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A sensor for identifying fingerprints or other skin textures includes an array of cells each including a membrane switch. Each switch includes a fixed lower electrode disposed on a chip substrate, and a flexible membrane disposed over the lower electrode and capable of flexing downward to establish electrical contact between the lower electrode and an upper electrode. The upper electrode can form the membrane itself or a layer of the membrane, or can be attached to other membrane layers. Switches situated underneath skin ridges change state (e.g. are closed) by the applied pressure, while switches underneath skin valleys remain in their quiescent state (e.g. open). Adjacent switch chambers are connected by fluid tunnels which allow the passage of air between the chambers. Each chamber is substantially closed to the exterior of the sensor, such that particles from the environment cannot contaminate the switch contact surface defined between the switch electrodes. The cells are preferably not hermetically sealed, such that the pressure within the chamber interiors can stay equal to the external (atmospheric) pressure in varying environmental conditions. The membrane design of the cells according to the preferred embodiment allows improved sensor robustness, enhanced resistance to impact forces, decreased vulnerability to particle contamination, and reduced inter-cell crosstalk.
1. A skin-texture sensor for sensing a skin texture having a plurality of ridges and a plurality of valleys, comprising:
a) a base;
b) a plurality of conductive row lines disposed on the base;
c) a plurality of conductive column lines disposed on the base and insulated from the row lines; and
d) an array of membrane switches disposed on the base such that a spacing between adjacent switches in the array is less than one half of a spacing between adjacent ridges, each membrane switch corresponding to a pair of one of the row lines and one of the column lines, said each membrane switch comprising:
a lower electrode disposed on the base and electrically connected to said one of the row lines, and
a flexible upper membrane structure disposed over and spaced apart from the lower electrode when in a quiescent state, the membrane structure comprising an upper electrode disposed facing the lower electrode and connected to said one of the column lines, wherein
applying a ridge of the texture to said each membrane switch causes a flexure of the membrane resulting in a contact between the lower electrode and the upper electrode, the contact establishing an electrical communication between said one of the row lines and said one of the column lines, and wherein
disposing a valley of the texture over said each membrane switch does not result in the contact between the lower electrode and the upper electrode.
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23. A skin-texture sensor for sensing a skin texture having a plurality of ridges and a plurality of valleys, the sensor comprising:
an array of membrane switches disposed on a base such that a spacing between adjacent switches in the array is less than one half of a spacing between adjacent ridges, each membrane switch comprising:
a) a lower electrode disposed on the base; and
b) a flexible upper membrane structure disposed over the lower electrode and comprising an upper electrode disposed facing the lower electrode, wherein applying a ridge of the texture to said each membrane switch causes a flexure of the membrane resulting in a contact between the lower electrode and the upper electrode, and wherein disposing a valley of the texture over said each membrane switch does not result in the contact between the lower electrode and the upper electrode.
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30. A texture sensor for sensing a texture having a plurality of protrusions and a plurality of valleys, the sensor comprising:
an array of membrane switches disposed on a base, each membrane switch comprising:
a) a lower electrode disposed on the base; and
b) a flexible upper membrane structure disposed over the lower electrode and spaced apart from the lower electrode when in a quiescent state, the upper membrane structure comprising an upper electrode disposed facing the lower electrode, wherein disposing a protrusion of the texture over said each membrane switch causes a flexure of the membrane resulting in a contact between the lower electrode and the upper electrode, and wherein disposing a valley of the texture over said each membrane switch does not result in the contact between the lower electrode and the upper electrode.
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40. An integrated circuit chip sensor for sensing a texture that has a plurality of ridges and a plurality of valleys, comprising:
a) a substrate;
b) a plurality of row lines;
c) a plurality of column lines; and
d) a plurality of membrane switches disposed on the substrate in an array such that each row line and each column line is connected to a plurality of membrane switches, each switch including:
a lower electrode electrically connected to one of the row lines; and
a flexible membrane comprising an upper electrode spaced apart from said lower electrode when in a quiescent state and electrically connected to one of the column lines; wherein
a ridge of the texture causes flexure of the membrane and thereby results in movement of the upper electrode and a change in a state of electrical contact between the upper electrode and the lower electrode, and wherein
a valley of the texture disposed over another of the switches does not result in flexure of the membrane and the change in state of electrical contact between the upper electrode and the lower electrode associated with said another switch.
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48. A texture sensor for sensing a texture having a plurality of protrusions and a plurality of valleys, the sensor comprising an array of membrane switches disposed on a base, each membrane switch comprising:
a) a fixed electrode rigidly coupled to the base; and
b) a flexible upper membrane structure disposed over the base such that a cavity separates a central region of the membrane structure and the base when the fixed electrode and the movable electrode are not in contact, the membrane structure comprising a movable electrode disposed facing the fixed electrode, wherein disposing a protrusion of the texture over said each membrane switch causes a flexure of the membrane resulting in a change in contact state between the fixed electrode and the movable electrode, and wherein disposing a valley of the texture over said each membrane switch does not result in the change in contact state between the fixed electrode and the movable electrode.
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51. A method of detecting a texture, comprising:
a) depressing the texture over a sensor comprising an array of membrane switches, each membrane switch comprising a fixed lower electrode and a flexible upper membrane structure including an upper electrode disposed over the lower electrode;
b) identifying a plurality of closed membrane switches, wherein a ridge of the texture disposed over each of the closed switches causes a flexure of a membrane structure of said each of the closed switches and an electrical contact between a lower electrode and an upper electrode of said each of the closed switches; and
c) identifying a plurality of open membrane switches, wherein a valley of the texture disposed over each of the open switches does not cause an electrical contact between a lower electrode and an upper electrode of said each of the open switches.
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This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/571,765, filed May 16, 2000, entitled "Method and Apparatus for Pressure Sensing," which is herein incorporated by reference.
The invention relates to biometric identification systems and methods, and in particular to fingerprint or skin texture identification systems and methods using switch arrays.
The fingerprint sensing industry uses several different conventional technologies to capture images of an individual's fingerprints. Two prominent technologies are optical-based sensors and capacitance-based sensors. In a typical optical sensor, a light source, lenses and a prism are used to image the ridges and valleys on a fingerprint, based on differences in the reflected light from the features. Conventional capacitance sensors include two-dimensional array of capacitors defined on a silicon chip, and fabricated by semiconductor CMOS processing. The individual sensors on the chip form one plate of the parallel plate capacitor, while the finger itself, when placed on the array, acts as the second plate for the various localized sensors. Upon contact with the array of sensors, the individual distance from each sensor to the corresponding point on the skin above the sensor is measured using capacitive techniques. The difference in distance to skin at the ridges and valleys of a fingerprint identifies the fingerprint.
Capacitive and optical sensors can be sensitive to oils or grease on the finger and to the presence or absence of moisture on the finger. In addition, the ambient temperature can affect these sensors at the time of sensing. Under hot or cold conditions, capacitive sensors can provide erroneous readings. Finally, most sensors have abrasion resistant coatings. The thickness of the protective coating can affect the measurements. The combined effect of these variables can result in distorted fingerprint images. Finally, in the case of silicon chip based fingerprint sensors, the placement of the finger directly onto the silicon increases the risk of electrostatic discharge and damage to the sensor.
Accordingly, there remains a need for a device suitable for use as a texture image capture sensor that has high sensitivity, yet can provide high lateral resolution. Moreover, there further remains a need for a sensor that is suitable for use in fingerprint image capture that is less sensitive to adverse conditions such as extreme temperatures and skin oils and grease.
A texture sensor for sensing a texture having a plurality of protrusions and a plurality of valleys, such as a fingerprint or other skin texture, includes an array of membrane switches disposed on a base. Each membrane switch comprises a fixed electrode rigidly coupled to the base, and a flexible upper membrane structures disposed over the base such that a cavity separates a central region of the membrane structure and the base. The membrane structure comprises a movable electrode disposed facing the fixed electrode. Disposing a protrusion of the texture over the membrane switch causes a flexure of the membrane resulting in a change in contact state between the fixed electrode and the movable electrode. Disposing a valley of the texture over the membrane switch does not result in the change in contact state between the fixed electrode and the movable electrode.
The foregoing aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood upon reading the following detailed description and upon reference to the drawings where:
In the following description, it is understood that each recited element or structure can be formed by or be part of a monolithic structure, or be formed from multiple distinct structures. Unless otherwise specifically stated, the statement that a first layer or structure is disposed or deposited on a second layer or structure is understood to allow for the presence of parts of the first or second layer or structure that are not so disposed or deposited, and further allow for the presence of intermediate layers or structures between the first and second layers or structures. The terms "chip base" and "chip substrate" are understood to encompass monolithic substrates as well as structures containing multiple layers or parts. The terms "upper" and "lower" are used to describe relative positions, and s do not necessarily refer to the direction of gravity during operation of the sensor. A set of elements is understood to include one or more elements. A plurality of elements is understood to include two or more elements. Any recitation of an element is understood to refer to at least one element.
The following description illustrates embodiments of the invention by way of example and not necessarily by way of limitation.
A plurality of metallic leads arranged in an m�n orthogonal grid and electrically isolated from each other serve as the electrical input and output lines for each switch. The orthogonal grid of metallic leads comprises conductive rows 22 and columns 24, which lead into and out of each switch. Each row/column combination of conducting leads corresponds uniquely to a specific switch in the array. Each switch is addressed by applying a voltage and sensing a current between the row and column leads corresponding to the switch.
Each column lead 24 is connected to an input of a column multiplexer 30, while each row lead 22 is connected to an input of a row (downstream) multiplexer 32. Column multiplexer 30 and row multiplexer 32 are used to individually address each of the switches in the matrix, and thereby determine the state (open or closed) of each switch. Such multiplexers and the manner of causing the addressing of each switch are known, and thus a detailed description thereof is not necessary for an understanding of the present invention.
Each switch includes a lower conductive electrode, and a membrane structure including an upper electrode disposed over the lower electrode. The lower electrode of each switch is electrically connected to a column (or row) lead, and the upper conducting electrode is electrically connected to a row (or column) lead. Since the row and column conductor leads are electrically isolated from each other, the switch is electrically open in the quiescent state, and no current passes between the row and the column corresponding to the switch.
When a fingerprint is placed on the sensor, the upper electrodes of certain switches are pressed downward by the ridges of the fingerprint, while the upper electrodes of the other switches are not sufficiently deflected to close the switches. With appropriate design and fabrication of the switches, the upper electrodes deflect downward and establish contact with the corresponding lower electrodes when a ridge of a fingerprint is applied to the switches. The upper electrodes then revert to their original positions when the ridge of the fingerprint is removed. If a switch in the array resides directly beneath a ridge of the fingerprint, it is deflected and the switch is closed. If a switch resides beneath a valley of the fingerprint, then it is not deflected and it remains open. When closed, a switch establishes electrical contact between the row and column corresponding to that switch. In this way, one can generate a map of the contact points or the ridges on the fingerprint, and get an accurate reproduction of the fingerprint.
An electrical circuit such as a conventional counter, shift register and operational amplifier attached to a multiplexer, combined with voltage sources and current/voltage detectors can be used to detect the output current or voltage from the row/column being addressed. The magnitude of the output current indicates whether a particular switch is closed or open. Each switch can be polled individually using the multiplexer and simple controlling electronics and software to acquire a map of the closed switches. The switch map represents a map of the fingerprint image, since the image is a reproduction of the ridges on the fingerprint.
A large resistive device is preferably placed in series with each switch in the array so that one can easily distinguish between the open and closed states of the switch when the switch is polled. The resistive device is preferably a passive resistor with a resistance of 5,000 Ω to 500,000 Ω. Other suitable resistive devices include active devices such as p-n diodes with low forward resistance and low leakage current characteristics, field effect transistors, thin film transistors, and other types of transistors with similar characteristics. A pull-down resistor Rp is connected between ground and each input of downstream multiplexer 32. Pull-down resistor Rp is preferably a passive resistor with a resistance of approximately 50-250 Ω.
Pull-down resistor Rp and the resistor placed in series with each switch facilitate the reliable detection of the state (open/closed) of each switch. Ascertaining the state of the switch relies on detecting a significant difference in the voltages (or currents) measured for the closed and open states of the switch.
Consider a source of constant current, sourcing from the column multiplexer 30 and sinking through the row or downstream multiplexer 32.
Addressing column E and row 4 is used to determine the state of the switch E4. The current that passes down the addressed column E encounters a parallel network of closed and open switches.
Each of rows 2, 4, 6, and 7 contains a closed switch along column E. Only the closed switches provide current paths through the sensor, since the open switches provide essentially infinite impedance. The pull-down resistors Rp at the inputs of the row multiplexer 32 are selected such that each closed switch on the addressed column, including the switch on the addressed row, presents approximately the same resistance to the current.
The current passing through column E is split evenly between all the closed switches Rs along column E, in this case the closed switches Rs on rows 2, 4, 6, and 7. If there are n closed switches on the addressed column, then the current that flows through the switch being addressed can be approximated by I/n, where I is the total source current. Some of the current that makes its way to the addressed row is lost when it shunts back out through the closed switches on the addressed row. However, by making the switch resistance adequately high, this shunting can be reduced to a small fraction of the current that sinks through row multiplexer 32. Additionally, some of the current distributed throughout the fingerprint array does not sink through the various row pull-downs and makes its way back to the addressed row, increasing the current detected by the circuit.
The only current in the addressed row 5 is a portion of the current that does not sink through the various pull-down resistors Rp on the rows 2, 4, 6, and 7 with closed switches Rs on the addressed column E.
The ratio of currents through the row multiplexer 32 for a closed versus an open switch can be considered to be the quality factor for detecting the state of any switch in the array. An equation that approximates this ratio is:
Some typical values for the parameters in the above equations are:
In accordance with an aspect of a method of fingerprint identification/verification in accordance with the invention, before fingerprint measurements are performed, the quiescent impedance of each switch is measured in order to determine whether there is a stress on a particular switch. Measuring the quiescent impedance of each switch with no finger on the sensor provides a baseline measurement value for the switch. The baseline can be established either immediately prior to or immediately following the imaging of the fingerprint. The impedance measurement for each switch is repeated with the finger on the sensor, and the switches that have changed state from electrically open to electrically closed are recorded. The state-change information is mapped for the entire switch array to obtain an image of the fingerprint.
Comparing fingerprint measurements to the baseline allows a reduction of the effect of ambient temperature, humidity, and stress on the measurements. The baseline comparison also reduces the effect of individual bad sensors that are electrically closed prior to the application of the fingertip. Some switches may be closed or may appear to be closed in the absence of applied pressure, due to processing errors or undue deflection of some membranes.
Membrane structure 52 includes a conductive, creased upper electrode 66 disposed facing lower electrode 50, and a diaphragm or button 68 stacked above upper electrode 66. Diaphragm 68 forms the top, external boundary of switch 40. The fingerprint or texture of interest is pressed directly on diaphragm 68. Diaphragm 68 provides added thickness, mechanical stability, and impact resistance to membrane structure 52. Preferably, the height of the top surface of diaphragm 68 is within less than +4 μm, in particular within −0.5 μm or less, of the height of the rigid area surrounding diaphragm 68.
Excessively increasing the height of membrane structure 52 can make switch 40 vulnerable to external shocks. Excessively lowering the height of membrane structure 52 relative to its fixed surroundings can impede the protrusion of texture ridges to positions needed for establishing effective contact with the upper surface of membrane structure 52. The height of the top surface of diaphragm 68 can exceed the height of the surrounding rigid area by a few microns if improved sensitivity is desired. Preferably, the height of the top surface of diaphragm 68 is not below the height of the surrounding rigid area by more than 0.25 to 0.5 μm, if at all.
Upper electrode 66 is disposed along the bottom of membrane structure 52. Upper electrode 66 includes a planar contact surface facing lower electrode 50, such that downward flexing of membrane structure 52 establishes electrical contact between the contact surfaces of upper and lower electrodes 50, 66. For clarity, upper electrode 66 and lower electrode 50 are hatched in
Lower electrode 50 is electrically connected to row lead 44 through a passive resistor 70 disposed over insulating layer 64. In general, lower electrode 50 may also form part of row lead 44. Upper electrode 66 is electrically connected to column lead 46 (shown in
Row and column leads 44, 46 are made of a highly conductive material that can be easily patterned using known photolithography and etching techniques. Leads 44, 46 are electrically isolated from each other and from all other structures by films of insulating material. Lower and upper electrodes 50, 66 are preferably made of a material that is resistant to corrosion and oxidation, has a relatively high conductivity or forms an oxide having high conductivity, and is amenable to patterning by existing processes. Gold, copper, chromium, molybdenum, ruthenium, and indium tin oxide (ITO) are examples of preferred materials for lower and upper electrodes 50, 66.
Diaphragm 68 is made of a material which is resistant to corrosion and oxidation, which can be made to adhere well to upper electrode 66, and which has a desired stiffness. Diaphragm 68 is preferably made of a plastic or polymer. In a present implementation, diaphragm 68 is made of Shin-Etsu SINR 3180, a silicone-based polymer having a Young's modulus of about 40 MPa. Other suitable materials for diaphragm 68 include aluminum oxide, silicon dioxide, silicon nitride, metallic films, and polymer films such as elastomers, polyacrylates, etc. The choice of materials for diaphragm 68 and/or upper electrode 66 affects the flexibility and reliability of membrane structure 52. The materials and dimensions of diaphragm 68 and upper electrode 66 are preferably chosen such that the performance of membrane structure 52 does not degrade due to repeated deflections over the lifetimes of switch 40. Moreover, the materials and dimensions of membrane structure are chosen such that membrane structure fully deflects under typical pressures applied by fingerprints, but does not substantially deflect in the absence of applied fingerprint pressures.
Typically, the load applied by an individual's finger on a sensor is in the range of 100-500 grams. The fingerprint is approximately 15 mm�15 mm in general diameter. Thus, an array of switches with total dimensions of 15 mm�15 mm is generally appropriate for sensing fingerprints. The spacing between typical fingerprint ridges is on the order of 400 μm. If the switches are assumed to be placed 50 μm apart on a two dimensional x-y grid, an array of on the order of 300�300 switches would be suitable for covering a sensor surface area of 15 mm�15 mm. There are a total of 90,000 sensors in such an array, and the applied load from the fingertip can be assumed to be distributed over these 90,000 sensors. As a first order approximation, one can assume that the area of the ridges is equal to that of the valleys. Thus, approximately 45,000 sensors bear the applied load. If one conservatively assumes an applied load of 90 grams from the fingerprint, then each cell bears an approximate load of about 2 mg.
Membrane structure 52 is preferably designed such that it deflects adequately under the application of 2 mg of load to establish contact between upper electrode 66 and lower electrode 50, and then reverts to its original, quiescent position when the load is removed. The geometry and material properties of membrane structure 52 can be empirically tailored so membrane structure 52 causes closure of its corresponding switch if membrane structure 52 is positioned under a ridge or protrusion of the texture of interest, and does not cause such closure if membrane structure 52 is positioned under a valley or depression of the texture of interest.
An order-of-magnitude estimate of the dependence of the central deflection of a circular membrane on the properties of the membrane can be calculated by considering an ideal, flat disk-shaped monolithic membrane anchored around its circular edge. The central deflection of such a membrane is on the order of
Consider some approximate values for the variables in Eq. [2]:
If the quiescent state separation of the upper and lower electrode is made to be slightly smaller than the typical deflection of the membrane in response to an applied fingerprint ridge, the upper electrode makes contact with the lower electrode under applied pressure, allowing detection of the fingerprint ridge. The separation between the upper electrode and the lower electrode is preferably larger than any height or thickness variability that might arise in the membrane due to processing induced stresses, such that such stresses do not result in closure of the switch in the absence of applied pressure.
The fabrication of switches 40 will be described with reference to
Referring back to
A straight conductive row lead 44 is formed on insulating layer 64. Row lead 44 is preferably made of highly-conductive material(s) such as Cu, Cr, Au, Mo, and ITO. The thickness of row lead 44 is preferably between 1000 and 5000 Å, in particular between 2000 and 4000 Å. In a present implementation, row lead 44 is formed by a 300 Å Cr/2500 Å Cu/1000 Å Cr stack.
Lower electrode 50 is deposited onto insulating layer 64, for example using a photolithographic liftoff stencil. Lower electrode 50 has a substantially planar upper contact surface for establishing electrical contact with the upper electrode of the switch. The top surface of lower electrode 50 is preferably formed of metal(s) or alloy(s) that are resistant to corrosion, abrasion, frictional forces, and etchant materials used in subsequent processing steps, as described below. Preferred materials for lower electrode 50 include Cr, Au, Ru, Mo, and ITO. The thickness of lower electrode 50 is preferably between 500 and 5000 Å, in particular between 1000 and 2000 Å. In a present implementation, lower electrode 50 is formed by a 100 Å Cr/500 Å Au/300 Å Ru stack.
A straight column lead 46 is deposited over insulator layer 80, away from lower insulator 50 and along a direction perpendicular to the direction of row lead 44. Suitable materials and thicknesses for column lead 46 are generally similar to those described above for row lead 44. In a present implementation, column lead 46 is formed by a 100 Å Cr/4000 Å Au/300 Å Cr stack.
A first sacrificial layer 82 is formed over the contact surface of lower electrode 50, and over part of insulator layer 80 and column lead 46. Sacrificial layer 82 includes a generally circular central part 86 extending over the entire extent of the contact surface of lower electrode 50 and over a part of insulator layer 80 surrounding the contact surface. Central part 86 of sacrificial layer 82 will form part of the air chamber of switch 40, between lower electrode 50 and the upper electrode. Sacrificial layer 82 also includes a tunnel part 90 a-b, which extends away from central part 86 in a direction parallel to row lead 44. Tunnel part 90 a-b will form an inter-cell air tunnel for facilitating the equalization of pressure between different switch chambers. Sacrificial layer 82 further includes a set of four vent extensions 88 extending away from central part 86, at 45� relative to row lead 44 and column lead 46. Vent extensions 88 serve to provide access to sacrificial layer 82 during a subsequent step in which sacrificial layer 82 is removed. In general, one or more (e.g. more than four) vent extensions may be used.
The thickness of sacrificial layer 82 defines the spacing between the contact surfaces of lower electrode 50 and the upper electrode to be subsequently deposited over sacrifical layer 82. The thickness of sacrificial layer 82 is preferably between 500 Å and 1 μm, in particular between 0.1 and 0.5 μm. Suitable materials for sacrificial layer 82 include Cu, Al, or any other etchable materials. In a present implementation, sacrificial layer 82 is formed by 2000 Å-thick Cu. In alternative embodidiments, the sacrificial layer may include an organic release material such as a polyimide.
A second, annular sacrificial layer 84 is deposited onto first sacrificial layer 82, along an annular portion flanking the contact surface of lower electrode 50 and extending generally over the annular protrusion 81. Sacrificial layer 84 serves to provide additional annular creasing to the upper electrode to be subsequently deposited, in order to reduce residual stresses in the upper electrode. Suitable thicknesses and materials for second sacrificial layer 84 are similar to those described above for first sacrificial layer 82. In a present implementation, second sacrificial layer 84 is formed by 3000 Å-thick Cu.
Edge anchor part 92 anchors the edges of upper electrode 66 to the fixed insulator layer 80. Central part 92 is designed to be capable of downward flexing motion after the removal of sacrificial layers 82, 84. Central part 92 includes annular creases for decreasing stresses within upper electrode 66. Central part 92 further includes a planar inner contact surface facing the contact surface of lower electrode 50. Tunnel and column contact part 96 defines the electrical contact between column lead 46 and upper electrode 66, as well as the top part of the intercell tunnel extending over column lead 46.
Preferred materials for upper electrode 66 include Au, Cr, Mo, Ru, and ITO. The thickness of upper electrode 66 is chosen so as to produce desired stiffness and stress characteristics. Preferably, the thickness of upper electrode 66 is between 800 and 4000 Å, in particular between 1000 and 2000 Å. In a present implementation, upper electrode 66 is formed by a 500 Å Au/1000 Å Cr stack, with the gold layer stacked below the chromium layer. The free part of upper electrode 66 preferably has an overall size or diameter between 1 and 5 μm. In a present implementation, the diameter of the free part of upper electrode 66 is about 3.2 μm.
Preferred materials for support and insulator layer 100 include silicon dioxide, silicon nitride, and silicon oxynitride. The thickness of layer 100 is preferably between 1000 Å and 3 μm. In a present implementation, layer 100 is formed by 0.75 μm-thick field silicon dioxide.
After layer 100 is formed, a wet chemical etch is used to remove the sacrificial layers present between lower electrode 50 and upper electrode 66. The sacrificial layers are removed through the vents defined over the tips of vent extensions 88. Following the removal of the sacrificial layers, lower and upper electrodes 50, 66 are separated by the air gap or chamber 54.
Preferably, the height of membrane structure 52 is approximately equal to the height of the support layer 100. It is preferred that the top surface of membrane structure 52 be within less than 4 μm higher and 0.5 μm lower than the top surface of support layer 100. If the top surface of membrane structure 52 is too low relative to support layer 100, support layer 100 can obstruct the penetration of fingerprint ridges to membrane structure 52 and thus prevent the closing of switch 40. If the top surface of membrane structure 52 is too high relative to support layer 100, switch 40 can become unnecessarily vulnerable to external impact forces capable of stressing or damaging membrane structure 52 or lower electrode 50.
A set of four vent seals 102 are deposited over the sacrificial layer vents defined in support layer 100, for closing the internal chamber of switch 40 to outside particles that could otherwise contaminate switch 40. Vent seals 102 preferably are not air-tight, such that the air pressure within the internal chamber of switch 40 can equalize with the air pressure in the external environment of switch 40. Preferred materials for vent seals 102 include silixon oxide, silicon nitride, metals, or other materials that will not leak into the internal chamber of switch 40. The thickness of vent seals 102 is preferably sufficiently high so that vent seals 102 cover the aperture left behind by the vent extensions of the sacrificial layers, but not so high that vent seals 102 interfere with the sensing of fingerprints by blocking access to the membrane structure 52. In a present implementation, vent seals 102 include a lower layer of 0.6 μm-thick silicon dioxide, and a polymer cap stacked over the silicon dioxide lower layer. In this implementation, it was observed that the air pressure within the internal switch chamber substantially equalizes with the atmospheric air pressure outside of the switch within a time period on the order of half an hour or less. In alternative implementations, suitable vent seals may be formed by a single layer of a material such as silicon nitride or a metal.
A flexible membrane structure 452 comprises a flexible lower electrode membrane 450 anchored around its edges to base 462. The middle part of membrane 450 extends upward from base 462, and is separated from base 462 by a disk-shaped second cavity 454 b. A coupling button 468 is disposed above the middle part of lower electrode 450, through vertical aperture 496. Coupling button 468 extends above the fixed surfaces of switch 440, so as to couple applied downward pressure to lower electrode membrane 450. A thin, flexible sheet 498 is disposed over the entire switch array, above the corresponding coupling buttons of all the switches in the array. Flexible sheet 498 serves to keep particulate matter away from the contact surface between the fixed upper electrode 466 and the movable lower electrode 450.
Switch 440 is closed in its quiescent state, when no pressure or texture is applied. In the quiescent state, upper electrode 466 is in electrical contact with lower electrode 450. When a texture ridge or protrusion applies downward pressure to lower electrode 450 through sheet 498 and coupling button 468, lower electrode 450 flexes downward and breaks its electrical contact to upper electrode 466. Switch 440 is then open. When the applied pressure is removed, lower electrode 450 returns to its quiescent state and switch 440 becomes closed again.
The structure described with reference to
The use of the suspended-membrane switch designs described above allows enhanced reliability and relative insensitivity to the amount of pressure applied by the individual. The flexible membrane is capable of closing each switch in response to relatively light pressure applied by a user. Since the lower and upper electrodes are spaced closely apart relative to their in-plane extents, excessive application of force to the upper electrode does not generally cause fracture of the membrane. The switch and associated passive resistor design minimizes the need to use transistors to address the different cells using expensive CMOS processes. The switch is relatively insensitive to electrostatic discharge or other voltage spikes that would otherwise damage silicon-based sensors.
The power consumption of the sensor device is relatively low, since a relatively small amount of current is used to test for the state of each electrical circuit when a finger or texture is placed on the sensor. Additionally, the sensor is on only when a fingerprint is being acquired, which reduces the drain on the energy source used for polling the sensor. In its quiescent state, the sensor draws no current. Low power consumption is particularly useful in portable devices such as cellular phones and laptop computers.
The sensor is relatively insensitive to the choice of materials, and thus can be made relatively robust through the use of materials having relatively high corrosion and abrasion resistance. The device can be made relatively inexpensively, since its fabrication does not require expensive processing of silicon wafers. The relative ease of processing allows for the fabrication process to be applied to large area substrates, yielding more sensors per processed wafer and decreased manufacturing costs.
The use of a membrane allows eliminating the lateral motion of the upper electrode relative to the lower electrode. The membrane design facilitates the sealing of the chamber containing the contact surface of the switch, thus preventing external particles from contaminating the contact surface and blocking the switch in an open or closed state. Such particles could in principle contaminate the contact surface during normal operation of the sensor, or during manufacturing steps used to fabricate the sensor. The chamber sealing can be appropriately tailored to allow the passage of air in and out of the chamber while preventing the entry of contaminants. It is thought that the preferred manufacturing process and structure described above allows keeping out contaminants that are larger than on the order of hundreds or thousands of Ångstroms. Allowing the pressure inside the switch chambers to become equal to the pressure outside the switches reduces the dependence of the switch operation on environmental pressure.
The individual membrane sealing reduces the need for a global cover sheet applied over all the switches for mechanical protection. A thick or inflexible cover sheet can lead to cross-talk between adjacent switches, as switches disposed under valleys are pressed downward by the downward motion of the cover sheet pressed down by adjacent ridges. Providing inter-switch tunnels allows the pressure within different switch chambers to equalize. Equalizing the pressures in different switch chambers leads to reduced variability in the force required to close different switches. A flexible, global cover sheet applied over all the switches can be used in a sensor according to alternative embodiments of the present invention.
The profile and relatively compact size of the flexible membrane structure allows the use of thick, hard field regions between adjacent membrane structures. The field regions protect the membrane structures from high impact forces and lateral shear forces caused by scratching, aggressive wiping, rubbing or other forces.
A global sealed vent may be used at the end of each row or column of switches, in order to facilitate the equalization of pressure between the interior chambers of multiple sensor switches and the external environment. Such a global vent may include an aperture, facing upward, that communicates with one or more interswitch tunnel(s) of the sensor. The aperture can be sealed by a structure such as a polymer film, so as to prevent the entry of particulate contaminants into the interswitch tunnels.
In alternative embodiments, a substrate made of a insulator such as a plastic may be employed to support the switch array. Various conductors can be deposited on the insulator, and insulative sheets may be laminated onto the substrate to provide desired insulation between the conductors.
In an alternative embodiment, the quiescent state of each state is closed rather than open. A flexible membrane can then include a movable lower electrode of the switch disposed on the upper surface of a membrane. The membrane is separated from the base by a cavity allowing downward flexure of the membrane into the cavity. A fixed upper electrode of the switch is disposed along a protrusion which forms part of the base or is rigidly attached to the base. The upper electrode faces downward. In the closed quiescent state, the fixed and movable electrodes are in contact along an annular region around the cavity. When the membrane is pressed down by an applied ridge, the flexure of the membrane causes the lower electrode to move downward so as to break the contact between the fixed and movable electrodes.
It will be clear to one skilled in the art that the above embodiments may be altered in many ways without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the edges of the upper electrode need not be anchored to the fixed switch structure. An unanchored upper electrode can be stacked underneath another membrane layer which is anchored around the edges to the fixed switch structure. Devices as described above can be used in robotic control applications, on the tips of robotic arms, for sensing textures of objects rather than skin. A button disposed on each flexible membrane structure can extend above the other structures of the sensor, in order to facilitate the coupling of texture ridges to the flexible membranes. The switch chambers can be sealed to be air- or vacuum-tight, in order to maintain a vacuum or given amount of air within the chambers. Inter-chamber tunnels can be provided along both orthogonal directions (row and column) of the sensor, as well as along other directions. The vents used for removing the sacrificial layers can be positioned in various places, such as above an inter-chamber tunnel. Various materials, layer thicknesses and other structural dimensions are given for illustrative purposes. It is understood that other dimensions and materials can be suitable for use with the present invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be determined by the following claims and their legal equivalents.
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text:
The Reference Card app provides quick access to the most used commands for Linux, subcommands for VI/VIM and an overview of the basic and extended regular expression syntax.
Join our G+ community to provide feedback and get access to beta versions.
What's New
Linux Reference Free
(Pro version is available here : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.poash.linuxreferencepro)
* View content offline
* No Ads
* Test your knowledge with quiz (more question will be added soon)
* Easily zoom in or out to view images
* Change the font size to read easily, either on mobile phone or tablet
* No permissions required
* Internet connection not required
Quiz Features
★Test your knowledge
★Questions test your understanding of the commands
★Questions can be flagged for later review while the quiz is in progress
★Correct answer, along with the explanation is displayed for each question once the quiz is over. User answers are also displayed
★Questions that are left unanswered do not reveal correct answers
Feel free to give us your feedback/suggestions at firstname.lastname@example.com.
If you face any problems, let us know. Please avoid leaving negative feedback in the comments.
NOTE: Android 4.0 and below versions do not support features of changing text. Consequently, the text changing icons won't show up on these versions.
Linux Guru
These commands are frequently using by the linux admins and must known commands.
There are various commands from below categories,
- LVM commands
- File System commands
- Performance Monitoring commands
- Backup and Restore commands
- Network commands
- Hardware Kernel commands
- Package Installation commands
Keywords : Linux Quick Reference, Linux Commands, Linux Pocket Reference, Linux Quick Guide, Linux system Administrator, Linux sysadmin, Linux system admins, LINUX Interview questions.
Linux Cheatsheet
Categorized and organized UI
Command highlighting for quick view
Easy on eyes
Information rich, valid information
User friendly language for explanation of commands
Linux Essentials
For more than ten years, Linup Front GmbH has been a market leader for high-quality, low-price training materials for Linux and FLOSS. We are also a founding institutional member of the German LPI e.V. With the first German preparation book (published in 2004) for the LPIC-1 exams and a set of LPI-certified training materials to our credit, we have extensive experience with LPI certification. We support the new Linux Essentials programme by providing this training manual at no charge. The manual is also suitable as a general introduction to Linux for new users.
Please visit our online shop at http://shop.linupfront.com/ , too!
IMPORTANT: The use of the Linux Essentials logo does not imply that this manual is endorsed by LPI. As a matter of principle, LPI does not endorse specific methods or materials for exam preparation.
Linux/Unix manpages
- Add to favorites for quick access to frequently used commands;
- Autocomplete;
- Email man page;
- No internet connection required to browse after initial download.
- Installation is done on the SD card and will save you some precious space!
The man pages for your Unix & Linux commands.
No ads and totally FREE! Enjoy!
Features to come:
- Download man pages based on the operating system (Fedora, Ubuntu, Slackware, Solaris, BSD, OSX. etc...)
Linux Guide
This App contains the basic and advanced commands of the Linux operating system.
Linux Commands Hackers Manual
Need a quick reference guide on your phone for all the usual Linux commands?
This app provides all the regular bash commands for Linux Shell as well providing Syntax, Descriptions of
each type of command, Options and Examples are all included to help you out for whatever your need may be!
Download our FREE Linux Commands Handbook and enjoy our easy to use app!
Thank you for Supporting the Developers & Playing, Ninjas!
Remember to Subscribe on our Developer Website / MotionPixTheater YouTube Channel for News & Updates.
Join MotionPixTheater Ninja Army & Become a Ninja.. RIGHT NOW !!!
App & Programming & Logic Created by Shin
Artwork Created by Snap
Linux Command Library
Manual pages for ~ 2.500 commands.
Example of commands:
shutdown, reboot, lock/unlock screen, print external/internal ip, print cpu/battery usage, take screenshot/webcame photo, play text to speech, play sound file...
Unix & Linux Reference Guide
/* Full Offline Content - No Need Internet */
Redesign and More Offline Contents In Version 4.0 Based On User Response and Expectations
/** App Features **/
- Redesign Layout
- Fresh Layout For Reading Content
- Utils and Commands Usage Parts Newly added ( More than 100 with Usage and Its Functionalities )
- Unix Tutorial Added
- Optimized Image for Mobile
- Full Offline Content
Commands are under these parts:
Access Control
Programming Tools
File and Directory Management
File Display and Printing
File Transfer
Process Control
Status Information
Image Processing
Text Processing
X windows
- Linux and Unix Commands
- Unix Tutorials
- Unix Administrative and Networking Commands
More Offline Unix and Linux Tutorials
- About Unix
- VI Editor and Commands
- Unix Shell
- Unix Other Useful Commands
- Unix Advanced Commands
- How Linux Works
- Desktop Linux
- Ubuntu Linux Commands
- Useful Linux Commands
- Linux Advanced Commands
- Linux Network Commands
- Linux Network Configuration Commands
- Solaris System Process Commands
Quick Reference - New
- Unix Quick Reference
- Unix Dummies Reference
- Redhat / Fedora Unix and Linux Commands
More Offline Commands About Unix,Linux,Ubuntu and Solaris.....
Keywords : Unix Guide,Unix and Linux Commands,Unix Guide,Unix Tutorials,Linux Tutorials,Ubuntu Commands,Ubuntu Tutorials, Linux Commands,Ubuntu Tutorials,Ubuntu Videos,Unix Commands,Unix and Linux Pocket Guide,Ubuntu Reference,Unix Wiki,Unix Commands,Linux Commands,Solaris Commands,Unix Reference,Unix Pocket Guide,Linux Quick Reference,Unix Quick Reference,Ubuntu Quick Reference.
little drops @ thiyagaraaj.com
Linux Manuals
Linux Essentials (Deutsch)
Linux Essentials richtet sich besonders an Schulen und Hochschulen, wo Jugendliche und junge Erwachsene an Linux herangeführt werden sollen. Das Linux-Essentials-Zertifikat soll das Basiswissen definieren, das erforderlich ist, um einen Linux-Rechner produktiv zu nutzen und über ein korrespondierendes Ausbildungsprogramm Jugendlichen, jungen Erwachsenen und Open-Source-Einsteigern dabei helfen, Linux und Open Source im Kontext der IT-Industrie zu verstehen. Mehr Informationen über die Linux-Essentials-Zertifizierung finden Sie unter http://www.lpi.org/ .
Die Linup Front GmbH ist seit mehr als zehn Jahren Marktführer für hochwertige und preisgünstige Schulungsmaterialien im Linux- und Open-Source-Bereich sowie institutionelles Gründungsmitglied des LPI e.V. in Deutschland. Mit dem 2004 erschienenen ersten deutschsprachigen Vorbereitungsbuch für die LPIC-1-Prüfungen und unseren vom LPI zertifizierten Schulungsunterlagen verfügen wir über umfassende Erfahrungen mit den Zertifizierungen des LPI. Wir unterstützen das neue Linux-Essentials-Programm mit dieser kostenlosen Unterlage, die auch als allgemeine Einführung in Linux für neue Anwender dienen kann.
Besuchen Sie auch unseren Online-Shop auf http://shop.linupfront.de/ !
WICHTIG: Die Verwendung des Linux-Essentials-Logos bedeutet nicht, dass diese Unterlage vom LPI empfohlen wird. Das LPI empfiehlt grundsätzlich keinen speziellen Methoden oder Materialien zur Prüfungsvorbereitung.
Linux Mentor
Boot Process
User Accounts
File commands
System Information
SCP and Rsync
Network Commands
Samba Sharing
Scheduling process
Backup Commands
NFS(Network File Sharing)
File Permissions
FTP(File transfer protocol)
Process Monitor
If you need more commands or help. please do email to email@example.com. we will assist to you.
This app is ad-free version
Linux Journal
Inside the app, you'll find recent LinuxJournal.com headlines, a free full sample issue
(September 2011), as well as single issues that are available for purchase. Subscribers receive free access to full issues in the app and access to their Linux Journal subscription in a variety other formats: PDF, online edition, iOS and Android apps, and ePub.
From this app, enjoy:
- searchable content
- a bookmarking feature
- an archive of your issues
- scrolling through the magazine page by page or text-optimized viewing of articles
- e-mailing or sharing articles with your friends and colleagues
Published since 1994, Linux Journal is the original magazine of the global Linux community, delivering readers the advice and inspiration they need to get the most out of their Linux systems. In-depth information provides a full 360-degree look at featured topics relating to Linux, giving a comprehensive source of everything readers need for creating and completing their own projects--not just tools they will use today, but relevant and encompassing information they will turn to in future months and years. Every issue also includes: opinions; new product information; profiles of leaders making major contributions in Open Source; product reviews; business, social and technical news and developments in order to fulfill its mission as the central forum and advocate for the greater Linux community throughout the world.
This application is powered by GTxcel, a leader in digital publishing technology, provider of hundreds of online digital publications and mobile magazine apps.
python for unix and linux
Linux in a Nutshell
Buy this DRM-free ebook today! Powered by Aldiko.
Everything you need to know about Linux is in this book. It thoroughly covers programming tools, system and network administration tools, the shell, editors, and LILO and GRUB boot loaders.
Linux Lazy
The database is local and static so there is no need for an internet connection to run the app. It will work even in the deepest of server rooms!
A search function is implemented with an external server. The server is located at www.linuxfunkar.se and uses TCP port 8754.
The technical reason for using an external server is performance due to the large index table needed. It would take a few minutes (or hours perhaps, I havn't really tried..) just to start the app if the index table was to be initiated locally. It would also add around 40-50MB to the app size AND 60-70MB of RAM required just to run the app.
It is possible to search for more than one matching word by separating the words with a space or a new line.
The GPL'd source is available at:
The app is available for free on Android market. It can also be downloaded directly at:
More from developer
Space Travel Agency
During the courses students will create the Space Travel Agency app step-by-step. To give them an idea of what they are building we uploaded a full version of the app.
Currently AT Computing offers two Android courses:
Android Development Fundamentals. During this course a basic version of the Space Travel Agency app is created. You will learn to use multiple activities, fragments, widgets, listviews, adapters, dialogs, databases, content providers, multiple threads, localization and internationalization framework, and handle device configuration changes and keeping state. During the course we will focus on how to use a responsive design approach for developing your app. The version created during the fundamentals course allows the user to select multiple destinations, invite a friend from their contacts, and checkout the journey.
Android Development Advanced. Continues where the Android Development Fundamentals course stopped. The Space Travel Agency app is expanded to allow the user to book the journey on a HTTP server and take pictures. You will learn to use the action bar, google support library, settings framework, notification framework, device sensors, 3rd party apps, apply animations, use HTTP services, create broadcast receivers, and use maps and location-based services.
AT Course Examiner
Each exam holds 5 questions regarding the subjects covered in the course.
Currently the Course Examiner includes questions for the following courses:
UNIX/Linux part 1 (english and dutch)
LPI 101, 102, 201, and 202 (only in dutch)
Android Development Fundamentals (only in english)
LDAP (only in english)

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Women's R-Gear Raise The Bar Compression TightItem #RRL2162
Now:$39.95 - $49.95
VIP:$35.96 - $44.96 Get This Price
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Product Description:
Women's ROAD RUNNER SPORTS RAISE THE BAR COMPRESSION TIGHT :: Elevate your workout look and performance when you hit the gym in the Women's Road Runner Sports Raise The Bar Compression Tight. You'll be getting fabulous muscle-strengthening compression that'll make you feel stronger and more energized, all the while soaking up a well-supported, form-flattering look. You're sure to stay dry and cool in this tight's moisture wicking material that features ventilated mesh panels down the side of each leg. You won't have to worry about chafe, thanks to the flatlock seams, and you'll even get a little extra stow space for your essentials compliments of the Raise The Bar's two back waistband pockets.
Features & Benefits:
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I wear these running mostly, and also doing regular workouts. I get really sweaty and they stay up and i never find myself adjusting them! They are super moisture wicking. I also love that they stretch completely with me while I stretch. No adjusting while doing workouts! Greatest workout leggings I've bought yet, I wish I could afford another pair!
Best Uses
Great running tights. Minimal sliding down while running and stay up nice after you are a little sweaty. They have moderate compression. I love the sides. The black is more see thru then the pink but both show skin thru the venting. Both pairs have held up well to 2 washings. I hang them to dry. sizing is true, length im 5'7 and they are plenty long and actually have an extra inch on the bottom if I had needed it.
Best Uses
I really like these pants. They are amazingly flattering. but be aware that the side panels on the black pair are pretty see through, but this is my favorite part about them! Not too risky for wearing to school, but still very sexy! Love them.
Watch the Women's Raise the Bar Compression Tight Video!
Your Help Is Here
Shop with confidence knowing your team of Fit Experts is waiting to answer all your questions. You can always find your perfect product and your perfect fit. Your Road Runner Sports Fit Experts will make sure you get exactly what you want and have tons of fun in the process! Give us a call, chat, or email!
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Women'S ROAD RUNNER SPORTS LEG UP PRINTED 19" CAPRI LEGGING :: Get a leg up on the competition when you ...


text:
Four Valley City Sanford Clinic doctors have resigned their Mercy Hospital privileges as of Aug. 1 due to changes at the hospital making it more difficult to serve patients, said Dr. Misty Anderson Wednesday.
The four doctors who gave notice June 24 were Genevieve Govan, Dave Hochhalter, Anderson and James Buhr.
More in Friday's issue of the Times-Record.
A U.S. Department of Agriculture grant may be the biggest remaining thing standing between rural Valley City and broadband Internet connections.
Tom Steinolfson, network manager for BEK Communications, asked for and received support from the Barnes County Commission Tuesday in obtaining a USDA Broadband Community Connect Grant with which to build a rural broad band network.
Read more in Wednesday's Times-Record.
The City-County Health District needs more space, which they may soon have. During a regular meeting of the Barnes County Commission on Tuesday, commissioners agreed to consider purchasing the First Community Credit Union building on Fourth Street in Valley for the City-County Health District.
Read more in Wednesday's Times-Record.
Valley City State University will start offering two additional areas of concentration ― elementary education and English education ― in its online master of education program.
VCSU limits its master's degree programs to online, "and a master of education is the only one we offer. We are offering two different options," said a VCSU marketing and communications employee Tuesday.
More in Wednesday's issue of the Times-Record.
A new Valley City State University employee aims to help students be successful at the university in a couple different ways. As the new retention/diversity and inclusion coordinator, Nadja Johnson, Ph. D., who was hired in January, will focus on both retention and inclusion to make the campus more supportive for all students.
Read more in Wednesday's Times-Record.
Sanborn is doing its full fireworks show Thursday despite losing a portion of the pyrotechnics designated for the show in an explosion Thursday at a bunker in Stutsman County.
The show will go off as scheduled at dusk, "probably starting at about 10:15 p.m."
More in Tuesday's issue of the Times-Record.
A high-speed chase that started in Fargo in the pre-dawn hours of Saturday and reached speeds of up to 130 piles-per-hour ended over nine hours later near Valley City. Before being taken into custody, the 24-year-old Fargo man rammed two Barnes County Sheriff's vehicles, damaged a number of Fargo businesses, and attempted to run down at least one Fargo Police Officer.
Read more in Tuesday's Times-Record
Zion Free Lutheran Church, southwest of Valley City, plans to show off its remodel at a 125th anniversary celebration later this month.
About two years ago, the church started on an addition that is now a fellowship room. Other rooms inside, the outside of the building and yard all received some revamping too.
Church member Mary Ann Berntson anticipates the remodel will be complete by the anniversary celebration July 20 and 21.
Read more about the celebration in Tuesday's Times-Record.
Last Wednesday, the U.S. Supreme Court handed down two rulings upholding the rights of some same-sex partners to marry and giving all partners in legal same-sex marriages the same rights by the federal government as those in opposite-sex marriages. While reactions have varied greatly, some locals believe the implications of the rulings will reach far beyond the cases in which they were handed down.
Read more about local reactions in Monday's Times-Record.
First Community Credit Union of Valley City broke ground at their new location on East Main Street Friday morning. Valley City branch manager Dean Rohrich and Valley City employees joined Chief Executive Officer Steve Schmitz and board members for the event that marks the beginning of construction on the new 4,000-square-foot building.
Schmitz said they hope to be into the new building by the end of the year.
Read more in Monday's Times-Record.


text:
Downbeat Magazine honors St. Benedict at Auburndale soul band
Student garners nod for recording
Once again, the St. Benedict at Auburndale soul band has garnered honors in the Downbeat Magazine Student Music Awards.
This year, SBA student Jack Higgins won an individual award for "Best Engineered Studio Recording" for a recording submitted by the SBA Soul Band. The announcement of Jack's honor is published in the June issue of Downbeat.
This is the 35th annual Student Music Awards sponsored by the internationally published magazine.
SBA Instrumental music teacher and director of bands Tom Link said, "The Downbeat Awards are like the Grammys of college and high school music programs and this is a great honor for Jack. He is an accomplished music engineer and we are fortunate to have his technical ability."
St. Benedict has received Downbeat recognition in previous years. Award selections are made from entries submitted from throughout the country.
Jack, a rising senior, is the son of Paige and Ron Higgins of Cordova.
Sharon Masterson is director of communications for St. Benedict at Auburndale High School.
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text:
Bean Macaroni Salad
11 Oct 2009
|Cooked macaroni
|2 Cup (32 tbs)
|Canned three bean salad
|16 Ounce (1 Can)
|Chopped celery
|1 Cup (16 tbs)
|Hard cooked eggs
|3 , coarsely chopped
|Creamy french salad dressing
|1⁄2 Cup (8 tbs)
|Sweet pickle relish
|1⁄4 Cup (4 tbs)
|1⁄2 Teaspoon
|Bottled hot pepper sauce
|To Taste (Several Drops Required)
|1 Dash
In a large bowl combine cooked macaroni, undrained three bean salad, celery, and coarsely chopped eggs.
Blend together French dressing, pickle relish, salt, hot pepper sauce, and peeper.
Pour over macaroni mixture; toss lightly.
Chill at least 1 hour.
Garnish with additional hard cooked eggs, if desired.
Rate It
0 Comments
Bean Macaroni Salad Recipe


text:
Now Foods, XyliWhite Toothpaste Gel, Refreshmint, 1 oz (28 g)
Customer Reviews:
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In Stock - Usually Ships Within 24 - 48 Hours
We Ship To:
Shipping Rates
Ground Shipping
Order Under $100:$6.99
Order over $100:FREE SHIPPING
Xylitol is a natural sugar alcohol with a taste and texture that is remarkably similar to table sugar, with 40% fewer calories! Unlike many of the chemicals found in other fluoride-based, whitening toothpastes, xylitol is an all natural, well-tolerated substance that occurs naturally in many fruits, berries and other natural sources. In fact, the human body manufactures as much as 15 grams of xylitol every day Now Foods, XyliWhite Toothpaste Gel, Refreshmint, 1 oz (28 g).
Fluoride-Free Now Foods, XyliWhite Toothpaste Gel, Refreshmint, 1 oz (28 g) Fresh Taste Now Foods, XyliWhite Toothpaste Gel, Refreshmint, 1 oz (28 g) Whitening Now Foods, XyliWhite Toothpaste Gel, Refreshmint, 1 oz (28 g) Reduces Plaque Now Foods, XyliWhite Toothpaste Gel, Refreshmint, 1 oz (28 g) Proven safe for adults & children alike Now Foods, XyliWhite Toothpaste Gel, Refreshmint, 1 oz (28 g) Gluten-Free Now Foods, XyliWhite Toothpaste Gel, Refreshmint, 1 oz (28 g) The Xylitol Revolution: Sweet Versatility Now Foods, XyliWhite Toothpaste Gel, Refreshmint, 1 oz (28 g) By Allen Studzinski, NOW Quality Assurance Dept. Now Foods, XyliWhite Toothpaste Gel, Refreshmint, 1 oz (28 g)
Sounds almost too good to be true: a natural sweetener that is as sweet as sugar, has 40% less calories, may prevent dental carries, support bone health, aid in weight management, joint health, muscle building, and be suitable for diabetics? Xylitol may just be that sweetener.
Xylitol has been available since the 1960's. First discovered in 1891, xylitol has garnered strong support in Finland where it is known as "koivusokeri" or "birch sugar" since it can be derived from the fiber of birch tree bark. Commercial xylitol is produced from xylose, which in turn is derived from corn. It is a type of carbohydrate classified as a sugar alcohol, as are sorbitol, maltitol, lactitol, and mannitol. This classification describes their chemical structures rather than suggesting an intoxicating quality. Naturally found in many foods (such as plums, berries, fibrous vegetables, and mushrooms), 15 grams a day or more can be produced naturally in the body from other foods.
Xylitol tastes like sugar but adds a cool "icy" taste sensation due to its unusual property of having a negative heat of dissolution: it actually cools the dissolving liquid. Snack foods made with xylitol taste great and are well accepted by adults and children alike.
Look Mom, No Cavities Studies using Xylitol demonstrate a consistent decrease in dental caries (cavities) ranging from 30 to 60 percent. The mechanism of dental caries formation is one of the more extensively studied and better-understood body processes. Multiple factors play key roles, particularly bacteria and dietary sugars. The bacteria present in the mouth, such as Streptococcus mutans, ferment sugars found in the foods we eat. The bacteria then excrete organic acids as waste products of their sugar metabolism, that lowers the pH of the mouth by increasing its acidity. Once the pH falls below 5.7 the minerals of the tooth may start to dissolve, or demineralize. As this process continues, the surface of the tooth becomes weak and may eventually collapse, forming a cavity. We need something that can inhibit these bacteria or limit their metabolism. Xylitol may be an answer.
In the past, artificial sweeteners were the only choices for non-cariogenic foods since they are not metabolized in the same way as sugars. Studies show the natural sweetener xylitol is not fermented by cavity-forming bacteria. Xylitol inhibits their growth and therefore may actually decrease oral bacteria counts, contrasting with the known effects of white sugar! One fascinating study even suggests that mothers who habitually use xylitol give birth to children who may be less susceptible to cavities as they age. An ideal delivery method is chewing xylitol gum. This proven and commercially available form has the additional benefit of increasing flow of saliva, which may provide for increased buffering of plaque acids and enhanced clearance of sugars from the mouth. Xylitol is finding its way into toothpaste as the preferred sweetener.
Dieters and Diabetics Rejoice Low carb dieters are very interested in low glycemic foods. The glycemic index (GI) is a way of measuring how quickly a food raises blood sugar levels. The higher the glycemic index, the worse a food is for individuals with blood sugar irregularities. Those struggling with weight loss are particularly concerned, since high glycemic foods may be much more likely to be stored as fat.
Glucose, which is blood sugar itself and found in corn syrup or as dextrose, is given a GI score of 100. A GI of 70 or more is considered high and includes white bread (70), Cornflakes (83) and most breakfast cereals, honey (72), and French Fries (75). Medium GI foods of 56 to 69 include table sugar (60), Coca Cola ® (63), pastas such as spaghetti (61) and most grains. A GI of 55 or less is considered low and includes milk (40) and most milk products, most fruits, soybeans (18), and most nuts such as peanuts (14). Xylitol has a super low glycemic index of 7! Its mostly insulin-independent metabolism makes it ideal for maintaining steady blood sugar and insulin levels.
Xylitol is an ideal sweetener for dieters for other reasons, as well. A teaspoon of xylitol is just as sweet as the same amount of sugar, yet has 40% fewer calories! Studies also show that xylitol consumption can decrease total caloric intake by encouraging slower gastric emptying. A dieter's appetite might be tastefully controlled.
Strong Bones Aging tends to bring with it a variety of changes, including changes in nutrient absorption and metabolism. Vitamin D, for example, plays an important role in calcium absorption. But aging brings decreased intestinal receptors for Vitamin D, which eventually affects bone formation. Impaired bone formation can then lead to gradual bone thinning and osteoporosis.
Studies show that continuous moderate dietary xylitol intake leads to increased bone volume and increased bone mineral content. Dietary xylitol increases bone calcium and phosphorus concentrations in animal studies, as well as protects against a decrease in bone minerals and bone density during osteoporosis. Xylitol increases calcium absorption and bioavailability independent of such factors as Vitamin D status. In fact, xylitol's ability to chelate or complex with minerals may account for its ability to enhance the absorption of other minerals, such as iron and magnesium.
A Bodybuilding-Anti-Aging Gourmet "Anabolic" is a term that athletes have learned to associate with often illegal, performance enhancing substances. But anabolism is a key bodily process of growth and healing. This building-up process contrasts with catabolism, which involves a breaking down process. Supporting anabolism is of concern not only to individuals involved in sports but also those experiencing the catabolic effects of stress, illness, or surgery. Nutritional tools such as protein and amino acid supplements, various vitamins, and herbs are the subject of great interest as to their potential for countering the wasting effects of catabolism. Xylitol has been shown in numerous studies to inhibit stress related catabolism, spare critical nitrogen, enhance post-operative protein synthesis, and prevent stress-induced weight loss.
Collagen is a substance that has caught the attention of youth seekers and athletes alike. Hugely important, this protein comprises one third of the body's protein and 75% of our skin. In addition to making up the membranes that support our organs, collagen builds bones, joints, cartilage, and constitutes the space or intracellular matrix between most of our cells. It holds water, shapes and helps to provide resiliency to the body, and literally holds our cells together. The wrinkles and degenerative diseases of aging are partly due to a failure to maintain collagen, and upon its strength and repair depends recovery from surgery, illness, and injury.
Xylitol seems to be able to impact collagen metabolism. Interestingly, xylitol-induced improvements in antioxidant status may be what is at least partly responsible for it causing increased collagen synthesis or decreased collagen degradation.
Nose & Ear Relief Ear infections (called Otitis Media) are a common childhood illness. Ear infections are caused when bacteria or viruses find their way into the middle ear, causing inflammation, pus, and fluid accumulation. The increased pressure results in pain and the inability of the ear drum to vibrate, or even temporary hearing loss. It is often preceded by an upper respiratory tract infection. The most common offender is the bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae. Xylitol inhibits the growth of this offender and inhibits the attachment of bacteria to respiratory tract cells. Studies show that xylitol acts as a preventative and markedly reduces the need for antibiotics. A Xylitol nasal spray has become commercially available, motivated by these antibacterial properties.
There is much more yet to be discovered about Xylitol, with researchers looking into its potential role in everything from intestinal healing to protection in life-threatening conditions, such as sepsis. In the mean time, Xylitol's new found popularity, availability, and great taste may just re-ignite that sweet tooth in all of us.
NOW's Mission The NOW mission is - To provide value in products and services that empower people to lead healthier lives. NOW Foods is an award-winning and highly respected manufacturer of vitamins, minerals, dietary supplements and natural foods.
In 1948, with the natural food and supplement industry in its infancy, entrepreneur Paul Richard paid $900 for the purchase of Fearn Soya Foods—a Chicago based manufacturer of grain and legume-based products. This began a six-decade legacy of providing health-seeking consumers with high-quality, affordable nutrition products.
History of NOW In 1968, NOW Foods was founded under the belief that good health was not a luxury available only to the wealthy. For the past forty years, NOW has made it their life's work to offer health food and nutritional supplements of the highest quality, at prices that are fair and affordable to all those who seek them. Today, NOW Foods is one of the top-selling brands in health foods stores, an award-winning manufacturer, a respected advocate of the natural product industry, and a leader in the fields of nutritional science and methods development. And while NOW has grown considerably over the past four decades, one thing has never changed – NOW's commitment to providing products and services that empower people to lead healthier lives.
NOW Commitments
Customer Focused and Information Driven - NOW believes that their products, services, and the decisions they make should be primarily influenced by the desires and needs of NOW customers. The decisions that NOW makes should be based on accurate information and therefore NOW places a high value on knowledge and learning within their organization. Quality and Value Oriented - Acting in the best interest of NOW customers, NOW endeavors to produce the highest quality products at competitive prices. NOW's first priority is to maintain quality where it counts the most – in the products. NOW's exceptional cost-conscious team of employees then focuses their energies on driving costs down. Nurturing this competency of value drives NOW's ability to provide high quality products at the very best prices. Natural is Better - NOW is convinced that natural products are better than their synthetic counterparts and produce better results in human health. Therefore, wherever possible, NOW strives to provide products that contain natural ingredients because they are better for their customers. NOW Science NOW's experienced professional and technical staff formulates their products to be of the highest quality. NOW has a group of biochemists, chemists, nutritionists, and food technologists who review current science and nutritional parameters, and formulate our products to be effective for the intended use. NOW's structure/function claims are based on science for active ingredients, and on nutritional science for nutritional content. Serving sizes are based on doses from clinical studies and other published data. NOW's contemporary formulas are designed to meet the health and wellness needs of today based on reviews of clinical studies and other lab studies conducted on their ingredients and their formulas. Best science is used to support best formulations which lead to best quality. NOW products are constantly being tested in clinical trials conducted at top universities and research centers around the country and in various parts of the world. NOW products are being tested to determine such things as effectiveness for joint support, quality of life for cancer patients, cardiovascular support, and athletic endurance. Effective products mean health and wellness benefits, which mean quality.
GMP Quality Assured NOW's GMP certification covers standard operating procedures, employee training, product specifications, expiration dating, vendor certifications and much more. Standard operating procedures include sampling and testing incoming materials according to NOW Foods specifications, inspecting manufacturing processes, and testing finished products to specifications. Tests include organoleptic evaluation (human senses such as sight, taste, smell), physical testing of tablets and capsules, chemical identity of ingredients, potency and contamination testing by the company's in-house state-of-the-art analytical testing lab, as well as microbiological testing by NOW Foods' in-house rapid analysis microbiological lab.
Adults and children 2 years and older: Apply XyliWhite toothpaste gel on to a soft bristle toothbrush. Brush thoroughly after meals, at least twice a day, or as directed by your dentist.
About Now Foods
The Now Mission Is - To Provide Value In Products And Services That Empower People To Lead Healthier Lives. Now Foods Is An Award-winning And Highly Respected Manufacturer Of Vitamins, Minerals, Dietary Supplements And Natural Foods. in 1948, With The Natural Food And Supplement Industry In Its Infancy, Entrepreneur Paul Richard Paid $900 For The Purchase Of Fearn Soya Foods-a Chicago Based Manufacturer Of Grain And Legume-based Products. This Began A Six-decade Legacy Of Providing Health-seeking Consumers With High-quality, Affordable Nutrition Products.
Contact Now Foods
Now Foods
395 South Glen Ellyn Road
Bloomingdale, IL, 60108
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What Our Customer Say...
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Updated 05/23/2014
Manhattan-trained Mike Isabella brought a rock-star cool to his stint on "Top Chef," and his venture down I–95 gave the same instant pizzazz to Washington's often-staid culinary scene. Everyone does wood-fired pizzas, but Graffiato (the Italian word for "scratched," an excellent description of its artful-grunge ambience) does a Jersey Shore pie inspired by Isabella's home state that piles pink cherry-pepper aioli onto fried calamari. Everyone does a beet salad, but here the typical goat cheese is tossed aside for funky hazelnut and chocolate flavors. This TV name lives up to the hype—just don't expect to hear much over the Bon Jovi that keeps the party going during prime dinner hours.
707 6th St. NW, Washington, District of Columbia, 20001, United States
Website: graffiatodc.com
Restaurant Details:
Updated 05/23/2014
By fluffnfold
Sep 18, 2013
My spouse and I dined at Graffiato for brunch in late May 2013. We visited on a Sunday, and from their website, we thought that we would be ordering off the lunch menu rather than the brunch menu. (We are not big eggs and pancake eaters, preferring lunchtime food instead; however, there were plenty of non-breakfast items on the menu.) Currently, the restaurant participates in the City Eats reservation system; however, we made a reservation via email.
Originally, we had inquired via email about their GEM tasting menu that is available on weeknights, but we were told that the restaurant did not plan to offer that special menu any time in the future. They still offer a regular $60 tasting menu nightly. The restaurant is located in Chinatown near the Verizon Center, and the restaurant space covers two levels. On the first/ground floor is a large bar along with a few tables, as well as a food-preparation bar fronting a pizza oven, where you can sit to watch the chefs work (we think this is where we would have sat for the GEM tasting menu). We were led to a table upstairs, where there is both booth and table seating as well as a 4-seat bar area that fronted the open work kitchen/prep area (their website calls it a "ham bar"; however, it did not appear to be used regularly). Because we are particularly interested in cooking and plating food, next time we visit, we will request to sit at the downstairs food-prep bar. We loved our food at Graffiato! On the brunch menu, they offer a $25 per person "Booze and Bites" option, where each guest can choose three dishes, excluding pizza (or you can choose two dishes and one drink, such as a mimosa or a bloody mary). We decided to sample six food options instead of including drinks; we chose burrata with kumquat, spring peas with bread crumbs, sweetbreads, meatballs served on polenta, and two pasta dishes (one was gnocchi with an amazing pork ragu and ricotta, and the other was agnolotti with curds, whey, and egg yolk). Sadly, the dessert options on the brunch menu were weak - there were only three choices, and they doubled as the sweet brunch entrees (including waffles, French toast, and cinnamon rolls). We passed on ordering dessert, something we never do! We would definitely dine here again, but next time, we will sit downstairs at the chef's bar. We are also interested to try one of Chef Mike Isabella's other restaurants, Kapnos or Bandolero, after our satisfying experience at Graffiato.
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Ingredients: Sunflower oil, natural flavors, dried coconut.
Contains Coconut
Contains Coconut
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Frontier Natural Products Coconut Flavor Alcohol Free -- 2 fl oz
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Use our coconut flavor to add tropical flair to frostings, pancake batter, syrups, cookies and candy. Also try a dash in your favorite milkshakes and smoothies.
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Sir Alfred Jules Ayer (1910-1989), Philosopher
Sitter in 12 portraits
Philosopher; Ayer held chairs in philosophy at Oxford University and University College, London. His best-known publication, Language, Truth and Logic (1936), was the leading British statement of logical positivism, his ideas were seen as a radical departure from established philosophy. He was also popularly known after the War as a participant on the radio discussion programme, the Brains Trust.