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A graphical user interface to desktop documents presents a visual display of visual summaries extracted from still image files, video image files, presentation slide documents, and word processing documents that include figures therein, in a computer file system, in response to a computer user requesting a directory listing. The user can select a visual summaries to cause the computer to search for files/documents containing similar images. The visual summaries can be presented in a hierarchy, with the top level of the hierarchy containing one visual summary per file/document, the next level containing visual summaries of all images in each file/document, and the lowest level containing visual summaries of each individual component, if any, in each image in a document. Further, for an alpha-numeric document having no images, the corresponding visual summary can be a visual representation of the appearance of a portion of the document, such as a portion of the first page of the document.
1. In a computer having access to a file system of documents and one or more input devices associated with the computer for generating user requests for one or more lists of documents in the file system, a system for presenting, on a monitor associated with the computer, a display representative of the documents, comprising:
computer readable means executable by the computer for presenting plural images on the monitor in response to the user requests, the images being derived from the documents, wherein the images are visual summaries of file system images having associated documents, and wherein the visual summaries can be presented in a hierarchy, at least an upper level in the hierarchy including a visual summary of a single representative image in the respective document, at least a lower level in the hierarchy including plural visual summaries of respective plural images other than the representative image in the respective document.
2. The system of claim 1, further comprising computer readable code means for causing the computer to retrieve images similar to a selected image.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the lower level includes a visual summary of each image in the respective document, and wherein the hierarchy includes a lowest level including visual summaries of at least one component image in at least one image in the respective document.
4. The system of claim 3, wherein the documents include images, presentation slides, spreadsheet charts, saved Web pages, and documents that incorporate figures.
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to desktop computer file systems, and more particularly to systems and methods for presenting effective lists of files in a file system of a desktop, laptop, or hand-held computer.
2. Description of the Related Art
Increasingly, desktop and laptop computers contain not only alpha-numeric documents, e.g., text-only documents made using a word processing application program such as WordPerfect� or Microsoft Word�, but documents and files that include visual data as well. By "visual data" is meant data that is not exclusively alpha-numeric. Accordingly, "visual data" includes scanned photographic images, computer- or human-generated art images, clip art, video frames, logos, banners, screen shots, Web pages, computer-generated presentation slides and other business graphics that are generated by applications such as Freelance�, Excel�, 1-2-3�, or PowerPoint�, and other genre of images. Such visual data can be contained in documents, by which is meant a data group that can include alpha numeric data that is intended to be edited using an associated application. Examples of such documents are slides made using the Power Point� graphics application marketed by Microsoft Corp., as well as word processing documents and email documents, which, despite being generally considered to contain only alpha-numeric text data, might nonetheless include embedded images that are stored as image data bits within the documents. Also, visual data can be contained in non-document image files that simply hold, e.g., photographic images. An example of a non-document image file is a gif-formatted file or .jpg-formatted file.
To access desktop files and documents, users of desktop and laptop computers invoke the files/documents by name. Often, a user cannot remember the exact name of a file or document, so the user requests a directory listing, which is a list of file directories in a file system or, on a lower hierarchical level, a list of files/documents in a particular directory. In response to the user's request, a directory list or file list is presented on the user's monitor.
Representative of existing directory list formats is the display that can be invoked using Microsoft's Windows NT Explorer�, which presents a list by name of directories on a left window of the screen, and a list by name of files/documents in a user-selected one of the directories, on a right window of the screen. The list of files/documents includes the names, along with information such as file/document type, size, and date of last edit. The user then scrolls through the list, which can include thousands of files/documents, until the user recognizes a name of a file/document the user desires to open.
As recognized herein, the above-described conventional directory list format has certain drawbacks. Specifically, it is frequently the case that a user might desire to recall a particular document that has been stored in the user's file system, but the user might not know the exact name of the file or document. The present invention recognizes, however, that if the document contains visual data, for example, is a Power Point� presentation or a text document with embedded images, the user might quickly recognize the document if the user could view a visual summary of the document, which unfortunately the user currently cannot conveniently do.
Consequently, to see easily recognizable visual data in files and documents, the user, as understood herein, would have to scroll through perhaps thousands of names on the list and sequentially open the files/documents until the visual datum being sought is found. This is time consuming and cumbersome. Nonetheless, it is the only means available for a user who, for example, desires to avoid creating a new presentation slide from scratch by instead creating a slide using a previously-generated slide that the user knows to be in the file system, but that might be stored under a name that the user cannot precisely recall. So-called thumbnail image browsers cannot remedy the above prior art shortfall, because thumbnail image browsers simply present a table of thumbnail images of images in non-document files formatted as, e.g., gif or jpg files. As stated above, such files make up only a fraction of the files and documents typically stored in a desktop file system. Additionally, thumbnail image browsers are not intended to and in fact do not provide the functionality of a directory listing GUI.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,060,135 discloses a data processing system that presents detailed miniaturized images of documents that are stackable on each other, for identification of documents by a user. The '135 system, however, is seemingly directed only to alpha-numeric (word processing) documents, and consequently does not address providing a GUI for a desktop system including image documents. Thus, among other things, the '135 system does not provide a means for easily searching for images that are similar to a desired image in a document. Moreover, the '135 patent does not provide an image-based GUI that is hierarchical in nature. As understood by the present invention, presenting an image content-based GUI that facilitates image searching and that is hierarchically based for ease of use is desirable. Likewise, U.S. Pat. No. 5,731,813 presents "snapshots" of screen displays in a seemingly non-hierarchical format, without the capability of image searching.
Fortunately, the present invention recognizes that visual data in file system documents can be used to present an effective, visual content-based directory list that a user can quickly scan to recall a particular visual datum, even if the user does not remember the associated name. Moreover, the present invention recognizes that it is possible to provide a directory list in which a user can identify a visual datum in a file system that contains visual data that is "close" to desired visual data and to cause similar visual data in the file system to be quickly and efficiently presented. The present invention also recognizes that it is possible to provide a natural multi-level hierarchy in presenting visual summaries of documents with visual data, from a single visual summary per document, to multiple visual summaries for each image of visual data instance in a document. Still further, the present invention recognizes that it is possible to provide a visual data-oriented directory list that can be combined with conventional file system features.
The invention is a general purpose computer programmed according to the inventive steps herein to present a graphical user interface (GUI) directory display on a monitor of a computer. The invention can also be embodied as an article of manufacture—a machine component—that is used by a digital processing apparatus and which tangibly embodies a program of instructions that are executable by the digital processing apparatus to undertake the present invention. This invention is realized in a critical machine component that causes a digital processing apparatus to perform the inventive method steps herein.
In accordance with the present invention, the invention includes a computer incorporating a graphic user interface to desktop data or network-accessible data, with the data including at least some documents storing one or more respective visual data. The visual data can include images, graphs, charts, spreadsheets, slides, Web pages, word processing data with embedded images, videos, and the like. The computer includes computer readable code means for generating a respective visual summary of the visual data, such as thumbnails for images or filmstrips, animated images, or storyboards for video data. Computer readable code means are provided for receiving a user request for a listing of documents. In response to the user request, computer readable code means present a display including plural of the visual summaries presented simultaneously with each other.
In a preferred embodiment, computer readable code means receive a user request for visual data that is visually similar to a user-selected visual summary. In response, computer readable code means present visual summaries of similar visual data. The similar video data can be retrieved from the same directory, or from a set of directories, or indeed from the full set of files on the computer or network, as controlled by the user. Additionally, at least some of the visual summaries are associated with respective application programs, and the computer further includes computer readable code means for invoking an application program when a user selects the associated visual summary.
As disclosed in detail below, the visual summaries can be presented in a hierarchy. At least an upper level in the hierarchy includes a visual summary of a single visual datum in the respective document to represent the entire document. Additionally, at least a lower level in the hierarchy includes visual summaries of each visual datum, for example, each slide of a presentation or each figure in each of the documents. Moreover, because a single image or figure can be composed of multiple subimages such as clip art images, the hierarchy includes a lowest level including visual summaries of the individual subimages in the documents.
In accordance with the present invention, the files and documents for which visual summaries are generated include images, presentation slides, spreadsheet charts, saved Web pages, documents that incorporate figures, and other visual data noted above. Furthermore, the present invention envisions generating visual summaries for documents that include alpha-numeric data having no visual data. For these text-only documents, a respective visual summary is generated that is representative of the appearance of the document, for example, a reduced image of a portion of a first page of the document.
In another aspect, in a computer having access to a system of files or other database containing at least documents, and also having access to one or more input devices for generating user requests for one or more lists of documents in the file system, a system is disclosed for presenting, on a monitor associated with the computer, a display representative of the documents. The system includes computer readable means executable by the computer for presenting plural visual summaries on the monitor in response to the user requests. Per the present invention, the summaries are derived from the documents, unlike conventional icons, the particular visual appearances of which are not derived from documents. In other words, the visual summaries of the present invention, unlike conventional icons, are individually representative of the respective documents, that is, the visual summaries are not generic icons, but are derived from visual data in such as way so as to allow the user to recognize the visual summary as representing the parent visual data. The summaries may also represent additional document properties such as file type (word processing file, slide file, photographic image file, etc.), and size by image attributes such as type of border, corner tab, inset, etc.
In still another aspect, a computer-implemented method is disclosed for presenting a graphic user interface on a monitor of a computer. The present method includes extracting at least one visual summary per document for plural documents accessible to the computer, and then presenting the visual summaries on the monitor when a user of the computer generates a request for a list of computer documents. An application program associated with a document is invoked when a user of the computer associates one of the visual summaries with an application request.
In yet another aspect, a computer program device includes a computer program storage device that is readable by a digital processing apparatus. A program means is on the program storage device, and the program means includes instructions executable by the digital processing apparatus for performing method steps for presenting a graphical list of computer documents on a monitor of a computer. These method steps include generating a respective visual summary of at least a portion of at least some of the documents, and receiving a user request for a listing of documents. The method steps further include presenting a display in response to the receiving step, wherein the display includes plural of the visual summaries presented simultaneously with each other.
In another aspect, a computer program device includes program means on a program storage device that includes instructions which are executable by a digital processing apparatus for performing method steps for presenting visual data on a computer display as a list representative of computer documents containing the visual data. Importantly, the visual data are derived from the respective documents. A user request for visual data similar to a user-selected visual datum on the list is received, and at least portions of similar visual data are then presented in response to the user request. Moreover, an application is invoked in response to the selection of a visual datum.
The details of the present invention, both as to its structure and operation, can best be understood in reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like parts, and in which:
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the system of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a computer program product of the present invention;
FIG. 3 is a flow chart showing the logic for generating visual summaries;
FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing the logic for presenting the present GUI display;
FIG. 5 is a diagram of one GUI display as would be seen on a computer display device; and
FIG. 6 is a diagram of an alternate GUI display as would be seen on a computer display device.
Referring initially to FIG. 1, a system is shown, generally designated 10, for accessing, via a path 11, a file system 12 for generating a graphical user interface (GUI) directory display. The file system may reside, for example, in desktop form that is local to a digital processing apparatus, such as a computer 14, in which case the file system 12 is internal to the computer 14 and the path 11 is an internal computer data bus. Or, the file system 12 can be remote from the computer 14, in which case the path 11 can be a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet and the file system is network-accessible. In one intended embodiment, the computer 14 is a desktop computer such as a personal computer or laptop computer made by International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) of Armonk, N.Y. Alternatively, the computer 14 may be any computer, including computers sold under trademarks such as AS400, with accompanying IBM Network Stations. Or, the computer 14 may be a Unix-based computer, or OS/2-based server computer, or Windows NT-based server computer, or IBM RS/6000 250 workstation or other equivalent device.
It is to be understood that while the embodiment described herein focusses on a desktop file system as a whole, the present invention can be incorporated in a single application program, e.g., a slide generation application program, in which case the files addressed by the present invention might not be the entire desktop file system that is accessible to the host computer, but rather the files associated with the particular application program incorporating the present invention.
As shown in FIG. 1, the computer 14 is electrically connected to one or more input devices, e.g., a mouse 16, a keyboard 18, or other input device such as a touchpad, trackball, or voice activated input device, which can be actuated by a user of the system 10 to generate requests for directory listings. The computer 14 also accesses one or more output devices such as a printer 20 and a monitor 22 that are conventionally coupled to the computer 14. It is to be understood that the monitor 22 is a cathode ray tube, flat panel display, or other appropriate visual display device. In any case, the present invention generates a GUI display for presentation on the screen 22 a of the monitor 22.
In accordance with the present invention, the file system 12 is essentially a database that holds electronic files and documents of various types, including visual data documents (mixed text and visual documents), visual image files and text only documents. Visual data files are files that contain one or more images such as photographs or video frames, whereas visual data documents contain not only visual data such as images, drawings, presentation charts, and the like, but can contain editable alpha-numeric data as well. Text-only documents, in contrast, are documents such as word processing documents and text-only electronic mail (email) documents that generally do not contain data sets representative of visual data, such as images.
With the above in mind, a visual summary module 24 communicates with the file system 12 and computer 14 via data paths 25 to present, on the monitor 22, visual summaries derived from documents (and files) within the file system 12. The visual summary module 24 presents the visual summaries as a GUI display in response to a user generating a directory list request or document list request using the mouse 16 or keyboard 18. As intended herein, a visual summary is a digital image that is derived in accordance with principles known in the art from a parent visual datum, with the visual summaries containing a fraction of the information in the parent visual data. For example, commercial products are currently available that extract figures from documents, pages from slide presentations, and so forth, and store them as individual image files. From these, the present visual summaries can be made.
As a simple example, a visual summaries might contain only every third pixel in a parent visual datum. The visual summaries can be established by thumbnails for images or filmstrips, by animated images, or by storyboards or indeed portions of a word processing document page for other types of visual data.
Additionally, in the preferred embodiment an visual data search engine 26 communicates with the file system 12 and computer 14 via search paths 28. As disclosed in detail below, the visual data search engine 26 is a software-based search engine that receives a user-designated visual datum and in response searches for visual data that are similar to the user-selected datum. Preferably, the visual data search engine 26 includes the engine disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,579,471, invented by the present inventor, owned by the present assignee, and incorporated herein by reference.
It is to be understood that the control components such as the visual summary module 24 and visual data search engine 26 can be implemented in software contained in an appropriate electronic data storage, e.g., a hard disk drive 30 and/or optical disk drive 32, that are conventionally coupled to the computer 14. Or, the control components can be embodied in other logical components such as a computer diskette 34 shown in FIG. 2. The diskette 34 shown in FIG. 2 has a computer usable medium 36 on which are stored computer readable code means (i.e., program code elements) A-D.
The flow charts herein illustrate the structure of the visual summary module of the present invention as embodied in computer program software. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the flow charts illustrate the structures of logic elements, such as computer program code elements or electronic logic circuits, that function according to this invention. Manifestly, the invention is practiced in its essential embodiment by a machine component that renders the logic elements in a form that instructs a digital processing apparatus (that is, a computer) to perform a sequence of function steps corresponding to those shown.
In other words, the visual summary module 24 may be a computer program that is executed by a processor within the computer 14 as a series of computer-executable instructions. In addition to the drives 30, 32, these instructions may reside, for example, in RAM of the computer 14, or the instructions may be stored on a DASD array, magnetic tape, electronic read-only memory, or other appropriate data storage device. In an illustrative embodiment of the invention, the computer-executable instructions may be lines of compiled C++ compatible code.
Now referring to FIG. 3, the logic used by the visual summary module 24 in generating visual summaries for use in the novel GUI display can be seen. Commencing at decision diamond 38, it is determined whether it is time to scan the file system 12 for newly added documents. Thus, the file system 12 is periodically monitored for new documents to update the GUI directory, and if the logic determines that it is time to scan the file system 12, the logic enters a "DO" loop at block 40 for each new document, i.e., for each document not previously considered by the visual summary module 24. It is to be understood that the visual summary module 24 alternatively can continuously update the GUI directory, if desired, in which case the "DO" loop at block 40 is entered each time a new document is created.
Proceeding to block 42, the logic determines what type of file or document the test document or file is. If it is an image file, e.g., a gif-formatted file or a jpg-formatted file, the logic moves to block 44 to generate a thumbnail of the image, in accordance with visual summary generation principles known in the art, as the visual summary of the underlying visual data in the file.
On the other hand, if the document is a presentation documents, e.g., a Microsoft Power Point�-formatted document or a Lotus Freelance�-formatted document, the logic moves to block 46 to generate thumbnail-like visual summaries of each slide in the document. The logic then moves to block 48 to designate one of the visual summaries to be a document visual summary that represents the file or document in the highest level of a visual summary hierarchy. In one preferred embodiment, the visual summary of the first visual datum in the file or document is designated as the file or document summary, although other designation schemes can be used. For example, the visual summary of the first or largest visual datum in the file/document can be designated as the file/document visual summary. In any case, the remaining visual summaries of the visual data in a file/document establish a second level in a visual summary hierarchy. The present invention understands that such a hierarchical system is natural for many image-based documents.
In contrast, if the document under test is a word processing document, the logic moves to block 50 to generate a visual summary that is representative of the appearance of the document. For example, if the document is a letter, the visual summary generated at block 50 might be an image of the top half of the first page, showing the letterhead of the document as well as the addressee. In any case, the actual appearance of each visual summary generated at block 50, like the appearances of the other visual summaries generated in accordance with present principles, is derived from the content of the document under test. From block 50, the process moves to block 52, wherein visual summaries are generated of any embedded images in the document.
Alternatively, the document/file under test might be a markup file, such as a hypertext markup (HTML) file, in which case the process moves to block 53 to generate a visual summary of the file. Or, the document/file under test might be a video file, in which case the process moves to block 54 to generate a visual summary of the file, e.g., a thumbnail of the first frame of the file, a thumbnail of every 100th frame, etc.
After visual thumbnail generation, the logic moves to block 56 to store the visual summaries, along with the properties of the respective documents from which the visual summaries were derived and, if desired, predetermined text. The document properties can include document type (i.e., what type of application program was used to generate the document), date of last edit, and so on. The predetermined text can be alpha-numeric characters representing one or more of the document properties, with selected text being superimposed on the associated visual summary during presentation. Further, to the extent that certain data (e.g., meta data, search data, etc.) is required by the visual data search engine 26 during subsequent user-requested searches, such data can be stored with the visual summary at block 56. At block 58, the next new document is retrieved, and the process then loops back to decision diamond 42 as shown.
Now referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the presentation and operation of the GUI display can be appreciated. Having generated visual summaries of files and documents as described above, a user of the computer 14 can cause a graphic directory or list to be presented on the screen 22 a of the monitor 22 as follows. At block 60 of FIG. 4, the user can invoke a directory listing using well-known principles by appropriately manipulating the mouse 16 or keyboard 18.
In response to the user request for one or more lists of directories and/or files/documents in the file system 12, the visual summary module 24 presents, on the monitor 22, a display representative thereof. Such a display is shown in FIG. 5 and generally designated 62. As shown, the display 62 is a GUI display that includes plural visual summaries 64 presented simultaneously with each other. As indicated in FIG. 5, a first one 64 a of the visual summaries 64 is a visual summary of a digital photograph that has been stored in its associated document, while a second one 64 b of the visual summaries 64 is a visual summary of a video frame from a digitally-stored video. Yet again, a third one 64 c of the visual summaries 64 is a visual summary of a slide that has been stored in its associated document, while a fourth one 64 d of the visual summaries 64 is a visual summary of the top half of the first page of a text-only document.
Still further, a fifth one 64 e of the visual summaries 64 is a visual summary of a presentation slide that has been stored in its associated document, whereas a sixth one 64 f of the visual summaries 64 is a visual summary of a hypertext markup language (HTML) page that has been, e.g., downloaded from the World Wide Web. A sixth visual summary 64 g can be a visual summary of an embedded image in an email document, and a seventh visual summary 64 h is a visual summary of a history of Web pages that have been viewed using the computer 14.
It may now be appreciated that a user viewing the GUI display shown in FIG. 5 can readily ascertain the nature of the visual data in each file/document by looking at the display 62. The user can quickly scroll through the visual summaries shown by using a scroll bar 66 on the display 62.
In the embodiment shown, a top level of visual summaries in a hierarchy is shown; accordingly, each visual summary 64 represents a respective document, with the highest level of visual summaries being initially displayed as indicated at block 67 in FIG. 4. If desired, the user can manipulate a level down button 68 to cause a set of visual summaries to be displayed that represents a second level of the hierarchy. In one preferred embodiment, the second level in the hierarchy includes visual summaries of each visual datum in a document or documents that are selected by the user, for example, each slide in a Microsoft Power Point� presentation, or each individual figure embedded in a Microsoft Word� document. To select the document or documents, the user can manipulate the mouse 16 to "click" on a visual summary or visual summaries in the highest level, with the next lower level of visual summaries in the hierarchy being displayed when the user clicks on the level down button 68.
The user can click yet again on the level down button 68 to cause yet a lowest level of visual summaries in the hierarchy to be presented. In one embodiment, the lowest level of visual summaries represent individual component images, i.e., subimages such as clip art, that make up a single figure. The lowest level of visual summaries is generated for each subimage of each document in the selected document or documents. As another example, a figure in a Word� document may be composed of several clip art images composed together, and this third level would display a visual summary of each individual clip art image. A level up button 70 is provided to enable a user to move from a lower level of visual summaries in the hierarchy to a higher level. The above-described steps are represented at block 72 in FIG. 4.
As shown in FIG. 5, each visual summary 64 includes a respective "full image" bar 74 and a respective "information" bar 76. A user can manipulate the mouse 16 to click on the "information" bar 76 to cause alpha-numeric file information, e.g., document name, date of last edit, and so on to be presented with the selected visual summary or superimposed on the visual summary 64, as indicated at block 78 in FIG. 4. In contrast, the user can click on the "full image" bar 74 of a visual summary 64 to cause the full visual datum from the associated document to be displayed at block 80 in FIG. 4. If desired, each visual summary 64 can include a respective document type header bar 82, indicating the type of document represented by the respective visual summary 64.
From block 80, the logic moves in response to user commands to blocks 82 and/or 84 in FIG. 4. More specifically, at block 82 a user can invoke an application program that had been used to create a document by double clicking or otherwise selecting the respective visual summary 64 in FIG. 5. In this way, the application program is invoked, and then the document associated with the selected visual summary 64 is opened by the application program, in an easy and user-friendly way. Additional document listing functionality can also be provided, e.g., by combining the display with conventional document sorts by date, or by size, or by name, and so on.
Also, if desired the user can select a visual summary 64 and then click on an image search button 86 on the display 62 to invoke the visual data search engine 26. As described in the above-referenced patent, the visual data search engine 26 accesses the file system 12 to search for and return, in order of similarity, visual data from files and documents in the file system 12 that are similar to the selected visual summary 64. The search can be restricted to images in the same directory, a set of directories, the full file system, or other set of files. These similar visual data are then presented on the display 62. With this logic, a user can identify a visual summary that is similar to a visual datum being sought that the user knows or suspects is stored in the file system 12, with similar visual data being returned to the user without requiring the user to scroll through the display 62. FIG. 5 shows that the above-mentioned image search feature can be combined with a word search window 88, whereby a user, in addition to selecting a visual datum to be matched as described above, can also input an alpha-numeric string for undertaking a conventional word search, in conjunction with the image search, to narrow the scope of the search.
If desired, a size limit button 90 can be provided on the display 62. A user can toggle the size limit button 90 to limit the size of documents, particularly HTML documents and gif-formatted documents, that are listed by means of the visual summaries 64 on the display 62.
FIG. 5 shows that alternatively to the "full image" bars 74 and "information" bars 76, a user can click on a visual summary 64 to cause a drop-down menu 92 to be displayed. As shown, the drop-down menu 92 can include a full image button 94 and an information button 96 that are analogous to the bars 74, 76 discussed above. Also, an image search button 98 can be provided on the menu 92, in lieu of the search button 86, and a text search button 100 can be provided in lieu of the word search window 88.
Additional file system functionality can be invoked using the menu 92. For example, an "open" button 102 can be selected to open a file/document. Furthermore, a cut/copy button 104, delete button 106, and rename button 108 can be provided to function in accordance with conventional principles. If desired, additional file system functionality can be provided using, e.g., the menu 92.
FIG. 6 shows a GUI display, generally designated 110, that is configured differently than the display 62 shown in FIG. 5. More specifically, as shown the display 110 in FIG. 6 lists conventional alpha-numeric file/document data, including name in a name column 112, size in a size column 114, file/document type in a type column 116, date of last edit in a date column 118, and time of last edit in a time column 120. In each file/document row, however, a respective visual summary 122 is presented in accordance with the principles set forth herein. A visual summary 122 can be selected to open the associated file/document, or to display a menu such as the menu 92 shown in FIG. 5.
While the particular COMPUTER FILE DIRECTORY SYSTEM DISPLAYING VISUAL SUMMARIES OF VISUAL DATA IN DESKTOP COMPUTER FILES FOR QUICKLY IDENTIFYING FILE CONTENT as herein shown and described in detail is fully capable of attaining the above-described objects of the invention, it is to be understood that it is the presently preferred embodiment of the present invention and is thus representative of the subject matter which is broadly contemplated by the present invention, that the scope of the present invention fully encompasses other embodiments which may become obvious to those skilled in the art, and that the scope of the present invention is accordingly to be limited by nothing other than the appended claims, in which reference to an element in the singular means "at least one" unless otherwise recited.
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Astronomy Series
VIEWS FROM A SPINNING PLANET: An Everyday Astronomy Guide to our Place in Space
Presentation by Chris Beck. The Astronomy series meets on the 1st and 3rd friday evening of each month through March. An astronomer presents a special topic (approximately 1 to 1.5 hours) and answers your questions. If skies are clear, be ready to go outside and view the night sky, using your own binoculars or telescope, or share the ones set up by the astronomers. 7pm. Free program; $5 parking for non-members. Children can earn a Junior Astronomer Certificate by attending 6 programs and completing "Star Notes".
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907 6942108
Asta Spurgis
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subset: commoncrawl


text:
August 1993
John Connally opposed supply-side economics, thought Sid Richardson mistreated Perry Bass, and never regretted not being president: this and other candid commentary from his forthcoming autobiography.
John Connally's forgotten legacy.
Since the fifties, they've been East Texas' most colorful watering holes—bar none.
At play in the fields of Mexico, onetime major leaguers find beisbol is an entirely different game.
The boss of American Airlines is mad as hell at cut-rate competitors, selfish unions, and ignorant government regulators—and he's not going to take it anymore.
For business travelers with reservations about big-city hotels, bed and breakfasts suddenly have staying power.
Larry McMurtry rallies Lonesome Dove's geriatric survivors for a last perilous, meandering adventure in Streets of Laredo.
One of the world's magnificent game fish, tarpon are back in Texas waters. Can we keep them from disappearing again?
Ikea appeals to twentysomethings who are beyond bricks and boards but not yet ready for a lifetime furniture commitment.
The sour odor of calf chips from an Erath County feedlot has one family crying foul.
A South Texas town rebuilds its church with faith, hope, and lots of charity.
A creative Dallas man nails down fees hanging rich people's artwork.


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CUC Receives $60,000 from Office of Insular Affairs to Improve Water, Wastewater Operations
(WASHINGTON, D.C., February 8, 2005) The Commonwealth Utilities Corporation (CUC) of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands will receive a grant in the amount of $60,000 from the Department of the Interior's Office of Insular Affairs to evaluate possible management improvements to its water and wastewater operations, it was announced today. The grant will fund a peer review of CUC's management structure, with the objective of improving customer satisfaction and the quality and efficiency of its operations.
"We want to support the CNMI's efforts to improve its water and wastewater services," said Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Interior David B. Cohen. "Completion of this project will provide new professional guidelines to enable the CUC to improve public health protection while it improves operations and more efficiently uses resources."
The grant will be funded through the Office of Insular Affairs' Technical Assistance Program, which generally is designed to insular areas governments address critical needs for which funding is not otherwise available


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Oracle RAC 9iR2 in Solaris 9 branded zone
Reading through the VCS sfha 5.1sp1 Virtualization guide chapter 3 states that Oracle 9iR2 is supported in Solaris 9 branded zones.
Does anybody know if this includes Oracle 9iR2 RAC running across two Solaris 9 branded zones on cvm/cfs. If this is
not supported is it known to actually work?
Comments 4 Comments • Jump to latest comment
I have used CFS with non-branded zones and it works fine mounting CFS mounts into a non-global (local) zone, so I would think CFS works in a branded zone. I believe in a branded zone, SF works the same - running in the global zone and it is only VCS and ODM that are different as they need some components installed in the local zone. The VCS componets in the local zone are for the VCS agents, so GAB and LLT still run entirely in the global zone, but Oracle talks over LLT/GAB and Oracle in the local zone. You could have the LLT interfaces in the local zone for Oracle to use so it might work.
I have used VCS and ODM in branded zones, but never RAC in branded zones. From a support point of view, I would guess Symantec has not tested this and hence it will be unsupported and it will probably be difficult to get Oracle's blessing too, but technically it might work.
UK Symantec Consultant in VCS, GCO, SF, VVR, VxAT on Solaris, AIX, HP-ux, Linux & Windows
If this post has answered your question then please click on "Mark as solution" link below
The support for Oracle RAC (SFRAC) in zones was added with 5.1SP1 RP2. Please take a look at the attached document for the caveats associated with this configuration. Although not explicitly stated, I do not believe branded zones are supported with SFRAC. It is worth noting that with both Solaris 11 and SFHA 6.0, support for branded zones has been deprecated all together. I will however get confirmation on this.
Please let me know if you have any more questions.
Joe D
Thanks Joe,
I note that this is for Oracle 10g upwards and so will include the starting of Oracle Clusterware. Oracle 9i pre-dated the Oracle clusterware and just relied on a 3rd party cluster framework so there may be a possibility it will work - albeit outside of a supported configuration. It appears the sfha guide is not refering to 9i R2 RAC running in a branded zone but it would be good to clarify.
At present, there isn't any chance of upgrading the OS or database so it will be a case of trying 9i RAC in a branded zone to see if it does work.


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What the IBM Software Story Means for Business Partners
Jacqi Levy 270003E0DF email@example.com | | Tags:  ibmpartners ibmsoftware ibm smarter_planet business_partner software_story business_partners
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Business Partners: Stand Up and Be Recognized for Your Expertise with the IBM Champion Program
Jacqi Levy 270003E0DF firstname.lastname@example.com | | Tags:  thought business websphere developerworks champions rational partners techical leadership expert lotus ibmsoftware ibm partner ibmpartners tivoli
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Are you an IBM Business Partner? An expert on IBM solutions and services? A thought leader who serves as a mentor for peers in the technical community? If so, IBM would like to recognize your contributions through a new program: IBM Champions. The IBM Champions program is open to all ... [ + Read more ]


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Marketing Classes Gain Experience
Story by: Gemma Sutkiewicz
Are you looking for a snack between classes, a South High t-shirt, or a drink during lunch?
The school store, known as the Red Zone, is the answer. The student run business sells a variety of items from school apparel to snacks for students.
It is very convenient for those who need to grab food or beverages during the school day or for those who wish to show their school spirit with South High clothing. The school store is open during both lunches, 6th hour study hall, and during various home events at South. Many students like the Arizona teas, which is their biggest selling item during lunches. "It's great if I ever forget a lunch or need an extra snack throughout the day," said freshman, Rachel Schleicher.
The school store isn't just helpful for the customers, but the staff benefits as well. The student enterprise is run by the marketing and management class at South High.
Business teacher Todd Williams, the adviser, has been working with the business students for several years. The students get a feel for what it is like to run a real business, learning about important principles such as customer service and advertising.
Senior Brian Anderson, who has been involved in the store since his freshmen year, worked his way up to the manager position. "The school store gives you real life experience as its business like as possible," he noted.
In addition to learning about product line development and promoting sales, students involved in the store get the opportunity to go on two field trips a year: a trade show in Wisconsin Dells, and a trip to Minneapolis. These future business executive managers have plenty of fun while gaining invaluable skills.
The students working in the store need to have good grades as well as enthusiasm. It is a great opportunity for anyone looking to get real life experience in business through a unique kind of academic experience. A logo contest for the store was also started and the winning design will be chosen in the future.


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by John Swann, Associate Director
Here at the LU we attract all walks of life, culture and religious beliefs. Although we are all united under God, we don't all function the same way, or believe the same. For instance Sunday worship is the most segregated time of the week. When we go to worship, we get with those who are like minded and never even think about getting outside of our comfort zone.
There is a worship war going on, some who feel worship must be charismatic or it is not worship and others suggest that unless your hands are raised with one tear, it is not worship. Too many people define worship based on what they have grown up in or experienced.
Many students of color find it hard to adapt/conform to the worship here at LU. Not that Dave McKinney and the band are bad, but there are some cultural idioms when it comes to worship that make worship what it is for certain individuals.
The expression of praise has been associated with charismatic/Pentecostal churches. The quieter worship has been associated with Southern Baptist, Presbyterian and Methodist. The Pentecostal person and the conservative person are still Christian, but the expression of worship and beliefs separate them.
I think that worship should be balanced. There is a time for praise and there is a time to be quiet. Too often people want to scream and holler at God as if God is def. Likewise there are some people who must believe that God is in a whispering contest trying to see who can get the quietest.
David suggests in the Psalms, "Make a joyful noise unto the Lord" this shows me that praise is audible and not silent. I once sat in a church and was told to give the Lord a silent praise; I laughed to myself and thought where does the bible address silent praise?
I suggest this to you, allows the Holy Spirit in you to connect with the Holy Spirit in the persons leading you in worship. You will find one thing to be true, true worship is done in spirit and in truth, doesn't matter who is on stage or what instrument they play. That worship will be your best worship and after that you too can end the worship wars.
John Swann come to us from Paterson, NJ
by way of Hampton, VA. He is a 2004 graduate of
Liberty and is husband to the former Daniela Flood.
In addition to his work in the Center4ME, he also
serves as pastor of Ebenezer AME Church in
Roanoke, VA. Visit him on Facebook.
Posted at 3:29 PM | Comments (3)


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Calendar of Events
Calendar of Events
Calendar of Events
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
6 p.m. Private Reception (IEEE Members and CHM Members)
7 p.m. Program
1401 N. Shoreline Boulevard
Mountain View, CA 94043
REGISTRATIONRegistration is closed. This event is oversubscribed.
This program is supported by a grant from the IEEE foundation.
Call (650) 810-1898 for information.
The MOS (metal-oxide-semiconductor) transistor, the fundamental building block of digital electronics, is the base technology of late 20th and early 21st century. The story of its development is one of the key chapters in the history of the semiconductor and computing industries. After being the subject of extensive research and vigorous activity among semiconductor pioneers at companies like Fairchild, IBM, RCA, Bell Labs, TI and Intel throughout the 1960s, the MOS transistor first achieved major usage in the 1970s with DRAMs and microprocessors. When it became the industry standard in the 1980s, the door to the Digital Age was thrown wide open. As a result, tens of thousands of MOS enabled digital products have made their way into offices and homes worldwide, irrevocably changing the human experience.
Join us for a discussion of the often-difficult path to mainstream acceptance of the MOS transistor and its lasting impact on computing and communications. Technology historian, Dr. Ross Bassett, will chair a conversation with three early MOS champions and semiconductor pioneers---David Hodges, Bell Labs and UC Berkeley; Dr. Lewis Terman, IBM and 2008 IEEE president; and Les Vadasz, Fairchild and Intel. Dr. Bassett authored the definitive book on the topic, To the Digital Age, Research Labs, Start-up Companies, and the Rise of MOS Technology from John Hopkins University Press.
The Computer History Museum offers a variety of membership levels. To find out more, please visit our individual membership or call 650-810-2722.


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Goli empowers her clients with practical wellness tools and healing techniques that include: customized yoga sequences; breathing and mindfulness techniques; calming stress relief techniques; guided imagery; progressive relaxation; and guided meditation. Her dynamic teaching style incorporates her training in multiple disciplines of yoga including Vinyasa, Iyengar & Kundalini yoga and Meditation. While Goli's students undoubtedly achieve physical and mental strength, she is masterful in helping people experience their natural state of deep relaxation. Her articulate instruction makes Yoga and Meditation accessible to all.
Goli is renowned for her expertise relieving Anxiety and Stress Disorders, Trauma/PTSD, and Chronic Pain. Goli is sought after by Celebrities and she has worked as the lead yoga therapist at Los Angeles' most elite Psychological Recovery Centers as well as UCLA's Collaborative Center for Integrative Medicine. Goli's clients achieve profound breakthroughs in physical health, personal development and mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness.
- Alignment-based Vinyasa Flow + Kundalini Yoga + Meditation
- Well-rounded sequencing balancing Strength + Deep Relaxation
- Breath training (Pranayama)
- Guided visualization, meditation, mindfulness + progressive relaxation
- Yoga Therapy + Coaching: to address specific mental, emotional + physical needs
- Simple, hands-on practices for sustained health, peace + happiness
- Increase muscle strength + flexibility
- Calm stress + anxiety
- Sleep better naturally
- Increase vitality + joy
- Reduce back pain or chronic pain
- Calm the mind + experience inner peace
- Achieve breakthroughs in self awareness + effectiveness
about classes + offerings


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Learn how to build your own 3D design models and prototypes with the NURBS-based modeling tools in Rhino 5.0 for Windows.
Shows how the 3D NURBS-based modeling tools in Rhino are used to create 3D objects for industrial design and rapid prototyping.
"The site has given me an amazing renewal of long-lost inspiration. I feel I have my creativity back for the first time in many, many years." —Louise L.
more from our members »


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spring bridal shows underway in Barcelona, we can't help but notice that some of this year's runway trends have been a little more than avant-garde.With the
We're all for trend-setting, but when it comes to the wedding department, it's hard to pass up the notion of a traditional, long white dress. It seems that designers have thrown that idea out the window this season, because we've seen everything from black gowns, to capes, to pants (yes, pants!) worn under dresses.
Click through the gallery to see the weirdest and wackiest trends from the spring bridal shows. Try not to be alarmed by the umbrella used as a veil (we can't make this stuff up!).


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|Print This Page Email this page to a Friend
News Releases
Palmetto Health, in collaboration with Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina and other local partners, presents the fifth annual "Women at Heart," a free heart-health forum and exhibition, from 8 a.m.–1:30 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 15 at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center, 1101 Lincoln St. The event will help women learn to take better care of their hearts. Lunch will be served to those who pre-register.
Free heart-health screenings will be offered from 7–10 a.m. at the event. In addition, there will be early screenings available from 7–10 a.m. on Aug. 15 and 29, and Sept. 4–7, 12 and 14 at Palmetto Health Baptist, 1501 Sumter St., classroom D-E. Screenings will include a fasting lipid panel, blood pressure, body mass index, fasting glucose, as well as weight and waist circumference. Health screenings require a 12-hour fast, and pre-registration is required. Participants are encouraged to register early because screening appointments are limited.
Event activities include heart-healthy cooking and fitness demonstrations, testimonials from women living with heart disease and a variety of vendor and informational exhibits. Palmetto Health physicians will discuss heart disease risk factors, as well as take questions from the audience in an "Ask the Doctor" session. Attendees are asked to wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
Heart disease is the number one cause of death for women in South Carolina and nationally. According to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease kills twice as many women over the age of 25 as the next seven causes of death combined, including all forms of cancer. Women are much more likely to die of a first heart attack than men because their heart disease often goes undiagnosed.
For more information or to register, visit PalmettoHealth.org/WomenAtHeart or call 803-296-CARE(2273).


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2005 GMC Canyon Repair and Maintenance
A guide to problems, costs, maintenance and repair for your 2005 GMC Canyon
- Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement $590 - 1,038
- Thermostat Replacement $162 - 255
- Steering Rack Replacement $751 - 1,240
- Wheel Bearing Replacement - Front $524 - 1,497
- Door Window Regulator Replacement $170 - 264
- Ray & Dana's Inman Auto Care (732) 856-5054 | 3.46mi
- 12 Volt Doctor (718) 412-9553 | 2.98mi
Related Content
2005 GMC Canyon Problems
The HVAC blower motor may stop working at one or more speeds due to a faulty blower motor resistor block. Our technicians recommend to confirm the resistor is at fault by first checking the operation of the switch.
The engine may develop a misfire due to worn valve seats. This fault will cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate. Replacement of the cylinder head may be required to correct this concern.
The CD player in the radio may fail. Our technicians tell us that the radio will need to be removed and sent out to a radio repair shop to correct this condition.
2005 GMC Canyon Questions
battery cable end is hot . truck won't start unless you jump start it.
What causes the increased speed and would it cause a lite out or vice-versa
need help never did this before any special skill I have a new handle want to replace broken one .
2005 GMC Canyon Recalls
General Motors is recalling certain 2004–2011 Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, and Isuzu regular and extended cab models without a rear seat and equipped with a 60/40 front bench split seat for failing to comply with federal safety standards on child restraint anchorage systems. The top tether anchor for the front center seat is not accessible and the manual provides no instruction on its use. In order to correct the problem, dealers will cut a hole in the back panel trim cover to allow access to the top tether anchor and will provide supplemental instructions on the use of the top tether.
General Motors is recalling various 2004–2009 models in twelve Southern and Southwestern states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands due to contamination in the brake lamp switch, which may cause the brake lamps to fail or stay on continuously. This could lead to a crash since other drivers may not be aware of the operator's intentions. Dealers will inspect and replace the necessary components free of charge. For more information, call Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438, GMC at 1-866-996-9463, or Isuzu at 1-800-255-6727.
The brake lights may fail to illuminate, or illuminate at all times. In this condition, the cruise control will not function. If towing a trailer connected to the brake lamp wiring, the trailer lights will also be affected. A following driver may not know when the brakes are applied, increasing the risk of a rear-end crash. Dealers will replace the brake lamp switch assembly. The recall began December 5, 2006. The GM recall number is 06030.
2005 GMC Canyon Reviews
Dash light sometimes fail to come on at night. Radio light blinks. A/C switch only worked on high.
My problems are rough idle, that I don't know how to fix and the brackets in both windows broke so now I can't roll my windows down at all and then the mirrors quit moving. What to do?


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A laminated panel (60) made of a reinforced non-woven flexible mat (10) with a content of thermoplastic fibers which is provided on at least one side with a plastic-containing decorative layer (72) The mat (10) is connected with the decorative layer (72) by the use of pressure and heat via an intermediate scrim layer (74) having thermoplastic fibers. The process for forming a panel (60) includes preheating the mat (10) by passing a heated gaseous flow through the mat to evenly heat the mat throughout. A layer of unheated decorative vinyl (71) and the preattached scrim layer (74) are placed in a mold (30). The preheated mat (10) is then placed into the mold (30). The mold is promptly closed and pressed to bond the layers of mat, scrim, and decorative vinyl layer together to form the laminated panel.
1. A laminated panel for use in automotive interiors characterized by:
a mat made from fibers with some of the fiber being a first thermoplastic material;
a plastic containing a decorative layer connected to one side of the mat by the application of pressure and heat via an intermediate scrim layer;
said scrim layer having fibers made of a second thermoplastic fiber which is a different material from that of the fibers of thermoplastic material in the mat and having a melting temperature at least as high as the thermoplastic material in the mat; and
the mat being a blend of fibers made from said first thermoplastic material and natural fibers formed in a non-woven mat.
2. A laminated body in accordance with claim 1 further characterized by:
the first thermoplastic material in the mat is one of a polyester and polypropylene material.
3. A laminated body in accordance with claim 2 further characterized by:
the scrim layer being made from one of a polyester and polypropylene material.
4. A laminated panel in accordance with claim 1 further characterized in that the natural fibers in the mat are flax fibers.
5. A laminated panel as defined in claim 1 further characterized by:
said natural fibers comprise approximately 50% of said mat by weight;
said thermoplastic fibers comprise approximately 50% of the mat by weight;
said natural fiber being flax and said thermoplastic being one of polyester and polypropylene material.
6. A laminated panel in accordance with claim 1, characterized in that a foam layer is located between the decorative layer and the scrim layer.
7. A laminated panel as defined in claim 6 further characterized by:
a cushion insert with a decorative fabric covering and being bonded to said panel;
said decorative plastic layer and foam layer having an aperture conforming to the peripheral shape of the cushion insert to allow the decorative fabric covering at a top surface of said cushion insert to be visible.
8. A laminated panel as defined in claim 1 further characterized by:
a fastener member extending behind from said mat and being anchored in said mat behind said decorative layer.
9. A laminated panel as defined in claim 1 further characterized by:
a cushion insert with a decorative fabric covering and being bonded to said panel;
said decorative plastic layer having an aperture conforming to the peripheral shape of the cushion insert to allow the decorative fabric covering at a top surface of said cushion insert to be visible.
10. A laminated panel as defined in claim 1 further characterized by:
said mat being adhered to a layer of non-woven sound insulating material.
11. A laminated panel as defined in claim 10 further characterized by:
said sound insulating material being a porous non-woven material interposed between two layers of said mat.
12. A laminated panel as defined in claim 10 further characterized by:
said sound insulating material being adhered against a bottom surface of said mat and comprising approximately 80% natural fiber and approximately 20% thermoplastic material by weight.
13. A laminated panel as defined in claim 1 further characterized by:
said mat having a bottom surface with a plurality of embossments having less density than the rest of the mat and being spaced apart to absorb sound and reduce resonant vibrations of said mat.
The field of this invention relates to a structured molded panel for use with automotive interiors and a process of making such a panel.
Automotive interiors have many interior panels that form the interior door panels, floor panels, and rear deck storage panels. The panels need to be structurally sound and light weight while being expeditiously made from readily accessible materials. Because of the high volume of automotive vehicles being manufactured each year, great efforts have been made to make the cars from environmentally friendly materials. These environmentally friendly materials are either recyclable, i.e. they can be reused a second time, or may be made from recycled materials, i.e. they are being used for a second time.
Another source of materials that is considered environmentally friendly is material that would otherwise be waste. The salvaging of material that is otherwise waste provides for a second chance for material that would otherwise be burned or deposited in landfills. Natural materials are considered because of their renewable natural fiber content. Flax is grown in great quantities for its seed which is crushed to obtain its desirable flaxseed oil. However, since the days when synthetic materials and other cloth greatly replaced the dominant use of linen, the flax chaff and stalks have found little use and often lie in the field as waste material. This situation is particularly acute in North America where the flax is primarily grown for the seed. Flax stalk is often burned since its oily content repels water thereby inhibiting its quick degradation back into the soil.
It has been known to incorporate flax or other natural cellulose fibers in a composite material. However, previous compositions that incorporated natural fillers either did not have the structural integrity within the dimensional thinness needed for molded contoured automotive panels or could not be expeditiously made to produce a consistent product having a cosmetic or decorative facing. The process used to blend and mold the fibers with the plastic resin required the plastic resin to be in a melted or liquid state and required mixing of the fibers with the liquid before the resin sets. Furthermore, the fibers need to be chopped because longer lengths of fibers tend to clog the nozzle of extruders or injection molding machines resulting in defective molding. However, the structural supporting properties of the fibers are lessened and the stiffness of the board may drop when shorter fibers are used.
Furthermore, the heat in previous molding processes often ruined the temperature sensitive cosmetic or decorative facing. Heat can destroy textured surfaces as well as any foam backings to the decorative layers. On the other hand, the absence of heat above room temperature prevents the proper joining of structural layers. Crazing also can appear in deformation areas if the materials are overly cool during deformation.
What is needed is an expeditious molding process that in a single molding step provides an automotive interior structurally supportive panel having a decorative facing and if desired can incorporate a sound insulating layer and anchored fastener members.
In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a process for forming a panel for an automotive interior includes the step of forming a mat of blended material. The material is made from a blend of thermoplastic fibers and natural fibers, preferably approximately one-half polypropylene and one-half flax fibers by weight. The mat is made by a commercially available machine that manufactures the mat from polypropylene and flax fibers to a desired thickness. The mat is flexible, porous and preferably non-woven. The mat is placed into a heating chamber with heated gaseous flow passing through the mat to evenly heat the mat throughout its entire interior and exterior surfaces to at least the melting temperature of the thermoplastic fibers. In the case of polypropylene the mat is heated to approximately 200� C. The shape of the mat is retained by the natural fibers.
A layer of cosmetic covering is placed in an unheated mold between two mold halves with opposing surfaces. The cosmetic covering may be an unformed layer, a contoured preform, or sprayed directly on a mold surface of one die. If sound insulation is desired, a layer of sound insulating material is placed within or against the mat prior to the molding thereof. If the sound insulating material is porous, it may be stacked with the mat and heated therewith.
In one embodiment, the cosmetic covering is made from vinyl material with a pre-attached foam backing at its underside. If the underside of the covering material is a material that is not compatible and does not bond directly to the thermoplastic in the mat, an intermediate scrim material is preattached either directly to the vinyl or if present, the foam back. The scrim is positioned to be interposed between the covering layer and mat to bind at one side to the backside of the covering material and at a second side to the thermoplastic at the outer surface of the mat. If the back side of the covering is compatible, the cosmetic covering may directly bond to the mat without any scrim. The heated mat is then placed in the mold and the mold dies are promptly closed and pressed to exert pressure on the layers of mat, sound insulating material and the cosmetic covering.
When the mold is closed and pressure exerted, the flax fibers compress together with the melted thermoplastic within the mat. The thermoplastic material also makes contact with the cosmetic covering. The mold is retained closed until the compressed layers in the mold are cooled and the thermoplastic bonds the flax fibers together and the cosmetic covering becomes bonded to the mat. The mold dies are then opened and the completed molded panel is removed.
If the panel needs to be mounted to a support or vehicle door via fastener members, the fastener members may be anchored into the panel during the molding process without interfering with the integrity or appearance of the cosmetic covering.
In an embodiment which incorporates a layer of sound insulating material, it is preferable that the opposing surfaces of the respective mold dies when in the closed position have a varying distance therebetween. The varying distance provides a finished sound insulating panel with varying thickness. A substantial part of the varying thickness is due to the change in thickness of the sound insulating layer which also provides a change in density of the sound insulating layer. The sound insulating layer in one embodiment is a layer of non-woven cotton. In another embodiment, the sound insulating layer is a layer of Kaldex™ by DuPont or a similar commercial product.
According to another aspect of the invention, a laminated sound insulating panel for use in automotive interiors includes a cosmetic covering layer bonded to a multi-layer mat of a blend of thermoplastic fibers and natural fibers, preferably approximately one-half flax fibers and one-half polypropylene fibers by weight. A layer of non-woven sound insulating material is interposed between a first and second layer of the flax and polypropylene mat. The insulating material preferably is impregnated with a thermoplastic material that is compatible or similar to the thermoplastic used in the mat. In another embodiment the layer of sound insulation may be a layer of blended thermoplastic fibers and natural fibers with approximately 80% by weight being natural fibers.
A fabric covered component may be interposed between the decorative layer and the mat such that, after forming the panel, the overlying portion of the decorative layer is removed to reveal the fabric covered component as a decorative addition to the panel.
In this fashion, the panel with the above described features is made in a single compression molding step.
Reference now is made to the accompanying drawings in which:
FIG. 1 is a schematic view illustrating one embodiment according to the invention;
FIG. 2 is side elevational segmented view of an open mold shown in FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is view similar to FIG. 2 illustrating the mold dies moved to a closed position;
FIG. 4 is a fragmentary segmented view of the molded article removed from the mold shown in FIG. 3;
FIG. 5 is a view similar to FIG. 4 illustrating an alternate embodiment;
FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the layer of flax with sound deadening embossments;
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 7--7 shown in FIG. 6;
FIG. 8 is a side elevational segmented view of another embodiment in accordance with the invention;
FIG. 9 is a view similar to FIG. 2 illustrating another embodiment of the invention;
FIG. 10 is a side elevational segmented view of a molded article shown in FIG. 9 after removal from the mold;
FIG. 11 is a plan view of the molded article shown in FIG. 10;
FIG. 12 is an enlarged plan view of the fastening member; and
FIG. 13 is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along lines 13--13 shown in FIG. 12.
Referring now to FIG. 1, a flexible needled non-woven mat 10 is made on a commercially available needling machine 12. The needling machine 12 builds the mat 10 from a supply of polypropylene fibers 14 and a supply of flax fibers 16 at 50% polypropylene and 50% flax by weight. Variations from this preferred 50--50 ratio may be acceptable. The percentage of flax may be between 40-70% by weight depending on the particular applications. The needling machine 12 builds the mat 10 with multiple loosely inter-connected thin layers which is quite porous to air flow. The needling machine 12 is operated at room temperature with the polypropylene being in the form of solid flexible fibers. A single layer of mat 10 has a thickness of approximately one and one-half inches and a mass of approximately 2000 grams/meter2. The wide range between 100 grams/meter2 -3000 grams/meter2 is foreseen depending on the particular application.
The mat 10 is then transferred into a furnace 20. If desired and as described below, several layers 40 and 42 of mat 10 may be stacked upon each other. Furthermore, a porous sound insulating material 42 may be placed between the layers of mat 10. The layer 42 may be a pre-pressed non-woven recycled cotton fiber. The furnace evenly heats the layers of mat 10 and any sound insulating layer 42 to a temperature of approximately 200� C. To obtain even heating throughout the mat interior, an air current is set up by a fan 22 which draws air from a heat source 24 (electric or gas) and passes the air through one or more layers of the mat 10. The heated air, by being drawn through the mat 10, evenly heats the mat 10 throughout its interior.
Immediately after the layers of mat 10 are heated to the proper 200� C. temperature, the layers of mat 10 and sound insulation 42 are transferred into an unheated mold assembly 30. The time needed within furnace 20 is dependent on mass of mat 10 and sound insulation 42. For many applications thirty to fifty seconds may be sufficient to adequately heat the layers to 200� C.
The mold assembly has a die 32 and die 34. One side of die 32 may be covered with an unheated cosmetic covering 35 for example a thermal plastic olefin (tpo). The mat 10 and material 42 are placed on the back side 36 of the tpo cosmetic covering to form layers 40, 42 and 44. The front side 37 of the cosmetic covering faces the contoured mold die surface 38.
The mold assembly is closed, as shown in FIG. 3, immediately after the layers 35, 40, 42 and 44 are correctly positioned therein. The heat from the mat 10 undergoing pressure from the mold assembly bonds the flax fibers together with the polypropylene. In this example, large opposing planar sections 46 and 48 of the mold dies 32 and 34 are spaced farther apart than the opposing contoured sections 50 and 52 of the mold dies 32 and 34. Mold die 32 may have its surface 38 embossed to form a design or texture in the surface 37 of the tpo layer 35.
The mold dies are at ambient temperature and not heated by any source other than what heat the mats 10 transfers to the mold dies. A cooling mechanism (not shown) dissipates excess heat from the mold. A minimal pressure of 5 bars provides sufficient compressive force to achieve part configuration within the mold.
The mold remains under pressure until the polypropylene resolidifies which can, depending on the application and thickness of the materials, range between 30 and 140 seconds. The mold is then opened and a finished panel 60 is formed, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, with large planar sections 62 having a thicker cross-section than contoured sections 64. The increased thickness is primarily due to the increased thickness of layer 42 at the planar sections 62 due to the mold shape.
An alternate embodiment is shown in FIG. 5. In this panel 70, the tpo cosmetic covering 35 in FIG. 4 is replaced by a lamination of heat sensitive foam backed vinyl material 71 with a vinyl decoration layer 72, a foam backing 73, and a heat barrier scrim 74. It is common to receive vinyl layer 72 with layers of foam 73 already affixed together in a single lamination 71. A heat barrier thin scrim material 74 is prebonded to the foam layer 73. The scrim material is a compatible thermoplastic material that can bond to the polypropylene plastic in layer 40 of mat 10 and the polyester material can be a suitable material for the scrim layer 74. The lamination 71 of scrim 74, foam 73, and vinyl 72 is unheated when placed in the mold. With a layer of scrim 73 having a mass of approximately 100 grams/meter2, it has been discovered that the scrim layer 74 protects the soft foam layer 73 and decorative vinyl layer 72 from an unacceptably high heat transfer from the mat 10 that would otherwise damage the foam 73 and vinyl 72. However, the scrim does soften under the heat and securely bonds to the layer 40 of mat 10.
Other sound insulation may be accomplished by embossing the flax mat 10 as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 with embossments 82. In this embodiment, a vinyl laminated layer 71 includes a vinyl layer 72 and a layer of scrim 74. The scrim 74 is bonded to the mat 10. The die surface 80 of upper mold 34 may be appropriately embossed to create embossments 82 in the back surface 45 of mat 10 to inhibit the transmission of sound waves laterally through the mat 10. The embossments 82 are actually raised and create thicker areas 84 in mat 10 as shown in FIG. 7.
Another embodiment which provides a sound insulating layer is illustrated in FIG. 8. In this embodiment as with other previously described embodiments, a scrim layer 74 is preattached to the vinyl lamination 71. On the back surface 45 of mat 10 lies another layer 90 of polypropylene fibers and flax fiber. This layer 90 has by weight approximately 80% flax fibers and approximately 20% polypropylene. The mat 10 and layer 90 are preheated to 200� and then placed in the mold. The scrim 74 becomes bonded to the front surface of mat 10. The layer 90 also becomes bonded to mat 10. When released, the 20% polypropylene is an insufficient amount to keep the flax totally compressed, and the flax fibers in layer 90 rebound after being released from the mold. The rebound lowers the density of layer 90 which acts as a dampener of sound. The layer 90 may be fabricated separately and laid with mat 10 before they enter furnace 20. Other sound insulation material such as Kaldex™ material by DuPont may be used for layer 90. However because Kaldex™ is nonporous, the mat 10 is preheated first and then stacked together with the Kaldex™ layer 90. The Kaldex™ layer 90 may also be separately preheated for greater flexibility during the molding process.
Furthermore, the cosmetic surface may further incorporate cushioned areas or inserts that are commonly known for door panels. The process does not inhibit the incorporation of these known cushioned inserts. As shown in FIG. 9, decorative fabric covered cushioned insert 100 is interposed between the tpo layer 35 and mat 10. The mold die 32 has an embossed spring loaded cutting edge 102 which conforms to the shape of the periphery 105 of the cushioned insert 100. The cutting edge 102 tucks the tpo layer 35 into the mat 10 and cuts the piece of tpo 110 that overlies the cushion 100. After the mold opens, the tpo piece 110 is removed to expose the cushion 100 and its decorative fabric 101 as shown in FIG. 11. The cushion insert 100 as shown in FIG. 10 is raised with respect to the rest of the panel 120. However, the panel 120 may be molded such that the fabric covering 101 is coplanar or even recessed with respect to the tpo section 35 of panel 120.
As also shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the process also provides for the securement of one or more fastener members 110 to the panel during the molding process without the need for a separate step or other applied adhesive. Each fastener member 110, as shown in more detail in FIGS. 12 and 13 has a plurality of rosettes 112 with distal pointed prongs 116. A raised section 112 includes a threaded aperture therethrough 114 which can be fastened to a bolt. These types of fastener members 110 are commercially available.
During the molding process, the raised section 117 is aligned with a recessed section 120 in mold part 34. The molds are closed with sufficient pressure to cause each prong 116 to deflect generally parallel with the plane of the panel while embedded in the mat 10. After the mat 10 cools, the now generally parallel prongs 116 are embedded and anchor the fastener member 110 to the panel 120. The prongs 116 are embedded only in matt 10 and do not interfere with the structure of cosmetic appearance of vinyl layer 71. The prongs 116 remain concealed under vinyl layer 71.
In this fashion, an expeditious process forms an automotive interior structurally self-supportive panel that incorporates material that may be recycled or otherwise waste material. The panel may be, for example, a back panel shelf or an interior door panel. The panel may incorporate sound insulation and other constructions that reduce an effect commonly referred to as the drum effect. The expeditious process creates a structurally supportive panel that may have an embossed or textured cosmetic surface as well as cushioned inserts.
Other variations and modifications are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.
Patent Citations
Referenced by
Legal Events
Original Image


text:
Results 1 to 5 of 5
Style: Regretfully, TKD.2
Jiu Jutsu Practitioner stops armed robbery
Mostly by blind luck, mind you. It was a VERY close call. However, in the end, the Jiu Jutsu Practitioner was able to get the robber to the ground and attempt a triangle. Subduing him long enough for help to arrive.
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- israel
- Posts
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11/11/2013 11:15am
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11/17/2013 3:55pm--
Bonkers! He was lucky to get away with that - unbelievably so. I would suggest that it was only owing to the reluctance of the Robber to actually pull (squeeze) the trigger that saved him.
Again? No, he'd be shot dead.
Note that the police were only 1 minute away, so he'd likely have been caught.


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Sassuolo has the best form in the Serie C1 at the moment and are on 2nd place. Venezia is on 7th place. This will be an important match to win.
This match could end in a draw.]]>
Novara won their last meeting 2 - 0, but at home Monza should win this match easily. Novara have a pretty poor form recently.
Monza to win.]]>
Match between league leaders Grosseto and Ivrea who are on 16th place. This is a match Grosseto should win.
Grosseto to win.]]>
Olbia won their last meeting 0 - 1 away from home back in December and with Lumezzane's recent poor form they should win this one as well.
Olbia to win.]]>
Cuneo has the worst form in the Serie C2 at the moment and should have problems away against Montichiari.
Cuneo to win.]]>


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Police log: Break-in on Mimosa; Apple Store robbed
Thieves nab electronics, shoes in robbery
DURHAM – A homeowner in the 600 block of Mimosa Street in Durham came home July 22 to find almost $47,000 worth of her possession missing.
According to Durham police documents, between 8:25 a.m. and 3:35 p.m. suspects broke into the house and took $46,600 worth of TVs, jewelry, electronics and even shoes.
Four TVs were taken from the home, totaling $3,200. Collectively electronics such as laptops and tablet computers totaled $3,000. The suspects also nabbed about $40,000 worth of gold jewelry and $400 worth of tennis shoes.
Police have not made any arrests at this time.
Apple Store target in robbery
DURHAM -- Officers responded to an alarm at the Apple Store at the Streets at Southpoint about 3:40 a.m. on July 29. When authorities arrived, they discovered the storefront's window had been smashed and items taken.
Police believe two men broke into the store wearing bandanas over their faces. They managed to get away with several iPads and MacBooks.. Anyone with information is asked to call CrimeStoppers at (919) 683-1200. CrimeStoppers pays cash rewards for information leading to arrests in felony cases and callers never have to identify themselves.
Lauren Horsch is the police reporter for The Herald-Sun. She can be reached at 919-419-6646, or by email at firstname.lastname@example.com. You can follow her on Twitter at @LaurenHorsch.


text:
Corrections and Conditional Release Act (S.C. 1992, c. 20)
Full Document:
Act current to 2015-06-22 and last amended on 2015-06-18. Previous Versions
Marginal note:Information to be given to offenders
27. (1) Where an offender is entitled by this Part or the regulations to make representations in relation to a decision to be taken by the Service about the offender, the person or body that is to take the decision shall, subject to subsection (3), give the offender, a reasonable period before the decision is to be taken, all the information to be considered in the taking of the decision or a summary of that information.
Marginal note:Idem
(2) Where an offender is entitled by this Part or the regulations to be given reasons for a decision taken by the Service about the offender, the person or body that takes the decision shall, subject to subsection (3), give the offender, forthwith after the decision is taken, all the information that was considered in the taking of the decision or a summary of that information.
Marginal note:Exceptions
(3) Except in relation to decisions on disciplinary offences, where the Commissioner has reasonable grounds to believe that disclosure of information under subsection (1) or (2) would jeopardize
(a) the safety of any person,
(b) the security of a penitentiary, or
(c) the conduct of any lawful investigation,
the Commissioner may authorize the withholding from the offender of as much information as is strictly necessary in order to protect the interest identified in paragraph (a), (b) or (c).
Marginal note:Right to interpreter
(4) An offender who does not have an adequate understanding of at least one of Canada's official languages is entitled to the assistance of an interpreter
(a) at any hearing provided for by this Part or the regulations; and
(b) for the purposes of understanding materials provided to the offender pursuant to this section.
- 1992, c. 20, s. 27;
- 1995, c. 42, s. 10(F).
Placement and Transfer of Inmates
Marginal note:Criteria for selection of penitentiary
28. If a person is or is to be confined in a penitentiary, the Service shall take all reasonable steps to ensure that the penitentiary in which they are confined is one that provides them with an environment that contains only the necessary restrictions, taking into account
(a) the degree and kind of custody and control necessary for
(i) the safety of the public,
(ii) the safety of that person and other persons in the penitentiary, and
(iii) the security of the penitentiary;
(b) accessibility to
(i) the person's home community and family,
(ii) a compatible cultural environment, and
(iii) a compatible linguistic environment; and
(c) the availability of appropriate programs and services and the person's willingness to participate in those programs.
- 1992, c. 20, s. 28;
- 2012, c. 1, s. 58.
- Date modified:


text:
- A compact, lightweight design for total control and easy styling, the PRO features a narrow nozzle and concentrator for focused airflow and ceramic ionic technology for faster drying time, maximum shine, damage prevention and frizz elimination.
- Complete with high heat setting for real professional styling results plus a cold shot button for setting styles and locking out frizz.
- A removable end cap makes cleaning and maintenance simple and easy.
- 3 heat and 2 speed settings with quiet speed motor.
- Includes diffuser and concentrator attachments.
- 9-foot long professional cord and hanging ring.
- Imported.
- Model # PBDR5882.


text:
Kiddie Parties at the BeachKIDS GET 5-STAR TREATMENT AT DISCOVERY SHORES BORACAY
A popular quote says, the best inheritance a parent can give to his children is a few minutes of his time each day. Discovery Shores Boracay provides the best opportunity for parents to have quality time with their kids in the "5 Star Kids" package -- a perfect treat for the tots.
Planning an unforgettable beach party for the little ones has never been this easy. Discovery Shores' 5 Star Kids package includes a sumptuous buffet of all-time kiddie favorites, one round of iced tea or soda, a dessert bar, a one layered birthday cake, and use of function room (4 hours) with sound system. The package also comes with complimentary items like a Birthday gift for the celebrant, a standard function room and table top party decorations, Kiddie name tags, Kiddie loot bags and other party favors.
Avail of the 5 Star Kids package rate for only P 40,000 ++ for 20 persons, with an extra person rate of P 1,200++. Rates are subject to 12% VAT, 10% gratuity and applicable taxes. It is valid for Kiddie Parties until October 2014.
For inquiries and reservations, contact Discovery Shores Boracay at (+63 2) 720.8888 / (63 36) 288.4500 or visit discoveryhotels-resorts.com.
Discovery Suites, Discovery Country Suites Tagaytay, and Discovery Shores Boracay are managed by The Discovery Leisure Company.


text:
The Ancient Egyptian Books of the AfterlifePaperback
List price $28.86
You save $6.78 23% off
Free delivery worldwide
Dispatched in 2 business days
When will my order arrive?
- Publisher: Cornell University Press
- Format: Paperback | 224 pages
- Dimensions: 165mm x 229mm x 15mm | 272g
- Publication date: 17 June 1999
- Publication City/Country: Ithaca
- Edition: New edition
- Edition statement: 1st New edition
- Illustrations note: 96
- Sales rank: 320,762
Product description
Ancient Egyptians held a rich and complex vision of the afterlife and codified their beliefs in books that were to be discovered more than two millennia later in royal tombs. Erik Hornung, the world's leading authority on these religious texts, surveys what is known about them today.The contents of the texts range from the collection of spells in the Book of the Dead, which was intended to offer practical assistance on the journey to the afterlife, to the detailed accounts of the hereafter provided in the Books of the Netherworld. Hornung looks closely at these latter works, while summarizing the contents of the Book of the Dead and other widely studied examples of the genre. For each composition, he discusses the history of its ancient transmission and its decipherment in modern times, supplying bibliographic information for any text editions. He also seeks to determine whether this literature as a whole presents a monolithic conception of the afterlife. The volume features many drawings from the books themselves drawings that illustrate the nocturnal course of the sun god through the realm of the dead.Originally published in German and now available in a fluid English translation, this volume offers an accessible and enlightening introduction to a central element of ancient Egyptian religion."
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Review quote
"It is a fortunate circumstance that Eric Hornung. . . has rendered the invaluable service of producing a complete guide and manual to the texts. . . It now appears in an admirable English translation by David Lorton." Leo Depuydt, Brown University. Journal of the American Research Center in Egypt, 2000"


text:
A. Alter, "The Next Age of Discovery," Wall Street Journal, May 8, 2009,
Archimedes Palimpsest Project, Walters Art Museum, Baltimore, http://www.archimedespalimpsest.org/
Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Gardens, "Beautiful Science: Ideas that Changed the World," http://www.huntington.org/thehuntington_full02.aspx?id=3000
Museum of the History of Science, Oxford, England, "Online Exhibits," http://www.mhs.ox.ac.uk/exhibits/
National Curve Bank, "Deposit #93: A History of Math Class Visits the Huntington Library," California State University, Los Angeles, http://curvebank.calstatela.edu/visit/visit.htm
PBS NOVA, "Galileo's Battle for the Heavens," WGBH Studios, Boston, MA, 2002, http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/galileo/
PBS NOVA, "Infinite Secrets: The Genius of Archimedes," WGBH Studios, Boston, MA, 2003, http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/archimedes/
Smithsonian National Museum of American History, "Slates, Slide Rules, and Software: Teaching Math in America," http://americanhistory.si.edu/teachingmath/
J. Stedall, Mathematics Emerging: A Sourcebook 1540-1900, Oxford University Press, 2008
F. Swetz and V. Katz, "Mathematical Treasures," Convergence, http://mathdl.maa.org/mathDL/46/?pa=content&sa=viewDocument&nodeId=2591
F. Swetz, "The Quipu," Convergence (December 2008), DOI: 10.4169/loci003206, http://mathdl.maa.org/mathDL/46/?pa=content&sa=viewDocument&nodeId=3206
F. Swetz, "Review of Museum of the History of Science, Oxford," Convergence,http://mathdl.maa.org/mathDL/46/?pa=content&sa=viewDocument&nodeId=2581
About the Authors
Christine Latulippe is Assistant Professor of Mathematics Education at Cal Poly Pomona; Joe Latulippe is Assistant Professor of Mathematics at Cal Poly Pomona. Since first meeting in an undergraduate multivariable calculus course, they have shared many mathematical adventures including being 2007-2008 Project NExT Fellows. To exercise the other half of their brains, the Latulippes enjoy painting, reading, and taking field trips.


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Do you workout? Are you getting the results you want?
Maintaining a physical fitness regimen isn't easy. The demands of work and family life are a challenge, and expensive gym memberships may seem like a luxury in these hard times.
Have you considered working out at home?
The Wall Street Journal's Wendy Bounds appeared on "Good Morning America" this morning to talk about some new fitness equipment that can make a workout at home more fun and effective.
Here is Bounds' product review:
Product: Valslide
Cost: $29.99 @ valslide.com
What it is: Two green-and-black foot "slides" activate lesser-used muscles in hips, legs, buttocks and abs for sculpting and cardio workout. Used by actors Jennifer Garner ("Alias") and Rachel Nichols. ("G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra")
Pros/Cons: Can fit in handbag or suitcase. Low-impact. To be used on carpet or with $5 pair of booties on hardwood and tile floors. Some balance required.
Click HERE to see the web-extra workout products.
Product: Perfect Sit-Up (Also, there's the "Perfect Pull-up" and "Perfect Push-Up")
Cost: $99 @ perfectonline.com
What it is: A mat connected to feet straps and headrest; designed to improve sit-up form and work all ab muscles. There is an audible "click" when the exercise is performed correctly.
Pros/Cons: Helps keep your back flat and supports the neck to avoid injury. Can be hung in closet. Performs limited exercise.
Product: TRX Suspension Trainer
Cost: $189.95 @ fitnessanywhere.com
What it is: "Suspension training" via two heavy-duty nylon straps that attach to door or other secure post. The user grasps the handles or places their feet in cradles to leverage body weight during exercises such as squats, hamstring curls and chest press. Modifying your stance will alter the intensity. Used by Drew Brees, quarterback for New Orleans Saints, 2010 Super Bowl champions.
Pros/Cons: Total body workout for under $200. Comes with a training DVD. Workout area of 8 feet by 6 feet needed for full range of motion. Door anchor may chip paint or stress less sturdy frames.
Product: Kettlebells -- new contoured models and "travel" models.
Cost: Two kettlebells w/ DVD, $59.99-$169.99 @ gofit.net; plastic travel "U-Fill-It" model, $59.95 at beacon-fitness.com
What it is: Hand weight resembling a cannonball with a handle. Often made of cast iron; some models can be filled with water or sand to vary load. New contoured model due out this fall from GoFit reduces strain on joints. Can execute swinging moves not easily performed with dumbbells.
Pros/Cons: Design flexibility permits fat-burning/metabolic exercise as well as body-building. Stress injuries and bruising possible with certain flipping exercises.
Product: Elliptigo
Cost: $2199 @ elliptigo.com
What it is: Combo elliptical trainer and bike used outdoors to simulate running with less impact. Rider remains in upright position while riding. Eight gears; sold in blue, green and black.
Pros/Cons: Can trigger cardio "high" without same joint wear-and-tear. "Seat-less" feature a plus for cyclists w/ back, neck or prostate issues. Fits in most SUVs and station wagons. May require modification to fit riders not 5 feet tall to 6 feet and 6 inches. At 40 pounds, it is heavier than many bikes.
Web-Extra Products:
Product: Yoga Block
Cost: $12.90 @ yoga.com
What it is: Lightweight block to assist with yoga poses. Help approve alignment and make poses more comfortable.