The invention relates to the field of electronic information technology and discloses lightweight bone conduction Bluetooth glasses, including glasses frames, glasses legs, glasses feet, a nose bridge and nose pads, wherein a lithium battery and a Bluetooth circuit board are set within the glasses legs, bone conduction speakers are set within both glasses feet, a microphone is set within the glasses legs or on the nose bridge or the nose pads, conducting wires are set within the glasses frames, the glasses legs and the glasses feet, and the microphone, the lithium battery, the Bluetooth circuit board and the bone conduction speaker are connected through the conducting wires. The bone conduction Bluetooth glasses of the invention are similar to ordinary glasses, and the user can answer the call without taking a mobile phone out, thus freeing both hands and ears, hearing and speaking clearly, protecting privacy, and reducing radiation.

The bluetooth headset applies Bluetooth technology to a hand-free headset, to let users avoid the inconvenience of wires, and freely make an easy call in various ways. But for the case in the need of wearing glasses, wearing Bluetooth headset will bring some inconvenience and poor decorativeness, leading to inconvenience to answer a call.

Lightweight bone conduction bluetooth glasses

HANGZHOU SHUANGWANYUE ELECTRONIC TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.


A method and apparatus displays time-based alert information for network objects in a summary view. In another embodiment, a method and apparatus displays time-based alert information in a topographical map display. In a further embodiment, a method and apparatus displays time-based alert information in a graphical display for one or more network objects. In another embodiment, a method and apparatus displays time-based alert information in a graphical display for one or more network objects along with statistical bands. In a further embodiment, a method and apparatus displays time-based alert information in a graphical display with thresholds set with historical data.

As is known in the art, communication networks are becoming increasingly complex. Locating networks objects having performance problems and failures may be relatively difficult. A system administrator may need to obtain an intimate working knowledge of the network topology, components, and operating parameters to even make a guess at a potential problem in the network. In addition, a network problem may not be a component failure but rather a device that is overloaded periodically or from time to time. Further, an administrator responsible for allocating network resources may find it quite difficult to correctly estimate the impact of moving various network devices from one location to another.
While there are known applications that show performance data, configuration information, which facilitates an understanding of the object relationships and their contribution to the problem, is not shown. Additionally, finding configuration information requires a user to piece together information from a logical map view and then switch to a view with physical connections. This requires a user to mentally combine the information in the two views, which may be quite difficult for complex networks with a variety of components, to determine the probable location of a problem. In addition, known systems may not collect object performance information with sufficient granularity to help a user identify intermittent bottlenecks or problems.

System and method of providing performance information for a communications network


Devices and methods provide for measuring applied pressure on an article, such as a patella construct during a surgical procedure. Embodiments include a clamp having an upper frame arm, a lower frame arm and a clamp assembly, and further include a clamp with a knob assembly and a pressure monitor assembly. Differently sized clamp inserts can be interchangeably employed with a clamp stem to adapt to the relative sizes of objects being clamped.

Heretofore, no system of instrumentation has been developed which enables a medical professional such as a surgeon to accurately apply specific required measured pressure upon the surgically prepared patella construct to maximize the highest success of the bone cement bond relative to the resurfaced natural patella and the artificial patella replacement and also, indicating known pressure to give mindful consideration to minimize the risk of creating micro-fractures in the host patella.
The typical known art of surgically resurfacing the natural patella, when necessary to accept an artificial patella prosthesis, requires the patella to be everted and held in a position allowing the surgeon to have access to the articulating surface which normally articulates within the intercondylar notch between the femoral condyles.
The natural patella is first measured, establishing its exact thickness, after which the surgeon resects the appropriate thickness of the posterior portion of the natural patella, and then prepares the surface to receive the artificial patella prosthesis. A patella trial replicating the actual implant to be installed is placed upon the prepared patella surface to confirm proper fit and thickness of the patella construct that establishes proper ligamentus tension for optimum stability and range of motion whereupon, a bonding agent (e.g., bone cement) is prepared. In the typical known handling of the bone cement, there is an exact science of measured polymer (e.g., powder) and monomer (e.g., liquid) packaged sterile in their individual respective states delivered into a sterile field placed into and enclosed in a sterile container whereupon measured vacuum force is applied and a measured time of thorough mixing is conducted. The properties are handled under strict scrutiny and respectful disciplines. When the vacuum is released, the top of the sterile container can be removed, giving access to the bone cement, whereupon it is examined to confirm that it is in the proper state to be applied. Precautions are generally taken to create the bone cement and bring it into a proper stable useable product, whereby it can be applied in order to successfully bond the aforementioned surfaces. At this juncture, and in the past art, the typical known patella clamp is applied and a disruption to sound science and respect to mechanical properties of the bone cement occurs, putting the surgeon in an unfortunate place of having to use inadequate instrumentation to carry out this process in respectful consideration of all parameters involved.
In the past, it is known to apply a clamp to the patella construct (which consists of the surgically resurfaced posterior aspect of natural patella prepared to receive an artificial patella replacement paired with the bonding agent bone cement). However, methods and devices for applying the pressure have not been controlled and have resulted in the application of an arbitrary and unknown pressure upon the patella construct until the bone cement is fully cured. As such, less than satisfactory results can occur.
Measured pressure upon the patella construct is a paramount consideration to the mechanical properties, scientific quantitation and increased long-term success of the bonding integrity of the bone cement. Heretofore, no patella clamp has existed for general surgical use which takes into account all the parameters and dynamics taking place within the patella construct as it relates to all surfaces involved and the scientific and mechanical properties of the bonding agent bone cement during installation, as well as, the potential of excessive unknown pressure upon the host patella creating micro fractures.
In various aspects, the present invention enables the medical professional (i.e., surgeon) to accurately apply positive linear directional control and known pressure upon the patella construct throughout the process to the cure state of the bone cement. After the initial proper pressure is established upon the patella construct, certain variables can come into play affecting the applied pressure. In the past, any pressure changes went unnoticed, unknown and/or unaddressed. In various aspects, the present invention allows the attending medical professional(s) to stay informed as to pressure changes, giving the medical professional(s) the capability to re-establish correct pressure by known positive control. As such, various aspects of the present invention bring true reproducible scientific and mechanically responsible practice to the installation of an artificial patella prosthesis in total and partial knee arthroplasty. It will be appreciated that the various aspects of the device and methods described herein are not necessarily limited to applying measured pressure to a patella construct, but may be equally employed in other medical and mechanical applications.
The present invention, in part, brings scientific and mechanical enabling to the surgeon to help create reproducible and successful outcomes. Aspects and embodiments of the current inventive device receive the everted patella in its prepared form whereupon the anterior portion of the natural patella is placed upon a spiked platform of a bottom plate associated with the device. Upon the patella being held in place, the surgeon or other medical professional takes hold of the knob of the knob assembly of the present device, holding it firmly in one hand. With the other hand, the medical professional depresses the quick release button of the present device, freeing the adjustment rod thereupon. As the medical professional pushes downward atop the knob, the indicating assembly of the present device translates downward in a controlled linear direction as its slide ring houses and translates upon the keyed guide rod acting as an established vertical stable construct. When the patella bushing of the present device makes contact with the artificial patella of the patella construct, the medical professional releases the quick release button allowing the adjustment rod threads to functionally engage. The medical professional, with hand upon the assembly knob, turns the knob (e.g., in a clockwise motion), creating a controlled linear downward movement of the indicating assembly generating pressure upon the patella construct. In aspects of the present invention, every clockwise revolution of the knob creates an increase of pressure upon the patella construct. As the controlled pressure is applied, the indicating assembly measures the pressure being applied and an assembly contained calibrated indicator gives visual knowledge and reference as to the precise amount of measured applied pressure being applied.
In alternative embodiments, a medical professional secures an appropriately sized insert into the device, ensures that the everted patella is appropriately situated in the receiving area of the device, adjusts a knob assembly to a desired level associated with a measured pressure.
Upon the surgeon creating the specific required and known applied pressure, the clockwise turning motion upon the assembly knob can be terminated. At this time, the bonding agent within the patella construct will squeegee out; the bottom platform spikes will depress into the anterior patella and the bushing (e.g., a rubber bushing or of other material and design) in the stem of the clamp indicating assembly can settle in. It will be appreciated that the above processes can take effect within seconds and the amount of applied pressure can thereafter decrease.
Thereupon, the present inventive device indicator visually informs the medical professional(s) of the potential adverse change in pressure and this calibrated reference gives the necessary information to correct and re-establish proper pressure. In the event of change from optimum applied pressure, the medical professional can create additional needed known applied pressure by again turning the assembly knob to re-establish the precise prescribed pressure to be upon the patella construct. The present invention thus, in part, enables the medical professional to create and maintain measured applied pressure upon the patella construct until the bone cement is fully cured. Upon the professional confirming the bone cement is fully cured, the present device can be removed by turning the knob in the opposite direction from the direction used to apply pressure, thereby relieving pressure off the indicating device. At such time, the quick release button can be depressed in one embodiment of the present invention, disengaging the assembly rod whereupon the assembly knob can be pulled upward. In this way, the indicating assembly can be quickly advanced up the guide rod to its highest allowable level, after which time the quick release button can be released, whereupon the assembly re-engages the threads of the assembly rod, locking the indicating assembly in place and allowing the removal of the device. In alternative embodiments, no quick release button is employed, and the knob is simply turned sufficiently enough to allow the cured construct to be removed from the device.
Among other things, the present invention revolutionizes the typical known procedure in the installation of an artificial patella prosthetic replacement in total knee arthroplasty and is also introductory to additional improvements within a system of surgical instrumentation.

Device for facilitating artificial prosthesis installation with measured applied pressure and method therefor


An image forming apparatus comprises: an intermediate transfer belt having a belt surface on which a toner image is formed while the belt surface is moved and transferring the toner image that has been formed on the belt surface onto a sheet to be fed by a feed section; a resist roller pair that is disposed at a position on the upstream side from a transfer position at which the toner image that has been formed on the belt surface is transferred onto the sheet in the sheet feeding direction and performs a resist operation before the sheet has been fed to the transfer position as well as constitutes the feed section; a belt surface sensor that is disposed at a position on the downstream side from the transfer position in the belt surface moving direction such that the sheet moving distance from the sheet holding position between the resist roller pair to the position becomes shorter than the length of the sheet in the feeding direction and detects the sheet on the belt surface; and a control unit that allows the feed section to stop the sheet feeding operation at the time when the belt surface sensor detects the sheet.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus that forms an image on a sheet using an intermediate transfer belt.
2. Description of the Related Art
Among image forming apparatuses that form an image on a sheet using an intermediate transfer belt, apparatuses that adopt a method of separating a sheet that has been stuck to the belt surface of the intermediate transfer belt at the feeding time from the belt surface by pressing a nail-like member or the like against the belt surface using, for example, a solenoid have been available. In some cases, the sheet may be stuck fast to the belt surface in such a manner that any portions of the sheet are not apart from the belt surface. The thicknesses of most of the sheet that are easily stuck to the belt surface as described above are as thin as about 0.1 mm or less. Therefore, the nail-like member may scratch the belt surface at the time when the thin sheet is separated from the belt surface. The scratch on the belt surface prevents good toner adhesion, resulting in image deterioration. On the other hand, when a configuration that the nail-like member is disposed near the belt surface in a fixed manner without using the solenoid is adopted, it is necessary to strictly adjust the disposition of the nail-like member in the manufacturing process. In order to cope with the problem, a configuration in which a sensor that detects that a sheet has been stuck to the belt surface is provided and the entire function of the apparatus is halted when the sensor detects the sheet stuck to the belt surface is disclosed (for example, see Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 11-59962 (pages 4 to 8, FIG. 1)).
However, the intermediate transfer belt is in contact with a photoreceptor drum or the like, so that it is impossible to stop the intermediate transfer belt instantaneously due to influence of inertial force or the like caused by own weight of the photoreceptor drum even if the entire system is halted at the time when the adhesion of the sheet to the belt surface is detected. In this case, it is impossible to give enough braking force to the sheet, with the result that the sheet may not be stopped at a desired position and may enter the inside of the apparatus while being stuck fast to the belt surface.
In the case where the sheet has entered the inside of the apparatus with the movement of the belt surface as described above, the apparatus may break down. Therefore, it is necessary to prevent the sheet from entering the inside of the apparatus as much as possible.


An innerseal liner for containers is provided which permits the removal of the entire liner from the mouth of a container without any tearing of the liner. The innerseal liner is sealed to the mouth of the container and a portion of the outer circumference of the liner overhangs the outer surface of the mouth of the container. A pull tab is integrally formed with the innerseal liner and at the intersection of the pull tab with the circular portion of the liner are cut-outs in the circular periphery of the liner. The cut-outs may be arc-shaped and are of a depth approximately the same as the width of the overhang portion of the innerseal liner so that when the pull tab is pulled, the innerseal is removed from the mouth of the container along an arc approximately equal to the width of the pull tab and the length of the cut-out portions before the overhang portion of the liner is lifted from the mouth of the container.

The present invention relates to an innerseal for a container and more specifically to an innerseal which is secured to the mouth of a container and which has an integrally formed pull tab and cut-out portions in the circular periphery of the seal to ensure that the entire seal can be removed without tearing.
Small glass jars may be generally provided with a screw-type cap with an innerseal which is glued around the entire periphery of the mouth of the container. The innerseal provides an oxygen moisture barrier film and in use with certain products such as coffee also provides a vacuum seal. The inner seal is removed by pulling a pull tab which is integrally formed with the innerseal and extends from the circular periphery of the seal. However, when relatively thin laminate seals are used to seal wide mouth jars, quite frequently the seal cannot be completely removed readily because of tearing of the seal material. This tearing may be due to small nicks or cuts at the edges of the pull tab or due to damage to the corners of the tab caused by an overhang portion of the seal which extends over a portion of the outer face of the mouth of the container. Tearing may also occur due to the degree of tension in the thin laminate seal when the pull tab is grasped to remove the innerseal. While higher tension without tearing of the innerseal could be achieved by using thicker laminate seals, it is preferable to utilize seals having a thickness in the 3 to 5 mil range. Furthermore, the use of thicker laminates for the innerseal would not necessarily solve the problem of tearing of the seal due to nicks and cuts at the edges of the pull tabs.
Innerseals may be formed from a laminate of a polyester film to give the innerseal strength, a foil for moisture protection and paper or like material to provide body for the laminate. The innerseal is cut from a sheet of laminate in a two step process. The pull tab is initially cut and folded over to be within the circumference of the innerseal. The second step in the process is to simultaneously cut both the circular innerseal and a pulpboard liner. This second circular cut of the innerseal may result in nicks or cuts at the points of intersection between the pull tab and the circular portion of the innerseal. The pulpboard liner and innerseal are then forced into the container screw cap beneath a retention bead in the screw cap and simultaneously with this operation the inner liner and pulpboard liner are heated so that the wax surface of the pulpboard liner is melted and seals to the innerseal. Following this step, the upper surface of the mouth of the container is provided with glue and the screw cap is screwed tightly into engagement with the container so that the innerseal is glued to the entire upper face of the mouth of the container. Due to the pressure applied to the screw cap as it is screwed onto the container, the pulpboard liner is compressed. The innerseal has a diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the mouth of the container and the compression of the pulpboard causes the outer periphery of the innerseal to overhang and seal to the other surface of the mouth of the container. As the outer periphery of the innerseal is drawn downward around the outside face of the container, a cut or tear may occur between the outer edges of the pull tab and the circular periphery of the innerseal.
In use, the container cap is unscrewed to release the wax seal of the pulpboard liner from the innerseal which is glued to the mouth of the container. The pull tab on the innerseal is then grasped and pulled upwardly to release the innerseal from the mouth of the container. As noted hereinbefore, in the area between the overhang and the pull tab there is likely to be a cut or tear in the innerseal caused by the die cutting operation or due to the overhang of the circular periphery of the innerseal damaging the edges of the pull tab. Thus, when the pull tab is lifted the innerseal may be torn so that the entire innerseal is not lifted from the mouth of the container in one piece.


A method of debugging software for an Integrated Development Environment connected to a target hardware system and to a simulator configured to simulate the target hardware system. The method comprises receiving, by a debugging tool of the Integrated Development Environment, simulator debugging data from the simulator, receiving, by the debugging tool, hardware debugging data from the target hardware system, comparing, by the debugging tool, the hardware debugging data with the simulator debugging data; and indicating, by the debugging tool, the result of comparing the hardware debugging data with the simulator debugging data.

For modern computer systems, in particular embedded hardware systems with relatively low computational resources, software is often not developed directly on the target system, but on a host system which may or may not be connected to the target system and usually is more powerful in terms of computational resources. For this purpose, on the host system usually is provided an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) on which software may be developed, e.g. programmed, edited, compiled, etc. for the target system. An Integrated Development Environment usually comprises a debugging tool as well as further development tools. Thus it is possible to connect a hardware system for which the software is developed to the Integrated Development Environment such that software developed on the host system can be written to and then executed on the target system. For bug-checking and further development, the target system may provide debugging information to the Integrated Development Environment based on which further development or debugging of the software may be carried out.

Method of debugging software and corresponding computer program product


A handguard assembly for attaching to a firearm is disclosed. The handguard assembly comprises an upper component, a lower component, a front cap, and a rear cap. The front cap and rear cap are secured within the lower component. The front cap and rear cap have curved top sides for supporting the barrel of the firearm. The lower component has slots in the sides to receive tabs from the sides of the upper component. When the upper component and lower component are attached to the firearm, the components work together to position the barrel in the preferred position so that the sights of the firearm are zeroed when the handguard assembly is attached to the firearm.

Handguards are guards that are attached to the front of a firearm to provide for grip and protection. Individuals may find themselves grabbing a firearm's barrel when firing for stability. Said barrel can become extremely heated and cause burns on the user's hand. Guards eliminate this risk. Furthermore, guards can enable additional attachments to the firearm itself.
Handguards, however, are not perfect. Using handguards can cause an increase in firearm weight. By increasing the weight of the firearm, maneuvers can be hindered, disrupted, or in fact impossible. An increase in weight can also effect aiming precision. Furthermore, by nature, a handguard may alter the accuracy of the firearm.
Users will use the sights of a firearm to ensure firing accuracy. Sights typically involve a rear sight and forward sight that the user must align to be able to pinpoint a firing target location. The forward sight is typically mounted on the barrel of firearm while the rear sight is mounted on the upper receiver of the firearm. Ensuring that the sights are in proper alignment can be difficult. A user must make an assumption that the sights are in alignment but begin the process of adjusting and zeroing in the sights through use of the firearm. What is needed is a handguard system for installing on a firearm that automatically forces the barrel into the predetermined position so that the sights are automatically zeroed when the handguard is attached to the firearm.


The method for making a decorative sticker includes the steps of (a) providing a polyester (trade name: Tetoron) base film which has a top surface and a bottom surface, (b) applying a metal coating on the polyester base film by electroplating so that the top and bottom surfaces of the polyester base film can sparkle in the presence of bright light, (c) applying a hot-melt adhesive layer on the bottom surface of the polyester base film, (d) attaching a release paper to the hot-melt adhesive layer, (e) applying a binder layer with a predetermined figure on a predetermined part of the top surface of the polyester base film, (f) printing a first desired pattern on the remaining part of the top surface of the polyester base film by pressing the remaining part with ink, (g) printing a second desired pattern on the remaining part of the top surface of the polyester base film by pressing the remaining part with gold foil, (h) die-cutting the polyester base film on the top surface thereof so as to form a predetermined shape on the polyester base film, (i) applying an amount of liquid epoxy on the binder layer, the liquid epoxy spreading so as to conform with the predetermined figure of the binder layer, and (j) drying the liquid epoxy to form a transparent epoxy layer.

1. Field Of The Invention
This invention relates to a method for making decorative stickers, more particularly to a method for making improved decorative stickers which provide a crystalline effect and which have an adhesive layer with strong adhesive force.
2. Description Of The Related Art
Decorative stickers are attached to clothes, shoes, bags, etc. in order to provide a pleasant appearance thereon. The method for making a conventional decorative sticker includes the steps of providing a PVC (polyvinylethylene) base film which has a top surface and a bottom surface, applying a glue layer on the bottom surface of the PVC base film, attaching a release paper to the glue layer, applying a colored layer on the top surface of the PVC base film by vacuum-plating the PVC base film, printing desired patterns on the top surface of the PVC base film by pressing the top surface with gold foil, and die-cutting the PVC base film on the top surface thereof. In this way, decorative stickers with predetermined patterns can be made.
The drawbacks of the above manufacturing method are as follows:
(1) Generally, the glue is heated so as to be applied easily on the bottom surface of the PVC base film. Because the PVC base film has a low heat resistance and may melt at about 60.degree. C. to 70.degree. C., it is easily damaged by heat when the glue is applied on the bottom surface of the PVC base film. Therefore, a PVC base film of a greater thickness, such as 100.mu., is needed in order to prevent damage thereto. However, the great thickness of the PVC base film will provide an unpleasant appearance when the decorative sticker is attached to clothes.
(2) Due to the low heat resistance of the PVC base film and to the high temperature required (typically 120.degree. C.) when printing desired patterns with gold foil, an additional device is used to control the manufacturing temperature when applying the glue layer on the bottom surface of the PVC base film and when printing desired patterns on the top surface of the PVC base film by pressing the top surface with gold foil in order to prevent damage to the PVC base film.
(3) Because the glue layer has a low adhesive force, the decorative sticker cannot be attached firmly to clothes. Therefore, the decorative sticker easily detaches from clothes during washing.
(4) Finally, the patterns formed on the conventional decorative stickers cannot provide a crystalline effect.


A microwave powered discharge device which utilizes a TM.sub.NMO cavity. A conductive body is positioned at a null in a discharge device which utilizes a TM.sub.210 cavity to reduce direct coupling from the microwave coupling means, e.g., slot of the cavity. A plurality of TM.sub.110 cavities are ganged together, and a single discharge tube extends through all of the cavities.

Microwave discharges are suitably used as microwave power light sources. The present invention is particularly suited to light sources. In a first instance the light source can be a source of incoherent optical radiation extending over a wide range, as for example a significant portion of the ultraviolet, visible, or infrared band. In a second instance the light source can be a laser. The laser may emit coherent radiation at one or plural discrete wavelengths.
Microwave lamps generally comprise a cavity formed with at least a wall surface which is substantially open mesh. A discharge envelope is provided in the cavity. A means for transferring microwave power to the cavity comprises, for example, a waveguide and a slot. A magnetron is connected via the transferring means to the cavity. Microwave energy on the order of a hundreds to thousands of watts is coupled to the cavity. The envelope contains a discharge medium, which typically includes mercury and a rare gas.
While a laser is a different type of discharge device than a lamp, a laser may also be made using a microwave powered discharge. An elongated discharge tube is disposed in relation to a means for charging the tube with microwave energy. The tube may be provided with Brewster windows at its ends to polarize the light produced by the laser. A fully reflective mirror, and a partially reflective mirror are typically located facing the ends of the tube to form an optical resonator.
For the microwave lamps and lasers for which the present invention is particularly useful, it is desirable to excite an elongated or linear discharge.
An article by Stephan Offermanns, Journal of Applied Physics, 67(1), 1 Jan. 1990, Pp. 115-123 discusses the use of a cavity in which the electric field is parallel to an elongated discharge envelope. The cavity disclosed by Offermanns is the right cylinder TM.sub.010. If optimized for operation at 2.45 GHz which is the ISM band used in industrial microwave lamps, this cavity would measure 3.6" in diameter. Since the envelope or bulb is located on the axis of the cavity, it would be disposed within 1.6" of the coupling means, which is located at the cavity wall. At industrially useful power levels i.e. hundreds to thousands of watts, the close proximity of the coupling means to the envelope would tend to cause direct coupling from the coupling means to the discharge envelope. Such direct coupling is not uniform, but rather is strongest nearest to the slot.
Principles of microwave engineering can be used to predict a certain field distribution in a particular cavity operating in a particular mode. The inventors have discovered that in practice the actual field measured in the cavity has a component which is not accounted for according to the predicted field distribution. Additionally, the inventors have ascribed the anomalous component of the field to the radiation field directly from the coupling means. The severity of this phenomenon appears to be inversely related to the distance between the bulb and the coupling means. In summary, in microwave discharge devices that use relatively resonant cavities, there is a problem in that the coupling means, (e.g. slot) couples directly to the bulb, rather than coupling to the oscillation mode in the cavity, which then couples to the bulb. Direct coupling from the slot results in sharp peaks in discharge intensity closest to the slot.

Microwave discharge device with TM.sub.NMO cavity


An optical oral or mouth probe which is utilized for the three-dimensional measurement or surveying of teeth possesses a highly-resoluting two-dimensional point-by-point freely-programmable projection unit, which generates a digitalized projection pattern from a computer in accordance with a programmed mathematical or graphical method, deposits the pattern in an image storage and is then brought into display through addressing of an LCD matrix plate, and with the aid of a focusing optic is then projected onto the surface which is to be surveyed or measured.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an optical probe for the three-dimensional surveying or measuring of teeth in the oral cavity of a patient.
2. Discussion of the Prior Art
The direct optical three-dimensional surveying or measuring of teeth in the oral cavity of a patient facilitates the obtainment of the digital constructional data necessary for the computer-controlled manufacture of tooth replacements without having to make any impressions of the teeth. In the semi-automatic or fully-automatic numerical milling technology, three systems are currently known which utilize this particular technology, and are summarized as follows:
a) A French system which is employed by Hennson Internation of Vienne, France, and based on the work of a physician, Dr. Duret, operates with a laser-triangulation method for the point-by-point measurement of the distance between the surface of the tooth and the optical probe which is inserted into the oral cavity of the patient. Such types of distance probes are also known for their applications in the industrial measuring technology. They carry out either a point-by-point distance measurement or survey, or through the scanning by the laser along a line, are able to determine the relative height coordinates of the scanned object along a scanning line. Inasmuch as CCD-scanning line sensors are ordinarily employed as optical pick-ups or receivers, there are picked up point rasters of from 256 to 4,096 image points.
b) A Swiss system utilized by the company of BRAINS, Brandistini Instruments, Switzerland, designated by the description CEREC, operates in accordance with the light-section method which is likewise known from the industrial measuring technology. Hereby, a single line or dash of light or a parallel grid consisting of dashes or lines of light are projected onto the surface and observed under a parallax-angle with a two-dimensional camera. From the curvature of the lines of the light-section, they can be computed back to the relative height.
Also known is an improved variant of this method, in essence, the so-called phase-shift method. This method employs an interferometrically-produced light grid with sinusoidal brightness modulation in contrast with the binary light-sections. Through the pick-up or recording of the object at a plurality of positions for the phase location of this grid, there can be obtained in a significantly higher point density of height values and any disturbing influences, such as non-constant background brightness and fluctuating stripe or line contrast caused by localized fluctuations in reflection, which can be mathematically eliminated.
c) A method which, at this time, has been developed at the University of Minnesota by a physician, Dr. Dianne Recow, takes multiple photographic exposures of the tooth surface with the aid of a laryngoscopic probe so as to, after their development, scan them with the aid of a document scanner, and to digitalize them and then evaluate them in a computer through the application of methods which are known from the photogrammetry for stereo-evaluation.
All of the optical mouth or oral probes which have been employed up to the present are characterized In that, necessitated by their constructions, embody only one of these possible methods (laser-triangulation, or light-section, or phase-shift or stereo-distance measurement). However, all of these methods, each considered in itself, are subject to a series of individual advantages and disadvantages; as follows:
a) Laser method for the triangulation or the phase-shift method suffer considerably under the speckle formation which is caused by the coherent light. This leads to blurred height images and therefore to a considerably reduced resolution in the final image.
b) Light-section and phase-shift methods with a constant grid suffer problems with regard to ambiguities at larger jumps in height. Such jumps displace the light line or, in essence, the phase position of the sinusoidal grid by more than one grid constant. Consequently, it is then no longer possible to reconstruct the jump in height.
In U.S. Pat. No. 4,952,149 to Duret et al., it is disclosed that by projecting first a phase-shifted sequence of coarse sinusoidal grids, the depth ambiguity resulting from a unique grid period can be resolved. Both the phase shifting-process and the change between a coarse and a fine grid require some type of mechanical moving parts, such as a stepper motor for translating the grids, a rotating glass plate or similar moving mechanical part. Moving parts are not welcome in a delicate dental probe which is subject to heat treatment for sterilization. They reduce the life time of such a probe and significantly increase the cost of production.
A second important draw back in the Duret et al. disclosure is that the projected image is fixed by construction to grid patterns with different positions with these probes to project alternate patterns which are useful in optical three-dimensional measurements of teeth. These probes are not capable of providing the following:
a) projection of constant white light which allows a better inspection of the particular tooth on a video monitor without disturbing grid patterns;
b) the projection of colored light using a color which is complementary to the color of the gingiva and gives a better contrast between the tooth surface and the gingiva;
c) the projection of a sequence of coded binary stripes utilizing grey code is an alternative method to the phase shifting technology presently utilized in coarse measurements;
d) the projection of light patterns useful for calibrations of the probe such as small light circles, the distortion of those circles into ellipses allows one for example to recover the absolute position of the probe in the mouth of the patient without using separate calibration dies or artificial marks on the tooth surface; and
e) the projection of a image of the occlusions of the opposite tooth which would allow one to visually judge the fitting of the surfaces of opposite tooth, the visual correlation utilizing a colored image of the opposite occlusion into the tooth under treatment allows the dentist to judge the fitting between the new dental replacement and the opposite occlusion surfaces.
The heretofore known optical three-dimensional mouth or oral probes determine the three-dimensional method which is to be employed in dependence upon the construction thereof. With the exception of a few adjustment or setting parameters, such as scanning frequency, phase displacement, focusing and enlargement they are no longer variable. Consequently, it is not possible, with the same probe, to employ a plurality of the complementary measuring or surveying methods, such as triangulation, light-section, phase-shift, stereo-photogrammetry, as well as a series of further three-dimensional optical measuring variants which are known from the industrial measuring technology; for example, such as grey code-encoded light grids on the same object in order to be able to combine the advantages of all methods and to avoid their disadvantages.

Optical probe and method for the three-dimensional surveying of teeth


A display device is provided. The display device includes a display module for displaying a video image, a circuit board for providing a video signal and a control signal to the display module, and a fixing plate fixed on a rear surface of the display module. The circuit board is inserted into and fixed to the fixing plate through elastic deformation of a portion of the fixing plate.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a display device, and more particularly, to a display device having a fixing plate for fixing a circuit board thereto for driving a display module of the display device.
2. Description of the Related Art
Flat display devices are used as monitors of desktop computers and also used in various electronic devices such as notebook computers, personal digital assistants (PDA) and portable phones. Examples of such flat display devices include a liquid crystal display (LCD), a plasma display panel (PDP) and a field emission display (FED).
FIG. 1 illustrates a construction of a related art flat display device, and FIG. 2 illustrates a structure in which a circuit board is fixed in the related art flat display device. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a display device includes a plastic rear cover 30, a metallic frame 40, a display module 20, and a plastic front cover 10 connected to the rear cover 30.
The frame 40 is disposed on a rear surface of the display module 20, and a circuit board 41 for controlling an operation of the display module 20 is connected on a rear surface of the frame 40. The circuit board 41 is fixed to the frame 40 with a fixing member such as a screw, and the frame 40 supports the circuit board 41. The display module 20 displays an image in accordance with a video signal and a control signal outputted from the circuit board 41.
The related art flat display device undesirably has increased thickness and weight because it uses a thick metallic frame 40. Further, the related art flat display device undesirably requires a complicated assembly process because the circuit board 41 must be fixed to the frame 40 with a fixing member such as a screw.


A system, method and computer program product for generating software cards that summarize and index information. A documentation storage unit stores a variety of documentation. A software card generator generates each of the software cards for a predetermined card category. Each software card points to blocks of information stored in the documentation storage unit that relate to the predetermined card category. A software card database stores the generated plurality of software cards. A user can search the software cards in order to quickly and easily access documentation and materials specific to their specific area of interest.

This disclosure relates generally to training systems and methods and more particularly to a tool for generating software cards that summarize and index information.
Traditional training systems and methods are useful in training field service personnel and operators of complex machinery such as medical imaging scanners. Typically, designers of the scanners prepare training material for training the field service personnel and operators. Training instructors will supplement the material generated by the designers with information produced from a variety of other sources such as engineering, marketing, manufacturing and service departments. Not all of the information provided by these sources is relevant for training purposes. Therefore, each training instructor will manually review all of the material and select various paragraphs, sections or chapters and use them in their training material. In addition, each training instructor will supplement the selected paragraphs, sections and chapters with their own material and insights. Each training instructor then compiles all of their material into a set of structured training modules, which are presented to a group of field service personnel and operators.
Each training instructor that participates in this type of training method faces a challenge with respect to information integration. In particular, for identical or closely related modules, it is likely that each training instructor will have to locate the same material. Since each training instructor has his or her own teaching style, the modules will differ for each instructor because of their selected paragraphs, sections, chapters and notes. Therefore, each training instructor has to create a module that is specific to his or her teaching style. The process of creating materials and class notes for a training module is time consuming and slow. This process is complicated further because the training modules have to be continually updated for new classes and any changes made to equipment documentation.
Tailoring to the needs of the field service personnel and operators is another challenge facing each training instructor. This challenge arises because people (e.g., training instructors and document authors) who are not familiar with the constraints imposed on the field service personnel and operators create a majority of the training material. In addition, typically, only a small portion of information in any one of the various sources of training material is of interest to a specific group of field service personnel and operators. Also, since the training needs of any group of field service personnel and operators is diverse and changing with time, any attempts to create a single structured training course material for an entire training class will involve many compromises.
Therefore, there is a need for an innovative approach that will allow a training instructor to easily and rapidly locate and gather training materials for a training course. Also, this approach should allow field service personnel and equipment operators to easily access training material that is tailored to a specific training goal or a task that is to be completed in the field.
In one embodiment of this disclosure, there is a system, method and computer readable medium that stores instructions for instructing a computer system, to generate a plurality of software cards from information contained in a plurality of documentation. In this embodiment, a documentation storage unit stores the plurality of documentation. A software card generator generates each of the plurality of software cards for a predetermined card category. Each software card points to blocks of information stored in the documentation storage unit that relate to the predetermined card category. A software card database stores the generated plurality of software cards.
In a second embodiment of this disclosure, there is a system, method and computer readable medium that stores instructions for instructing a computer system, to manage a plurality of documentation. In this embodiment, a documentation storage unit stores the plurality of documentation. A software card database stores a plurality of software cards. Each software card points to blocks of information stored in the documentation storage unit that relate to a predetermined card category. A software card application structures the plurality of documentation stored in the documentation storage unit in accordance with the plurality of software cards stored in the software card database. A first computing unit is configured to execute the software card application.
In another embodiment, there is a system, method and computer readable medium that stores instructions for instructing a computer system, to manage a plurality of documentation. In this embodiment, a documentation storage unit stores the plurality of documentation. A software card database stores a plurality of software cards. Each software card points to blocks of information stored in the documentation storage unit that relate to a predetermined card category. A software card application structures the plurality of documentation stored in the documentation storage unit in accordance with the plurality of software cards stored in the software card database. A first computing unit is configured to execute the software card application. A second computing unit is configured to serve the documentation storage unit, the software card database, and the software card application to the first computing unit over a network.
In a further embodiment, there is a method for structuring information contained in a plurality of documentation into a plurality of software cards to facilitate training of personnel in servicing a machine. In this embodiment, a plurality of documentation that relate to at least one of training the personnel and servicing the machine is stored. Each of the plurality of software cards for a predetermined card category that relate to the at least one of training personnel and servicing of the machine is generated. Each software card points to blocks of information in the stored plurality of documentation that relate to the predetermined card category. The generated plurality of software cards are then stored. The plurality of stored software cards are queried to facilitate the training of the personnel. Previously saved queries and results are viewed to facilitate the training of the personnel. The blocks of information pointed to by each of the plurality of software cards are viewed to facilitate the training of the personnel.
In another embodiment, there is a method for displaying a plurality of software cards used to structure information contained in a plurality of documentation. In this embodiment, a screen view is displayed for generating each of the plurality of software cards for a predetermined card category. Each software card points to blocks of information in the plurality of documentation that relate to the predetermined card category. Also, a screen view is displayed for storing the plurality of generated software cards. Another screen view that is displayed is a view for querying the plurality of stored software cards. A further screen that is displayed is a view for viewing previously saved queries and results. Another screen view that is displayed is a view for viewing the blocks of information pointed to by each of the plurality of software cards.
An additional embodiment recites a computer-readable medium containing a collection of information for structuring a plurality of documentation. In this embodiment, there is a block table containing a plurality of fields for describing blocks of information in the plurality of documentation. A software card table contains a plurality of fields describing the information content of a block in the form of a software card. Also, a query table contains a plurality of fields describing previously saved queries. In addition, a view table contains a plurality of fields for viewing the blocks of information in the plurality of documentation.

System, method and computer program product for generating software cards that summarize and index information


The present disclosure describes various embodiments of a concealed or hidden door closer that is installed in a rail of a door assembly. In some embodiments, the door frame and door closer components are configured to allow the door assembly to be readily installed as either a left or a right hand hinged door.

Door closers have been used for many years. These closers run the gamut from weights which travel about a pulley to open and close the door to spring-loaded hinges in which a torsion spring is coaxial with the hinge pin. Other closers, for example, use one or more externally mounted pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders while still other closers use a complex hydraulic mechanism in combination with a folding linkage attached to the top of the door. Not only do these reported closer designs vary in effectiveness in reliably closing the door, many of these closer designs also detract from the aesthetic appearance of the door since they are mounted as an appendage to the surface of the door.
Hollow interior portions of a wide variety of doors, such as screen doors, storm doors, exterior doors, or interior doors, lend themselves to the potential of mounting a door closer in the interior structure of these doors. U.S. Pat. No. 5,829,508, for example, reports an interior mounted door closer with a spring-mounted, sliding closer mechanism fitted in the upper part of the door. This reported closer includes a number of moving parts that are installed in the upper internal section of the door. There is a need for a hidden closer that is simply easier to install and use than previously reported closers.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Larson Manufacturing Company of South Dakota, Inc.


A CPU executes a process including determining a core node among plural relay nodes on a basis of route information, acquiring a first and a second packets flowing between a server and a terminal apparatus, the second packet being transmitted on a basis of the first packet, calculating a first delay time on a basis of the first and the second packets, the first delay time relating to packet transmission between the server and the terminal apparatus, transmitting a third packet to the core node, receiving a response to the third packet from the core node, calculating a second delay time on a basis of the third packet and the response, the second delay time being a delay time of the core node, and calculating a third delay time being a delay time of an end node on a basis of the first and the second delay times.

It is widely known that the importance of technologies for specifying the irregular location occurring in a network has been increased with an increase in each of the complication and the diversification of network configurations. As one of the above-described technologies, the network tomography analysis performed to analyze the irregular location occurring in a network based on information illustrating the quality of a measured flow of a packet exchanged between ends has been available. Hereinafter, the network tomography analysis will be described. FIG. 15 illustrates a network system subjected to the network tomography analysis.
The network system illustrated in FIG. 15 includes a server 91, a plurality of terminal apparatuses 94 connected to the server 91 via a network, a tap 92, and a monitoring apparatus 93. In the network, the tap 92 can acquire the entire data exchanged between the server 91 and the terminal apparatuses 94. The monitoring apparatus 93 acquires a packet provided as data exchanged within the network system via the tap 92. The server 91 and the terminal apparatuses 94 are connected to one another via nodes. In FIG. 15, a core node is designated by the reference numeral N1, a network achieved through a node N2 connected to the core node N1 is determined to be a subnet A, and a network achieved through a node N3 which is connected to the core node N1 and is different from the node N2 is determined to be a subnet B. Here, the term "core node" will be described. When the network is regarded as a tree structure, only a node is connected to the lower link of the core node. Each of the above-described terminal apparatuses 94 belongs to either of the subnets A and B. The flow of data transmitted from the server 91 to the terminal apparatus 94 belonging to the subnet A is determined to be a flow F1, and that of data transmitted from the server 91 to the terminal apparatus 94 belonging to the subnet B is determined be a flow F2.
In the above-described network system, the monitoring apparatus 93 calculates variations in a delay time relating to the data exchange for each of the flows F1 and F2 based on the packet acquired via the tap 92. Next, the monitoring apparatus 93 determines whether or not an irregularity occurs in each of the flows F1 and F2 based on a threshold value and the variations in the delay time. Here, the threshold value is the variation rate determined for each of the flows F1 and F2, and when the value of the variation rate of the delay time is equivalent to and/or larger than the determined threshold value, it is determined that the irregularity occurs in the corresponding flow. For example, when the delay time of the flow F1 is changed from 20 ms to 40 ms and the threshold value is 200%, it is determined that the irregularity occurs in the flow F1. When the delay time of the flow F2 is changed from 1000 ms to 1020 ms and the threshold value is 101%, it is determined that the irregularity occurs in the flow F2.
Next, the monitoring apparatus 93 maps regular/irregular information for a node via which the flow passes based on the above-described determinations. The regular/irregular information illustrates whether or not the flow is regular. After the mapping is performed, the monitoring apparatus 93 determines the set of nodes covering an irregular flow by the minimum number of nodes to be the irregular location. For example, when each of the flows F1 and F2 is determined to be the irregular flow as described above, the core node N1 covering the flows F1 and F2 is specified as the irregular location. During the irregular location specification, a node covering a regular flow is excluded.
For example, "Empirical Study on Locating Congested Segments over the Internet Based on Multiple End-to-End Path Measurements", IEICE Technical Report, vol. 104, no. 309, CQ2004-76, pp. 43-48, September 2004. has been disclosed as one the above-described technologies for specifying the irregular location in the network.
However, it has often been difficult to specify the irregular location with precision according to the above-described technologies for specifying the irregular location. When the threshold value provided to determine whether or not an irregularity occurs in the flow is low, the flow is determined to be regular even though the flow should be determined to be irregular. For example, when the threshold value set for the flow F2 is 110% in the above-described network system, the flow F2 is not determined to be the irregular flow. As a result, only the flow F1 is determined to be the irregular flow. Since the core node N1 covers the flow F2, only the node N2 is determined to be the irregular location, because the delay time is measured in flows. Further, since the delay time is measured in nodes, a heavy load is put on the network when all of the nodes are monitored.

Delay time measurement apparatus, storage medium storing delay time measurement program and network system


An apparatus (26) for attaching a screw-type fastener (64) and wire (70) to an overhead support structure (72) for hanging suspended ceilings is disclosed. The apparatus (26), which is coupled to an extension pole (74) and driven by a source of rotary power, includes a body portion (32) and a mammillated head portion (34). A cylindrical cavity (42) extends coaxially through head portion (34) and into body portion (32). A first pair of opposing slots (48, 50) extends radially from the cavity (42) to the outer surface of the apparatus (26) and further extends longitudinally through the head portion (34) and into the body portion (32) where they terminate in substantial alignment with the terminus of the cavity (42). A second pair of opposing slots (52, 54) also extends radially from the cavity (42) to the outer surface of the apparatus (26) and further extends longitudinally through the head portion (34) and into the body portion ( 32). The second pair of slots (52, 54) extend into the body portion (32) beyond the terminus of the cavity (42) and are oriented substantially perpendicular to the first pair of slots (48, 50). Each slot in the second pair of slots (52, 54) terminates with an edge (56, 58) which is angularly offset away from the terminus of the cavity (42) in relation to the radial axis of the apparatus (26). An annular collar (60) partially surrounds the head portion (34) thereby partially enclosing all of the slots.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention pertains generally to tools, and more particularly to an apparatus for installing fasteners and wires used to support suspended ceiling structures.
2. Description of the Background Art
It is common for ceilings in office buildings, warehouses and the like to be suspended from an overhead support structure. The ceiling typically comprises a frame network which is suspending by wires, and removable panels which are supported by the frame. By removing the panels, access can be gained to electrical wiring, telephone wiring, plumbing, ventilation duct and the like.
Installation of the wires used to suspend the frame network is often facilitated by use of a wire twisting tool coupled to an extension pole or the like. The wire is threaded through a hole in the head of a fastener attached to the overhead support structure, and twisted back around itself for secure attachment. In some installations, the fastener is bolted to the overhead support structure; in most installations, however, the fastener is a screw-type fastener such as a lag which is screwed into the overhead support structure.
As a result of the distance between the ground level and the overhead support structures, as well as the number of wires required to suspending a ceiling, it can be extremely inconvenient for an installer to carry fasteners, wire, and tools up and down a ladder and to move the ladder from location to location. Therefore, tools have been developed which permit the installer to secure a fastener to an overhead support structure and install a wire in the fastener while remaining on the ground. FIG. 5 shows a conventional tool 10 which typically would be attached to an extension pole and used to install a wire and fastener. It is respectfully stipulated, however, that this device does not anticipate or render obvious the applicant's invention.
Typically a screw-type fastener 12 having a flattened head 14 with an eye 16 would be inserted into a slot 18. A wire 20 would then be threaded through the eye 16 and bent over so that each section of the wire is substantially flat against the sides of the tool 10. The tool 10 is then rotated until the fastener 12 is secure, at which point the tool 10 is pulled away from the fastener 12 and the wire 20 drawn out. By continuing to rotate the tool 10, the wire 20 will wrap around itself and produce a configuration substantially similar to that shown in FIG. 6. This type of wrap, however, may pull apart under high tension levels. In addition, when the wire 20 is drawn out of the tool 10, it is not possible to achieve a complete twist. The wire 20 is forced against a collar 22 and, as a result, the wire 20 bends so that a tail portion 24 is left extending outward from the side of tool 10. Then, as the tool 10 continues to be rotated, the tail portion 24 can catch insulation and other materials, thereby producing falling debris. Furthermore, the tail portion 24 remains after the installation is complete and, unless it is cut off, may serve as an obstruction and effectively prevent an adjacent wire from being installed in close proximity. Also, for some installations it may be necessary to install a fasteners into a generally vertical support structure. The generally straight configuration of tool 10 with a blunt nose 96 as shown, however, makes this task difficult in that the tool 10 will abut the vertical support structure when the fastener is being installed at an angle as shown in FIG. 8. Therefore, with a conventional tool, it is necessary to orient the tool 10 substantially perpendicular to the vertical support structure in order to install the fastener. Such an orientation is difficult, if not impossible, to achieve when using a long extension pole from the ground level.
Therefore, there is a need for a tool which can install screw-type fasteners, which can secure wires to the fasteners with a tight and uniform twist, which does not interfere with other structures and materials when being used, and which can install fasteners and wires in vertical support structures at an angle. The present invention meets those needs as well as others which are described herein.


A small-sized, low-cost radio frequency switch circuit, which has good characteristics of isolation between a transmission circuit and a reception circuit, includes a multi-layered substrate; a transmission line provided on the top surface of, or within, the multi-layered substrate; a first diode and a second diode connected respectively to both ends of the transmission line; a resistor, connected to the first diode, to apply a current to the first diode and the second diode; a first capacitor whose one end is connected to the resistor and whose other end is grounded; and a second capacitor connected in parallel to the transmission line.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a switch circuit used for radio frequency communication system's devices for use in a mobile phone, a WLAN, or Bluetooth.
2. Description of the Related Art
Today, several systems, such as CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) and TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access), are used for the mobile communication system for mobile phones and other devices.
The TDMA system is used for GSM (Global System For Mobile Communications) and PDC (Personal Digital Cellular). EGSM (Extended Global System For Mobile Communications) and DCS (Digital Cellular System), which are based on GSM, are used primarily in Europe. GSM850 (Global System For Mobile Communications 850) and PCS (Personal Communication Service) are used primarily in the United States. On the other hand, PDC is a system used in Japan.
Examples of small-sized, complex radio frequency circuit devices used for the multiple communication systems described above are as follows: dual-band radio frequency module used for a mobile wireless handset for EGSM and DCS, a triple-band radio frequency module used for EGSM, DCS, and PCS, and quad-band radio frequency module used for GSM850, EGSM, DCS, and PCS.
FIG. 1 shows the transmission (TR) frequencies and the reception (RC) frequencies of transmission/reception systems that are processed by the radio frequency circuit device. In the radio frequency circuit device described above, the frequency bands are allocated as follows. For GSM850, the frequency band of 824 to 849 MHz is allocated as the transmission frequency, and the frequency band of 869 to 894 MHz as the reception frequency. For EGSM, the frequency band of 880 to 915 MHz is allocated as the transmission frequency, and the frequency band of 925 to 960 MHz as the reception frequency.
For DCS, the frequency band of 1710 to 1785 MHz is allocated as the transmission frequency, and the frequency band of 1805 to 1880 MHz as the reception frequency. For PCS, the frequency band of 1850 to 1910 MHz is allocated as the transmission frequency, and the frequency band of 1930 to 1990 MHz as the reception frequency.
Today, to process multiple communication systems with one mobile wireless handset, a complex-module circuit is implemented using a radio frequency circuit device that uses a filter for passing the frequencies described above and a radio frequency switch for switching the transmission/reception circuit.
There has been a requirement for a complex-module circuit as well as for a small-sized, lightweight mobile wireless handset and this requirement, in turn, creates a requirement for a small-sized radio frequency circuit device. However, an increase in the integration of a radio frequency circuit device narrows the spacing between the circuits, causing a problem of insufficient isolation between the circuits.
An insufficient isolation between the reception circuit and the transmission circuit in the front end part in the system of a mobile wireless handset sometimes causes damage to the LNA (Low Noise Amplifier) or a malfunction in the IC. In general, the stable operation of the system requires the isolation of 35 dB or higher.
However, a front end module using a standard radio frequency switch, such as the one shown in FIG. 2A, provides an isolation of about 30 dB as shown in FIG. 2B in the frequency band of 1850 to 1880 MHz where the pass bands are overlapped, for example, in the band area where the PCS transmission band and the DCS reception band are overlapped as shown in FIG. 1.
Technologies for providing isolation when pass bands are overlapped are disclosed, for example, in JP-A-2004-147166 (Patent Document 1), JP-A-2005-101762 (Patent Document 2), and JP-A-2004-140696 (Patent Document 3).
Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose a configuration in which a third switching circuit SW3 is added between a reception circuit and a reception output terminal or a reception filer as shown in FIG. 3 to provide isolation. According to the technology disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2, switching is performed in two stages, first switching circuit SW1 and third switching circuit SW3, at transmission time to prevent the transmission signal from being leaked into the reception circuit or the reception filter.
Patent Documents 1 and 2 describe a radio frequency switch circuit using a PIN (Positive-Intrinsic-Negative) diode, while Patent Document 3 proposes a front end module, an antenna switch module, etc., that improve isolation using a semiconductor switch, for example, a field-effect transistor switch such as a GaAs (Gallium Arsenide) switch or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) switch.
However, the third switching circuit SW3 described above, which is added to provide isolation, increases the circuit size of the front end part and prevents a reduction in the circuit size. At the same time, the devices added to configure the third switching circuit SW3 increases the cost.

Switch circuit, front end module and radio terminal including switch circuit


A high speed sensor system including coupler, a sensor, a memory module, and a processor module is provided. The sensor includes a transmitter coil adapted to be energized by a high frequency current source and at least two receiving coils. One of the receiver coils generates a sine-like function output signal and the other generates a cosine-like function output signal upon rotation of the coupler. The memory module is operable to compensate for non-sinusoidal output signals caused by the high speed sensor system and the gap between the coupler and the at least two receiving coils. The processor module is communicatively coupled to the memory module. The processor module is configured to process the non-sinusoidal output signals from both the first and second receiver coils, determine the offset error, and generate a corrected output signal representative of the rotational position of the coupler.

Inductive sensors utilize a coupler that moves over transductor coil sections to determine the position of a target associated with the coupler. The sensors produce eddy currents in the receiving coils that are proportional to the position of the connector over the coils. The eddy currents are measured to produce an analog signal that is proportional to the position of the coupler along the coils. However, there are a number of errors that must be corrected in order to provide an accurate position. The sources of error include static, dynamic and magnitude errors. In "low speed applications", the errors are typically corrected by using analog and/or digital techniques to provide an offset, to correct the analog signal from raw inputs. However, in high speed applications when a minimum amount of delay in the signal change is required, the processing should be kept in the analog domain on the low cost interface chip that connects the coils. This creates a problem correcting for the dynamic offset on the input signals that varies with the coupling and excitation voltage as well as manufacturing tolerances, dynamic air gaps, the environment, and/or the like. This problem is further complicated when the interface is pure analog.

Systems and methods for correcting non-sinusoidal signals generated from high speed inductive sensors


According to some embodiments, a method performed by a wireless device for lean carrier operation comprises obtaining lean carrier assistance information (LCAI). The LCAI comprises one or more of the following sets of information for a carrier frequency: reference signal (RS) muting pattern information, wherein the RS muting pattern information provides a RS muting pattern used in one or more cells on the carrier frequency; and coverage area information, wherein the coverage area information indicates a coverage area where the RS muting is applied or is expected to be applied on one or more cells operating on the carrier frequency. The method further comprises performing one or more radio operational tasks using the LCAI.

Generally, all terms used herein are to be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the relevant technical field, unless a different meaning is clearly given and/or is implied from the context in which it is used. All references to a/an/the element, apparatus, component, means, step, etc. are to be interpreted openly as referring to at least one instance of the element, apparatus, component, means, step, etc., unless explicitly stated otherwise. The steps of any methods disclosed herein do not have to be performed in the exact order disclosed, unless a step is explicitly described as following or preceding another step and/or where it is implicit that a step must follow or precede another step. Any feature of any of the embodiments disclosed herein may be applied to any other embodiment, wherever appropriate. Likewise, any advantage of any of the embodiments may apply to any other embodiments, and vice versa. Other objectives, features and advantages of the enclosed embodiments will be apparent from the following description. Embodiments of the present disclosure include systems and methods for improving the frequency search, which is part of the overall cell search procedure. Some concepts that influence frequency search performance include channel raster and channel numbering.
The cell search procedure operates as follows. When a user equipment (UE) is powered on, it first searches a list of all possible frequencies (or channels) in a frequency band. The goal is to find, in a particular band, the most suitable frequency channels in use in a region. In the first step, for every possible carrier frequency within a band, the UE typically estimates or detects the energy received over the carrier frequency within the UE bandwidth or within the system bandwidth, depending on the frequency band. This may be referred to as initial cell search, band scanning, frequency scanning, among other names. If the detected energy level indicates that there is a downlink transmission, then the UE proceeds with the next step of cell search described below.
The complexity of the frequency search increases proportionally with the increase in the number of bands to scan and also the number of carriers within each band. In this phase or step, the UE proceeds with remaining tasks or, more specifically, acquires the cell timing and cell ID of neighbor cells that are operated on the same frequency channel found in the first step. During the frequency searching, the UE generally also detects the timing of the strongest cell. This may depend, however, upon the specific algorithm used for frequency search. For example, the UE typically performs correlation over the synchronization sequences while assuming a certain center frequency.
After acquiring frequency synchronization, the UE continues performing the neighbor cell search. It therefore continuously attempts to find the cell timing and physical ID of the cells operating on the acquired carrier frequency.
Some cells may perform reference signal muting. In long term evolution (LTE), for example, a base station transmits cell-specific reference signals (CRSs) using full system bandwidth and in all downlink subframes in a radio frame. A UE uses the CRS for several procedures. Examples of such procedures are time and/or frequency tracking or synchronization, channel estimation, radio link quality measurements, cell selection, cell reselection, among others.
A UE, however, does not use CRSs all the time. The continuous CRS transmission with full system bandwidth in one cell may cause interference at a UE operating in a neighboring cell. The CRS transmission also consumes base station power. Accordingly, in certain scenarios, the CRS may be muted in a cell during inactive time (e.g., OFF duration) of the discontinuous reception (DRX) while CRS are transmitted over full bandwidth during active time (e.g., ON duration) of the DRX cycle.
FIG. 1 illustrates one example of CRS muting operation. The horizontal axis represents the time-domain for five example radio frames numbered 0-4. A "muted CRS" refers to transmission of CRS using reduced CRS bandwidth (e.g., over central 6 RBs within cell BW) during inactive time of the DRX excluding warm up and cool down periods. The warm up and cool down periods typically occur during the inactive time and during which CRS is transmitted over the full bandwidth of the cell or over a larger bandwidth. As a special case, warmup and/or cool down periods can be zero. During at least the active time of the DRX, the CRS are transmitted over full bandwidth or larger bandwidth. This may also be referred to as lean carrier operation, RS muting, or CRS muting. Lean carrier operation is applied when DRX and/or eDRX cycle is used.
In LTE, DRX cycle is used to facilitate UE battery conservation. The DRX cycle is used in RRC idle state and may also be used in RRC connected state. Examples of DRX cycle lengths currently used in RRC idle state include 320 ms, 640 ms, 1.28 s and 2.56 s. Example DRX cycle lengths currently used in RRC connected state may range from 2 ms to 2.56 s. The enhanced DRX (eDRX) cycles may be very long, for example, ranging from several seconds to several minutes and even up to one or more hours. Typical values of eDRX cycles may be between 4-10 minutes. The DRX cycle is configured by the network node and is characterized by the following parameters:
On Duration: During the on duration of the DRX cycle, a timer called 'onDurationTimer', which is configured by the network node, is running. The timer specifies the number of consecutive control channel subframes (e.g., physical downlink control channel (PDCCH), ePDCCH subframe(s)) at the beginning of a DRX Cycle. It is also interchangeably referred to as a DRX ON period. More specifically, it is the duration in downlink subframes that the UE after waking up from DRX to receive control channel (e.g., PDCCH, ePDCCH). When the onDurationTimer is running, the UE is considered to be in DRX state of the DRX cycle.
DRX-Inactivity Timer: If the UE successfully decodes the control channel (e.g., PDCCH, ePDCCH, MPDCCH, NPDCCH, etc,) during the ON duration, then the UE starts a DRX-inactivity timer (described below) and stays awake until its expiry. It specifies the number of consecutive control channel (e.g., PDCCH, ePDCCH) subframe(s) after the subframe in which a control channel (e.g., PDCCH) indicates an initial uplink or downlink user data transmission for this media access control (MAC) entity. It is also configured by the network node. When the DRX-inactivity timer is running, the UE is considered to be in non-DRX state—no DRX is used.
DRX Active Time: This time is the duration during which the UE monitors the control channel (e.g., PDCCH, ePDCCH, MPDCCH, NPDCCH, etc.). In other words, this is the total duration during which the UE receiver is active or awake. This includes the "on-duration" of the DRX cycle, the time during which the UE is performing continuous reception while the inactivity timer has not expired and the time the UE is performing continuous reception while waiting for a downlink retransmission after one hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) round trip time (RTT). In contrast, during DRX inactive time the UE receiver is not active or awake, and therefore the UE is not expected to monitor any control channel. The DRX operation with more detailed parameters in LTE is illustrated in FIG. 2.
FIG. 2 is a timing diagram illustrating DRX cycle operation in LTE. The examples also apply when the UE is configured with eDRX. The eDRX cycle with DRX cycle length larger than certain threshold (e.g., 5.12 seconds) and contains a paging transmission window (PTW) within each eDRX cycle. The PTW contains 1 or more DRX cycles.

Obtaining lean carrier assistance information


A cell image segmentation method includes receiving a cell image, performing a nuclei initialization step to find an internal marker and an external marker to obtain a potential nuclei and a potential cell boundary, calculating a gradient map of the received cell image, performing a filtering step on the gradient map to generate a filtered gradient map, performing a nuclei detection step to obtain a segmented nuclei, and performing a nuclei validation step to obtain a valid nuclei. The nuclei initialization step includes performing a blob detection step to obtain a nuclei candidate, an outlier removal step to obtain the internal marker, a distance transform step to obtain a distance map, and a cell boundary initialization step to obtain the external marker. In another embodiment, a nuclear-to-cytoplasmic ratio evaluation method using the above cell image segmentation method is proposed.

1. Field of the Invention
The present disclosure generally relates to a cell image segmentation method and a nuclear-to-cytoplasmic ratio evaluation method using the cell image segmentation method and, more particularly, to a cell image segmentation method for cell segmentation and nuclear-to-cytoplasmic ratio analysis, as well as a nuclear-to-cytoplasmic ratio evaluation method using the same.
2. Description of the Related Art
Regarding conventional biopsy methodology and pathology examination, conventional methodology was achieved primarily through physical biopsy, which needs to remove a tissue from a living subject that is invasive, time-consuming, high-cost for preparation of abundant samples and evaluation at the microscopic level and also must be followed by complicated procedures including fixing, embedding, sectioning, and staining to determine the status of diseases. In addition to being painful to the patients, these invasive procedures may also result in risk of infection or even spreading of the cancer cells.
Optical in vivo virtual biopsy technique is successfully developed by our colleague, Ultrafast Optics Group (UFO), from National Taiwan University, which is a promising tool for noninvasive diagnosis and also can obtain in vivo section images in several skin depths. Without tissue removal, optical in vivo virtual biopsy can not only conquer the tedious stages in conventional invasive biopsy procedure, but also save time and cost for conventional pathology examination.
In order to evaluate the cell statuses, Nuclear-to-Cytoplasmic ratio (NC ratio) is a common measurement used in diagnosis and in vivo NC ratio analysis has its significance for non-invasive and immediate skin disease diagnosis. For example, the cell NC ratios of epidermis skin are in general larger as compared to those of normal cells in typical skin cancer.
FIG. 1 is conventional cell segmentation, including: (FIG. 1a) original image to be analyzed and (FIG. 1b) segmented cells. In FIG. 1a, the white areas "A" in the background represent cytoplasm, the black areas "B" surrounded by cytoplasm represent nuclei, and the enclosed lines "BND" represents cell boundaries. In FIG. 1b, the grey areas "D" represent segmented cytoplasm and the white areas "W" surrounded by segmented cytoplasm is segmented nuclei.
For conventional cell segmentation shown in FIG. 1, what it is required to do is select the nuclei and cytoplasm manually by hand selecting and then obtain the segmented nuclei and cytoplasm followed by NC ratio evaluation. It is time consuming, highly subjective, and also has inconsistent accuracy, especially for a huge mass amount of data to be analyzed.
Further conventional cell image processing methods are presented as the following:
Image thresholding is the simplest method with high-speed for image segmentation, but it has good segmentation results only for images with high contrast between objects and background. Illumination and noise are also factors to make image thresholding have undesired segmentation results even with adaptive thresholding methods. However, some biomedical images may have low contrast and contain lots of noise, which is not suitable to use image thresholding for cell segmentation.
FIG. 2 is an image segmentation of an image thresholding method, including: (FIG. 2a) input image and (FIG. 2b) result of segmentation with image thresholding of intensity. Referring to FIG. 2a, which is the input image to be analyzed, and its segmentation result with image thresholding of intensity is shown in (FIG. 2b), which has broken regions and interrupted boundary of detected objects. If the image thresholding of intensity is utilized for cell segmentation, it may not have expected results since this method does not consider the contextual information in the image and is susceptible to illumination and irregular noise which reduce the accuracy of segmentation.
Watershed transformation is one kind of image segmentation technique using the concept of morphological image processing to obtain stable segmentation results. The basic idea of watershed transformation can be considered as the phenomenon occurring on topographic surface. FIG. 3 is a topographic representation including: (FIG. 3a) two-dimensional gray-level image, and (FIG. 3b) three-dimensional topographic surface. FIG. 4 is a topographical view of the gray-level images. As shown in FIG. 3, a two-dimensional gray-level image can be considered as a three-dimensional topographic surface, that pixel values are interpreted as their altitude in the surface for watershed transformation. Three kinds of pixels including pixels at local minimum, at which a drop of water, and at which water would be equally likely to fall to more than one regional minimum are corresponding to regional minima, catchment basin, and watershed line, respectively in topographic view shown in FIG. 4.
Watershed transformation considering contextual information among pixels could be imagined that there is a hole connected with other holes by water pipe exists in each regional minimum and when the tap turned on, water from water source will flow through the pipe and then flood the surface from each regional minimum at a constant rate. The objective is to build a dam to prevent rising water spilling out from one catchment basin to another and the dam is corresponding to the segmented object. The main objective of watershed transformation is to identify the regions of regional minima with two stages. The first stage is flooding process to flood surface from regional minima and the second stage is dam construction to build barriers when two body of water from different basins meet together.
FIG. 5 is a flooding process of watershed transformation, including: (FIG. 5a) original topographic surface with four catchment basins, (FIG. 5b) topographic surface with water level is 90, (FIG. 5c) topographic surface with water level is 110, (FIG. 5d) topographic surface with water level is 130. FIG. 5 shows an example of flooding process with watershed transformation, wherein (FIG. 5a) shows original topographic surface with four catchment basins and the tap is turned on, the water level will start to rise up, and in (FIG. 5b) it can be seen that the water level is 90 and some regions are flooded, and in (FIG. 5c) water level raises to 110 and one body of water start to spill out to other one, so it needs to build a dam to prevent this thing from happening. If the water still rises, other dams should be built to prevent two distinct bodies of water meet together that shown in (FIG. 5d).
Using the above-mentioned ideas, watershed transformation often considers the gradient map and then can isolate or segment touching objects by identify the regional minima in the images. But over-segmentation problem is the main disadvantage that watershed transformation may meet since there may be some undesired regional minima or irregular noise in images and there are two main approaches to deal with the over-segmentation problem.
To solve the over-segmentation problem, the first approach to address the over-segmentation problem of watershed-based algorithm is fragment merging strategy to merge the tiny and fractional fragments of the same objects together by some merging criteria with the concept that the tiny fragments and their parent objects have the same or similar features.
The other approach to resolve the over-segmentation problem is marker-controlled strategy with assistance of marker map, including internal markers and external markers. The marker maps are the important information to direct the whole process of image segmentation to the path of obtaining segmented objects with high accuracy. The internal markers are like the seeds scattered on the whole image planes containing lots of peaks and valleys in topographic view. These seeds grow step by step with the guide of the watershed transformation to trend to gradually fit the size and shape of the objects to be segmented and with the restriction of the external markers to limit their ranges of growth and do not cross over the regions of other objects of interest.
Spectral clustering is one kind of technique for image segmentation that models the segmentation problem into the graph models as a weighted graph partitioning problem. Graph models can be built with some relations between the objects, such as similarities, distances, neighborhoods, connections, and so on. For example, vertices in the graph model can be considered as pixels in images and weighted edges connected between two vertices can be thought of as the similarity between two pixels with some criteria. Finding a cut through the graph model can be considered as finding meaningful groups of objects to resolve the problem of image segmentation and the concept of spectral clustering is also applied to cell segmentation to find meaningful objects. Although spectral clustering is a suitable approach for exploration of huge amount of data by graph modeling to reduce the complexity of the data to be analyzed, a desired graph model which can represent original data into the specific space with sparse matrix is an important topic it should be considered depending on different applications.
Deformable models which identify the boundaries of the object of interest by gradually development of contours or surfaces guided by internal and external forces are deformable curves with energy minimization to fit the image structures of interest adaptively. Several deformable models, like snake, balloon are utilized in cell segmentation. Since deformable models depend closely on several parameter settings, it may meet some difficulty to develop the algorithm for general applications. Additionally, deformable models are very sensitive to the initial condition and prior knowledge to have desirable segmentation results, which may not be possible especially for automatic cell segmentation. For example, for snake algorithm, the active contour is defined by user interactivity, which is sensitive to users intuition and initial guess that may be hard to have or decide automatically in most of applications.
Convergence index filters are local filters designed for edge or boundary enhancement in images with weak contrast and irregular noise caused by channel noise in front-end acquisition procedure, especially for biomedical images, which consider the distribution of the orientation of the gradient vectors instead of magnitude of the gradient vectors or intensity in spatial domain. The degree of convergence of the gradient vectors or called convergence index (CI) within the support region or neighborhood belonging to a pixel of interest is a measure of what degree of contribution the gradient vectors projected toward the pixel of interest. Additionally, convergence index filters own capability in adjusting the size and shape of their masks adaptively according to the distribution of the gradient vectors that make it possible to determine the boundaries of fuzzy regions in images. The following shows one of the types of filters.
Convergence index filters also called COIN filter named from acronym adopt a circle with variable radius as their support region. FIG. 6 is a support region of convergence index filter (CF). FIG. 6 shows a circle with radius r and its center is at pixel of interest P. The neighborhood of the pixel of interest P is denoted as R, which is the support region of pixel of interest P and we denote an arbitrary pixel Q whose Cartesian coordinate is (k,l) in R and θ is the angle between the gradient vector G(Q) at pixel Q and the direction of line segment PQ connecting pixel P and Q. cos θ(k,l) is used to represent the convergence index of the gradient vector G(Q) at pixel Q whose Cartesian coordinate is (k,l) that quantify the degree of contribution of this gradient vector G(Q) projected toward P.
The output of convergence index filter applying to pixel of interest P is defined as the average of the convergence indices at all pixels located in the support region R of pixel of interest P whose Cartesian coordinate is (x,y) and denoted in the following equation in 2-D discrete space,
            CF                    (                  x          ,          y                )              =                  1        M                                    ∑                                    (                              k                ,                l                            )                        ∈            R                                                                            cos                                                                          θ                                      (                              k                ,                l                            )                                            ,
where M is the number of pixels in the support region R, θ(k,l) is the angle between the gradient vector G(k,l) at pixel Q whose Cartesian coordinate is (k,l) and the direction of line segment PQ connecting pixel P and Q, and cos θ(k,l) is the convergence index of the gradient vector G(k,l) at pixel Q whose Cartesian coordinate is (k,l). The output of convergence filter locates between −1 and +1, and the maximum value of +1 happens when all gradient vectors of pixels in R point toward the pixel of interest P that means the equi-contours of intensity in R are concentric. FIG. 7 is a rounded convex region whose equi-contours of intensity are concentric, including: (FIG. 7a) a rounded convex region, and (FIG. 7b) the distribution of gradient vectors. FIG. 7a shows an example of rounded convex region whose equi-contours of intensity are concentric in 2-D space and FIG. 7b shows its distribution of gradient vectors that all gradient vectors is directed toward the center resulting in there is a maximum convergence index of +1 at the center of this rounded convex region. On the other hand, all gradient vectors of pixels in R point backward to the pixel of interest P will result in the minimum value of −1.

Cell image segmentation method and a nuclear-to-cytoplasmic ratio evaluation method using the same