Patents - Page 2

Apple was granted a new patent (filed in 2015) that details an audio device that uses a diaphragm made from a graphene-enhanced composite material. Apple's graphene membrane can be used in a speaker, microphone or headphone device. The patent specifically includes an image of an iPhone device as an example application.

Apple explains that as devices become smaller and lighter, it is ever more challenging to provide high quality audio using conventional materials - and graphene may improve the mechanical response of the audio device. In addition, in some cases, the use of graphene or graphene flake materials may reduce or eliminate the need for additional external damping.

Graphene 3D Lab has announced filing a provisional patent for a process of 3D printing an OLED light source that immediately functions when printed, with a graphene coated transparent conductor window. This unique structure is the product of an innovative multi-functional 3D Printer, which can make thin films as well as 3D structures.

The printer patent relates to a technology that should lead the industry in multiple deposition techniques, robotic manipulator, laser and UV curing capabilities. G3L considers the new IP a dramatic leap forward, offering the ability to 3D print with multiple functional materials at the same time, including the ability to 3D print a working light. This printer was reportedly designed to maximize the attributes of the functional materials that the company already developed, and plans to introduce in the future to the market.

Haydale announces that it has received confirmation from the European Patent Office (EPO) of the decision to grant a European Patent for its proprietary HDPlas® functionalization process for graphene and other nanoparticulate materials.

The European Patent is the key process patent underlying the Company's proprietary functionalization treatment and is one of a number arising from the families of patent applications surrounding Haydale's unique plasma functionalization process. Haydale already has a granted patent in China and has visibility on the patent application in Australia, which is expected to proceed to grant within the next 3-4 months.

Graphene 3D Lab has filed a non-provisional patent relating to the preparation and separation of atomic layers of graphene. This technology is said to represent a new, energy-efficient process to manufacture, sort and classify graphene nanoparticles, resulting in the potential for large-scale production of high-grade graphene.

The patent is relevant to graphene nanoplatelets - it covers a new, energy-efficient, non-chemically invasive process that significantly lowers the cost of preparing and separating high-quality, low atomic layers of GNP. 

Graphene-Info, in collaboration with Global IP News, is offering a daily newsletter covering graphene patents news. The Graphene Patent Newsletter provides patent information from more than 85 countries and can be a valuable tool in tracking the graphene patent scene and protecting your company's assets.

In addition to the daily email alert, we are happy to announce a new feature - you can now browse and view graphene patents from your desktop or mobile device, filter by company and country and also export the patent list to excel or PDF.

As a special feature-launch offer, if you subscribe by October 31 you will get a 25% discount - a yearly single-user subscription for only $300 (down from $400). We now also offer company-wide subscriptions - up to 10 subscribers for only $750.

A newly published patent filing from LG reveals the specifications for a next-gen microwave oven that includes a graphene door to prevent the radiation inside from leaking out, ensuring more uniform heating. While the microwave itself sounds interesting, it seems that the manufacturing process, which follows a special layering approach, is the real innovation.

The process begins when a catalyst metal with microwave shielding properties such as copper is sandwiched between two layers of graphene synthesized by CVD. Next, a number of support materials are added to the structure in order to support the subsequent etching phases, which pattern the individual layers in a way that exposes both the graphene absorbent and the catalyst metal with its shielding properties for double effect.

Apple recently submitted a patent application for lightning connectors that use graphene signal paths. In Apple's patent a connector (lightning connector) is coupled to a signal cable. The inkjet-printed graphene traces are formed on the upper and/or lower surfaces of the plastic connector tongue.

A connector can be provided with dielectric material and conductive traces, some of which can be made using printed circuits. Graphene traces may be deposited using inkjet printing techniques or other deposition and patterning techniques. During inkjet printing, graphene may be patterned to form signal lines on a connector structure, printed circuit, contacts on a printed circuit board and other structures. 

Recent reports indicate the issue of a patent assigned to IBM, regarding a graphene resistor based tamper resistant identifier with contactless reading. The invention seems to relate to an identification system that is more immune to copying than traditional barcodes.

The method for creating this invention includes arranging an array of graphene resistors in parallel or series. The method also includes forming a unique identification code based on respective temperatures emanating from respective voltages output from the graphene resistors when the array of graphene resistors is in a powered state. Another aspect described in the patent application is an authentication apparatus that includes a plurality of graphene resistors with a bandgap voltage generation circuit or a bandgap current generation circuit connected to the plurality of graphene resistors for powering up the plurality of graphene resistors in the powered state.

Nokia recently issued a patent for a graphene oxide-based sensor for protection of mobile devices against water damages. The sensor will use a graphene oxide sensing film senses moisture content or change in relative humidity and triggers an ultra-fast disconnection of the mobile device from its power source (battery).

The sensor will include a sensor capable of sensing water in liquid or vapor form based on the measurement of large time derivative values. The sensor will comprise of a graphene oxide thin film and two or more electrodes in contact with the thin film. An electronic switch will be connected to the sensor and to a power source that powers the circuitry in the electronic device. The GO can be easily integrated into the sensor as a thin film by printing it on the power source's surface.The film should be less than 100 nanometers thick and could also be spray-coated or spin-coated onto the surface.

One year ago, Graphene-Info, in collaboration with Global IP News, launched a new service: a daily newsletter covering graphene patents news. The Graphene patent Newsletter provides valuable daily patent information from more than 85 countries. In the past year, the newsletter enabled graphene companies and research institutes to track the graphene patent scene and protect their IP.

The Graphene Patent newsletter at a glance:

• A subscription-based news service (daily)
• A review of patent applications, grants and expiration monitoring from over 85 countries (including the US, EU, China, Japan and Korea)
• Skilfully compiled by two trustworthy companies, leaders in their fields
• The best and easiest way to monitor global graphene patents!
• A must-have tool for academic researchers and graphene companies!

Special one-year anniversary offer!

• The Graphene Patent newsletter costs $400 per year.
• If you subscribe by December 31st, you can enjoy our special anniversary offer and pay only $300.
• We also offer 2 weeks free trial.
• Contact us for details!