIT ABNEHMBARER EINTEILIGER VERSCHLUSSKAPPE SOWIE ÜBERGREIFENDER SCHRAUBKAPPE.

MOLDED CONTAINER WITH A TOP OPENING

Embodiments of a container with an insert at the top are disclosed. In one form of the invention a length of a hollow tube parison is extruded and then cut, molded, and filled while positioned between main mold halves. A stopper, nozzle, or like insert is transferred to a placement arm and, when a blowing and filling assembly has been withdrawn from the top opening of the filled container, both the blowing and filling assembly and the placement arm that is carrying the insert are moved together to position the arm and insert over the container. The arm is then moved downwardly to deposit the insert within the upwardly extending portion of the parison tube at the container top opening. Before or after the arm is withdrawn, upper sealing molds may be closed to form the upwardly extending portion of the parison around the insert to at least partially encapsulate the insert. A frangible web may also be formed by the upper sealing molds in a portion of the parison circumferentially above or ...

NEBULIZER WITH COOPERATING DISENGAGEABLE ON-LINE HEATER

Tapered vial or the like

Herstellung von Behältern

Durchstechbarer Behälter

Behälter mit Entnahmeelement für eine vollständige Inhaltsentnahme

Fülleinrichtung.

In einem Arbeitsgang hergestellter, gefüllter und verschlossener, blasgeformter, flaschenförmiger Behälter

Herstellung eines Befeuchtungsmittelbehälters und dazu geeignete Form

Verfahren und Vorrichtung zur Herstellung eines Halteflansches um eine Behälteröffnung

Hermetisch verschlossener Behälter mit Verschlusseinsatz

Schraubkappe mit geregeltem Ausflußöffnung-Einlagestück zum Durchstoßen eines abgedichteten Behälters

Behälter eines Befeuchters

Versiegelter Behälter mit Düse und Dichtwulst

Herstellung von Behältern

Verfahren und Vorrichtung zur Herstellung eines Halteflansches um eine Behälteröffnung

VERRIEGELTER BEHAELTER MIT AUSWECHSELBAREM STOPFEN.

Zerstäuber mit einer zugehörigen, damit zusammenwirkenden, abnehmbaren Heizeinrichtung

Herstellung eines Befeuchtungsmittelbehälters und dazu geeignete Form

Receptacle suitable for medical fluids

Apparatus for manufacture of a tip for liquid drop dispensing container

A liquid container includes a drop dispensing tip with a hollow stem which defines a liquid passageway and an interior partition wall in the passageway. The partition wall separates the liquid passageway into an upstream chamber and a downstream chamber. Flow communication between these two chambers is provided by a liquid passage in the partition wall. The liquid passage guides liquid against an impingement surface in the downstream chamber from which the liquid is dispensed dropwise.

Durchstechbarer Behälter

Hermetisch abgedichteter Behälter mit einem Drehmomenten widerstehenden Verschluss

Versiegelter Behälter mit Düse und Dichtwulst

Ausgabefläschchen mit Ärmeln.

Verschlusskappe mit einem Dränierungsdorn zur Verwendung mit einem hermetisch abgedichteten Ausgabebehälter

Cap with draining spike and flip top for use with hermetically sealed dispensing container

A cap equipped with a dispensing nozzle is provided for use with a hermetically sealed container which includes a body portion and a neck portion sealed by a pierceable membrane. A spike within the cap pierces the membrane when the cap is threaded onto the neck portion of the container so as to provide access to the contents of the container. The spike includes a passageway in fluid flow communication with a dispensing nozzle on the cap so as to allow dispensing of the contents of such container. In one cap embodiment, the draining spike is an element nestable within the cap which is made of a relatively harder material than the cap. In another cap embodiment, the draining spike is unitary with the cap and made of the same relatively harder material as the cap. A flip top assembly is also provided including a flip top which covers the dispensing nozzle to seal the cap. The flip top is retained on the dispenser by a flexible arm which is unitary with the cap or with a ring. The ring can ...

Verschlusskappe mit einem Dränierungsdorn zur Verwendung mit einem hermetisch abgedichteten Ausgabebehälter

Hermetisch abgedichteter Behälter mit einem Drehmomenten widerstehenden Verschluss

Behälter mit Entnahmeelement für eine vollständige Inhaltsentnahme

Verfahren zum Sterilisieren einer Füllmaschine.

Behälter eines Befeuchters

SPENDER MIT ABNEHMBARER EINTEILIGER VERSCHLUSSKAPPE SOWIE ÜBERGREIFENDER SCHRAUBKAPPE.

Fülleinrichtung.

Ausgabefläschchen mit Ärmeln.

Düse für ein Behältner zum Ausgeben von Flüssigkeitstropfen

Hermetically sealed container including a nozzle with a sealing bead

A hermetically sealed, molded thermoplastic dispensing container is provided which includes a nozzle having a resilient and unitary annular bead about the periphery thereof. The nozzle is sized to receive the hub of a dispensing assembly in a mating relationship and the bead provides a secure friction fit and liquid seal between the hub and the nozzle. The method of forming a container with a nozzle having such a bead includes the use of seal molds having a groove conforming to the shape of the bead and a vacuum passage in communication with such groove and the step of creating a vacuum through the passage and the groove to pull a portion of a parison into the groove to form the bead.

Hermetically sealed container with frangible web and locking lugs and method and apparatus for making same

A hermetically sealed container is provided with a dispensing nozzle terminating in an aperture surrounded by locking lugs. A removable closure portion unitary with the dispensing nozzle and delineated by a frangible web that circumscribes the opening is provided as well so that the closure portion may be severed from the cap portion at the frangible web. An apparatus for fabricating such container is provided which includes a main mold assembly for molding the container body and dual seal mold assemblies for molding the container cap portion and container closure. The main seal mold assembly includes a top surface having a knife edge and an annular cavity. After the main seal mold assembly is closed during the molding process, a forming assembly including a mandrel is extended through the parison into abutting contact with the parison over the top surface of the main seal mold assembly. The mandrel is urged against the parison and the parison is urged against the knife edge and into the ...

Culture vial or the like

Combined bottle and closure

Collapsible container suitable for medical fluids

Culture vial or the like

FIELD-CONFIGURABLE LIVEWELL ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL

Apparatus and associated methods relate to an environmental control system including a fluid driver configured to releasably couple to a buoyant module. In an illustrative example, in a deployment mode, the fluid driver may be brought into register with and releasably coupled to the buoyant module. The fluid driver, for example, be supported by the buoyant module in a body of water. A control unit may, for example, selectively provide energy to the fluid driver such that the fluid driver induces fluid to flow from the body of fluid to a reservoir by a conduit. The control unit may be configured to mechanically support the fluid driver in a stowage mode. Various embodiments may advantageously allow a user to selectively deploy a livewell environment control from a stowed mode into a deployed mode.

Apparatus for making a hermetically sealed container with frangible web and locking lugs

A hermetically sealed container is provided with a dispensing nozzle terminating in an aperture surrounded by locking lugs. A removable closure portion unitary with the dispensing nozzle and delineated by a frangible web that circumscribes the opening is provided as well so that the closure portion may be severed from the cap portion at the frangible web. An apparatus for fabricating such container is provided which includes a main mold assembly for molding the container body and dual seal mold assemblies for molding the container cap portion and container closure. The main seal mold assembly includes a top surface having a knife edge and an annular cavity. After the main seal mold assembly is closed during the molding process, a forming assembly including a mandrel is extended through the parison into abutting contact with the parison over the top surface of the main seal mold assembly. The mandrel is urged against the parison and the parison is urged against the knife edge and into the ...

Hermetically sealed container with medicament storing and dispensing insert

A hermetically sealed container and a medicament bearing insert assembly therefor are disclosed. The medicament bearing insert assembly is protected by a severable overcap. A pocket within the insert assembly is provided with a pierceable membrane. Rupture of the membrane by a built-in plunger causes the medicament to drop out of the pocket and into the container where it is mixed with the container contents.

Combined bottle and closure

Hermetically sealed container with closure insert

Receptacle suitable for medical fluids

Vial with a frangible closure

Bottle or the like

Vial suitable for pharmaceuticals

Bottle

Combined container and hanging tab

Combined bottle and closure

Medical container for injectable substances

Dispensing container for pharmaceutical diluents or the like

Combined eyedropper bottle and overcap

Hermetically sealed vial

Method and apparatus for installing an insert to seal container

PLASMA UNIFORMITY SYSTEM AND METHOD

A plasma processing tool comprises a plasma chamber configured to generate a plasma from a gas introduced into the chamber where the generated plasma has an electron plasma frequency. A plurality of electrodes disposed within the chamber. Each of the electrodes configured to create a rapidly-rising-electric-field pulse in a portion of the plasma contained in the chamber. Each of said rapidly-rising-electric-field pulses having a rise time substantially equal to or less than the inverse of the electron plasma frequency and a duration of less than the inverse of the ion plasma frequency. In this manner, the electron energy distribution in the generated plasma may be spatially and locally modified thereby affecting the density, composition and temperature of the species in the plasma and consequently the uniformity of the density and composition of ions and neutrals directed at a target substrate. 1. A plasma processing tool comprising:a plasma chamber configured to generate a plasma from a gas introduced into the chamber, said plasma having an electron plasma frequency; anda plurality of electrodes disposed within said chamber, each of the plurality of electrodes configured to generate a rapidly-rising-electric-field pulse in a corresponding portion of the plasma contained in the chamber, each of said rapidly-rising-electric-field pulses having a rise time substantially equal to or less than the inverse of the electron plasma frequency and a duration of substantially equal to or less than the inverse of the ion plasma frequency.2. The plasma processing tool of further comprising a pedestal disposed within said plasma chamber and configured to support a target substrate.3. The plasma processing tool of wherein each of said plurality of electrodes are disposed a distance above said pedestal.4. The plasma processing tool of further comprising a baffle disposed at a first end of said plasma chamber a distance away from said pedestal.5. The plasma processing tool of ...

THERMAL ENERGY STEERING DEVICE

A thermal flux steering device and method for steering thermal flux into a concentrated area is provided. The thermal flux steering device includes a matrix impregnated with a plurality of thermally conductive inclusions. The thermally conductive inclusions are angled so as to steer thermal flux into a concentrated area such as a thermal energy sink in communication with the matrix. The thermally conductive inclusions may be filler fibers or thermally conductive particles impregnated within the matrix. Orientation of the thermally conductive inclusions may be determined by detecting the thermal flux of the thermal energy source, the thermodynamic properties of the matrix and the thermally conductive inclusions, and the location of the flux concentration area. 1. A thermal flux steering device for guiding thermal flux to a predetermined location of the matrix , the thermal flux guiding device comprising:a matrix impregnated with a plurality of thermally conductive inclusions, the plurality of thermally conductive inclusions angled so as to steer thermal flux to the predetermined location of the matrix.2. The thermal flux steering device as set forth in claim 1 , wherein the thermally conductive inclusion is one of either a filler fiber or a thermal conductive particle.3. The thermal flux steering device as set forth in claim 2 , wherein the filler fiber is one of either a chopped carbon fiber or a metal particle.4. The thermal flux steering device as set forth in claim 2 , wherein the filler fibers are elongated and have a length ranging anywhere between the microscale or nanoscale in size.5. The thermal flux steering device as set forth in claim 1 , wherein the thermally conductive inclusion is an asymmetric shaped particle having an orientation maximizing the thermal flux concentration.6. The thermal flux steering device as set forth in claim 5 , wherein the thermally conductive inclusion is triangular or ellipsoidal shaped.7. The thermal flux steering device as ...

DECELERATION LENS

A system and method are disclosed for controlling an ion beam. A deceleration lens is disclosed for use in an ion implanter. The lens may include a suppression electrode, first and second focus electrodes, and first and second shields. The shields may be positioned between upper and lower portions of the suppression electrode. The first and second shields are positioned between the first focus electrode and an end station of the ion implanter. Thus positioned, the first and second shields protect support surfaces of said first and second focus electrodes from deposition of back-streaming particles generated from said ion beam. In some embodiments, the first and second focus electrodes may be adjustable to enable the electrode surfaces to be adjusted with respect to a direction of the ion beam. By adjusting the angle of the focus electrodes, parallelism of the ion beam can be controlled. Other embodiments are described and claimed. 1. A deceleration lens for use in an ion implanter , comprisinga suppression electrode comprising an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper and lower portions disposed such that an ion beam is transmitted therebetween;first and second focus electrodes positioned between the upper and lower portions of the suppression electrode, the first and second focus electrodes disposed such that the ion beam is transmitted therebetween; andfirst and second shields, the first shield disposed between the first focus electrode and an end station of the ion implanter, the second shield disposed between the second focus electrode and the end station of the ion implanter;wherein the first and second shields protect support surfaces of said first and second focus electrodes from deposition of back-streaming particles generated from said ion beam.2. The deceleration lens of claim 1 , wherein the first and second shields have shielding surfaces oriented perpendicular to a direction of the ion beam claim 1 , and the first and second focus electrodes have ...

HIGH-BANDWIDTH LINEAR CURRENT MIRROR

High linearity is essential in audio circuitry. As sampling rates for audio applications are needed, high speed and high linearity are needed in analog and mixed signal portions of audio circuitry such as in current mirrors. A current mirror employs two current paths in an output. The first current path is driven by a fast acting transistor through a resistor. The second current path is driven by a differential amplifier coupled to another transistor through another resistor. The second current path is used to maintain linearity by causing the voltage across both transistors to be the same. 1. A circuit comprising:a first transistor operable to receive an input current;a first resistor in series with the first transistor operable to receive input current;a second resistor operable to receive an output current;a differential amplifier operable to compare a first voltage measured across the first resistor and a second voltage measured across the second resistor a second transistor responsive to the first transistor controlling a first current;a third transistor responsive to the differential amplifier controlling a second current;wherein the second transistor and third transistor are configured in parallel and the output current comprises the first current and the second current.2. The circuit of claim 1 , wherein the first transistor claim 1 , second transistor and third transistors are field effect transistors.3. The circuit of claim 1 , wherein the first transistor claim 1 , second transistor and third transistors are bipolar junction transistors having a high β.4. The circuit of claim 1 , wherein the first resistor is a variable resistor.5. The circuit of claim 1 , wherein the second resistor is a variable resistor.6. The circuit of claim 1 , wherein the first resistor and the second resistor both have resistances that are substantially equal.7. The circuit of claim 1 , wherein the differential amplifier is an operational amplifier.8. The circuit of claim 1 , ...

Chemical Ionization Reaction or Proton Transfer Reaction Mass Spectrometry

A system and methods are described for generating reagent ions and product ions for use in a mass spectrometry system. Applications for the system and method are also disclosed for detecting volatile organic compounds in trace concentrations. A microwave or high-frequency RF energy source ionizes particles of a reagent vapor to form reagent ions. The reagent ions enter a chamber, such as a drift chamber, to interact with a fluid sample. An electric field directs the reagent ions and facilitates an interaction with the fluid sample to form product ions. The reagent ions and product ions then exit the chamber under the influence of an electric field for detection by a mass spectrometer module. The system includes various control modules for setting values of system parameters and analysis modules for detection of mass and peak intensity values for ion species during spectrometry and faults within the system. 1. A method comprising:introducing a sample gas;supplying a reagent vapor to a plasma region;providing microwave or high-frequency RF energy to the reagent vapor in the plasma region to form one or more reagent ions;interacting the one or more reagent ions with the sample gas to generate one or more product ions;directing the one or more product ions and the one or more reagent ions to a quadrupole or time-of-flight mass spectrometer module; anddetermining by the mass spectrometer module a value for at least one of a peak intensity or mass of each of the one or more product ions and the one or more reagent ions.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the sample gas includes one or more volatile organic compounds in at least a trace concentration.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein introducing comprises coupling a gas sample inlet port to an enclosed space.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein introducing comprises positioning a gas sample inlet port in a non-enclosed space.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein introducing comprises coupling a gas sample inlet port to a ...

GLITCH CONTROL DURING IMPLANTATION

An ion implantation system and method are disclosed in which glitches in voltage are minimized by modifications to the power system of the implanter. These power supply modifications include faster response time, output filtering, improved glitch detection and removal of voltage blanking. By minimizing glitches, it is possible to produce solar cells with acceptable dose uniformity without having to pause the scan each time a voltage glitch is detected. For example, by shortening the duration of a voltage to about 20-40 milliseconds, dose uniformity within about 3% can be maintained. 1. An ion implantation system , comprisingan ion source;an electrode, maintained at a first voltage different than ground; anda power supply in communication with said electrode, wherein said power supply is configured to detect a glitch when said first voltage changes by more than a predetermined amount, and in response to said detection, is configured to increase a current output to attempt to restore said first voltage.2. The ion implantation system of claim 1 , wherein said predetermined amount is between 20% and 40% of said first voltage.3. The ion implantation system of claim 1 , wherein said power supply utilizes a control loop to establish and maintain said first voltage and wherein said control loop has a time constant of less than 10 milliseconds.4. The ion implantation system of claim 1 , further comprising a resistance located in series between said electrode and said power supply so as to create a filter.5. The ion implantation system of claim 4 , wherein said resistance is between 1 kilo-ohm and 5 kilo-ohms.6. The ion implantation system of claim 1 , further comprising at least one additional component claim 1 , maintained at a second voltage claim 1 , different than ground and said first voltage claim 1 , and a second power supply in communication with said additional component wherein said second power supply is configured to detect a glitch when said second voltage ...

Systems and Methods for Recording Communication Sessions

A system for recording a communication session is disclosed. The system includes an edge device configured to receive a message that includes information about the communication session, determine whether to record the communication session based on at least one criterion, and mark the message to indicate that the communication session should be recorded if the at least one criterion is satisfied. The system also includes a signaling entity configured to receive the message from the edge device and, if the at least one criterion is satisfied, direct the message to a recorder configured to record the communication session. 1. A method for recording a communication session , comprising:receiving a message that includes information about the communication session;determining whether to record the communication session based on at least one criterion;marking the message to indicate that the communication session should be recorded if the at least one criterion is satisfied; andtransmitting the message to a signaling entity configured to direct the message to a recorder if the at least one criterion is satisfied.2. The system of wherein the signaling entity comprises an application server.3. The method of wherein an edge device receives the message claim 1 , determines whether to record the communication session claim 1 , marks the message and transmits the message to the signaling entity.4. The method of wherein the at least one criterion comprises one of ingress trunk group identification claim 1 , a number or an address associated with a party of the communication session.5. The method of wherein the marking comprises adding a parameter to the message.6. The method of wherein the marking comprises changing a parameter value of the message.7. The method of wherein the marking comprises adding a header or a message body to the message.8. The method of further comprising:duplicating a media stream associated with the communication session; andforwarding the duplicated ...

MANUFACTURING HIGH EFFICIENCY SOLAR CELL WITH DIRECTIONAL DOPING

A first facet of each of a plurality of pyramids on a surface of a workpiece is doped to a first dose while a second facet and a third facet of each of the plurality of pyramids is simultaneously doped to a second dose different than the first dose. The first facets may enable low resistance contacts and the second and third facets may enable higher current generation and an improved blue response. Ion implantation may be used to perform the doping. 1. A method of implantation comprising:doping a first facet of each of a plurality of pyramids on a surface of a workpiece to a first dose; andsimultaneously doping a second facet and a third facet of each of said plurality of pyramids to a second dose different than said first dose.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein said workpiece is a solar cell.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein said doping is at an angle not perpendicular to said workpiece.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein said first facet has a lower resistance than said second facet and said third facet.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein said second dose is configured to enable lower recombination of generated carriers in said second facet and said third facet.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein less than 50% of said surface is doped to said first dose.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein said doping is selected from the group consisting of ion implantation claim 1 , laser doping claim 1 , sputtering claim 1 , and deposition.8. The method of claim 1 , further comprising applying a plurality of metal contacts to said surface of said workpiece.9. The method of claim 1 , wherein an entirety of said surface is doped to either said first dose or said second dose by said doping and said simultaneously doping.10. The method of claim 1 , further comprising doping a fourth facet of each of said plurality of pyramids on said surface of said workpiece to said first dose simultaneously with said doping of said first facet.11. A method of implantation comprising:implanting a ...

MECHANICAL FUSE TO SEAL PIPES UPON UNINTENDED RUPTURE

The present invention relates to a mechanical fuse to seal pipes upon unintended rupture. When a pressure difference between a first pressure and a second pressure in a pipe is below a pressure threshold, a first spring retains a flap in a first position allowing gaseous fuel to flow from a first portion to a second portion and when the pressure difference between the first pressure and the second pressure is not below the pressure threshold the flap moves to a second position preventing the gaseous fuel from flowing from the first portion to the second portion. 1. A mechanical fuse to prevent a flow of a fluid comprising:a pipe defining a cavity therein for carrying the fluid from a first portion of the pipe to a second portion of the pipe;a hinge positioned in the cavity of the pipe and coupled to the pipe;a flap positioned in the cavity of the pipe and coupled to the hinge, the flap having an open position for allowing the flow of the fluid from the first portion of the pipe to the second portion of the pipe and a closed position for preventing the flow of the fluid from the first portion of the pipe to the second portion of the pipe; anda spring positioned in the cavity of the pipe and coupled to the pipe and the flap, the spring configured to allow the flap to move from the open position to the closed position when a pressure difference between a pressure in the first portion of the pipe and a pressure in the second portion of the pipe is above a pressure threshold.2. The mechanical fuse of further comprising:a second hinge positioned in the cavity of the pipe and coupled to the pipe;a second flap positioned in the cavity of the pipe and coupled to the second hinge, the second flap having an open position for allowing the flow of the fluid from the first portion of the pipe to the second portion of the pipe and a closed position for preventing the flow of the fluid from the first portion of the pipe to the second portion of the pipe, the second flap configured ...

System For Radiation Sterilization Of Medical Devices Using A Package Having Modifier Sections

Methods and systems for selection radiation exposure in sterilization of medical devices are disclosed. 136-. (canceled)37. A system for radiation sterilization , comprising:a stent delivery assembly; anda package having one or more modifier sections, the assembly being disposed within the package, wherein the one or more modifier sections are positioned relative to a selected section of the assembly to modify radiation delivered to the selected section of the assembly when radiation is directed at the assembly from a radiation source.38. The system of claim 37 , wherein a first modifier section is positioned behind the selected section and a second modifier section is positioned in front of the selected section claim 37 , wherein the first and second modifier sections are configured to modify radiation delivered to the selected section from the radiation source by radiation passing through the first modifier section and through backscattering of radiation from the second modifier section.39. The system of claim 37 , wherein a first modifier section is positioned behind the selected section claim 37 , wherein the first modifier section is configured to modify radiation delivered to the selected section from the radiation source through backscattering of radiation.40. The system of claim 37 , wherein a first modifier section is positioned in front of the selected section claim 37 , wherein when the first modifier section receives a delivered radiation dose from the radiation source the selected section receives a modified radiation dose claim 37 , the modified radiation dose being less than the delivered radiation dose and within an optimal range for sterilizing the selected section.41. The system of claim 37 , wherein a first modifier section increases or decreases the radiation delivered to the selected section from a radiation source.42. The system of claim 37 , wherein the selected section comprises a polymeric stent.43. The system of claim 37 , wherein the ...

KNEE BELT RESTRAINT

A three-point seat belt assembly for an occupant sitting in a seat of a motor vehicle is provided. The three-point seat belt assembly can include a seat belt web that has a shoulder harness portion and a knee portion. The shoulder harness portion extends across the occupant's torso and the knee portion extends across the occupant's knees. In addition, a guide member can be included that prevents the knee portion of the seat belt web from sliding up above the occupant's knees and sliding down towards the occupant's shins. A pretensioner can further be included and be attached to the seat belt web. The pretensioner can have a release force of between 5 and 6 kilonewtons which is an improvement over current limits of between 2 and 3 kilonewtons. 1. A three-point seat belt assembly for an occupant sitting in a seat of a motor vehicle , the three-point seat belt assembly comprising:a seat belt web having a shoulder harness portion and a knee portion, said shoulder harness portion extending across the occupant's torso and said knee portion extending across the occupant's knees; anda guide member operable to prevent said knee portion of said seat belt web from sliding up above the occupant's knees and sliding down toward the occupant's shins.2. The seat belt assembly of claim 1 , wherein said guide member is attached to the seat.3. The seat belt assembly of claim 1 , wherein said guide member is attached to a sitting portion of the seat.4. The seat belt assembly of claim 1 , wherein said guide member is a flexible member.5. The seat belt assembly of claim 1 , wherein said guide member is a generally C-shaped member.6. The seat belt assembly of claim 5 , wherein said generally C-shaped member has a first end fixedly attached to the seat and a second end releasably attached to the seat.7. The seat belt assembly of claim 5 , wherein said generally C-shaped member has a first end fixedly attached to the seat and a second end not attached to the seat.8. The seat belt assembly ...

POINT-OF-TRANSACTION CHECKOUT SYSTEM WITH ZERO-FOOTPRINT CORDLESS ELECTRO-OPTICAL READER

A checkout system employs a bi-optical workstation having dual windows and a main reader for electro-optically reading indicia on products to be processed at the workstation through at least one of the windows. The workstation is supported by a countertop and has a raised housing extending upwardly away from the countertop. An auxiliary cordless reader is used for electro-optically reading the indicia in a handheld mode when the main reader is not operated. A cradle bounds a compartment in which the auxiliary cordless reader is removably received when not in the handheld mode. The cradle is supported by the raised housing above and remote from, and out of direct contact with, the countertop to form a zero-footprint therewith. 1. A checkout system , comprising:a workstation supported by a support surface and operative for processing products bearing indicia, the workstation including a raised housing extending upwardly away from the support surface, a window supported by the workstation, and a main reader supported by the workstation for electro-optically reading the indicia through the window;an auxiliary cordless reader for electro-optically reading the indicia in a handheld mode when the main reader is not operated to read the indicia; anda cradle supported by the raised housing above and remote from, and out of direct contact with, the support surface to form a zero-footprint therewith, the cradle bounding a compartment in which the auxiliary cordless reader is removably received when not in the handheld mode.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the workstation is configured as a bi-optical workstation claim 1 , wherein the window is supported by the raised housing claim 1 , and wherein the workstation includes another generally horizontal window through which the indicia is readable by the main reader.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the auxiliary cordless reader includes a laser-based reader for emitting a laser beam to the indicia claim 1 , or a solid-state ...

DUAL-BAND ANTENNA ARRAY AND RF FRONT-END FOR MM-WAVE IMAGER AND RADAR

The radar includes a PCB having a top surface and a bottom surface, and a processor mounted on the bottom surface of the PCB. The radar includes a second liquid crystal polymer layer formed on the top surface of the printed circuit board, a second microstrip array printed on the second liquid crystal polymer layer, the second microstrip array having a patch, a first liquid crystal polymer layer formed on the second liquid crystal polymer layer, a first microstrip array printed on the first liquid crystal polymer layer, the first microstrip array having a perforated patch, an antenna positioned underneath the patch and connected to the second microstrip array, and a transmit/receive module connected to a bottom surface of the second liquid crystal polymer layer and configured to transmit a first frequency signal to the first microstrip array and a second frequency signal to the second microstrip array. 1. A radar for an automobile comprising:a printed circuit board having a first surface and a second surface;a chip coupled to the second surface of the printed circuit board, the chip configured to generate a first frequency signal and a second frequency signal;a first substrate layer coupled with the first surface of the printed circuit board, the first substrate layer having a first patch defining a first opening;a second substrate layer positioned between the first substrate layer and the first surface of the printed circuit board, the second substrate layer having a second patch disposed adjacent the first opening; anda transmit module connected to the chip and coupled with first patch of the first substrate layer and the second patch of the second substrate layer, the transmit module configured to transmit the first frequency signal to the first patch and the second frequency signal to the second patch.2. The radar of wherein the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer are bonded together.3. The radar of wherein the transmit module comprises a ...

Data Processing System with Construction Geometry

A CAD system, method, and computer readable medium. A method for modeling a topological structure includes receiving a definition of a topological structure. The method also includes receiving a definition of a construction element and receiving a geometrical relationship between the construction element and an element of the topological structure. The method further includes receiving a change to the topological structure and, in response to the change, changing the first construction element according to the geometrical relationship. 1. A method for modeling a topological structure , comprising:receiving in a data processing system a definition of a topological structure;receiving in the data processing system a definition of a first construction element;receiving in the data processing system a geometrical relationship between the first construction element and an element of the topological structure;receiving in the data processing system a first change to the topological structure; andin response to the first change, changing the first construction element in the data processing system according to the geometrical relationship.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:receiving in the data processing system a definition of a second construction element;receiving in the data processing system a second geometrical relationship between the second construction element and the first construction element; andin response to changing the first construction element, in the data processing system changing the second construction element according to the second geometrical relationship.3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising:receiving in the data processing system a second change to the first construction element; andin response to the second change, in the data processing system changing the topological structure according to the geometrical relationship.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first construction element is a construction face and the geometrical ...

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR GENERATING PHANTOM BASS

In many audio playback systems, frequencies below a given cut off frequency are suppressed either due to speaker constraints or safety constraints. For example, some speakers are only capable of generating signals above a certain frequency. Prolonged low frequency sound can cause damage to speakers or other components. An audio driver can be equipped with a phantom bass module which by doubling, tripling and/or quadrupling frequencies below a cutoff frequency can simulate the bass experience. The doubling, tripling and quadrupling methods disclosed provide a low complexity formulation of a frequency doubling, tripling and quadrupling. In addition, the frequency doubling, tripling and quadrupling formulations are easily adapted to multi-rate processing, where computational savings can be very high. 1. An audio driver comprising:a high pass filter operable to receive and filter an audio signal; a first band pass filter operable to receive the audio signal;', 'a doubler module operable to apply a frequency doubling formula having an input signal x and an output signal z;', 'a second band pass filter operable to filter the output signal z;, 'a phantom bass module operable to generate an output signal and comprisinga mixer operable to add the output signal to the audio signal;a digital to analog converter (DAC); andan amplifier,{'sub': N', 'N, 'wherein the frequency doubling formula is either z[n]=(x⊕x)[n] or z[n]=(x{circumflex over (⊕)}x)[n], where N is a window size.'}2. In the audio driver of claim 1 , the phantom bass module further comprises a first gain element operable to receive a signal from the band pass filter.3. In the audio driver of claim 1 , phantom bass module further comprises a downsampler operable to downsample the audio signal filtered by the first band pass filter; and an upsampler operable to upsample the output signal z.4. In the audio driver of the phantom bass module further comprises a frequency tripler.5. In the audio driver of the phantom bass ...

Method For Radiation Sterilization Of Medical Devices Using A Package Having Modifier Sections

Methods and systems for selection radiation exposure in sterilization of medical devices are disclosed. 136-. (canceled)37. A method for radiation sterilization , comprising:placing a stent delivery assembly within a package having one or more modifier sections positioned relative to a selected section of the assembly within the package to modify radiation delivered to the selected section of the assembly; andexposing the package and stent delivery assembly to radiation from a radiation source.38. The method of claim 37 , wherein a first modifier section is positioned behind the selected section and a second modifier section is positioned in front of the selected section claim 37 , wherein the first and second modifier sections are configured to modify radiation delivered to the selected section from the radiation source by radiation passing through the first modifier section and through backscattering of radiation from the second modifier section.39. The method of claim 37 , wherein a first modifier section is positioned behind the selected section claim 37 , wherein the first modifier section is configured to modify radiation delivered to the selected section from the radiation source through backscattering of radiation.40. The method of claim 37 , wherein a first modifier section is positioned in front of the selected section claim 37 , wherein when the first modifier section receives a delivered radiation dose from the radiation source the selected section receives a modified radiation dose claim 37 , the modified radiation dose being less than the delivered radiation dose and within an optimal range for sterilizing the selected section.41. The method of claim 37 , wherein a first modifier section increases or decreases the radiation delivered to the selected section from a radiation source.42. The method of claim 37 , wherein the selected section comprises a polymeric stent.43. The method of claim 37 , wherein the package is a sealed package.44. The method of ...

Method For Radiation Sterilization Of Medical Devices

Methods and systems for selection radiation exposure in sterilization of medical devices are disclosed. 136-. (canceled)37. A method of sterilizing a stent delivery assembly comprising:exposing the assembly to radiation from a radiation source, wherein a radiation barrier located behind a selected section of the assembly selectively modifies the radiation from the radiation source that is delivered to the selected section of the assembly;wherein the radiation barrier modifies the radiation by backscattering of radiation at the selected section.38. The method of claim 37 , wherein the radiation is E-beam radiation.39. The method of claim 37 , further including a fixture supporting the stent delivery assembly claim 37 , the fixture comprising the radiation barrier.40. The method of claim 37 , wherein the selected section comprises a polymeric stent.41. The method of claim 37 , wherein the radiation barrier is a metal.42. A method of sterilizing a stent delivery assembly comprising:exposing a stent delivery assembly to radiation from a radiation source, wherein a covering over a selected section of the assembly selectively modifies the radiation from the radiation source that is delivered to the selected section of the assembly;wherein the covering is a sheath surrounding a portion of the assembly.43. The method of claim 42 , wherein the radiation is E-beam radiation.44. The method of claim 42 , wherein the sheath has a first portion that decreases the radiation delivered to the selected section.45. The method of claim 42 , wherein the selected section is a polymeric stent.46. The method of claim 45 , wherein the sheath comprises an outer sheath and an inner sheath.47. The method of claim 45 , wherein the inner sheath secures the stent to the catheter.48. The method of claim 45 , wherein the outer sheath has a thickness selected according to a dose-distribution curve to reduce the radiation delivered to the stent.49. The method of claim 42 , wherein the sheath includes ...

Triazines And Related Compounds Having Antiviral Activity, Compositions And Methods Thereof

Disclosed herein are novel triazines and related compounds, the synthesis thereof, and compositions, including pharmaceutical compositions, comprising the novel triazines and related compounds. Such novel triazines and related compounds function to inhibit or block entry of viruses of the Flaviviridae family, including Hepatitis C virus (HCV), into cells that are susceptible to virus infection. These compounds are useful for the treatment, therapy and/or prophylaxis of viral diseases and infection, including HCV infection. 2. A compound of formula (Ia) , its pharmaceutically acceptable salts , polymorphs , hydrates , stereoisomers , or prodrugs thereof:5. A composition comprising at least one of the compounds of .6. A composition comprising at least one of the compounds of .73. A composition comprising at least one of the compounds of claim .8. A composition comprising at least one of the compounds of .98. The composition of any of - and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.10. A formulation of the composition of selected from the group consisting of; a solid formulation claim 9 , a semisolid formulation claim 9 , a solution formulation claim 9 , an aqueous formulation claim 9 , an immediate release formulation claim 9 , a sustained release formulation claim 9 , an enteric coating formulation and a lyophilized formulation.11. The formulation of claim 10 , wherein the formulation is a packaged unit dosage.12. The formulation of claim 11 , wherein the packaged unit dosage is a solution claim 11 , solid claim 11 , powder claim 11 , aerosol claim 11 , liquid or gel.13. The composition of claim 9 , comprising at least one additional antiviral agent.14. The composition of claim 13 , wherein the at least one additional antiviral agent is selected from anti-Hepatitis C virus compounds claim 13 , anti-HCV Antibodies claim 13 , Hepatitis C virus protease inhibitors claim 13 , Hepatitis C virus polymerase inhibitors claim 13 , Hepatitis C virus helicase inhibitors claim 13 , ...

Tissue Implants for Implantation and Methods for Preparing the Same

A method is provided for preparing a tissue implant for implantation. The method includes harvesting a tissue material from a human or an animal donor, treating the tissue material with water or a hypotonic solution to lyse native cells of the tissue material, treating the tissue material in a nuclease-containing solution which includes an antimicrobial, treating the tissue material with an alkaline alcohol solution, treating the tissue material with a chlorine dioxide treatment solution, and sterilizing the tissue material. 1. A method of preparing a tissue implant for implantation comprising:treating a tissue material in an alkaline alcohol solution;treating the tissue material in a chlorine dioxide solution; andirradiating the tissue material.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the alkaline alcohol solution comprises ethanol.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the ethanol is present in a concentration of about 72 to about 88 percent v/v.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the alkaline alcohol solution comprises sodium hydroxide.5. The method of claim 4 , wherein the alkaline alcohol solution is about 0.016 M to about 0.022 M sodium hydroxide.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein during treatment with the chlorine dioxide treatment solution claim 1 , the chlorine dioxide treatment solution comprises greater than about 50 ppm chlorine dioxide for about 60 minutes or longer.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the concentration of chlorine dioxide in the chlorine dioxide treatment solution is about 100 ppm to about 160 ppm.8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the step of irradiating the tissue material comprises irradiating the tissue material with gamma radiation or electron beam radiation.9. A method of preparing a tissue implant for implantation comprising:lysing a tissue material;treating the tissue material in a nuclease-containing solution, the nuclease-containing solution comprising an antimicrobial;treating the tissue material with an alkaline alcohol solution; ...

Production of Thermolysin and Variants Thereof and Use In Liquid Detergents

The present invention provides methods and compositions comprising at least one thermolysin-like neutral protease enzyme with improved storage stability and/or catalytic activity. In some embodiments, the thermolysin finds use in cleaning and other applications comprising detergent. In some particularly preferred embodiments, the present invention provides methods and compositions comprising thermolysin formulated and/or engineered to resist detergent-induced inactivation. 1GeobacillusBacillus. A composition comprising an isolated thermolysin and a neutral metalloprotease inhibitor , wherein said thermolysin is a thermolysin or a thermolysin.2. The composition of claim 1 , wherein said neutral metalloprotease inhibitor is phosphoramidon or galardin.3GeobacillusG. caldoproteolyticusG. stearothermophilus.. The composition of claim 1 , wherein said is or4BacillusB. thermoproteolyticus.. The composition of claim 1 , wherein said is5. The composition of claim 1 , wherein said thermolysin has at least 50% amino acid identity with the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO:3.6. The composition of claim 1 , wherein said thermolysin comprises the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO:3.7. An isolated thermolysin variant having improved stability and/or performance.8Geobacillus. The isolated thermolysin variant of claim 7 , wherein said thermolysin variant is a thermolysin variant having an amino acid sequence comprising one or more substitutions at positions chosen from positions equivalent to positions 6 claim 7 , 7 claim 7 , 49 claim 7 , 56 claim 7 , 58 claim 7 , 61 claim 7 , 63 claim 7 , 65 claim 7 , 75 claim 7 , 128 claim 7 , 151 claim 7 , 156 claim 7 , 196 claim 7 , 273 claim 7 , 278 claim 7 , and 280 of the amino acid sequence set forth as SEQ ID NO:3.9. The isolated thermolysin variant of claim 8 , wherein said one or more substitutions comprise one claim 8 , two claim 8 , three claim 8 , four or five substitutions at positions chosen from positions ...

Tissue Implants for Implantation and Methods for Preparing the Same

A method is provided for preparing a tissue implant for implantation. The method includes harvesting a tissue material from a human or an animal donor, treating the tissue material in a nuclease-containing solution, and thereafter treating the tissue material with an alkaline alcohol solution. The nuclease-containing solution includes an antimicrobial. The alkaline alcohol solution comprises sodium hydroxide and ethanol. 1. A method of preparing a tissue implant for implantation comprising:treating a tissue material in a nuclease-containing solution, the nuclease-containing solution comprising an antimicrobial; andtreating the tissue material with an alkaline alcohol solution.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the antimicrobial comprises benzyl alcohol.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the benzyl alcohol is present in the nuclease-containing solution in a concentration of about 0.8 to about 2.0% v/v.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the nuclease-containing solution comprises DNase or RNase or a combination thereof.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the alkaline alcohol solution comprises ethanol.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the ethanol is present in a concentration of about 72 to about 88 percent v/v.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the alkaline alcohol solution comprises sodium hydroxide.8. The method of claim 7 , wherein the alkaline alcohol solution is about 0.016 M to about 0.022 M sodium hydroxide.9. A method of preparing a tissue implant for implantation comprising:treating a tissue material in a nuclease-containing solution, the nuclease-containing solution comprising benzyl alcohol.10. The method of claim 9 , wherein the benzyl alcohol is present in the nuclease-containing solution in a concentration of about 0.8 to about 2.0% v/v.11. The method of claim 10 , wherein the nuclease-containing solution comprises DNase or RNase or a combination thereof.12. A method of preparing a tissue implant for implantation comprising:treating a decellularized ...

STENCIL MASK PROFILE

An apparatus and method are provided which allow the low cost patterned deposition of material onto a workpiece. A stencil mask, having chamfered edges is applied to the surface of the workpiece. The material is then deposited onto the workpiece, such as by PECVD. Because of the chamfered edges, the material thickness is much more uniform than is possible with traditional stencil masks. Stencil masks having a variety of cross sectional patterns are disclosed which improve deposition uniformity. 1. A stencil mask to be used on a workpiece , comprising non-vertical sidewalls , wherein an angle formed by said non-vertical sidewall and a surface of said workpiece is less than 90 degrees.2. The stencil mask of claim 1 , wherein said non-vertical sidewalls are non-planar and are concave.3. The stencil mask of claim 1 , further comprising vertical upper sidewalls and a top surface claim 1 , wherein said non-vertical sidewalls merge with said vertical upper sidewalls claim 1 , which meet at said top surface.4. The stencil mask of claim 2 , further comprising vertical upper sidewalls and a top surface claim 2 , wherein said non-vertical sidewalls merge with said vertical upper sidewalls claim 2 , which meet at said top surface.5. The stencil mask of claim 1 , wherein said stencil mask has a trapezoidal cross-section.6. The stencil mask of claim 1 , wherein said stencil mask has a triangular cross-section.7. A process for depositing material in a pattern on a workpiece claim 1 , comprising:placing a stencil mask on said workpiece, said stencil mark covering those portions of said workpiece which material is not to be deposited, wherein said stencil mask has non-vertical sidewalls to reduce shadowing effecting;performing a plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition process on said workpiece; andremoving said stencil mask after said process is completed.8. The process of claim 7 , wherein said non-vertical sidewalls are non-planar and are concave.9. The process of claim 7 , ...

BALLOON CATHETER WITH IMPROVED TAPER SUPPORT

A catheter balloon having improved steerability is disclosed having a transition between a soft distal tip and a relatively stiffer working portion of a balloon carrying a stent, in the form of a support sleeve on the inner member. The support sleeve provides stiffness to the taper portion of the balloon and also allows precise location of a radio opaque marker. The support sleeve can have a varying thickness or be made of a combination of materials to yield an increasing or decreasing stiffness along the support sleeve to provide an even smoother transition along the balloon's length. 1. A balloon catheter including a balloon attached to a catheter tubing where the balloon includes a soft distal tip , a working length , a proximal and distal taper portion , and proximal and distal shoulders that define a transition between the working length and the proximal and distal taper portions , respectively , comprising:a support sleeve bonded to the catheter tubing having a first end aligned with the distal shoulder and a second end adjacent to the soft distal tip, the support sleeve cooperating with the distal taper portion of the balloon such that a stiffness of the support sleeve and distal taper portion is greater than a stiffness of the soft distal tip and less than a stiffness of the working length; anda radio opaque marker abutting the support sleeve at the first end to identify the distal shoulder, wherein the support sleeve has varying stiffness along its length which translates from a lower stiffness at its second end to a higher stiffness at its first end.2. The balloon catheter of claim 1 , further comprising a second support sleeve bonded to the catheter tubing having a first end aligned with the proximal shoulder claim 1 , and a radio opaque marker abutting the second support sleeve at the first end to identify the proximal shoulder.3. The balloon catheter of claim 1 , wherein the radio opaque marker is a marker band positioned about the catheter tubing.4. ...

SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR

A surgical instrument can comprise a handle and an end effector, wherein the end effector can comprise first and second jaws which can be opened and closed in order to capture tissue therebetween. The surgical instrument can further comprise a shaft extending between the handle and the effector and means for articulating the end effector relative to the shaft. The articulating means can comprise a portion of the shaft which is rotatable about a first axis in order to articulate the end effector about a second axis. In at least one embodiment, the shaft can comprise a first portion including a cam and a second portion including a cam follower, wherein the rotation of the second portion and the interaction of the cam and cam follower can cause the second portion to pivot relative to the first portion. 1. A surgical instrument , comprising:a handle;a trigger;an articulation actuator; a first jaw member;', 'a second jaw member, wherein one of said first jaw member and said second jaw member is movable relative to the other of said first jaw member and said second jaw member; and', 'an electrode;, 'an end effector, comprisinga power switch selectively actuatable to operably couple said electrode with a power source; [ a first portion comprising a proximal end mounted to said handle and a distal end comprising a first angled surface;', 'a second portion comprising a distal end mounted to said end effector and a proximal end comprising a second angled surface, wherein said second portion is rotatable relative to said first portion; and', 'an inner cavity extending through said first portion and said second portion;, 'an outer tube, comprising, 'a drive member extending through said inner cavity, wherein said drive member is operably coupled to said trigger, wherein an actuation of said trigger is configured to move said drive member from a proximal position to a distal position; and', 'an articulation member extending through said inner cavity, wherein said articulation ...

SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR

An electrosurgical instrument can comprise a handle, a shaft, and an end effector, wherein the end effector can be rotatably coupled to the shaft by an articulation joint. The instrument can further comprise a drive member and the articulation joint can comprise flexible support members which can be configured to support the drive member. The instrument can further comprise supply wires electrically coupled to electrodes in the end effector and a wire tensioning device configured to prevent the supply wires from accumulating slack within the articulation joint. The drive member can comprise a plurality of flexible layers wherein some of the layers can be comprised of an electrically insulative material and other layers can be comprised of an electrically conductive material which is in electrical communication with a cutting member in the end effector and/or electrodes positioned within the end effector. 1. A surgical instrument , comprising:a handle comprising a trigger;a shaft comprising a proximal shaft portion coupled to said handle and a distal shaft portion;an articulation joint connected to said distal shaft portion; a proximal end coupled to said articulation joint;', 'a distal end;', 'a first jaw member;', 'a second jaw member, wherein one of said first jaw member and said second jaw member is movable relative to the other of said first jaw member and said second jaw member; and', 'an electrode;, 'an end effector, comprisinga drive member extending through said articulation joint, wherein said drive member is operably coupled with said trigger, wherein an actuation of said trigger is configured to move said drive member toward said distal end of said end effector, wherein said drive member comprises a first flexible layer and a second flexible layer, wherein said first flexible layer is comprised of an electrically conductive material, and wherein said second flexible layer is comprised of an electrically insulative material.2. The surgical instrument of ...

Mounting Stents On Stent Delivery Systems

A system for mounting a stent on a balloon catheter includes two positioning and alignment stations, which are used to prepare a stent and catheter for crimping using the same crimping head. The system is configured for automated assembly of the stent and catheter prior to crimping. A catheter and stent are placed on a computer-controlled carriage that delivers the stent and catheter to the crimper head. Before placing the stent and catheter into the crimper head, an automated alignment system locates the stent between balloon markers. 1. An apparatus , comprising:a crimper head;a first station and a second station disposed adjacent the crimper head and configured to receive, respectively, a first stent and a first balloon catheter assembly and a second stent and a second balloon catheter assembly;the first station and the second station each include an aligning portion and a positioning portion; anda processor for simultaneously crimping both the first stent to the first balloon catheter and the second stent to the second balloon catheter using the crimper head,whereupon receiving a user command, the processor causes(a) the first station to align the first stent with the first balloon catheter and the second station to align the second stent with the second balloon catheter using the respective first and second station aligning portions,(b) the first station to insert the first stent and first balloon catheter into the crimper head and the second station to insert the second stent and second balloon catheter into the crimper head using the respective first and second station positioning portions, and(c) the crimper head to perform a crimping sequence for crimping both the first stent to the first balloon catheter and the second stent to the second balloon catheter.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the crimper head includes a compliance adjustment device for adjusting the travel of jaws within the crimper so that only one stent and catheter can be crimped at a ...

INTRAOCULAR LENSES HAVING A VISIBLE LIGHT-SELECTIVE-TRANSMISSIVE-REGION

Intraocular lenses are provided having a visible-light selective transmissive zone defined therein. The visible light-selective transmissive zone can be located near the lens center and designed to reduce the transmission of any wave-length of visible light specifically light in the blue light region having wavelength between approximately 400 λ to 550 λ. In one embodiment he IOLs are made from acrylates and the light absorbing compound is a yellow dye. 124-. (canceled)25. A method for making an intraocular lens (IOL) comprising:a) forming a polymer structure with a well defined therein;b) filling said well with a visible light absorbing dye;c) covering said polymer structure and said well containing said visible light absorbing dye with a polymer to form a dye containing polymer structure; andd) milling said dye containing polymer structure to form an IOL.26. The method according to wherein said polymer structure is a disc.27. The method according to wherein said polymer is selected from the group consisting of acrylates claim 25 , silicones claim 25 , hydrogels claim 25 , and acrylic-silicone hybrids28. The method according to wherein said visible light absorbing dye is an azo dye.29. A method for forming an intraocular lens comprising:a) forming a polymer structure using a first polymer; said polymer structure having a top surface;b) forming a well in said top surface of said polymer structure;c) filling said well with a visible light absorbing dye;d) covering said polymer structure top surface and said visible light absorbing dye containing well with said first polymer to forming a dye containing polymer structure; ande) shaping said dye containing polymer structure into an IOL.3038-. (canceled) This application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/533,095 filed Dec. 29, 2003.The present invention relates to intraocular lenses (IOL) suitable for implantation into mammals. More specifically, the present invention relates to ...

INTRAOCULAR LENS AND CAPSULAR RING

A device includes a plurality of ringlets connected together to form a ring having a longitudinal axis. Each ringlet includes a first element and a second element. The first and second elements each extend from a first end through a central portion to a second end. The first and second ends are disposed at radially outer positions with respect to the ring than the central portion. The central portion is longitudinally displaced from the first and second ends. The first and second elements are separated and spaced apart from each other at the central portions thereof and are joined together at the first ends thereof and the second ends thereof. The ringlets are connected together such that the first ends of the elements of one ringlet are connected to the second ends of the elements of an adjacent ringlet. 1. A device , comprising a first element extending from a first end thereof through a central portion thereof to a second end thereof, where the first and second ends of the first element are disposed at radially outer positions with respect to the ring than the central portion of the first element, and where the central portion of the first element is longitudinally displaced from the first and second ends of the first element, and', 'a second element extending from a first end thereof through a central portion thereof to a second end thereof, where the first and second ends of the second element are disposed at radially outer positions with respect to the ring than the central portion of the second element, and where the central portion of the second element is longitudinally displaced from the first and second ends of the second element,, 'a plurality of ringlets disposed about a longitudinal axis and connected together to form a ring, each ringlet comprising,'}wherein the first and second elements are separated and spaced apart from each other at the central portions thereof and are joined together at the first ends thereof and the second ends thereof,wherein ...

Tissue Implants for Implantation and Methods for Preparing the Same

A method is provided for preparing a tissue implant for implantation. The method includes treating a pericardium tissue material, which has been harvested from a donor and rendered essentially acellular, with a chlorine dioxide treatment solution; and thereafter treating the pericardium tissue material with an antioxidant solution, which comprises ascorbic acid or a salt thereof. 1. A method of preparing a tissue implant for implantation comprising:treating a tissue material with a chlorine dioxide treatment solution; and thereaftertreating the tissue material with an antioxidant.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the tissue material is essentially acellular before treatment with the chlorine dioxide treatment solution.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein during treatment with the chlorine dioxide treatment solution claim 1 , the chlorine dioxide treatment solution comprises greater than about 50 ppm chlorine dioxide for about 60 minutes or longer.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the concentration of chlorine dioxide in the chlorine dioxide treatment solution is about 100 ppm to about 160 ppm.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the antioxidant is ascorbic acid or a salt thereof.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the antioxidant is sodium ascorbate.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the antioxidant comprises a solution comprising sodium ascorbate in a concentration of about 9.0 mM to about 11.0 mM.8. The method of claim 1 , further comprising vacuum sealing the tissue material in a package with the antioxidant.9. The method of claim 8 , further comprising sterilizing the tissue material while the tissue material is in the package.10. The method of claim 1 , wherein the tissue material comprises human claim 1 , bovine or equine pericardium.11. A method of preparing a tissue implant for implantation comprising:treating a pericardium tissue material, which has been harvested from a donor and rendered essentially acellular, with a chlorine dioxide treatment solution; and ...

SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ELECTRODES

An end-effector assembly configured to be attached to a surgical instrument. The end-effector assembly comprises a first jaw and a second jaw comprising a staple cavity. At least one of the first jaw and the second jaw is movable relative to the other jaw. The end-effector assembly comprises a staple removably positioned within the staple cavity and an electrically-conductive driver configured to move the staple between a first stored position in which the staple is at least partially positioned within the staple cavity and a second position in which the staple is at least partially deployed from the staple cavity into tissue positioned intermediate the first jaw and the second jaw. The staple comprises an electrode. 1. An end-effector assembly configured to be attached to a surgical instrument , the end-effector assembly comprising:a first jaw;a second jaw comprising a staple cavity, wherein at least one of the first jaw and the second jaw is movable relative to the other jaw;a staple removably positioned within the staple cavity, wherein the staple comprises an electrode; andan electrically-conductive driver configured to move the staple between a first stored position in which the staple is at least partially positioned within the staple cavity and a second position in which the staple is at least partially deployed from the staple cavity into tissue positioned intermediate the first jaw and the second jaw.2. The end-effector assembly of claim 1 , wherein the electrode comprises a first electrode claim 1 , and wherein one of the first jaw and the second jaw comprises a second electrode.3. The end-effector assembly of claim 2 , wherein the second electrode is positioned adjacent to a positive temperature coefficient material.4. The end-effector assembly of claim 2 , wherein the first electrode is configured to have a different polarity than the second electrode.5. The end-effector assembly of claim 1 , wherein the electrode comprises a first electrode claim 1 , ...

Phase And Frequency Control Of A Radio Frequency Generator From An External Source

Controlling a phase and/or a frequency of a RF generator. The RF generator includes a power source, a sensor, and a sensor signal processing unit. The sensor signal processing unit is coupled to the power source and to the sensor. The sensor signal processing unit controls the phase and/or the frequency of a RF generator. 1. A radio frequency (RF) generator comprising:a RF power source;a sensor coupled to the RF power source;a sensor signal processing unit coupled to the power source and to the sensor, the sensor signal processing unit receiving a control input from an external RF generator and to generate a control signal to control at least one of phase or frequency of the RF generator.2. The RF generator of claim 1 , wherein the control input is one of a phase set point or a mix frequency set point.3. The RF generator of claim 2 , wherein the external RF generator includes a user defined input.4. The RF generator of claim 1 , wherein the sensor signal processing unit comprises a field programmable gate array (FPGA) unit and a digital signal processing unit.5. The RF generator of claim 4 , wherein the FPGA unit is operable to receive a phase and frequency input signal.6. The RF generator of claim 4 , wherein the signal processing unit is operable to generate the control signal.7. A radio frequency (RF) generator comprising:means for generating RF power;sensor means coupled to the power source; anda sensor signal processing means coupled to the means for generating RF power the sensor means, the sensor signal processing means adapted to receive an input from an external RF generator means and to generate a control signal to control at least one of phase or frequency of the RF generator. This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/552,603, filed on Sep. 2, 2009 which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/108,626, filed on Apr. 18, 2005 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,602,127 issued on Oct. 13, 2009. The entire disclosures of the ...

Multipoint Voltage And Current Probe System

A metrology system monitors radio frequency (RF) power at a plurality of locations in a circuit. The system includes a plurality of RF sensors that generate respective analog signals based on electrical properties of the RF power, a multiplexing module that generates an output signal based on the analog signals, and an analysis module that generates messages based on the output signal. The messages contain information regarding the electrical properties that are sensed by the plurality of RF sensors. 1. A metrology system for monitoring radio frequency (RF) power at a plurality of locations in a circuit , comprising:a plurality of RF sensors that each generates a pair of analog signals based on electrical properties of the RF power at one of the locations in the circuit;a first multiplexer that receives one of the analog signals from each pair of analog signals and routes one of the received signals to an output of the first multiplexer in accordance with a control signal;a second multiplexer that receives the other one of the analog signals from each pair of analog signals and routes one of the received signals to an output of the second multiplexer in accordance with the control signal; andan analysis module that generates messages based on the signals from the output of the first and second multiplexers, wherein the messages contain information regarding the electrical properties that are sensed by the plurality of sense channels.2. The metrology system of wherein the RF sensors are directional couplers.3. The metrology system of wherein the RF sensors are voltage/current (V/I) probes.4. The metrology system of further comprising a plurality of signal conditioning and partitioning modules that connect in series with respective ones of the analog signals from the RF sensors claim 1 , each signal conditioning module comprising:a plurality of filters that pass respective frequency components of the associated one of the analog signals;a plurality of scaling modules ...

OPHTHALMIC DEVICES HAVING A HIGHLY SELECTIVE VIOLET LIGHT TRANSMISSIVE FILTER AND RELATED METHODS

Ophthalmic devices are provided having a violet-light vertical cut-off filter abruptly absorbs light between the wave lengths of between approximately and 400 nm and 450 nm such that a curve when plotted as percent transmission versus wavelength has the shape as depicted in FIG. In one embodiment the ophthalmic devices are made from acrylates and the light absorbing compound is an Eastman Yellow 035 MA dye. 1. An intraocular lens comprising: an optic; at least one haptic; and a vertical cut-off filter incorporated in the optic , wherein the vertical cut-off filter abruptly absorbs light between the wavelength of between approximately 400 nm and 450 nm , wherein the vertical cut-off filter increases transmittance from about 0% at 400 nm to greater than 80% at 450 nm.2. The intraocular lens according to claim 1 , wherein the vertical cut-off filter comprises at least one violet light absorbing dye.3. The intraocular lens according to claim 2 , wherein the violet light absorbing dye is present in the ophthalmic device at a concentration of between approximately 0.005% and 0.2%.4. The intraocular lens according to claim 2 , wherein the at least one violet light absorbing dye is a methine linkage containing dye.5. The intraocular lens according to claim 1 , further comprising a structural polymer claim 1 , wherein the structural polymer is an acrylate.6. The intraocular lens according to wherein the violet light absorbing dye is covalently bound to the structural polymer.7. The intraocular lens according to claim 5 , wherein the light absorbing dye is freely dispersed within the structural polymer.8. The intraocular lens according to claim 1 , wherein the vertical cut-off filter comprises a violet light absorbing dye.9. The intraocular lens according to claim 1 , wherein the vertical cut-off filter abruptly absorbs light between the wavelengths of between approximately 405 nm and 440 nm claim 1 , or between approximately 420 nm and 440 nm claim 1 , or between ...

Drug Coated Balloon With In-Situ Formed Drug Containing Microspheres

The current invention relates to methods of forming a coating that involves the in-situ formation of drug microspheres. The coating may be applied to a medical device, such as a catheter balloon or a stent. Coated devices and methods of treatment therewith are also encompassed within the embodiments of the present invention. 1. A method for coating a medical device , comprising: 'the one or more second solvents is/are more volatile than the one or more first solvents by at least a factor of 2;', 'forming a homogeneous coating solution by dissolving a hydrophobic drug having a solubility in phosphate buffered saline of about 1 mg/ml or less than 1 mg/ml in a coating solvent comprising one or more first solvents in which the drug has a solubility of not more than 2000 mg/liter and one or more second solvents in which the drug has a solubility of not less than 10,000 mg/liter, wherein'}disposing the coating solution over a surface of the medical device; andremoving the one or more second solvents at a temperature and pressure selected such that the drug precipitates from the remaining coating solution as particles of a volume weighted average diameter of 30 microns or less; andremoving the remaining coating solvent.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the medical device is an expandable medical device.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the wt/wt ratio of drug to the one or more first solvents is greater than 1/99 and less than 50/50.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the coating solution comprises a suspending agent/surfactant.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the coating solution comprises a binder.620. The method of claim 1 , wherein the one or more first solvents have a vapor pressure measured at ° C. of at least 0.5 torr.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the one or more second solvents have a vapor pressure at 20° C. of not more than 450 torr.8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the one or more second solvents is/are more volatile than the one or more first solvents ...

Method of Creating a Library of Bacterial Clones with Varying Levels of Gene Expression

The present invention relates to a method of creating DNA libraries that include an artificial promoter library and/or a modified ribosome binding site library and transforming bacterial host cells with the library to obtain a population of bacterial clones having a range of expression levels for a chromosomal gene of interest. 1. A method of creating a library of artificial promoters comprising:a) obtaining an insertion DNA cassette, which comprises, a first recombinase site, a second recombinase site and a selective marker gene located between the first and the second recombinase sites;b) obtaining a first oligonucleotide which comprises, i) a first nucleic acid fragment homologous to an upstream region of a chromosomal gene of interest, and ii) a second nucleic acid fragment homologous to a 5′ end of the insertion DNA cassette;c) obtaining a second oligonucleotide which comprises, i) a third nucleic acid fragment homologous to a 3′ end of said insertion DNA cassette, ii) a precursor promoter comprising a −35 consensus region (−35 to −30), a linker sequence and a −10 consensus region (−12 to −7), wherein the linker sequence comprises between 14-20 nucleotides and is flanked by the −35 region and the −10 region, wherein said precursor promoter has been modified to include at least one modified nucleotide position of the precursor promoter and wherein the −35 region and the −10 region each include between 4 to 6 conserved nucleotides of the promoter, and iii) a fourth nucleic acid fragment homologous to a downstream region of the transcription start site of the promoter; andd) mixing the first oligonucleotide and the second oligonucleotide in an amplification reaction with the insertion DNA cassette to obtain a library of double stranded amplified products comprising artificial promoters.2. The method according to further comprising purifying the amplified products.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the amplification step is a polymerase chain reaction ...

CLEANING COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS

The invention provides solvent and cleaning compositions comprising an ionic surfactant, which preferably has a fluorinated portion thereof, and a solvent selected from hydrofluoro- and/or hydrochlorofluoro-olefins. Additionally, the invention provides drying, dry cleaning, and soil repellency compositions containing a hydrofluoro- or hydrochlorofluoro-olefin and said surfactant. Additionally, the invention provides drying compositions containing a hydrofluoro-olefin or hydrochlorofluoro-olefin and an alcohol such as methanol, ethanol or isopropanol. 1. A composition comprising effective amounts of at least one hydrofluoro-olefin or hydrochlorofluoro-olefin solvent and at least one , hydrophobic , fluorine-containing surfactant soluble in the hydrofluoro-olefin or hydrochlorofluoro-olefin solvent.3. The composition of wherein n is 2 claim 2 , 3 or 4.4. The composition of wherein n=2 and Rf is alphafluoropolydifluoromethylene with an average m value of about 6-8.5. The composition of wherein the surfactant is an oligomeric perfluoroalkylpyridinium salt of 4-tert-octylphenyl-monoacid phosphates claim 2 , an oligomeric perfluoroalkylpyridinium salt of 4-tert-octylphenyl-diacid phosphates claim 2 , or mixtures thereof.7. The composition of wherein the surfactant is selected from the group consisting of the diethyl methyl 1 claim 6 ,1 claim 6 ,2 claim 6 ,2-tetrahydroperfluorodecylamine salt of octylphenyl (mono)acid phosphate claim 6 , the diethyl methyl 1 claim 6 ,1 claim 6 ,2 claim 6 ,2-tetrahydroperfluorodecylamine salt of octylphenyl (di)acid phosphate; the dimethyl benzyl 1 claim 6 ,1 claim 6 ,2 claim 6 ,2-tetrahydroperfluorodecylamine salt of octyl phenyl (mono) acid phosphate and the dimethyl benzyl 1 claim 6 ,1 claim 6 ,2 claim 6 ,2tetrahydroperfluorodecylamine salt of octyl phenyl (di) acid phosphate; the diethyl benzyl 1 claim 6 ,1 claim 6 ,2 claim 6 ,2-tetrahydroperfluorodecylamine salt of octyl phenyl (mono) acid phosphate and thediethyl benzyl 1 claim 6 ,1 ...

DEVICES AND METHODS FOR STORING, LOADING, AND DELIVERING AN INTRAOCULAR LENS

A cartridge for delivering an intraocular lens into the eye of a subject that comprises a body disposed along a longitudinal axis having a distal end and a proximal end, and a tapered lumen disposed along the longitudinal axis having an aperture at the distal end of the body. The aperture and at least a portion of the tapered lumen each consist of an upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portions of the aperture and lumen each have a first width and a cross-section that is generally arcuate. The lower portions of the aperture and lumen each have a cross-section that is generally horizontally disposed and have a second width that is greater than the first width of the aperture and lumen. The cartridge may be loaded with an intraocular lens using a packaging system. The intraocular lens may be placed into the eye of a subject using a corresponding inserter having a pushrod with a saddle disposed at the tip thereof. The intraocular lens is preferably draped over the saddle during insertion. 1. A cartridge for delivering an intraocular lens into the eye of a subject , comprising:a body disposed along a longitudinal axis having a distal end and a proximal end; anda tapered lumen disposed along the longitudinal axis having an aperture at the distal end of the body;the aperture and at least a portion of the tapered lumen each having a cross-section defined by two generally opposing and interfacing sides: a first side and a second side, wherein the interface of the two sides define a horizontal axis;the first side comprised of a cross-section that is generally arcuate;the second side comprised of a cross section that is generally parallel to the horizontal axis.2. The cartridge of claim 1 , further comprising wings longitudinally disposed to either side of the body.3. The cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the body further comprises a bottom surface having an opening disposed along the longitudinal axis.4. The cartridge of claim 1 , wherein the opening comprises an ...

INSTRUMENTATION AND METHOD FOR PERFORMING A MULTISTAGE GASTRIC BYPASS

1. Instrumentation for carrying out a gastrointestinal bypass comprising: 1. Instrumentation for carrying out a gastrointestinal bypass comprising:{'b': 4', '6', '12', '21', '22', '13', '1, 'means (, , ) for creating a gastric sleeve (, ) from the lesser curvature () of the stomach (),'}{'b': 21', '22, 'means for creating a gastrointestinal bypass involving said gastric sleeve (, ), in which said means for creating a gastrointestinal bypass include{'b': 24', '25', '21', '22', '1', '21', '22, 'means for closely approximating a first tissue portion () of the intestine to a second tissue portion () of the gastric sleeve (, ) of stomach (), creating a first loop (A) of the intestine between the gastric sleeve , of stomach and the first tissue portion,'}{'b': '26', 'means for creating a gastroenteroanastomosis () between the two close tissue portions, maintaining the continuity of the intestinal duct after the creation of the gastroenteroanastomosis,'}{'b': 27', '26', '28', '26', '26', '28', '26', '26, 'means for closely approximating an additional first tissue portion () of the intestine arranged distally or downstream with respect to the gastroenteroanastomosis () with reference to the natural flow along the intestinal duct, and an additional second tissue portion () of the intestine arranged proximally, or upstream, with respect to the gastroenteroanastomosis () with reference to the natural flow along the intestinal duct, creating a second loop (B) of the intestine which is distal with respect to the gastroenteroanastomosis (), wherein said additional second tissue portion () of the intestine, proximal with respect to the gastroenteroanastomosis (), is brought close to the gastroenteroanastomosis (),'}{'b': 29', '27', '28', '29, 'means for creating an enteroenteroanastomosis () between the two close tissue portions (, ) of the intestine, maintaining the continuity of the intestinal duct after the creation of the enteroenteroanastomosis (),'}{'b': 20', '26', '29, ' ...

ENDOPROSTHESIS HAVING IMPROVED STRAIN DISTRIBUTION

An endoprosthesis for delivery in a body lumen can be configured to inhibit structural fatigue, crack formation, and elastic recoil while providing improved crimping and expansion uniformity and radial strength. As such, the endoprosthesis can include at least one multi-stage crest element connecting adjacent bar arms. The multi-stage crest element and, optionally, the connection or transition between the multi-stage crest element and the bar arms can form a plurality of undulations or curves to improve the distribution of the strains experienced by the endoprosthesis. The improved strain distribution can improve the structural integrity and prevent failure of the endoprosthesis. 1. An endoprosthesis for delivery in a body lumen , the endoprosthesis comprising: a plurality of circumferentially-adjacent bar arms comprising at least a first bar arm and a circumferentially-adjacent second bar arm, each of the first and second bar arms having a first end adjacent the first longitudinal side and a second end adjacent the second longitudinal side, the second ends being circumferentially offset from the first ends such that each bar arm is generally obliquely oriented relative to the longitudinal axis; and', 'at least one multi-stage crest element connecting the first end of the first bar arm to the first end of the second bar arm, the at least one multi-stage crest element having a plurality of link arms connected to one another with a plurality of elbows, the plurality of link arms comprising a first link arm and a second link arm, each of the first and second link arms having a first end and a second end, the second ends being circumferentially offset from the first ends such that each link arm is generally obliquely oriented relative to the longitudinal axis, the first end of the first link arm being connected to the first end of the first bar arm and the first end of the second link arm being connected to the first end of the second bar arm, wherein the arrangement ...

ACCOMMODATING INTRAOCULAR LENS

An intraocular lens for implantation in a capsular bag of an eye includes an optic disposed about an optical axis and a haptic including a protruding portion disposed inside the optic. The optic has an anterior face and an opposing posterior face that are configured to provide a lens power. In response to an ocular force of the eye, the haptic transmits a force that alters one or more of a shape of the optic and an axial thickness of the optic. The protruding portion of the haptic has a refractive index that is equal to a refraction index of the optic for at least one a wavelength within the visible spectrum. 1. An intraocular lens for implantation in a capsular bag of an eye , comprising:an optic disposed about an optical axis having an axial thickness through the center thereof, an anterior face, and an opposing posterior face, the faces configured to provide a lens power; anda haptic including a protruding portion disposed inside the optic;wherein the protruding portion of the haptic has a refractive index that is essentially equal to a refraction index of the optic.2. The intraocular lens of claim 1 , wherein the haptic protrudes through an edge of the optic.34-. (canceled)5. The intraocular lens of claim 1 , wherein the haptic protruding portion has a maximum axial thickness that is at least one half the axial thickness of the optic67-. (canceled)8. The intraocular lens of claim 1 , wherein the haptic includes a plurality of radial segments that are shaped to engage an equatorial region of the capsular bag.9. The intraocular lens of claim 1 , wherein the total number of haptics is greater than two.10. The intraocular lens of claim 1 , wherein the haptic comprises a plurality of arms claim 1 , each arm having a proximal portion protruding into the optic and a distal portion outside the optic claim 1 , the proximal portions being joined together by a ring structure.11. The intraocular lens of claim 1 , wherein the haptic comprises a plurality of arms claim 1 , ...

Method For Stent Retention On A Balloon Catheter

A balloon is inflated from a collapsed configuration, then deflated. A polymeric stem is then disposed over the deflated balloon and the stent crimped to the balloon. 124-. (canceled)25. A method of crimping a stent to a balloon , the balloon having pre-arranged folds when configured in a collapsed configuration , comprising:heating a polymer stent to a temperature of between 25 and 100 degrees Celsius, wherein the glass transition temperature for the polymer is between 40 and 60 degrees Celsius;inflating the balloon a first time, then deflating the balloon such that the balloon forms a relaxed state wherein the pre-arranged folds are partially reformed;partially crimping the heated stent to the balloon, followed by inflating the balloon a second time; andfully crimping the heated stent to the balloon.26. The method of claim 25 , wherein the inflating the balloon a first time includes increasing the balloon diameter from an intermediate diameter to a crimping diameter.27. The method of claim 25 , wherein when the balloon is inflated a second time the balloon pressure is held at a desired pressure for a period of time prior to release of pressure.28. The method of claim 27 , wherein the polymer stent is heated to a temperature of between 30-50 degrees Celsius.29. The method of claim 25 , wherein the polymer stent is heated to within a range of 30-50 degrees Celsius and the polymer is poly(lactide-co-glycolide) or poly(L-lactide).30. The method of claim 25 , wherein the polymer stent is heated to a temperature of between 30-50 degrees Celsius.31. A method of crimping a stent to a balloon claim 25 , the balloon having pre-arranged folds when configured in a collapsed configuration claim 25 , comprising:heating a polymer stent to between 25 and 100 degrees Celsius;inflating and deflating the balloon, such that the balloon's pre-arranged folds are partially reformed;partially crimping the heated polymer stent to the balloon;inflating the balloon to a crimping diameter ...

PLATEN CLEANING

To achieve cost efficiency, solar cells must be processed at a high throughput. Breakages, which may leave debris on the clamping surface of the platen, adversely affect this throughput. A plurality of embodiments are disclosed which may be used to remove debris from the clamping surface without breaking the vacuum condition within the processing station. In some embodiments, a brush is used to sweep the debris from the surface of the platen. In other embodiments, an adhesive material is used to collect the debris. In some embodiments, the automation equipment used to handle masks may also be used to handle the platen cleaning mechanisms. In still other embodiments, stream of gas or ion beams are used to clean debris from the clamping surface of the platen. 1. A process for removing debris from the surface of a platen located in a processing station used for ion implantation , comprising:extending a platen cleaning device with bristles disposed on a movable arm such that said bristles contact said surface of said platen; andcreating relative movement between said platen and said bristles, thereby removing said debris from said surface.2. The process of claim 1 , wherein said surface of said platen is rotated so as to face downward prior to said bristles contacting said surface.3. The process of claim 1 , wherein said relative movement is created when said ion implantation is not occurring.4. The process of claim 1 , wherein said movable arm is dedicated to said debris removal operation.5. The process of claim 1 , wherein said movable arm comprises an end effector claim 1 , wherein said end effector is used to engage and position masks during said ion implantation.6. The process of claim 5 , wherein said movable arm may engage and release said platen cleaning device.7. The process of claim 5 , wherein said platen cleaning device comprises a mask-like structure having bristles affixed to at least a first side.8. The process of claim 5 , wherein said platen cleaning ...

PROCESS FOR OPTIMUM THERMOELECTRIC PROPERTIES

A process for forming a thermoelectric component having optimum properties is provided. The process includes providing a plurality of core-shell nanoparticles, the nanoparticles having a core made from silica, metals, semiconductors, insulators, ceramics, carbon, polymers, combinations thereof, and the like, and a shell containing bismuth telluride. After the core-shell nanoparticles have been provided, the nanoparticles are subjected to a sintering process. The result of the sintering provides a bismuth telluride thermoelectric component having a combined electrical conductivity and Seebeck coefficient squared of greater than 30,000 μVS/mKat 150° C. 1. A process for a forming a bismuth telluride thermoelectric component , the process comprising:providing a plurality of core-shell nanoparticles;{'sub': '2', 'the core of the plurality of core-shell nanoparticles containing a material selected from a group consisting of silica (SiO), metals, semiconductors, insulators, ceramics, carbon, polymers and combinations thereof;'}the shell of the plurality of core-shell nanoparticles containing bismuth telluride; andsintering the plurality of core-shell nanoparticles within a predetermined temperature range and within a predetermined pressure range;{'sup': '2', 'the sintering resulting in a bismuth telluride thermoelectric component having a combined γ×S>30,000 at 150° C. where γ is the electrical conductivity in siemens per meter (S/m) and S is the Seebeck coefficient in microvolts per degree Kelvin (μV/K).'}2. The process of claim 1 , wherein the core contains SiO.3. The process of claim 2 , wherein the shell contains BiTe.4. The process of claim 3 , wherein the shell contains BiTedoped with selenium.5. The process of claim 1 , wherein the predetermined sintering temperature range is between 375° C. and 425° C. and the predetermined sintering pressure range is between 40 MPa and 60 MPa.6. The process of claim 5 , wherein the predetermined sintering temperature range is ...

ELECTRONIC DEVICE STRUCTURE INCLUDING A BUFFER LAYER ON A BASE LAYER

Electronic device structures that compensate for non-uniform etching on a semiconductor wafer and methods of fabricating the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, the electronic device includes a number of layers including a semiconductor base layer of a first doping type formed of a desired semiconductor material, a semiconductor buffer layer on the base layer that is also formed of the desired semiconductor material, and one or more contact layers of a second doping type on the buffer layer. The one or more contact layers are etched to form a second contact region of the electronic device. The buffer layer reduces damage to the semiconductor base layer during fabrication of the electronic device. Preferably, a thickness of the semiconductor buffer layer is selected to compensate for over-etching due to non-uniform etching on a semiconductor wafer on which the electronic device is fabricated. 1. An electronic device including a plurality of layers comprising:a semiconductor base layer of a first doping type;a semiconductor buffer layer on the semiconductor base layer; andone or more contact layers on the semiconductor buffer layer that form a first contact region of the electronic device and that are of a second doping type that is opposite the first doping type;wherein the semiconductor buffer layer reduces damage to the semiconductor base layer during fabrication of the electronic device.2. The electronic device of wherein a thickness of the semiconductor buffer layer compensates for over etch when etching the one or more contact layers to form the first contact region due to non-uniformity of etching on a semiconductor wafer on which the electronic device is fabricated.3. The electronic device of wherein the thickness of the semiconductor buffer layer is at least approximately equal to a maximum amount of over-etch on the semiconductor wafer when etching the one or more contact layers to form the first contact region due to non-uniformity of etching on the ...

ELECTRONIC DEVICE STRUCTURE WITH A SEMICONDUCTOR LEDGE LAYER FOR SURFACE PASSIVATION

Electronic device structures including semiconductor ledge layers for surface passivation and methods of manufacturing the same are disclosed. In one embodiment, the electronic device includes a number of semiconductor layers of a desired semiconductor material having alternating doping types. The semiconductor layers include a base layer of a first doping type that includes a highly doped well forming a first contact region of the electronic device and one or more contact layers of a second doping type on the base layer that have been etched to form a second contact region of the electronic device. The etching of the one or more contact layers causes substantial crystalline damage, and thus interface charge, on the surface of the base layer. In order to passivate the surface of the base layer, a semiconductor ledge layer of the semiconductor material is epitaxially grown on at least the surface of the base layer. 1. An electronic device comprising: a base layer of a first doping type that includes a highly doped well forming a first contact region of the electronic device; and', 'one or more contact layers on the base layer that form a second contact region of the electronic device and that are of a second doping type that is opposite the first doping type; and, 'a structure comprising a plurality of semiconductor layers having alternating doping types, the plurality of semiconductor layers comprisinga semiconductor ledge layer on at least a surface of the base layer that passivates interface charge at the surface of the base layer.2. The electronic device of wherein the semiconductor ledge layer is lightly doped.3. The electronic device of wherein a doping level of the semiconductor ledge layer is in a range of about and including 5×10to 1×10carriers per centimeter cubed (cm).4. The electronic device of wherein the semiconductor ledge layer is of the first doping type.5. The electronic device of wherein the semiconductor ledge layer is of the second doping type.6. ...

LIGHTING DEVICE

A first lighting device comprises at least one plural cavity element and a plurality of solid state light emitters. A second lighting device comprises at least one plural cavity element, a plurality of solid state light emitters and at least one encapsulant region, at least a portion of the plural cavity element being surrounded by the encapsulant region. Each plural cavity element has at least two optical cavities. Each optical cavity comprises a concave region in the plural cavity element. At least one solid state light emitter is present in each of at least two of the optical cavities. 1. A lighting device comprising:at least one plural cavity element, said plural cavity element having at least two optical cavities, each of said optical cavities comprising a concave region in said plural cavity element; anda plurality of solid state light emitters, at least a first solid state light emitter present in a first optical cavity and at least a second solid state light emitter present in a second optical cavity, said first solid state light emitter comprising a first luminescent material, said second solid state light emitter comprising a second luminescent material, said first luminescent material differing from said second luminescent material.2. A lighting device as recited in claim 1 , wherein:said plural cavity element further comprises a third optical cavity,at least a third solid state light emitter is present in said third optical cavity, andsaid third solid state light emitter is a narrow spectrum solid state light emitter.3. A lighting device comprising:at least one plural cavity element, said plural cavity element having at least two optical cavities, each of said optical cavities comprising a concave region in said plural cavity element; anda plurality of solid state light emitters,at least a first solid state light emitter present in a first optical cavity and at least a second solid state light emitter present in a second optical cavity, said first solid ...

SLIDABLE WINDOW ASSEMBLY WITH RETRACTABLE SUNSHADE

A slidable window assembly mounted within the roof of an automotive vehicle is provided. The roof includes an opening and the slidable window assembly includes a window panel having a catch. The window panel is slidably mounted within the roof and slidable between an open position and a closed position. The slidable window assembly further includes a sunshade disposed beneath the window panel. The sunshade is also slidable between an open and closed position. The sunshade has a first surface facing the window panel and a stop mounted on the first surface. The catch is operable to engage the stop so as to move the sunshade from the closed position to the open position. 1. A slidable window assembly mounted in a roof of an automotive vehicle , the roof having an opening having a forward edge opposite a rear edge , and a first side edge opposite a second side edge , the slidable window assembly comprising:a window panel having a catch, the window panel mounted to the opening of the roof and slidable between an open position wherein the opening is open, and a closed position wherein the opening is closed; anda sunshade disposed beneath the window panel and slidable between the open and closed position, the sunshade having a first surface facing the window panel, a stop mounted on the first surface, the stop including a base mounted to the first surface and extending rearwardly toward the rear edge, the base having a plurality of spikes. each of the plurality of spikes engaging the first surface of the sunshade, an elongated member having a distal end, the elongated member projecting from the base towards the window panel, a resilient bumper mounted onto the distal end of the elongated member, the catch disposed closer to the forward edge than the stop, the catch forward of the stop so as to prevent the stop from moving past the catch so as to prevent the window panel from being in the open position and the sunshade in the closed position, the catch operable to engage ...

MULTI-ATTACH DISPOSABLE TAG

A multi-attach disposable security tag that is attached to an article in two stages. In a first stage, an attachment clip is coupled to an article, such as but not limited to clothing, to be protected by a manufacturer or assembler. This attachment clip is durable to withstand harsh manufacturing environments. Once the article with the attachment clip is ready for presentation, for example, at a retail establishment, during a second stage, the attachment clip is then permanently secured in a locking mechanism of a housing containing a deactivatable security element therein. The security element may comprise EAS (including AM, RF, EM and microwave), RFID (including LF, HF and UHF) elements or any combination thereof. A preferred embodiment of the security tag uses all non-ferrous components including its locking mechanism. Thus, the security tags combine the qualities of being non-ferrous, light-weight, low cost, deactivatable, secure, visually-deterring, and installable in two stages to the article it is meant to protect. 1. A security tag adapted for securing to an article , said security tag comprising:a housing;a locking mechanism positioned along an edge of said housing;an attachment clip comprising a first portion configured to secure to the article independently of said housing; and a second portion configured to permanently secure within said locking mechanism of said housing, and wherein at least a portion of said attachment clip is rotatable with respect to said housing; anda deactivatable security element associated with said housing, said security element preventing or hindering a theft of the article.2. The security tag of wherein said housing comprises an aperture located along an edge of said housing and wherein said second portion comprises an insert that is insertable within said aperture and which is rotatable within said aperture.3. The security tag of wherein said aperture forms an annular stop within said housing and wherein said insert is ...

MICROWAVE SYSTEM UTILIZING ELEVATIONAL SCANNING BY FREQUENCY HOPPING

For use in conjunction with a microwave antenna having a radiator array configured to scan in a horizontal direction, a method for scanning in the vertical direction. A first FMCW microwave signal having a first bandwidth is transmitted at a first microwave frequency and the echo, if any, is received by the radiator array. A second FMCW microwave signal having a second bandwidth is also transmitted at a different center frequency and the echo, if any, is received by the radiator array. The different frequencies cause an elevational shift in the received signal. The receipt of the echoes is then processed to identify the location or locations of the object or objects causing the echo and communicating such location or locations to a user. 1. For use in conjunction with a microwave antenna having a radiator array configured to scan in a horizontal direction , a method for scanning in the vertical direction comprising the steps of:a) transmitting a first FMCW microwave signal having a first bandwidth at a first microwave center frequency,b) receiving an echo of said first microwave signal, if any, on the radiator array,c) thereafter transmitting a second FMCW microwave signal having a second bandwidth at a said microwave center frequency, said first and second center frequencies being spaced apart in frequency by a frequency greater than said first bandwidth and also greater than said second bandwidth,d) receiving an echo of said second microwave signal, if any, on the radiator array,e) processing the receipt of such echo or echoes to identify the location or locations of an object or objects causing the echo or echoes and communicating such location or locations to a user, andreiterating steps a)-e).2. The method as defined in wherein said first and second bandwidths are mutually exclusive.3. The method as defined in claim I wherein said first and second center frequencies are between 76 GHz and 80 GHz.4. For use in conjunction with a microwave antenna having a ...

PROVIDING FEEDBACK ABOUT AN IMAGE OF A FINANCIAL DOCUMENT

A technique for providing feedback about an image of a financial document to a user is described. During this feedback technique, the user provides the image of a financial document, such as W-2 form. For example, the user may take a picture of or may scan the financial document. This image may be analyzed using predefined information in a set of financial documents (such as different types of income-tax documents), and a quality metric for the image may be determined using the analysis. Moreover, the feedback, which is based on the determined quality metric, may be provided to the user. For example, the user may be instructed to retake the image, and the instructions may include an image of the desired orientation and content. In this way, the user may be advised as to how to improve the quality metric in the revised image. 1. A computer-implemented method for providing feedback about an image of a financial document to a user , comprising:receiving the image of the financial document from the user;analyzing the image based on predefined information in a set of financial documents;determining a quality metric for the image based on the analysis; andproviding the feedback to the user based on the determined quality metric, thereby informing the user how to generate a second image with an improved quality metric relative to the quality metric of the image.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the financial document includes an income-tax document.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein analyzing the image involves optical character recognition or image processing.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein analyzing the image involves identifying a location with financial information in the image.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein analyzing the image involves cropping the image.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein analyzing the image involves identifying the financial document.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the quality metric includes information about extraneous information in the ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING PLASMA DEPOSITION UNIFORMITY

A plasma process uniformity control apparatus comprises a plasma chamber defined by chamber walls and a plurality of magnetic elements disposed on the outside of the chamber walls. Each of the plurality of magnets is configured to supply a magnetic field directed at respective portions of the plasma inside the chamber to control the uniformity of the plasma directed toward the target substrate. 1. A process uniformity control apparatus comprising:a plasma chamber defined by chamber walls;a platen disposed within said plasma chamber for supporting a target substrate;a gas source coupled to said plasma chamber for supplying an process gas to said chamber,a power source connected to said chamber and configured to provide energy to ionize said process gas supplied to said chamber to form a plasma containing charged and non-charged species directed toward a surface of said target substrate; anda plurality of magnetic elements disposed in spaced relation on the outside of the chamber walls, each of said plurality of magnets configured to supply a magnetic field directed at respective portions of said plasma within said chamber to control the uniformity of said plasma directed toward said target substrate.2. The process uniformity control apparatus of further comprising an anode spaced from said platen in said plasma chamber claim 1 , said plasma being generated between said anode and said platen.3. The process uniformity control apparatus of further comprising a plurality of coils disposed around at least a portion of the chamber walls claim 2 , said coils and said corresponding chamber walls defining said anode.4. The process uniformity control apparatus of wherein said plurality of coils receive RF energy to ionize said process gas.5. The process uniformity control apparatus of wherein said platen is biased with a negative voltage to attract said charged and non-charged species toward said target substrate.6. The process uniformity control apparatus of wherein said ...

HYBRID ALPHA-AMYLASES

Hybrid alpha-amylases are provided that share a conserved 3D structure in whole or in part with a wild-type Termamyl-like ?-amylase, e.g., a amylase. In the hybrid, an N terminal portion of a Termamyl-like ?-amylase is replaced with sequences from an archae ? amylase. The sequence similarity between the two amylase sequences may be less than 60%. Conserving the wild-type 3D structure in the hybrid facilitates obtaining enzymatically active amylases. In one embodiment, one or both amylase sequences contribute residues to the B domain, resulting in particularly advantageous properties. For instance, replacement of the Ca2+ binding site in the B domain of the Termamyl-like ?-amylase with a B domain sequence of an archae ? amylase that does not bind Ca2+ can produce a hybrid that is fully active in the absence of Ca2+. 1. A hybrid amylase comprising the polypeptide having , from N-terminus to C-terminus , formula (I):{'br': None, 'A-x-y-B \u2003\u2003(I),'} A is a first amino acid sequence from an archae α-amylase;', 'B is a second amino acid sequence from a wild-type Termamyl-like α-amylase or a variant thereof having at least 80% sequence identity to the wild-type Termamyl-like α-amylase;', 'x is a C-terminal residue of the first amino acid sequence;', 'y is a N-terminal residue of the second amino acid sequence;, 'wherein'}wherein the first and second amino acid sequences together contain about 400 to about 500 amino acid residues;wherein between about 10% and about 80% of the total amino acids in the hybrid amylase are contributed by the archae α-amylase; andwherein residues x and y are structurally conserved in the hybrid amylase compared to the wild-type Termamyl-like α amylase.2. The hybrid amylase of claim 1 , wherein the hybrid amylase has an altered level of recombinant expression claim 1 , solubility claim 1 , pH activity profile claim 1 , substrate specificity claim 1 , or specific activity claim 1 , compared to the wild-type Termamyl-like α-amylase.3. The ...

SURGICAL CUTTING AND SEALING INSTRUMENT WITH CONTROLLED ENERGY DELIVERY

A surgical instrument for supplying energy to tissue can comprise a jaw member comprising an electrode, wherein the electrode is configured to supply energy from a power source to captured tissue. A control unit is configured to regulate the amount of energy delivered to the tissue through the monitoring of the current flowing through the tissue and the rate of change of the current flowing through the tissue. Through the monitoring of the current, the impedance of the tissue and the rate of change of impedance of the tissue may be determined to monitor the state of the captured tissue and reduce excess tissue heating. 1. An electrosurgical system , comprising: a current flowing through the tissue; and', 'a rate of change of the current flowing through the tissue., 'a control unit comprising a processor and memory in communication with the processor, wherein the control unit is configured to deliver a variable level of energy to a circuit comprising an electrode and tissue in electrical communication with the electrode, wherein the control unit is configured to vary the level of energy delivered to the tissue based on2. The electrosurgical system of claim 1 , wherein the energy is radio frequency (Rf) energy.3. The electrosurgical system of claim 1 , wherein the control unit is configured to deliver pulses of energy to the circuit and vary the level of energy by varying a duty cycle of the pulses of energy.4. The electrosurgical system of claim 3 , wherein the control unit is configured to vary the level of energy by varying an amplitude of a pulse of energy.5. The electrosurgical system of claim 1 , wherein the control unit is configured to reduce the level of energy delivered to the circuit when the current flowing through the tissue reaches a predetermined current level and the rate of change of the current flowing through the tissue reaches a predetermined rate of change.6. The electrosurgical system of claim 1 , wherein the control unit configured to deliver ...

ELECTROSURGICAL CUTTING AND SEALING INSTRUMENT

A surgical instrument for supplying energy to tissue can comprise a jaw member comprising an electrode, wherein the electrode is configured to supply energy from a power source to captured tissue. The surgical instrument comprises a tissue-cutting element to transect the captured tissue. The rate of distal translation of the tissue-cutting element during the operational stroke may be regulated by a linear actuator, for example. 1. An electrosurgical instrument , comprising:a handle;an elongate shaft extending distally from the handle; a first jaw member;', 'a second jaw member, wherein the first jaw member is movable relative to the second jaw member between an open and a closed position;', 'a tissue-cutting element configured to translate with respect to the first jaw and the second jaw; and', 'an electrode;, 'an end effector coupled to the distal end of the elongate shaft, comprisingan axially moveable cutting member configured to open and close the jaws, the tissue-cutting element positioned at a distal end of the axially movable member;a trigger coupled to the axially moveable cutting member; anda linear actuator coupled to the axially moveable cutting member.2. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 1 , wherein the linear actuator comprises a motor and a lead screw.3. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 2 , comprising a nut assembly in threaded engagement with the lead screw.4. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 1 , wherein the trigger is movable between a first position claim 1 , a second position claim 1 , and a third position claim 1 , and wherein the linear actuator distally drives the axially moveable cutting member when the trigger is moved from the second position to the third position.5. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 4 , wherein the first jaw member moves from the open position to the closed position when the trigger is moved from the first position to the second position.6. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 1 , further ...

ELECTROSURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH SEPARATE CLOSURE AND CUTTING MEMBERS

In various embodiments, a surgical instrument is provided that may comprise an end effector for performing a surgical procedure on tissue, for example. The end effector may comprise a pair of jaws, a closure beam, and a cutting member. The closure beam and the cutting member may be releasably coupled together by an interlocking member such that movement of the cutting member may cause the closure beam to also move relative to the jaws and cause the jaws to close and grip tissue, for example. The interlocking member may then unlock, allowing the cutting member to move through the gripped tissue and relative to the closure beam. Additionally, the cutting member and closure beam may be operated by a single trigger, which may be configured to provide haptic feedback to a user at various stages. Further, the jaws may be electrically energized to deliver energy and/or seal the gripped tissue. 1. A surgical instrument , comprising: a first jaw defining a channel;', 'a second jaw, wherein the first jaw and the second jaw are operably coupled together such that the first jaw may move between an open position and a closed position with respect to the second jaw;', 'a closure beam sized and configured to fit at least partially within the channel, wherein the closure beam is configured to translate along the channel between a first position and a second position, wherein the first jaw is at the closed position when the closure beam is at the second position; and', 'a cutting member sized and configured to fit at least partially within the channel, wherein the cutting member is configured to translate along the channel and with respect to the closure beam., 'an end effector comprising2. The surgical instrument of claim 1 , further comprising an interlocking member configured to selectively hold the cutting member and the closure beam together such that the cutting member and the closure beam translate synchronously with each other in at least one direction with respect to the ...

ELECTROSURGICAL CUTTING AND SEALING INSTRUMENT

A surgical instrument for supplying energy to tissue can comprise a jaw member comprising an electrode, wherein the electrode is configured to supply energy from a power source to captured tissue. The surgical instrument comprises a tissue-cutting element to transect the captured tissue. The rate of distal translation of the tissue-cutting element during the operational stroke is regulated by at least one biasing member, such as a spring, for example. 1. An electrosurgical instrument , comprising:a handle;an elongate shaft extending distally from the handle, wherein the elongate shaft defines a longitudinal axis;a trigger coupled to the elongate shaft; a first jaw member;', 'a second jaw member, wherein the first jaw member is movable relative to the second jaw member between an open and a closed position;', 'a tissue-cutting element configured to translate with respect to the first jaw and the second jaw; and', 'an electrode;, 'an end effector coupled to the distal end of the elongate shaft, comprisingan axially moveable member configured to open and close the jaws, the tissue-cutting element positioned at a distal end of the axially movable member; anda spring operably coupled to the trigger, the spring to release energy and distally translate the axially moveable member.2. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 1 , further comprising an internal shaft claim 1 , wherein the internal shaft defines a longitudinal axis that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the elongate shaft.3. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 2 , wherein the internal shaft comprises a drive gear and the moveable cutting member comprises a rack in operable engagement with the drive gear.4. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 3 , wherein the internal shaft is coupled to the trigger claim 3 , and wherein the spring is a torsional spring.5. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 1 , wherein the spring is an advance spring.6. The electrosurgical instrument of claim ...

ELECTROSURGICAL CUTTING AND SEALING INSTRUMENT

A surgical instrument for supplying energy to tissue can comprise a jaw member comprising an electrode, wherein the electrode is configured to supply energy from a power source to captured tissue. The surgical instrument comprises a tissue-cutting element to transect the captured tissue. The rate of distal translation of the tissue-cutting element during the operational stroke may be regulated by a damper. The damper may have barrel and a plunger. 1. An electrosurgical instrument , comprising:a handle;an elongate shaft extending distally from the handle;a trigger moveable between a first position and a second position; a first jaw member;', 'a second jaw member, wherein the first jaw member is movable relative to the second jaw member between an open and a closed position;', 'a tissue-cutting element configured to translate with respect to the first jaw and the second jaw; and', 'an electrode;, 'an end effector coupled to the distal end of the elongate shaft, comprisingan axially moveable cutting member configured to open and close the jaws, the tissue-cutting element positioned at a distal end of the axially movable member; anda damper coupled to the trigger and the axially moveable cutting member.2. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 1 , wherein the axially moveable cutting member is configured to move distally when the trigger is moved between the first and second position.3. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 1 , wherein the damper comprises a barrel and a plunger claim 1 , wherein an outer diameter of the plunger is in sealing engagement with an inner diameter of the barrel claim 1 , wherein the plunger is movable between a first and second position.4. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 3 , wherein the barrel defines at least one inlet orifice and at least one outlet orifice.5. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 4 , further comprises a check valve positioned proximate the inlet orifice.6. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 4 , wherein a ...

ELECTROSURGICAL CUTTING AND SEALING INSTRUMENT

A surgical instrument for supplying energy to tissue can comprise a jaw member comprising an electrode, wherein the electrode is configured to supply energy from a power source to captured tissue. The surgical instrument comprises a tissue-cutting element to transect the captured tissue. The rate of distal translation of the tissue-cutting element during the operational stroke may be regulated by an electromagnetic brake. 1. An electrosurgical instrument , comprising:a handle;an elongate shaft extending distally from the handle;a trigger moveable between a first position and a second position;an electromagnetic brake; and a first jaw member;', 'a second jaw member, wherein the first jaw member is movable relative to the second jaw member between an open and a closed position; and', 'a tissue-cutting element configured to translate with respect to the first jaw and the second jaw;, 'an end effector coupled to the distal end of the elongate shaft, comprisingan axially moveable cutting member configured to open and close the jaws, the tissue-cutting element positioned at a distal end of the axially movable member; andan electrode.2. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 1 , wherein the electromagnetic brake is configured to selectably engage the trigger.3. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 2 , wherein the electromagnetic comprises a brake pad.4. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 3 , wherein electromagnetic brake comprises a solenoid coupled to the brake pad.5. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 3 , wherein the brake pad comprises at least one pad ridge claim 3 , and wherein at least one of the trigger and the axially moveable cutting member comprises a brake pad engagement portion.6. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 5 , wherein the brake pad engagement portion comprises a plurality of troughs.7. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 6 , wherein the at least one pad ridge is configured to engage at least one trough.8. The electrosurgical ...

ELECTROSURGICAL CUTTING AND SEALING INSTRUMENT

A surgical instrument for supplying energy to tissue can comprise a jaw member comprising an electrode, wherein the electrode is configured to supply energy from a power source to captured tissue. The surgical instrument comprises a tissue-cutting element to transect the captured tissue. The rate of distal translation of the tissue-cutting element during the operational stroke may be regulated by at least one electromagnet and at least one electromagnetic engagement surface. 1. An electrosurgical instrument , comprising:a handle;an elongate shaft extending distally from the handle;a trigger; a first jaw member;', 'a second jaw member, wherein the first jaw member is movable relative to the second jaw member between an open and a closed position;', 'a tissue-cutting element configured to translate with respect to the first jaw and the second jaw; and', 'an electrode,, 'an end effector coupled to the distal end of the elongate shaft, comprisingan axially moveable cutting member configured to open and close the jaws, the tissue-cutting element positioned at a distal end of the axially movable member;an electromagnet positioned proximate to the trigger; andan electromagnet engaging surface positioned proximate to the trigger.2. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 1 , wherein the electromagnet is coupled to the trigger and the electromagnet engaging surface is coupled to the handle.3. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 2 , wherein the electromagnet comprises a first electromagnet and a second electromagnet.4. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 3 , wherein the electromagnet engaging surface is to sequentially engage the first electromagnet and a second electromagnet claim 3 , wherein the trigger is in a first position when the engaging surface is engaged to the first electromagnet claim 3 , and wherein the trigger is in a second position when the electromagnet engaging surface is engaged to the second electromagnet.5. The electrosurgical instrument of claim ...

ELECTROSURGICAL CUTTING AND SEALING INSTRUMENT

A surgical instrument for supplying energy to tissue can comprise a jaw member comprising an electrode, wherein the electrode is configured to supply energy from a power source to captured tissue. The surgical instrument comprises a tissue-cutting element to transect the captured tissue. The surgical instrument may have a indicator to provide feedback signals during the operational stroke. The feedback signals assist in regulating the rate of distal translation of the tissue-cutting element. 1. An electrosurgical instrument , comprising:a handle comprising an indicator, the indicator configured to provide a serial series of feedback signals during an operational stroke;an elongate shaft extending distally from the handle; a first jaw member;', 'a second jaw member, wherein the first jaw member is movable relative to the second jaw member between an open and a closed position;', 'a tissue-cutting element configured to translate with respect to the first jaw and the second jaw;', 'an electrode; and', 'a sensor;, 'an end effector coupled to the distal end of the elongate shaft, comprisingan axially moveable cutting member configured to open and close the jaws, the tissue-cutting element positioned at a distal end of the axially movable member; anda trigger coupled to the axially moveable cutting member.2. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 1 , wherein the feedback signal is a visual feedback signal.3. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 1 , wherein the feedback signal is an audio feedback signal.4. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 1 , wherein the feedback signal is a vibrating feedback signal.5. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 1 , further comprising:a feedback controller, wherein the sensor is a tissue impedance sensor configured to supply a signal to the feedback controller, and wherein the feedback controller is electrically coupled to the indicator.6. The electrosurgical instrument of claim 5 , wherein the serial series of feedback signals is ...

METHODS AND DEVICES FOR PLACEMENT OF AN INTRA-ABDOMINAL OR INTRA-THORACIC APPLIANCE THROUGH A NATURAL BODY ORIFICE

Natural orifice transenteric surgical methods and devices for placing a semi-circumferential appliance around a hollow bodily organ such as the stomach. In one alternative embodiment, such an appliance is placed in order to reduce the inner volume of the stomach. 17-. (canceled)8. An apparatus for placing a semi-circumferential appliance on a wall surface of a hollow bodily organ , comprising:an elongate shaft member having proximal and distal ends;a transmission disposed at the distal end of the shaft member;a user manipulable handle disposed at the proximal end of the shaft member and cooperatively linked to said transmission for operation thereof; anda semi-circular member having two opposed ends to define an opening therebetween, said semi-circular member mounted on and cooperating with said transmission for opening and closing of said opposed ends.9. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the transmission opens and closes the opposed ends of the semi-circular member in response to rotation of the handle.10. The apparatus of claim 9 , wherein said transmission releases the semi-circular member in response to further rotation of the handle.11. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the opposed ends of the semi-circular member include elements for piercing tissue. This application claims the benefit of Provisional Patent Application No. 60/931,243, filed May 21, 2007, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.Generally, the present invention is related to trans-luminal surgical devices and methods. More particularly, the devices and methods herein described provide for gastric restriction and volume reduction by the placement of an appliance on the outer surface of the stomach from access obtained via the inside of the stomach. These devices may also be used to place an appliance on other hollow bodily conduits or organs.Laparoscopic surgery has greatly reduced the size and scope of incisions made in a patient and resulted in reduced morbidity and ...

AUTOMATED CHANGE APPROVAL

An automated method for facilitating management of a data processing environment is disclosed. In various embodiments, the method may include facilitating creation of a first memorialization, in digital form, of first one or more changes made to a first data processing device of the data processing environment. In various embodiments, the method may further include facilitating creation of a second and a third memorialization, both in digital form, of second and third one or more changes made to a second and a third data processing device of the data processing environment, respectively. In various embodiments, the method may still further include facilitating automated approval of the second and third changes made to the second and third data processing devices, using the first, second and third memorializations. Other embodiments of the present invention may include, but are not limited to, apparatus adapted to facilitate practice of the above-described method. 1. An automated method for facilitating management of a data processing environment comprising:facilitating creation in digital form, a first memorialization of first one or more changes made to a first data processing device of the data processing environment;facilitating creation in digital form, a second and a third memorialization of second and third one or more changes made to a second and a third data processing device of the data processing environment, respectively; andfacilitating automated approval of the second and third changes made to the second and third data processing devices, using the first, second and third memorializations.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein said facilitating of creation comprises facilitating automated application of the first one or more changes to the first data processing device claim 1 , and facilitating automated comparison of a pre-application of the first one or more changes state of the first data processing device to a post-application of the first one or more ...

Alignment Tools and Methods of Tool Alignment

An automated driver for tightening a fastener bolt includes a housing body including a handle. A chuck is rotatably connected to the housing body. An actuation system is operatively connected to the chuck for rotating the chuck. A tool element is held by the chuck, the tool element configured to engage the fastener bolt. An alignment tool is connected to the chuck. The alignment tool includes a chuck receiving portion having an opening extending therethrough in which the chuck is located and a bit receiving portion having an opening extending therethrough in which the tool element is located. An end of the tool element extends beyond an end of the bit receiving portion. 1. An automated driver for tightening a fastener bolt , comprising:a housing body including a handle;a chuck rotatably connected to the housing body;an actuation system operatively connected to the chuck for rotating the chuck;a tool element held by the chuck, the tool element configured to engage the fastener bolt; andan alignment tool connected to the chuck, the alignment tool including a chuck receiving portion having an opening extending therethrough in which the chuck is located and a bit receiving portion having an opening extending therethrough in which the tool element is located, an end of the tool element extending beyond an end of the bit receiving portion.2. The automated driver of claim 1 , wherein the alignment tool includes a fastener opening extending inwardly from a periphery of the chuck receiving portion for receiving a fastener claim 1 , the fastener opening intersecting the chuck receiving opening.3. The automated driver of further comprising a fastener extending through the fastener opening and received in a groove extending about a periphery of the chuck for limiting movement of the alignment tool along a length of the chuck while allowing rotation of the chuck relative to the alignment tool during a torque tightening operation.4. The automated driver of claim 1 , wherein the ...

METHODS FOR IMPROVED STENT RETENTION

Methods for improved stent retention on an expandable member during delivery are disclosed. Methods include fabricating delivery systems including a degradable or water soluble sheath over the stent, the expandable member, or both for improving retention of the stent on the expandable member during delivery. 1. A method of fabricating a stent delivery assembly , comprising:disposing a sheath over a stent positioned over a support member, the sheath comprising a degradable or water soluble polymeric material, wherein the stent is a scaffolding made from a polymeric scaffolding material, wherein the sheath fits loosely over the stent; andheating the sheath to cause the sheath to shrink radially over the stent so that the sheath can retain the stent on the support member during delivery of the stent within a bodily lumen.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the support member is an expandable member.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the polymeric scaffolding material comprises a biostable polymer.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the polymeric scaffolding material comprises a biodegradable polymer.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the polymeric material of the sheath has a lower Tg or Ts than the polymeric material of the scaffolding.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the polymeric material of the sheath has a higher Tg or Ts than the polymeric material of the scaffolding.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the sheath shrinks radially over the stent so that the sheath is in contact with the stent to provide a tight fit over the stent.8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the sheath is heated to a temperature to cause the sheath to stick to the stent.9. The method of claim 1 , wherein the sheath is heated to a temperature close to or at a Tg or a Ts of the polymeric material of the sheath.10. The method of claim 1 , wherein the sheath is heated to a temperature above a Tg or a Ts of the polymeric material of the sheath.11. The method of claim 1 , wherein the sheath has an ...

METHODS FOR IMPROVED STENT RETENTION

Methods for improved stent retention on an expandable member during delivery are disclosed. Methods include fabricating delivery systems including a retention layer over the stent, the expandable member, or both for improving retention of the stent on the expandable member during delivery. 1. A method of fabricating a stent delivery assembly , comprising:providing a stent including a stent substrate with a retention layer comprising a polymeric material,wherein the stent substrate is composed of a pattern of interconnecting struts,the retention layer disposed over the luminal surface and the sidewall surface of the struts with the abluminal surface of the struts free of the retention layer;disposing the stent over an expandable member, wherein the stent disposed on the expandable member comprises a delivery assembly; andheating the delivery assembly to increase the temperature of the retention layer, wherein the retention layer is heated to a temperature close to, at or above a Tm, a Tg, or a Ts of the polymeric material of the retention layer, the retention layer facilitating adhesion of the stent to the expandable member.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the stent substrate comprises a biostable polymer claim 1 , biodegradable polymer claim 1 , or a combination thereof.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the polymeric material of the retention layer has a lower Tg or Ts than the polymeric material of the stent substrate.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the expandable member comprises a polymeric material claim 1 , wherein the polymeric material of the retention layer has a lower Tg or Ts than the polymeric material of the expandable member.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein disposing the stent over the expandable member comprises crimping the stent over the expandable member.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the crimping device performs the heating of the delivery assembly.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the delivery assembly is heated by a heated fluid ...

Oxidative Decolorization Of Dyes With Enzymatically Generated Peracid Method, Composition And Kit Of Parts

Described are compositions and methods for the decolorization of dye molecules in an aqueous medium using enzymatically-generated peracid. 1. A method for decolorizing a dye , comprising contacting the dye with a composition comprising:a perhydrolase enzyme,a substrate for the perhydrolase enzyme, anda hydrogen peroxide source;wherein a peracid is produced by catalytic action of the perhydrolase enzyme on the substrate in the presence of hydrogen peroxide;and wherein the dye is contacted with the composition for a length of time and under conditions suitable to produce an amount of peracid sufficient to decolorize at least a portion of the dye.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the dye is present in wastewater effluent.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein the wastewater effluent is from a textile processing process.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the textile processing process is a textile dyeing process.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the wastewater effluent is from pulp or paper processing process.6. The method of claim 5 , wherein the pulp or paper processing process is a deinking process.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein at least 40% of the dye in the effluent is decolorized.8. The method of claim 1 , wherein at least twice as much of the dye in the effluent is decolorized compared to the amount of dye that is decolorized in an equivalent method lacking the perhydrolase enzyme.9. The method of claim 1 , wherein at least three times as much of the dye in the effluent is decolorized compared to the amount of dye that is decolorized in an equivalent method lacking the perhydrolase enzyme.10. The method of claim 1 , wherein the perhydrolase enzyme catalyzes perhydrolysis of the ester substrate with a perhydrolysis:hydrolysis ratio equal to or greater than 1.11. The method of claim 1 , wherein the perhydrolase enzyme comprises the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 1 claim 1 , or a variant or homolog thereof.12. The method of claim 1 , wherein the ...

TRANSWALL VISUALIZATION ARRANGEMENTS AND METHODS FOR SURGICAL CIRCULAR STAPLERS

A surgical instrument is disclosed. Various embodiments include an elongated shaft that defines a central axis and has a distal end portion that is configured to operably support a circular staple cartridge therein. At least one detection member may be operably supported within the elongated shaft. Each detection member may have a distal portion that is radially deployable away from the central axis upon application of a deployment motion thereto. The distal end portions may have a bumper or light mounted thereto. 1. A surgical instrument comprising:an elongated shaft defining a central axis and having a distal end portion configured to operably support a circular staple cartridge therein;at least one detection member operably supported within said elongated shaft, each detection member having a distal portion that is radially deployable away from said central axis upon application of a deployment motion thereto; anda light on said distal portion of said detection member.2. The surgical instrument of wherein each said detection member is movably supported in a detection and acquisition housing that is movably supported within said elongated shaft.3. The surgical instrument of wherein said distal portion of each said detection member naturally bends radially away from said central axis when said distal portion is axially advanced out of a distal end of said detection and acquisition housing.4. The surgical instrument of further comprising:at least one acquisition member operably supported within said elongated shaft, each said acquisition member having a tissue-piercing distal portion that is radially deployable away from said central axis upon application of a deployment motion to said acquisition member; andat least one flexible knife member movably supported in said elongated shaft, each said knife member having a distal cutting portion that is axially advanceable out of said distal end portion of said elongated shaft upon application of an axial actuation motion ...

TISSUE ACQUISITION ARRANGEMENTS AND METHODS FOR SURGICAL STAPLING DEVICES

A surgical instrument that includes an elongated shaft that defines defining a central axis. The elongated shaft may have a distal end portion that is configured to operably support a circular staple cartridge therein. A tissue acquisition shaft may be axially movable within the elongated shaft such that a distal end portion of the tissue acquisition shaft may be distally advanced beyond the distal end portion of the elongated shaft. At least one tissue acquisition member may be pivotally attached to the distal end portion of the tissue acquisition shaft such that at least one tissue acquisition member is selectively pivotable about a corresponding acquisition axis that is substantially parallel to the central axis from a retracted position to deployed positions upon application of a deployment motion thereto. Various embodiments include an annular cutting member that is supported by the distal end of the elongated shaft for selective axial travel relative thereto. 1. A surgical instrument comprising:an elongated shaft defining a central axis and having a distal end portion configured to operably support a circular staple cartridge therein;a tissue acquisition shaft rotatably supported within said elongated shaft and having a distal portion that protrudes distally beyond the distal end portion of the elongated shaft; andat least one tissue acquisition member pivotally attached to said distal portion of the tissue acquisition shaft such that said at least one tissue acquisition member is selectively pivotable about a corresponding acquisition axis that is substantially parallel to said central axis from a retracted position to deployed positions upon application of a deployment motion thereto.2. The surgical instrument of further comprising an annular cutting member that operably supported by said distal end portion of said elongated shaft for selective axial travel relative thereto.3. The surgical instrument of further comprising a deployment member operably ...

LINEAR CUTTING AND STAPLING DEVICE WITH SELECTIVELY DISENGAGEABLE CUTTING MEMBER

A surgical stapling instrument including a selectively actuatable cutting member. The stapling instrument may be used as a surgical stapler without cutting tissue or, if desired, the surgeon may selectively actuate the cutting member to cut tissue as the staples are being deployed and formed. A stapling instrument can include an actuator knob that has at least one pusher bar attached thereto. Advancement of the actuator knob in a distal direction causes the pusher bars to apply a firing motion to the staples contained within a staple cartridge supported within the stapling instrument. A knife bar may be selectively coupleable to the actuator knob by a selector switch that is movable from an actuated position wherein movement of the actuator knob in the distal direction advances the knife bar which has a cutting blade portion to advance between rows of staples in the staple cartridge to an unactuated position wherein movement of the actuator knob advances the pusher bars without advancing the knife bar. 1. A surgical instrument , comprising:a first jaw member configured to operably support a staple cartridge that has a plurality of staples therein;a second jaw member removably couplable to said first jaw member to enable tissue to be clamped therebetween;at least one pusher bar assembly operably supported relative to said first jaw member and being configured to selectively apply a firing motion to the staples supported in the staple cartridge as said at least one pusher bar assembly is distally advanced through the staple cartridge;a knife bar operably supported relative to said first jaw member and said at least one pusher bar assembly, said knife bar being configured to cut tissue clamped between said first and second jaw members; anda selector switch operably interfacing with said knife bar and being movable between an activated position wherein an application of an activation motion to said at least one pusher bar assembly causes said knife bar and said at least ...

HIGH-Ph SYNTHESIS OF NANOCOMPOSITE THERMOELECTRIC MATERIAL

A process for forming thermoelectric nanoparticles includes the steps of providing a core material and a bismuth containing compound in a reverse micelle; providing a tellurium containing compound either in or not in a reverse micelle; reacting the bismuth containing compound with the tellurium containing compound in the presence of a base, forming a composite thermoelectric nanoparticle having a core and shell structure. 1. A process for forming thermoelectric nanoparticles including the steps of:providing a core material and a bismuth containing compound;providing a tellurium containing compound;reacting the bismuth containing compound with the tellurium containing compound in the presence of a base forming thermoelectric nanoparticles.2. The process of wherein the bismuth containing compound is selected from: bismuth citrate and ammonium bismuth citrate.3. The process of wherein the tellurium containing compound is selected from tellurium claim 1 , tellurium salts and sodium tellurium hydride.4. The process of including the step of providing a P-type dopant with the bismuth containing compound.5. The process of wherein the P-type dopant is selected from: antimony claim 4 , antimony salt claim 4 , and potassium antimony tartrate.6. The process of including the step of providing an N-type dopant with the tellurium containing compound.7. The process of wherein the N-type dopant is selected from: selenium claim 1 , sodium selenium hydride claim 1 , and selenium salt.8. The process of including the steps of:forming a core material reverse micelle or micelle;adding the bismuth containing compound to the core material reverse micelle or micelle forming a reverse micelle or micelle having the bismuth containing compound dispersed therein;adding the tellurium containing compound with the formed micelle or reverse micelle in the presence of a reducing agent that alloys with the bismuth containing compound forming composite thermoelectric nanoparticles having a core and ...

LIGHTING DEVICES THAT COMPRISE ONE OR MORE SOLID STATE LIGHT EMITTERS

A lighting device, comprising a solid state light emitter and a removable encapsulant element. A lighting device element, comprising a solid state light emitter and an encapsulant holding element configured to releasably hold a removable encapsulant element. A lighting device component, comprising a removable encapsulant element. A method, comprising removing a first removable encapsulant element from a lighting device that comprises at least a first solid state light emitter and inserting a second removable encapsulant element into the lighting device. An encapsulant element comprising a substantially transparent first material and a luminescent material within the first material. 1. A lighting device , comprising:at least a first solid state light emitter; andat least a first removable encapsulant element.2. A lighting device as recited in claim 1 , wherein the first solid state light emitter comprises a light emitting diode.3. A lighting device as recited in claim 1 , wherein the first removable encapsulant element comprises at least one luminescent material.4. A lighting device as recited in claim 1 , wherein the lighting device further comprises at least one encapsulant holding element claim 1 , the at least one encapsulant holding element retaining the first removable encapsulant element where at least some light emitted by the first solid state light emitter enters the first removable encapsulant element.5. A lighting device as recited in claim 4 , wherein the at least one encapsulant holding element comprises a first holding element structure and a second holding element structure claim 4 , and the first removable encapsulant element is between the first holding element structure and the second holding element structure.6. A lighting device as recited in claim 5 , wherein at least a portion of the first holding element structure is substantially transparent.7. A lighting device as recited in claim 5 , wherein the first solid state light emitter is mounted on ...

FLEXIBLE INTERFACE FOR SECUREINPUT OF PIN CODE

The present invention concerns a system () and a process for authenticating a PIN code of a user in an interactive information system in order to run an application. It comprises input means () for PIN code entry, security manager means () for comparing the PIN code of the user upon a request for user authentication from the application, with a registered PIN code, and giving authorisation to run said application if the PIN code of the user matches with the registered PIN code, and display means () for displaying any graphics including a PIN entry field. The request for user authentication is provided on the display means via the Pin entry field with the look and feel of said application. The system further comprises emitting means for entering crypted digits, the security manager means () being arranged to give authorisation to run the application after full entry of said crypted digits and if the PIN code of the user is identical to the registered PIN code. 11011. A system ( , S) for authenticating a PIN code of a user in an interactive information system in order to run an application () , wherein it comprises{'b': 15', '34', '35', '36', '37, 'input means (,,,,) for PIN code entry,'}{'b': 13', '33, 'security manager means (,) for comparing the PIN code of the user upon a request for user authentication from the application, with a registered PIN code, and giving authorisation to run said application if the PIN code of the user matches with the registered PIN code, and'}{'b': 17', '29', '38', '29', '38', '13', '33, 'display means (,,) for displaying any graphics including a PIN entry field, characterised in that the request for user authentication being provided on the display means via the Pin entry field with the look and feel of said application, the system further comprises emitting means (,) for entering crypted digits in said PIN entry field upon entering the PIN code of the user in the security manager means through said input means, and the security ...

TECHNIQUE FOR COLLECTING INCOME-TAX INFORMATION

A technique for collecting income-tax information is described. This collection technique allows a user (such as a taxpayer) to provide income-tax information by submitting an image of a document, such as an income-tax summary or form. After receiving the image, the income-tax information is extracted from the document, and a subset of the income-tax information that is relevant to the user is determined. This subset of the income-tax information is then provided to the user for validation, and the user subsequently provides feedback about the subset of the income-tax information, such as acceptance of the subset or correction of any errors. Furthermore, after receiving the user feedback, fields in an income-tax return of the user may be populated using the subset of the income-tax information. 1. A computer-implemented method for receiving income-tax information , comprising:receiving an image of a document from a user;extracting, using a computer, income-tax information from fields in the document;determining a subset of the income-tax information relevant to an income-tax return of the user based on predefined information for different types of income-tax returns;providing the subset of the income-tax information to the user for validation; andreceiving feedback from the user about the subset of the income-tax information.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the document includes a W-2 form.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the document includes a summary of the income-tax information of the user during a time interval.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein extracting the income-tax information involves optical character recognition (OCR).5. The method of claim 1 , wherein providing the subset of the income-tax information involves providing the subset of the income-tax information in a format that is suitable for presentation on a display.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the image includes a photograph of the document.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the image is ...

FUNGAL CUTINASE FROM MAGNAPORTHE GRISEA

Described are compositions and methods relating to a fungal cutinase cloned from , polynucleotides encoding the cutinase, and methods of use thereof. The compositions and methods have particular application in detergent cleaning compositions and synthesis reactions. 1. A recombinant Mgr-C polypeptide having an amino acid sequence that is at least 80% identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1.2. The recombinant Mgr-C polypeptide of claim 1 , having an amino acid sequence that is at least 90% identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1.3. The recombinant Mgr-C polypeptide of claim 1 , having an amino acid that is substantially identical to amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1.4. The recombinant Mgr-C polypeptide of claim 1 , having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1.5. The recombinant Mgr-C polypeptide of claim 1 , wherein the polypeptide is expressed in a heterologous organism as a secreted polypeptide.6. The recombinant Mgr-C polypeptide of claim 5 , wherein the organism is a filamentous fungus.7Trichoderma reesei.. The recombinant Mgr-C polypeptide of claim 6 , wherein the filamentous fungus is8. An expression vector comprising a polynucleotide encoding an Mgr-C polypeptide having an amino acid sequence that is at least 80% identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1 operably linked to a signal sequence for directing the secretion of the Mgr-C polypeptide.9. The expression vector of claim 8 , wherein the polynucleotide encodes an Mgr-C polypeptide having an amino acid sequence that is at least 90% identical to the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1.10. The expression vector of claim 8 , wherein the polynucleotide encodes an Mgr-C polypeptide having an amino acid sequence that is substantially identical to amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1.11. The expression vector of claim 8 , wherein the polynucleotide encodes an Mgr-C polypeptide having the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 1.12Trichoderma reesei.. The expression vector of ...

DUAL-FEED ANTENNA ARRAY WITH INTEGRAL COMPARISON CIRCUIT FOR PHASE AND AMPLITUDE CALIBRATION

A two-element array antenna system includes a first antenna element and a second antenna element. A transmitting, receiving, and processing (TRP) system is coupled to the first and second antenna elements via, respectively, a single first transmission element and a single second transmission element. The first and second transmission elements have respective transmit-path and receive-path functionality. The TRP system is configured to determine an amplitude offset and phase offset associated with the transmit-path functionality of the first and second transmission elements, and, based on data obtained during the determination of amplitude offset and phase offset associated with the transmit-path functionality of the first and second transmission elements, determine an amplitude offset and phase offset associated with the receive-path functionality of the first and second transmission elements. 1. A two-element array antenna system , comprising:a first antenna element and a second antenna element; and determine an amplitude offset and phase offset associated with the transmit-path functionality of the first and second transmission elements, and', 'based on data obtained during the determination of amplitude offset and phase offset associated with the transmit-path functionality of the first and second transmission elements, determine an amplitude offset and phase offset associated with the receive-path functionality of the first and second transmission elements., 'a transmitting, receiving, and processing (TRP) system coupled to the first and second antenna elements, the TRP system being coupled to the first antenna element via a single first transmission element, the TRP system being coupled to the second antenna element via a single second transmission element, the first and second transmission elements having respective transmit-path and receive-path functionality, the TRP system configured to2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the TRP system is further configured ...

CIRCULAR STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH SECONDARY CUTTING ARRANGEMENTS AND METHODS OF USING SAME

Surgical instruments are disclosed. Various non-limiting embodiments may include an elongated shaft that has a distal end portion that is configured to operably support a circular staple cartridge therein. A tissue acquisition shaft may be rotatably supported within said elongated shaft and have a distal portion that protrudes distally beyond the distal end portion of the elongated shaft. At least one tissue acquisition member may be pivotally attached to the distal end portion of the tissue acquisition shaft such that the tissue acquisition members are selectively pivotable from a retracted position to deployed positions upon application of a deployment motion thereto. A rotatable cutting member may be operably supported adjacent to the tissue acquisition member and being selectively rotatable about the central axis upon application of a cutting actuation motion thereto. 1. A surgical instrument comprising:an elongated shaft defining a central axis and having a distal end portion configured to operably support a circular staple cartridge therein;a tissue acquisition shaft rotatably supported within said elongated shaft and having a distal portion that protrudes distally beyond the distal end portion of the elongated shaft;at least one tissue acquisition member pivotally attached to said distal end portion of the tissue acquisition shaft such that said at least one tissue acquisition member is selectively pivotable from a retracted position to deployed positions upon application of a deployment motion thereto; anda rotatable cutting member operably supported adjacent to said at least one tissue acquisition member and being selectively rotatable about the central axis upon application of a cutting actuation motion thereto.2. The surgical instrument of further comprising a deployment member operably supported within said elongated shaft and operably interfacing with each said at least one tissue acquisition member claim 1 , said deployment member configured to receive ...

ULTRASONIC SURGICAL INSTRUMENT BLADES

An ultrasonic surgical instrument including an ultrasonically actuated blade or end effector having a treatment portion. The blade can define a central axis and at least one axis which is transverse to the central axis, wherein the transverse axis can lie within a plane which is perpendicular, or normal, to the longitudinal axis and can define a cross-section of the treatment portion. Such a cross-section can include a central portion and a step extending from the central portion, wherein the central portion can comprise a width, and wherein the step can comprise a cutting edge. In at least one embodiment, the cutting edge can be defined by first and second surfaces which define an angle therebetween. In various embodiments, the position of the cutting edge and/or the angle between the cutting edge surfaces can be selected in order to balance the blade with respect to the transverse axis. 2. The method of claim 1 , wherein said configuring step comprises the steps of:selecting values for w, s, and α such that the blade is configured to transect tissue; andsolving said relationship for x.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein said configuring step comprises the steps of:selecting values for w, x, and α such that the blade is configured to transect tissue; andsolving said relationship for s.4. The method of claim 1 , wherein said relationship is equal to zero.6. The surgical blade of claim 5 , wherein said body portion includes a centerline claim 5 , wherein said first cutting edge is positioned on a first side of said centerline claim 5 , and wherein said second cutting edge is positioned on a second side of said centerline.7. The surgical blade of claim 5 , wherein said body portion further comprises:a first lateral side extending between said first side and said second side; anda second lateral side extending between said first side and said second side, wherein said step portion extends along said first lateral side, and wherein said surgical blade further comprises a ...

BIOABSORBABLE STENT WTIH LAYERS HAVING DIFFERENT DEGRADATION RATES

A bioabsorbable stent and method of forming the same including a stent scaffolding formed from polymer layers with different degradation rates is disclosed. The polymer layers include an abluminal layer, a luminal layer, and optionally one or more middle layers. A degradation rate of the layers increases from the luminal layer to the abluminal layer. 1. A method of fabricating a stent comprising:co-extruding a bioabsorbable polymer tube including an inner layer, outer layer, and optionally one or more one middle layers between the inner and outer layers, wherein a degradation rate of the layers increases between each of the layers from the inner layer and the outer layer; andcutting a stent pattern in the tube to form a stent comprising a scaffolding, the scaffolding including a luminal layer, an abluminal layer, and, optionally one or more scaffolding middle layers, the luminal layer formed from the inner layer, the abluminal layer formed from the outer layer, and the optional one or more scaffolding middle layers formed from the tube middle layers,wherein each scaffolding layer comprises a glassy degradable polymer of the same chemical composition,wherein the molecular weight of the polymer of the luminal layer is higher than the molecular weight of the polymer of the abluminal layer,wherein the molecular weight of the polymer of the scaffolding layers decreases between each of the scaffolding layers from the luminal layer to the abluminal layer so that the degradation rate of the scaffolding layers increases from the luminal layer to the abluminal layer.2. The stent of claim 1 , wherein the polymer of the luminal layer comprises a Mw between 200 kg/mol and 1000 kg/mol and the polymer of the abluminal layer comprises a Mw between 20 kg/mol and 50 kg/mol.3. The stent of claim 1 , wherein the polymer in one or more of the scaffolding layers has —COOH end groups.4. The stent of claim 1 , wherein the polymer comprises PLLA or PLGA.5. The stent of claim 1 , wherein the ...

USING LINGUISTICALLY-AWARE VARIABLES IN COMPUTER-GENERATED TEXT

One embodiment of the present invention provides a system for placing linguistically-aware variables in computer-generated text. During operation, the system receives a sentence at a computer system, wherein the sentence comprises two or more words. Next, the system analyzes the sentence to identify a first variable, wherein the first variable is a place-holder for a first word. The system then receives the first word. After that, the system automatically determines a gender of the first word. Next, the system analyzes the sentence to identify a first dependent word that is dependent on the first word, wherein a spelling of the first dependent word is dependent on the gender of the first word. The system then determines the spelling of the first dependent word that corresponds to the gender of the first word. Next, the system replaces the first variable in the sentence with the first word. If necessary, the system modifies the spelling of the first dependent word in the sentence to match the gender of the first word. Finally, the system outputs the sentence. 1. A computer-implemented method for using linguistically-aware variables in computer-generated text , the method comprising:receiving a sentence at a computer system, wherein the sentence comprises two or more words;analyzing the sentence to identify a first variable, wherein the first variable is a place-holder for a first word;receiving the first word;automatically determining a gender of the first word;analyzing the sentence to identify a first dependent word that is dependent on the first word, wherein a spelling of the first dependent word is dependent on the gender of the first word;replacing the first variable in the sentence with the first word;determining the spelling of the first dependent word that corresponds to the gender of the first word, and if necessary, modifying the spelling of the first dependent word in the sentence to match the gender of the first word; andoutputting the sentence.2. The ...

COUPON ORGANIZATION USING A BAR CODE READER

A consumer can use his or her cell phone to scan barcodes from newspaper circulars at home, on a computer screen at home and/or to scan coupon barcodes positioned on the edge of shelves in a store or displayed on a kiosk in a store. The data from all these coupons is be combined into (preferably) a single 2D barcode or in the event of a large number of coupons, into a smaller number of 2D barcodes on the cell phone's display, for scanning by an imaging barcode scanner at the point of sale. This 2D barcode can also include the user's loyalty card information, so reading a single barcode off the screen of the phone can accomplish what formerly required multiple individual scans to accomplish. 1. A portable communications device comprising a controller , a camera for capturing an image of a discount coupon , a memory for storing data , and a display screen; the communications device having a user controlled actuator that signals the controller to capture an image of a discount coupon and for presenting an image corresponding to the discount coupon on the display screen; said controller converting information from multiple bar codes from multiple discount coupons into at least one combined bar code for presentation on the display screen.2. The apparatus of wherein the portable communications device memory stores customer loyalty information and wherein a bar code displayed on the display screen of the portable communications device contains customer loyalty information.3. The apparatus of wherein the portable communications device memory stores user information and wherein a bar code displayed on the display screen of the portable communications device contains user information.4. The apparatus of wherein the portable communications device displays a discount level available to a consumer to inform the consumer about how much he or she will save based on that information in the event a product is purchased.5. The apparatus of wherein the discount level information is ...

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING ADVERTISEMENTS

An example of a method includes electronically blending an advertisement into a web page based on physical attributes of the web page and providing the web page with the advertisement. 1. A method comprising:electronically blending an advertisement into a web page based on physical attributes of the web page; andproviding the web page with the advertisement.2. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein blending the advertisement into the web page comprises:modifying the advertisement based on the physical attributes of the web page.3. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein modifying the advertisement comprises at least one of:changing color of the advertisement;changing size of the advertisement;changing texture of the advertisement; andchanging contrast of the advertisement.4. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein blending the advertisement into the web page comprises:positioning the advertisement on the web page based on location of frames in the web page.5. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the physical attributes comprise at least one of:color of the web page;size of the web page;texture of the web page;contrast of the web page;theme of the web page; andlayout of the web page.6. The method as claimed in and further comprising at least one of:receiving the physical attributes of the web page; andelectronically determining the physical attributes of the web page.7. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein providing the web page comprises:enabling display of the web page with the advertisement.8. The method as claimed in and further comprising:tracking performance of the advertisement; andblending the advertisement based on the tracking.9. A server comprising:a communication interface;a memory to store instructions; and blend an advertisement into a web page based on physical attributes of the web page; and', 'provide the web page with the advertisement., 'a processor coupled to the memory and the communication interface, and responsive to the ...

CAPACITIVE PRESSURE SENSOR

An improved capacitive manometer, the manometer comprises: a diaphragm including (a) a common electrode and (b) an electrode structure including a center electrode and ring electrode, wherein the diaphragm is movable between (i) a zero position when the pressure on each side of the diaphragm is the same and (ii) a maximum differential position when the maximum measurable differential pressure is applied to the diaphragm, and a support structure arranged so as to support the diaphragm so that the diaphragm is constrained relative to the electrode structure, and the common electrode is spaced from and axially aligned with the center and ring electrodes relative to an alignment axis of the manometer: wherein the electrode structure is secured relative to the diaphragm at at least three clamping locations angularly spaced around the alignment axis; and wherein the angle defined within each right plane containing a point of constraint of the diaphragm and the point of each clamping location relative to the plane of the diaphragm in the zero position is between 60° and 90° so as to reduce changes in electrode disk support height, enable smaller gaps and improved stability between the diaphragm and electrode structure. An additional improvement is provided by including a spacer ring including a plurality of tabs; and a clamp arranged to clamp the electrode structure to the spacer ring at the location of each of the tabs so as to define a plurality of equiangularly spaced, clamped locations around the alignment axis, so as to eliminate the possibility of an occasional spacer induced radial shear force and subsequent potential stick slip condition that could impact repeatability and stability. 1. A capacitive manometer comprising:a diaphragm including (a) a common electrode and (b) an electrode structure including a center electrode and ring electrode, wherein the diaphragm is movable between (i) a zero position when the pressure on each side of the diaphragm is the same and ...

LIGHT EMISSION DEVICE

A light emission device includes multiple electrically activated solid state emitters (e.g., LEDs) having differing spectral output from one another; and/or phosphor material including one or more phosphors arranged to receive spectral output from at least one of the solid state emitters and to responsively emit a phosphor output, to provide spectral output. In one arrangement, multiple LEDs and multiple phosphors have different peak wavelengths and provide aggregated light output with less than four light emission peaks. In one arrangement, a plot of aggregated output emissions (light intensity versus wavelength) has a non-negative slope between more than two wavelength peaks. In one arrangement, a light emission device generates a user-perceptible transition in color of light at a predetermined time period as an indicative of a need to perform at least one selected task. 1. A light emission device , comprising:a first LED die adapted to emit light comprising a first peak wavelength and a second LED die adapted to emit light comprising a second peak wavelength; anda first phosphor material adapted to emit light comprising a third peak wavelength and a second phosphor material adapted to emit light comprising a fourth peak wavelength;a first phosphor material adapted to emit light comprising a third peak wavelength and a second phosphor material adapted to emit light with comprising a fourth peak wavelength;wherein the first phosphor material is arranged to receive light from at least one of the first LED die and the second LED die and responsively emit first phosphor material light emissions;wherein the second phosphor material is arranged to receive light from at least one of the first LED die and the second LED die and responsively emit second phosphor material light emissions;wherein each of the first, second, third, and fourth peak wavelength is in the visible range and differs from the other; andwherein aggregated light output of the light emission device has ...

GLARE REDUCING ROUGH SURFACES

An intraocular lens for insertion into a capsular bag in order to focus incoming light toward a retina and process for manufacturing thereof along with concomitant reduced glare and improved vision provides for a center lens portion of a lens for focusing incoming light toward the retina and the surrounding lens portion for mounting the lens within the capsular bag. A surface roughness disposed on the surrounding lens portion is provided for reducing the glare due to non-focused light directed toward the retina from the intraocular lens with the roughness having a roughness level of between about Ra 45 and about Ra 350. 19-. (canceled)10. A process of fabricating an intraocular lens comprising:providing a blank lens having a center lens portion and a surrounding lens portion; androughening the surrounding lens portion such that the surrounding lens portion has a rough surface with a surface roughness level of about Ra 180 μin; the rough surface having a Gaussian distribution width sigma of at least 1 when illuminated by an incident light beam, and scattering data from the illuminated rough surface is fitted to a Gaussian distribution model, the incident light beam having a wavelength of 633 nanometers and illuminating the surface at a 55 degree incident light angle.1112-. (canceled)13. The process according to wherein selected portions of the surrounding lens portion are roughened.14. The process according to wherein roughening the surrounding lens portion comprises roughening a selected area by Electrical Discharge Machining.15. The process according to wherein the roughening of the surrounding lens portion further comprises controlling the Electrical Discharge Machining through a program as set forth in Table 1. The present invention generally relates to apparatus and methods for improving vision of an eye with a cataractic lens. More particularly, the present invention relates to an intraocular lens for insertion into a capsular bag in order to focus incoming ...

CHARGING MERCHANDISE ITEMS

Methods, systems and other embodiments associated with charging merchandise items are presented. A method of charging merchandise items includes displaying merchandise items at a consumer display so that the merchandise items can be handled by a consumer. A first powers supply charges a portion of the display that does not include the merchandise items and a second power supply charges the merchandise items. The merchandise items are charged at the display on a multiplexed basis. An alarm is generated if the first power supply or the second power supply looses power but not if the first and second power supply loose power. 1. A method comprising:displaying a plurality of merchandise items at a consumer display so that the merchandise items can be handled by a consumer;determining which of the plurality of merchandise items that require charging;charging only the plurality of merchandise items requiring charging; andgenerating an alarm when one of the merchandise items is removed from the consumer display.2. The method of further comprising:detecting when one of the plurality of merchandise items is being handled by the consumer; andproviding product information about the one of the plurality of merchandise items being handled by the consumer.3. The method of further comprising:connecting a tether between at least one of the plurality of merchandise items and the second power source; andcharging the merchandise item connected to the tether through the tether.4. The method of further comprising:detecting when the tether is removed from the one of the plurality of merchandise items; andgenerating an alarm when the tether is severed or when the tether is removed from the one of the plurality of merchandise items.5. The method of further comprising:connecting the plurality of merchandise items to corresponding ports of a switch box;determining ports of the switch box connected to the merchandise items and ports not connected to the merchandise items, wherein the charging ...

MULTI-ATTACH REUSABLE TAG

A multi-attach reusable security tag (MARST) that is attached to an article in two stages. In a first stage, an attachment clip is coupled to an article, such as but not limited to clothing, to be protected by a manufacturer or assembler. This attachment clip is durable to withstand harsh manufacturing environments. Once the article with the attachment clip is ready for presentation, for example, at a retail establishment, during a second stage, the attachment clip is then secured in a releasable locking mechanism of a housing containing a security element therein. The security element may comprise EAS (including AM, RF, EM and microwave), RFID (including LF, HF and UHF) elements or any combination thereof. Alternatively, a fluke element can be used to secure the attachment clip to the releasable locking mechanism and wherein this fluke element permits the attachment clip to swivel outside of the housing. A preferred embodiment of the security tag uses all non-ferrous components including its locking mechanism. Thus, the security tags combine the qualities of being non-ferrous, light-weight, low cost, deactivatable, secure, visually-deterring, and installable in two stages to the article it is meant to protect. 1. A security tag adapted for securing to an article , said security tag comprising:a housing;a releasable locking mechanism associated with said housing;an attachment clip comprising a first portion configured to secure to the article independently of said housing; and a second portion that is configured to releasably secure to said housing; anda security element associated with said housing, said security element preventing or hindering a theft of the article.2. The security tag of wherein said first portion passes through said second portion to form a loop claim 1 , wherein said loop captures at least a portion of the article.3. The security tag of wherein said releasable locking mechanism comprises a first aperture in said housing and a stop adjacent said ...

MOTION BLUR MODELING FOR IMAGE FORMATION

The present disclosure includes motion blur modeling methods and systems for image formation. One motion blur modeling method for image formation includes obtaining image data utilized to form a particular image taken by a camera of a subject, obtaining velocity vector data for the subject at the time the image was taken, defining a convolution kernel for use formation of the particular image and based upon the velocity vector data, and applying the convolution kernel to the image data to produce a de-blurred set of image data utilized to form the particular image. 1. A motion blur modeling method for image formation , comprising:obtaining image data utilized to form a particular image taken by a camera of a subject;obtaining velocity vector data for the subject at the time the image was taken;defining a convolution kernel for use formation of the particular image and based upon the velocity vector data; andapplying the convolution kernel to the image data to produce a de-blurred set of image data utilized to form the particular image.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein applying the convolution kernel to the image data to produce a de-blurred set of image data utilized to form the particular image includes applying the convolution kernel to specific individual pixel data of the image data.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the camera is an array of sensors.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein a unique source curve is associated with each point in the sensor array.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein defining a convolution kernel for use formation of the particular image and based upon the velocity vector data includes a time component that is the time to an anchor point.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein obtaining velocity vector data for the subject at the time the image was taken is obtained from a source curve.7. The method of claim 6 , wherein obtaining velocity vector data for the subject at the time the image was taken is obtained from a source curve and includes ...

LIGHTING DEVICES WITH REMOVABLE LIGHT ENGINE COMPONENTS, LIGHTING DEVICE ELEMENTS AND METHODS

A lighting device, comprising a lighting device element and a light engine component (comprising a solid state light emitter) that is removably supported by the lighting device element. Also, lighting device elements that comprise a lens, a housing member, a mechanical engagement region, an electrical contact region and/or means for removably supporting a light engine component. Also, lighting device elements in which a retaining structure holds a light engine component, a portion of a light engine component is exposed to a lens. Also, lighting devices that comprise means for removably supporting a light engine component. Also, methods that comprise removing a light engine component from a lighting device element and removably supporting a second light engine component on the lighting device element. 1. A lighting device , comprising:a lighting device element, the lighting device element having at least a first electrical contact region; andat least a first light engine component, the first light engine component comprising at least a first solid state light emitter having at least a second electrical contact region,the first light engine component being removably supported by the lighting device element,the first electrical contact region being in electrical contact with the second electrical contact region.2. A lighting device as recited in claim 1 , wherein the first light engine component is a solid state light emitter.3. A lighting device as recited in claim 2 , wherein the solid state light emitter is a chip.4. A lighting device as recited in claim 1 , wherein the first light engine component comprises a solid state light emitter and an encapsulant.5. A lighting device as recited in claim 1 , wherein:the first light engine component comprises a light engine module that comprises at least a first solid state light emitter support member, andthe first solid state light emitter is mounted on the first solid state light emitter support member.6. A lighting device ...

Nitric Oxide Generating Medical Devices

Medical devices having a catalyst capable of catalyzing the generation of nitric oxide in vivo and methods of treating a vascular condition using the devices are provided. 1. A medical device comprising a polymer and a metal complex , the metal complex comprising a metal and at least one ligand , wherein:the polymer forms the medical device or a coating of the medical device;the at least one ligand of the metal complex covalently attaches to a surface of the medical device or the coating on the medical device via a spacer,the spacer is a phenyl group, an aryl group, a short chain peptide, biocompatible oligomer, or biocompatible polymer functionalized by a reactive group selected from the group consisting of carboxyl, hydroxyl, thiol, amine, acid halide, N-hydroxysuccinimide, acryloyl, and Vinyl sulfone,the polymer is copolymer of monomers selected from 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), hydroxypropyl methacrylate (HPMA), hydroxypropylmethacrylamide, PEG acrylate (PEGA), PEG methacrylate, 2-methacryloyloxyethylphosphorylcholine (MPC), methacrylic acid (MA), and acrylic acid (AA);the metal complex catalyzes the generation of nitric oxide in the blood stream or a tissue adjacent to the medical device; andthe medical device is a biodurable polymer stent.2. The medical device of claim 1 , wherein the nitric oxide is released from a nitrosylated biomolecule present in the blood stream or a tissue adjacent to the medical device.3. The medical device of claim 1 , wherein the nitric oxide is released from a nitrosylated protein or S-nitrosothiol present in the blood stream or a tissue adjacent to the medical device.4. The medical device of claim 1 , wherein the metal complex is a copper complex.5. The medical device of claim 1 , wherein the metal complex comprises Cyclen claim 1 , Cyclam claim 1 , DTTCT claim 1 , or a bipyrridine ligand.6. The medical device of claim 1 , wherein the metal complex is attached to the surface of the coating.7. The medical device of claim 1 , ...

COMBUSTION AIR CONTROL

Embodiments of the present disclosure include devices and methods for controlling combustion air. For example, in one embodiment, a method for controlling combustion air includes determining an amount of leaking air in a boiler, determining a constant that depends on a heating value of a fuel in the boiler, and adjusting an amount of controlled air supplied to the boiler. 1. A method for controlling combustion air , comprising:determining an amount of leaking air in a boiler;determining a constant that depends on a heating value of a fuel in the boiler; andadjusting an amount of controlled air supplied to the boiler.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the method includes measuring the boiler's flue gas oxygen concentration to determine the amount of leaking air in the boiler.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein adjusting an amount of controlled air supplied to the boiler provides approximately 10% excess air for a combustion process of the boiler.4. The method device of claim 1 , wherein determining an amount of leaking air in a boiler includes calculating the amount of leaking air based on the flue gas oxygen concentration of the boiler claim 1 , a boiler power output claim 1 , an amount of controlled air in the boiler claim 1 , and an air/energy constant for the fuel used in the boiler.5. The method device of claim 1 , wherein determining the heating value of the fuel in the boiler includes calculating the constant that depends on the heating value of the fuel in the boiler based on a fuel flow rate to the boiler claim 1 , an amount of controlled air supplied to the boiler claim 1 , the amount of leaking air in the boiler claim 1 , and a flue gas oxygen concentration of the boiler.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein adjusting an amount of controlled air supplied to the boiler is based on the determined amount of leaking air in the boiler claim 1 , the determined constant that depends on the heating value of the fuel in the boiler claim 1 , and a desired amount of ...

NEUTRAL pH SACCHARIFICATION AND FERMENTATION

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a process for producing downstream products, such as fermentable sugars and end products, from a starch substrate by saccharification and/or fermentation. The saccharification is effectively catalyzed by a glucoamylase at a pH in the range of 5.0 to 8.0. At a pH of 6.0 or above, the glucoamylase possesses at least 50% activity relative to its maximum activity. The saccharification and fermentation may be performed as a simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) process. 1Humicola griseaTrichoderma reeseiRhizopus. A method of processing starch comprising saccharifying a starch substrate to fermentable sugars at pH 5.0 to 8.0 in the presence of a glucoamylase , wherein the glucoamylase possesses at least 50% activity at pH 6.0 or above relative to its maximum activity , wherein the glucoamylase is selected from the group consisting of glucoamylase (HgGA) comprising SEQ ID NO: 3 , glucoamylase (TrGA) comprising SEQ ID NO: 6 , sp. glucoamylase (RhGA) comprising SEQ ID NO: 9 , and a variant thereof , and wherein the variant has at least 99% sequence identity to a parent glucoamylase.2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the variant has one amino acid modification compared to the parent glucoamylase.3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the HgGA is SEQ ID NO: 3.4Trichoderma reesei. The method of claim 3 , wherein the HgGA is produced from a host cell.5. The method of claim 1 , wherein the TrGA is SEQ ID No: 6.6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the RhGA is SEQ ID NO: 9.7. The method of claim 1 , wherein saccharifying is carried out at a pH in a range of 6.0 to 7.5.8. The method of claim 1 , wherein saccharifying is carried out at a pH in a range of 7.0 to 7.5.9. The method of further comprising fermenting the fermentable sugars to an end product claim 1 , and wherein saccharifying and fermenting are performed at the same pH.10. The method of claim 9 , wherein saccharifying and fermenting are carried out as a simultaneous ...

VEHICULAR RETRACTABLE CABLE SYSTEMS

A vehicular retractable cable system may include a housing and a cable assembly including a retract assembly with associated retractable cable. The cable has extended and retracted positions. A position setting assembly is associated with the cable assembly. The position setting assembly has a retract button, wherein when the cable is in an extended position and upon activation of the retract button, the cable moves toward the retracted position. 1. A vehicular retractable cable system comprising:(a) a cable assembly comprising a retract assembly with associated retractable cable, the cable having extended and retracted positions; and(b) a position setting assembly associated with the cable assembly, the position setting assembly including a retract button and a catch lever actuated by the retract button, wherein upon a first activation of the retract button, the cable is free to move towards one of the extended position or the retracted position, and upon a second activation of the retract button, the catch lever locks the cable into one of a plurality of incrementally extending positions between the extended position and the retracted position and prevents the cable from extending or retracting.2. The system of claim 1 , wherein when the cable is in the extended position and upon activation of the retract button claim 1 , the cable moves toward the retracted position.3. The system of claim 1 , wherein when the cable is in the retracted position and upon activation of the retract button claim 1 , the cable moves toward the extended position.4. The system of claim 1 , wherein when the retract button is activated twice claim 1 , the cable is placed in a stationary position so that a desired length of retractable cable can be achieved.5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the retractable cable has a first end coupled to a vehicular entertainment system.6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the retractable cable has a second end having a plug secured thereto claim 1 , said ...

Medical Fluid Delivery System with Reusable RFID Fixture

Systems and methods are presented for delivering medical fluids to a patient. A data storage device () is either separately attached to or incorporated within the structure of a reusable fixture that may be detachably connected to a barrel () of a syringe (). A filling station () and an power injector () may each include a read-write device () that is operable to read the data storage device () within its field of view. When the read-write devices () are attached to the filing station () and the power injector (), respectively, and when the fixture including the data storage device () is attached to the syringe (), the read-write devices () may be operable to store data on and read data from the data storage device () associated with the syringe (). After an injection procedure, the fixture may be detached from the syringe () and reused with a new or resterilized syringe (). 1. A power injector syringe assembly , comprising:a syringe barrel;a plunger movable relative to said syringe barrel and comprising a plunger head disposed within said syringe barrel;a fixture detachably connected to said syringe barrel, wherein said fixture comprises a band which in turn comprises first and second edge portions that cooperate to define a lock when said fixture is installed on said syringe barrel; anda data storage device on said fixture.2. A power injector syringe assembly , comprising:a syringe barrel;a plunger movable relative to said syringe barrel and comprising a plunger head disposed within said syringe barrel;a fixture detachably connected to said syringe barrel, wherein said fixture comprises a sleeve which in turn comprises first and second edges that are freely movable relative to each other, wherein said sleeve is disposable in a first configuration by a flexing of said sleeve to increase a spacing between said first and second edges, to in turn accommodate both installation and removal of said sleeve relative to said syringe barrel; anda data storage device on said ...

CLOSURE DEVICE WITH LONG TINES

A device for engaging tissue may include a generally annular-shaped body defining a plane and disposed about a central axis extending substantially normal to the plane. The body may be movable from a substantially planar configuration lying generally in the plane towards a transverse configuration extending out of the plane. The body may include a plurality of looped elements including alternating inner and outer curved regions. The inner curved regions may define an inner periphery of the body and the outer curved regions may define an outer periphery of the body in the planar configuration. A plurality of tines may extend from the outer curved regions. The tines may be oriented generally towards the central axis in the planar configuration and generally parallel to the central axis in the transverse configuration. The tines may extend beyond the central axis without passing through the central axis so as to collectively form a central lumen about the central axis in the planar configuration. 1. A device for engaging tissue , comprising: a plurality of looped elements comprising alternating inner and outer curved regions, the inner curved regions defining an inner periphery of the body and the outer curved regions defining an outer periphery of the body in the planar configuration; and', 'a plurality of tines extending from the outer curved regions, the tines being oriented generally towards the central axis in the planar configuration, and generally parallel to the central axis in the transverse configuration., 'a generally annular-shaped body defining a plane and disposed about a central axis extending substantially normal to the plane, the body being movable from a substantially planar configuration lying generally in the plane towards a transverse configuration extending out of the plane, the body comprising2. The device of claim 1 , wherein the body is biased towards the planar configuration for biasing the tines generally towards the central axis.3. The ...

PROCESS CONTROL USING PROCESS DATA AND YIELD DATA

A method for monitoring a manufacturing tool features acquiring metrology data (“Step a”). Data is acquired for process variables for a first process step performed by the manufacturing tool (“Step b”). A mathematical model of the first process step based on the metrology data and the acquired data is created (“Step c”). Steps b and c are repeated for at least a second process step (“Step d”). An nth mathematical model is created based on the metrology data and the data for the process variables for each of the n process steps (“Step e”). A top level mathematical model is created based on the metrology data and the models created by steps c, d and e (“Step f”). A multivariate metric is calculated based on the top level model of step f and data from subsequent runs of the manufacturing tool. Service is performed if the metric satisfies a condition. 1. A method for monitoring a manufacturing tool used in a manufacturing process , comprising:a. acquiring metrology data for semiconductor wafers at the conclusion of a final process step for the manufacturing process;b. acquiring data for a plurality of process variables for a first process step performed by the manufacturing tool for manufacturing semiconductor wafers;c. creating a first mathematical model of the first process step performed by the manufacturing tool based on the metrology data and the acquired data for the plurality of process variables for the first process step performed by the manufacturing tool;d. repeating step b. and step c. for at least a second process step performed by the manufacturing tool for manufacturing the semiconductor wafers;{'sup': 'th', 'e. creating an nmathematical model based on the metrology data and the data for the plurality of process variables for each of the n process steps;'}f. creating a top-level mathematical model based on the metrology data and the models created by steps c., d. and e.;g. calculating a multivariate metric based on the top-level model of step f. and data ...

Systems And Methods For Recognizing Events

Systems and methods for recognizing events include a processor for executing machine readable instructions. The processor may be electronically coupled to an electronic memory. A temporal sensor may be electronically coupled to the processor for generating a sequence of temporal signals relating to an unrecognized event. The temporal sensor may transmit the sequence of temporal signals to the processor. The processor may execute the machine readable instructions to: input the sequence of temporal signals relating to the unrecognized event to a recurrent neural network; transform the sequence of temporal signals relating to the unrecognized event to a neural output relating to the unrecognized event with the recurrent neural network; input the neural output relating to the unrecognized event into a random forest classifier; and recognize a recognized event based upon a transformation of the neural output relating to the unrecognized event with the random forest classifier. 1. A system for recognizing events comprising:a processor for executing machine readable instructions, wherein the processor is electronically coupled to an electronic memory; input the sequence of temporal signals relating to the unrecognized event to a recurrent neural network;', 'transform the sequence of temporal signals relating to the unrecognized event to a neural output relating to the unrecognized event with the recurrent neural network;', 'input the neural output relating to the unrecognized event into a random forest classifier; and', 'recognize a recognized event based upon a transformation of the neural output relating to the unrecognized event with the random forest classifier., 'a temporal sensor electronically coupled to the processor for generating a sequence of temporal signals relating to an unrecognized event, wherein the temporal sensor transmits the sequence of temporal signals to the processor and the processor executes the machine readable instructions to2. The system for ...

EFFICIENT ENCODING AND DECODING METHODS FOR REPRESENTING SCHEDULES AND PROCESSING FORWARD ERROR CORRECTION CODES

A sequence of symbol operations (a “schedule representation”) within a data storage device, wherein the operations are those used to process encoding or decoding operations of a forward error correction code (an “FEC code”) upon an arbitrary block of data of a given size (where size can be measured in numbers of symbols). The method is such that the schedule representation can be used to direct the processing of these operations upon a block of data in a way that is computationally efficient. Preferably, the same method can be applied to represent schedules derived from multiple different algorithms for the encoding or decoding of a code or for multiple different codes. 1. An apparatus configured to interpret a representation of a sequence of symbol operations , the apparatus comprising:logic for interpreting a list of instructions to process the symbol operations on a data block, wherein the list of instructions comprises generic instructions for performing symbol operations, wherein at least some of the instructions define FEC-specific instructions, wherein each of a plurality of output symbols is associated with one or more source symbols, wherein the number of source symbols associated with an output symbol is the output symbol's degree, wherein an instruction set of a schedule representation comprises instructions including an instruction for selecting an active source symbol that is associated with an output symbol of degree two or higher and instructions for deactivating the selected source symbol that is associated with the output symbol of degree two or higher.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the instruction set of a schedule representation comprises instructions specific to multi-stage chain reaction codes.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the instruction set of a schedule representation comprises instructions specific to multi-field multi-stage chain reaction codes.4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the instruction set of a schedule ...

ENZYMATIC TEXTILE BLEACHING COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF

Described are compositions and methods for enzymatic bleaching of textiles. A perhydrolase enzyme is used in combination with an ester substrate and hydrogen peroxide to produce a peracid for textile bleaching. Textiles bleached by the methods herein exhibit increased dye uptake, decreased textile damage, and/or bulkier softer handle than textiles bleached by conventional chemical bleaching processes. 1. An enzymatic textile bleaching composition , comprising:(i) a perhydrolase enzyme;(ii) an ester substrate for said perhydrolase enzyme;(iii) a hydrogen peroxide source;(iv) a surfactant and/or an emulsifier;(v) a peroxide stabilizer;(vi) a sequestering agent; and(vii) a buffer that maintains a pH of about 6 to about 8.2. The enzymatic textile bleaching composition of claim 1 , wherein the perhydrolase enzyme comprises the amino acid sequence set forth in SEQ ID NO: 1 or a variant or homolog thereof.3. The enzymatic textile bleaching composition of claim 2 , wherein the perhydrolase enzyme is the S54V variant of SEQ ID NO: 1.4. The enzymatic textile bleaching composition of claim 1 , wherein the perhydrolase enzyme exhibits a perhydrolysis to hydrolysis ratio greater than 1.5. The enzymatic textile bleaching composition of claim 1 , wherein the perhydrolase enzyme is present at a concentration of about 1 to about 2.5 ppm.6. The enzymatic textile bleaching composition of claim 1 , wherein the ester substrate is selected from propylene glycol diacetate claim 1 , ethylene glycol diacetate claim 1 , triacetin claim 1 , ethyl acetate claim 1 , and tributyrin.7. The enzymatic textile bleaching composition of claim 6 , wherein the ester substrate is propylene glycol diacetate.8. The enzymatic textile bleaching composition of claim 7 , wherein propylene glycol diacetate is present is present in the composition in an amount of about 2 claim 7 ,000 to about 4 claim 7 ,000 ppm.9. The enzymatic textile bleaching composition of claim 1 , wherein the hydrogen peroxide source is ...

Tapered brake beam wear liner

A brake beam wear liner for receiving a brake beam assembly includes a base wall extending between a rear end and front end. The base wall has opposite side edges. The base wall has a tapered thickness between the rear end and the front end with the base wall being thicker proximate to the rear end and being narrower proximate to the front end. The brake beam wear liner also includes side walls extending from the opposite side edges and flanges extending outward from the side walls generally opposite the base wall. The side walls and the base wall define an open ended trough configured to receive an end of the brake beam assembly. 1. A brake beam wear liner for receiving a brake beam assembly , the brake beam wear liner comprising:a base wall extending between a rear end and a front end, the base wall having opposite side edges, the base wall having a tapered thickness between the rear end and the front end, the base wall being thicker proximate to the rear end and being narrower proximate to the front end;sidewalls extending from the opposite side edges, the sidewalls and the base wall defining an open ended trough configured to receive an end of the brake beam assembly; andflanges extending outward from the sidewalls generally opposite the base wall.2. The brake beam wear liner of claim 1 , wherein the base wall has a constant taper along a length of the base wall between the rear and front ends.3. The brake beam wear liner of claim 1 , wherein the base wall has an inner surface and an outer surface claim 1 , the inner surface facing the open ended trough claim 1 , the outer surface facing a corresponding guide bracket holding the break beam wear liner claim 1 , the inner surface being angled with respect to the outer surface such that the inner surface and outer surface are non-parallel.4. The brake beam wear liner of claim 1 , wherein a depth of the open ended trough decreases along a length thereof between the front end and the rear end claim 1 , the depth ...

CAPACITIVE SWITCH REFERENCE METHOD

An example capacitive switch apparatus comprises a capacitive switch sensor providing a capacitive switch signal, a capacitive reference sensor providing a capacitive reference signal, and an electronic circuit, receiving the switch and reference signals and detecting switch activation by comparing the switch signal level with a threshold level. The threshold level is adjusted as a function of the reference signal level. The reference signal is obtained, for example during periods of operator proximity to the reference sensor. For a finger-operated switch, the reference signal is obtained when a finger is proximate the reference sensor. 1. An apparatus , the apparatus being a capacitive switch comprising:a capacitive switch sensor, providing a capacitive switch signal;a capacitive reference sensor, providing a capacitive reference signal; andan electronic circuit, receiving the capacitive switch signal and the capacitive reference signal,the electronic circuit detecting switch activation by comparing the capacitive switch signal to a threshold signal level,the threshold signal level being adjusted as a function of the capacitive reference signal.2. The apparatus of claim 1 , the apparatus comprising a plurality of capacitive switch sensors claim 1 ,the threshold signal level for each capacitive switch sensor being adjusted as a function of the capacitive reference signal.3. The apparatus of claim 1 , the capacitive switch being manually activated claim 1 ,the capacitive reference sensor providing the capacitive reference signal during periods of manual proximity to the capacitive reference sensor.4. The apparatus of claim 3 , the apparatus being a capacitive switch apparatus for a vehicle claim 3 ,the capacitive switch being manually activated by a vehicle operator.5. The apparatus of claim 4 , the capacitive reference sensor being located within a vehicle steering control.6. The apparatus of claim 5 , the vehicle steering control being a steering wheel.7. The ...