A multiple-channel audio processor (10) and an associated plurality of power stages (22) in an audio system are disclosed. The audio processor (10) includes a plurality of audio amplifier channels (22), each of which includes a pulse-code-modulation (PCM) to pulse-width-modulation (PWM) conversion function (25), which generates PWM signals for application to the plurality of power stages (22). The audio amplifier channels (20) each also include an interchannel delay function (28) for delaying the PWM edges relative to other channels (20), for reducing noise. The audio amplifier channels (20) each also include delay adjust circuitry (32) for gradually increasing and decreasing the interchannel delay of the channel (20) on startup and shutdown. This permits a single control terminal (VALID) at the processor to globally enable and disable all of the power stages (22).

This invention is in the field of audio amplifiers, and is more specifically directed to digital pulse-coded-modulation to pulse-width-modulation type class D audio power amplifiers.
In recent years, digital signal processing techniques have become prevalent in many electronic systems. The fidelity provided by digital techniques has increased dramatically with the switching speed of digital circuits. In audio applications, the sampling rates of modern digital signal processing are sufficiently fast that digital techniques have become widely accepted for audio electronic applications.
Digital techniques for audio signal processing now extend to the driving of the audio output amplifiers. A new class of amplifier circuits has now become popular in many audio applications, namely "class D" amplifiers. Class D amplifiers drive a complementary output signal that is digital in nature, with the output voltage swinging fully from "rail-to-rail" at a duty cycle that varies with the audio information. Complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) output drive transistors are thus suitable for class D amplifiers, as such devices are capable of high, full-rail, switching rates such as desired for digital applications. As known in the art, CMOS drivers conduct extremely low DC current, and their resulting efficiency is especially beneficial in portable and automotive audio applications, as well as in small form factor systems such as flat-panel LCD, plasma televisions, and DVD receivers. In addition, the ability to realize the audio output amplifier in CMOS enables integration of an audio output amplifier with other circuitry in the audio system, further improving efficiency and also reducing manufacturing cost of the system. This integration also provides performance benefits resulting from close device matching between the output devices and the upstream circuits, and from reduced signal attenuation.
FIG. 1 illustrates the architecture of a conventional class D audio amplifier, specifically a so-called "class AD" audio amplifier with a bridged load, for a single channel (i.e., typically, one of multiple channels in the system). In the example of FIG. 1, an input digital audio signal is received on lines DIN by digital audio processing function 15. Typically, this digital audio signal is in the form of a twenty-four bit pulse-code-modulated (PCM) signal at a sample rate that typically ranges from 44 kHz to 192 kHz, depending on the audio source.
Digital audio processing function 15 applies the appropriate signal processing to the digital audio signal according to the functions of the system. This signal processing can include parametric speaker equalization or "voicing", implementation of graphic equalizer presets, treble and bass adjustment, precision soft volume control on the audio signal being processed for its channel. Other digital functions that can be performed by digital audio processing function 15 include loudness compensation to boost the bass frequencies when the output for the channel is low, dynamic range compression, background noise floor compensation or noise squelch, center or sub-woofer channel synthesis, programmable dither, peak limiting and clipping, and other digital filter processing. These functions are typically performed by the application of biquad, or second-order IIR, digital filters in a cascade arrangement.
According to this conventional architecture, as is typically in conventional digital audio systems, the PCM input signal is converted to a pulse-width-modulated (PWM) signal so that speaker SPKR is driven by a class D output amplifier. In order to achieve "CD" quality sound while keeping the PWM clock rate reasonable (200 MHz or less), however, a fully digital implementation of the PWM conversion includes interpolation function 17, which oversamples the processed PCM input signal at a rate that is much higher than the input sample rate; as known in the art, this oversampling reduces total harmonic distortion, and maintains harmonics that have significant amplitude outside of the audio band. In addition, noise shaping and digital non-linear correction function 19 processes the oversampled data stream from interpolation function 17. As known in the art, spectral noise-shaping is typically implemented by way of a sigma-delta modulator, resulting in quantization noise that is high-pass shaped to minimize the effects of quantization noise in audible frequencies. Digital non-linear correction, for example by way of Hammerstein modeling and correction that effectively includes simple power expansion of the input signal followed by linear and time-invariant digital filters, effectively compensates for distortion that otherwise is generated in the conversion of variable-amplitude, fixed-duration, PCM signals into fixed-amplitude, variable-duration, PWM signals.
In this conventional architecture of FIG. 1, the output of noise shaping and digital non-linear correction function 19 is an eight-bit digital signal, sampled at a frequency that is on the order of eight times the input sampling frequency (e.g., eight times the input sampling frequency of 48 kHz, or 384 kHz). As shown in FIG. 1b, the timing control is effected in this system by clock circuitry 13, which typically includes a frequency multiplier applied to a crystal oscillator clock signal, in combination with a digital phase-locked loop (PLL). PCM to PWM conversion function 21 generates PWM signals corresponding to the processed audio signal, in the conventional manner.
PCM to PWM conversion function 21 in this conventional class D audio amplifier is preferably implemented by digital circuitry that digitally calculates the times at which rising and falling edges of the PWM output signals are to be issued. In this manner, the reference triangle waveform may simply be a high-speed clock signal. The digital circuitry can simply receive the input PCM signal on line PCM13 in, and digitally calculate the edges of the differential PWM pulses, including the desired filtering. Conventional high-speed digital signal processing circuitry is capable of carrying out these calculations sufficiently rapidly for driving digital audio output PWM signals, as known in the art.
In this conventional audio implementation, audio speaker SPKR is the load, and is bridged between pairs of output transistors 7A, 7C; 7B, 7D, in a class "AD" amplifier arrangement so that a zero input PCM signal will produce a 50% duty cycle output drive across load SPKR. This class AD arrangement is effected by transistors 7A, 7D being turned on while transistors 7B, 7C are off, so that current flows from left-to-right through load SPKR in one half-cycle, and so that transistors 7B, 7C are on while transistors 7A, 7D are off in the other half-cycle, during which current flows from right-to-left through load SPKR. In this arrangement, the common mode voltage across the bridged load SPKR is zero volts. LC filters 23P, 23M may be provided between the H-bridge of 7A, 7C; 7B, 7D and load SPKR.
By way of further background, other class D amplifier arrangements are also known in the art. One such arrangement is referred to as the class "BD" amplifier, by way of analogy to class B analog amplifiers. In the class BD amplifier, the two halves of the H-bridge are driven by separate modulators. As a result, there are three possible drive states across the bridged load: full positive polarity, full negative polarity, and zero volts. As a result, for zero input signal, no output PWM signals appear at all (i.e., there is zero output, or the PWM output is at a "zero" state).
Class D amplifiers have become attractive for audio applications, especially as the desired output power levels have increased over recent years. The efficiency of class D amplifiers in driving loudspeakers can be higher than 90%, which is much higher than the efficiency provided by conventional analog audio amplifiers. Among other benefits of this improved efficiency, the heat that is dissipated in the drive circuitry is much reduced, and thus the amplifier heat sinks can be much smaller (and thereby lighter). Class D audio amplifiers have thus become quite popular for portable and automotive audio systems.
By way of further background, the technique of providing inter-channel delay among multiple audio channels driven by class D amplifiers to reduce noise interference is known in the art. Such a technique is described in U.S. Patent Application Publication US 2002/0060605 A1, which is commonly assigned herewith and incorporated herein by this reference. As described in that Publication, programmable inter-channel delay between audio channels (e.g., left and right channels in a stereo system) can reduce switching noise between the pulse-width-modulated outputs, reduce cross-talk among the multiple channels, and generally provide significant improvement in system performance. More specifically, the inter-channel delay described in this Publication temporally moves the switching times of one channel away from the switching times of other channels, thus reducing peak switching noise levels. And as described in that Publication, and also in U.S. Pat. No. 6,373,336 B1, which is also commonly assigned herewith, programmable delay can be inserted so that the pulse-width-modulated switching times of opposite sides of a full-bridged load within a single channel are not temporally aligned, which also reduces switching noise within a single audio channel.
By way of further background, a particular problem in class D audio amplifiers is presented by the transient events of muting and un-muting of the audio system. As is fundamental in the art, a steady-state square wave time-domain signal (corresponding to a 50% duty cycle PWM signal) transforms into the frequency domain as discrete frequency components at the fundamental "carrier" frequency and its harmonics. It has been observed that if the PWM signal is abruptly gated on or off or otherwise abruptly changes its duty cycle, however, significant energy is present in sidebands to the carrier frequency and its harmonics. And even if the fundamental frequency is relatively high, the abrupt gating on or off of the PWM signal can result in sidebands with significant energy that extend into audible frequencies, which manifest as audible "clicks" or "pops". In audio systems, this gating on and off of the PWM output occurs when the user mutes or unmutes the audio output, and at power-up and power-down, in which case the audible clicks and pops are very undesirable.
Known techniques for reducing clicks and pops in analog audio amplifiers include smoothing the change in biasing, for example at power-up. However, these smooth biasing changes cannot be directly applied in class D amplifiers, because these amplifiers operate by way of PWM switching of the output transistors. According to another conventional approach, clicks and pops are reduced by introducing a switch or relay that disconnects the load during mode changes, thus eliminating transients from appearing at the load; however, the insertion and control of such a switch or relay has proven to be cost-prohibitive, especially in modern systems.
Considering that class D audio amplifiers effectively operate in the digital realm, and also considering that many sources of audio input signals are also digital in nature (e.g., compact discs, MP3 and other digitally compressed music files, satellite radio), many modern audio systems are fully digital, in that they receive digital input signals and produce digital, PWM, class D amplifier output. In these fully digital systems, digital signal processing techniques for suppressing clicks and pops are known. Examples of these digital techniques are described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,720,825 and in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US 2004/0017854, assigned to Texas Instruments Incorporated and incorporated herein by this reference.
Referring now to FIGS. 2a and 2b, the architecture of a conventional multiple channel digital audio system, and its operation in implementing both conventional suppression of clicks and pops and also conventional inter-channel delay, will now be described. As shown in FIG. 2a, multi-channel digital signal processing function 15n receives the input audio signals corresponding to n audio channels, and performs the digital signal processing described above relative to function 15 of FIG. 1. Digital signal processing function 15n presents n output signals, in PCM form, to each of n PWM channels 251 through 25n. PWM channels 25 perform the PCM-to-PWM conversion, interpolation filtering, and the like described above relative to FIGS. 1a and 1b, and generate corresponding differential pulse-width-modulated signals on output lines PWM+, PWM−, which are forwarded to a corresponding power stage 27. Each of power stages 271 through 27n include the H-bridge transistors 7A through 7D, as described above relative to FIG. 1, which drive their respective loads SPKR_1 through SPKR_n. In addition, each of PWM channels 251through 25n generate a control signal on line VALID_CH_1 through VALID_CH_n to its respective power stage 271 through 27n. The level present on each line VALID indicates (when active) that its power stage 27 is to respond to the PWM signals on its associated lines PWM+, PWM− and drive load SPKR accordingly; an inactive level on line VALID causes its associated power stage 27 to place its output in an inactive state, regardless of the signals on lines PWM+, PWM−. This inactive state can be a high-impedance condition, in which all switches are turned off to float load SPKR, or can be a short-circuit state in which both terminals to load SPKR are at ground.
In this conventional arrangement, power stages 271 through 27n are realized by separate integrated circuits from integrated circuit 26 that implements PWM channels 251 through 25n (and digital signal processing function 15). An example of a conventional class D amplifier power stage integrated circuit is the TAS5111 Digital Amplifier Power Stage integrated circuit available from Texas Instruments Incorporated, which is designed to drive a single bridged 4 ohm speaker in response to a differential PWM signal for a single channel. A conventional example of integrated circuit 26 that includes digital signal processing function 15n and multiple PWM channels 25 is the TAS5036 Six Channel Digital Audio PWM Processor, also available from Texas Instruments Incorporated. As evident from FIG. 2a, three conductors per audio channel are required, two conductors (PWM+, PWM−) for the PWM signal and one conductor (VALID) for the control or enable signal.
FIG. 2b illustrates a sequence of operation of the system of FIG. 2a, in beginning operation from a muted condition. Prior to time t0 in this example of FIG. 2b, all channels (i.e., both channels in this example) are inactive, as indicated by the low levels on lines VALID_CH_1 and VALID_CH_2. In this example, the signals on lines PWM+ and PWM− for both of channels 1 and 2 are inactive. Only the signals on lines PWM+ are shown in FIG. 2b (by way of lines PWM+_CH_1 and PWM+_CH_2) for the sake of clarity, it being understood that the PWM signals on lines PWM− for each channel are complementary to those on lines PWM+. At time t1, line VALID_CH_1 is taken to a high, active, level, and PWM channel 251 begins issuing a reduced click and pop start sequence on its lines PWM+, PWM−. The specific sequence applied to lines PWM+, PWM− at this time are designed to cancel out transients in audible frequencies that result from the starting of the PWM output. The specific pulses in the start sequence can be selected in the manner described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,720,825 B1, incorporated herein by reference.
In this conventional system, inter-channel delay is provided between the multiple channels in this system, to reduce switching noise between the pulse-width-modulated outputs, reduce cross-talk among the multiple channels, and generally provide significant improvement in system performance, as described in U.S. Patent Publication No. US 2002/0060605 A1 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,373,336 B1, both also incorporated herein by reference. This conventional inter-channel delay is enforced not only for PWM signals but also in the issuing of an active level on the VALID line, as shown in FIG. 2b. This is because the effective signal that is reproduced at the power stage output is a function of the signals on both of the PWM and VALID lines for a single channel. Consequently, both PWM lines and the VALID signal must be shifted in time, by the same delay time, in order to produce a low click and pop start. Accordingly, at time t1, line VALID_CH_2 is taken to an active level to enable power stage 272, following the selected inter-channel delay IC_Δ. The click and pop reducing start sequence then initiates for channel 2, as shown on line PWM+_CH_2; this start sequence corresponds to that applied to channel 1, but is also delayed by the inter-channel delay IC_Δ.
At the end of the start sequence for channel 1, at time t2, PWM channel 251 begins driving lines PWM+, PWM− (shown as line PWM+_CH_1 in FIG. 2b) with an audio signal. For purposes of this description, the audio signal shown in FIG. 2b is a zero level signal, which amounts to a 50% duty cycle on lines PWM+, PWM− because of the class AD arrangement in this example. And after the elapse of the inter-channel delay IC_Δ, at time t3, PWM channel 252 begins driving its PWM signals on lines PWM+, PWM− (shown as line PWM+_CH_2 in FIG. 2b).
According to this conventional approach, therefore, both of the beneficial techniques of inter-channel delay and reduced click and pop start sequences are applied in the multi-channel system. However, as evident from FIG. 2a, this approach requires integrated circuit 26 to have a VALID pin and conductor dedicated to each of its output channels. For example, six VALID pins (and conductor lines) are required for a six-channel audio signal processor. Especially with the continuing trend toward ever-smaller and less power-consumptive audio systems, this large number of pins and conductors is a significant constraint on the ability to reduce the size and form factor of the integrated circuits. The number of pins is especially limited in high power packages, because of the need to safely conduct heat from the packaged integrated circuit. And high pin counts also complicate the layout and construction of the system boards for the audio systems.

On-the-fly introduction of inter-channel delay in a pulse-width-modulation amplifier


An apparatus and method for separating peas based upon differences in density. The apparatus includes a flow trough having a flow manifold. A pump takes water from a reservoir and delivers the water to the flow manifold. A flow nipple having a lip portion extending into the flow manifold and turning vanes within the flow manifold distribute the water to create a substantially laminar flow. Fixed and pivotable water deflectors at an inlet portion of the flow trough establish a linear, laminar flow of water along the flow trough. A hopper and conveyor combination deliver a stream of peas to an adjustable plate member positioned in the laminar flow of water in the flow trough. The peas carried by the laminar flow of water descend off of the plate member into a separating chamber where peas having a high density range settle into a first collecting chamber and peas with a low density range settle into a second collecting chamber. An adjustable separating vane separates the first and second collecting chambers and together with the plate member is adjusted to accommodate batches of peas having differing density characteristics.

This invention pertains generally to devices and methods for the liquid separation of food pieces based upon differences in density. In particular, the present invention relates to an apparatus and method for the liquid separation of young peas from mature peas based upon their starch content.
A primary attribute of peas that is of concern to consumers is their sweetness. Pea sweetness depends upon the sugar content within the peas which is itself a function of pea maturity. Pea maturity is a measure of the starch content within the peas. As the peas mature, sugars initially present within the peas are converted to starch. This conversion occurs because starch is a better long term energy storage compound than is sugar. The amount of starch within the peas also affects the texture or mouth feel of the peas. Consumers prefer a tender mouth feel which translates into smooth, firm texture. As starch concentration increases within the peas, the peas tend to take on a tough texture.
Traditionally pea maturity (i.e., starch concentration) has been objectively calculated by a wet chemistry test that determines the percentage of Alcohol Insoluble Solids (AIS) within the pea. As a pea matures the amount of the alcohol insoluble solids within the pea increases while the amount of alcohol soluble solids decreases. AIS units represent the percentage of starch within the peas. For example, early peas which are usually high in sugar content have low starch concentrations and therefore a low AIS percentage, whereas mature peas picked later in the season have high starch concentrations and therefore a high AIS percentage. The accepted procedure for the calculation of AIS is designated as "Solids (Alcohol-Insoluble) in Frozen Peas, Gravimetric Method", 32.065 of the Association of Official Chemists. In addition to the AIS test, an instrument known as a Tenderometer (available from the FMC Corporation) is used to provide an initial rough estimation of the quality of a batch of peas based upon their relative tenderness.
As sugar is converted by the peas into starch, the density of the pea increases since starch in vivo is a more dense compound than sugar. Because of this difference in density, mature peas have been separated from young (high sugar) peas by formulating a brine solution of intermediate density calculated from data obtained by the AIS test and the use of the Tenderometer. The peas are dispensed into the static brine solution and the more mature peas with a high starch concentrations and thereby density in a high range tend to sink to the bottom of the brine solution. Younger, higher sugar peas with low starch concentrations and thereby density in a low range tend to float.
The use of a brine solution poses problems. One of these problems is the corrosion of equipment. The high salt concentration can cause metals within the pea separator to rust which may effect the taste of the peas. In addition, there is the greater problem of disposing of the brine solution after it has been used. Brine discharge could cause environmental problems by killing fish and seeping into ground water supplies. In addition, the density of the brine solution is determined for a single batch of peas. Therefore, the density of that brine solution can not be easily changed during the processing of the batch of peas to accommodate fluctuations in starch concentrations of the batch of peas during the separating process. Moreover, brine solutions of differing densities are required to separate batches of peas having different starch concentrations.
There is a continuing need for improved separation of mature peas from younger peas. In particular, there is a need for a pea separating apparatus and method that does not use a brine solution to carry out the density separation process. The pea separating apparatus should use a fluid medium that lessens the corrosion of the equipment and eliminates the disposal problem associated with brine solutions. The pea separating apparatus should readily permit adjustments to be made to the separating process to accommodate batches of peas having differing starch concentrations. Moreover, the pea separating apparatus should allow the separating process to be adjusted during the processing of a single batch of peas to accommodate starch concentration fluctuations within that batch.

Pea separating apparatus and method of use


The disclosure discusses an Automated Online Data Submission/Application tool that assists a user in submitting data responding to an online data posting. An embodiment of the invention is described as a job application utility. The user registers with a central data management system. This may be achieved by uploading a resume and/or manually providing registration data. Alternately, the registration data may be derived from parsing an uploaded resume that is analyzed and stored. In another embodiment, a user may simply answer a series of registration questions to register, while also creating a resume. Once the identifying information is finalized, the user may search the broad range of job listings. The user is able to forward identifying information to respond to a job listing by forwarding an uploaded/system created resume to an email address in the job listing or conduct an auto-fill of a linked online job application form.

Internet users have two primary options when conducting job searches on the internet. For example, a user may conduct a search of a generic job listing repository where the job listings are simply listed on a website. Alternately, the user may register with a job search site, wherein the job search site acts as a search intermediary between prospective employers and job applicants.
In the generic job repository web site, a user may be limited to browse the internet site reviewing job postings. However, conventional job postings often simply include a web link back to the posting entity's website to a web page that includes details about available job opportunities. The posting entity's website may provide the applicant with initial contact information such as: a human resource person's email address or phone number. Alternately, job listings may contain a link to an online job application form that accepts the applicant's identifying information. The job applicant must overcome significant obstacles simply to start the application process.
Further, some generic job search websites may include coarse database search functionality enabling the job applicant to limit the number of listings the user will browse. Although a user can utilize keywords to assist in targeting the types of listings that are included as search results, the user still manually searches the detailed descriptions of various listed positions to determine which positions to apply for. Once the user decides to apply for a particular job, the user has to overcome the challenges discussed above associated with application submission protocol for the particular posting web site.
In some dedicated job search intermediary web sites, job applicants register with the web site and supply identifying information. Users of such intermediary web sites are generally limited to job listings posted by potential employers who have also registered with the dedicated intermediary. Accordingly, the pool of possible employers and available opportunities is extremely limited when compared with the enormous volume of opportunities available across the internet.

Apparatuses, methods and systems for automated online data submission


Seed candidate solutions can be inserted into the later generations of the population of an optimization problem during an evolutionary algorithm based simulation. Seed candidate solutions can be determined in response to an evolutionary algorithm based simulator receiving a problem description of an optimization problem. The seed candidate solutions can be sorted according to the seed candidate solutions' fitness. The simulator can start an evolutionary algorithm based simulation with a randomly generated initial population. The simulator can detect a condition for inserting seed candidate solutions into the population. The simulator can then insert the first seed candidate into the current population that is generated by the simulator in accordance with the evolutionary algorithm. A solution to the optimization problem can be determined based on successive generation of candidate solutions and insertion of additional seed candidate solutions in subsequent generations of the population.

Embodiments of the inventive subject matter generally relate to the field of evolutionary algorithm based simulations, and, more particularly, to optimizing seeding of evolutionary algorithm based simulations.
Evolutionary algorithms use biological techniques based on biological evolution, reproduction, mutation, recombination, and natural selection to find solutions to optimization problems. Simulations that implement evolutionary algorithms act upon populations, such that individuals in a population represent candidate solutions to an optimization problem. The candidate solutions are evaluated for fitness and the population "evolves" as successive generations of the population are selected/generated based on the biological techniques. As the population evolves, overall fitness of the population tends to increase. A solution to the optimization problem is found when the overall fitness of the population has reached a satisfactory level. Simulations based on evolutionary algorithms can perform well for finding solutions to problems in engineering, biology, economics, robotics, etc. because fitness evaluation functions can be tailored to fit the problems.

Optimized seeding of evolutionary algorithm based simulations

International Business Machines Corporation


A system for actively damping the low-frequency coloration of sound in a listening room is provided comprising an acoustic wave sensor, an acoustic wave actuator, and an electronic feedback controller. The listening room defines at least one mode of low-frequency coloration. The acoustic wave actuator is substantially collocated with the acoustic wave sensor within the listening room. The electronic feedback controller is operative to generate a signal at its output by applying a feedback controller transfer function. The feedback controller transfer function comprises a second order differential equation including a first variable representing a predetermined damping ratio and a second variable representing a tuned natural frequency and creates a 90 degree phase lead substantially at the resonant frequencies of at least one mode of low-frequency coloration. The feedback controller output signal represents a rate of change of volume velocity to be produced by the acoustic wave actuator. Further provided are methods for actively damping the low-frequency coloration of sound within a listening room and systems for actively treating noise within a fluid-carrying duct, including those which employ active low- and high-pass acoustic filters.

The present invention relates in general to systems and methods for influencing sound within an enclosure and, more particularly, to a system and method that reduces the bass coloration of sound within a listening room by actively damping low-frequency boom noise, as well as other systems for actively damping noise within fluid-carrying ducts.
The experience of hearing sound in a specially designed listening environment, such as a listening room, concert hall, recording or sound studio, or other like enclosure, is affected almost as much by the dimensions of the enclosure itself as it is by the quality of the source. A properly designed listening environment enables the listener to clearly hear all of the sound or music generated by the source in the precise tone and manner in which it was intended.
A sound source generates waves that travel within the enclosure. Those waves, which travel directly from the source to the listener, are called the "direct sound" and take a few milliseconds to reach the listener. Shortly after the arrival of the direct sound, a series of semi-distinct reflections from various reflecting surfaces (e.g., walls and ceiling) will reach the listener. Moreover, other reflections of lower amplitude reach the listener after the early reflections. These reflections merge into what is called the "reverberant sound." "Reverberant sound" is an issue in the context of fluid-carrying ducts as well, although the primary concern in fluid carrying ducts are acoustical disturbances generated from a fluid source like a pump or fan.
Consequently, there is a need for an improved system for use in reducing reverberant sound or bass coloration within an enclosure such as a listening room, and for a method for achieving such a result. The need also remains for systems that actively treat noise within fluid-carrying ducts.


By providing a uniquely constructed, dual plate, computer engaging and locking member which is quickly and easily inserted into the receiving slot typically formed in a computer, such as a laptop computer, or other valuable product, in combination with an integrated, elongated cable member and padlock, a highly effective computer lock system is attained. One principal component of the locking system of the present invention is the uniquely constructed dual plate, computer engaging member which is easily inserted into a receiving slot when in a first position and securely retained therein when in its second position. In addition, a uniquely constructed combination padlock having a dual locking system is also employed.

This invention relates to locking systems and, more particularly, to fully integrated locking systems constructed for securely locking and affixing computers in a particular location.
Numerous locking constructions have been developed and are widely employed by individuals to prevent unauthorized persons from gaining access to any area which has been closed and locked. Although many locks are constructed to be opened by a key, numerous combination locks have been developed which are opened by knowledge of a particular combination.
One particular type of combination lock that has become very popular due to ease and convenience of use is a combination lock which employs a plurality of rotatable independent dials, each of which forms one of indicia, usually numerals or letters, comprising a combination for releasing a J-shaped shackle which is integrally formed as a component of the lock. However, due to the typical dimensions employed for the lock body and the integrated shackle, only a limited area or small components can be secured, and the lock is incapable of being employed for products which are not able to fit within the dimensional limitations of the shackle. Consequently, this popular lock construction is generally incapable of being used in the field of securing computers, or other valuable products.
One area which has received substantial prior art attention is the ever-increasing need for securely locking and affixing computer equipment to a particular location. Although this need is widespread throughout many different industries, the need is most acute in schools and colleges, where unwanted removal of computers often occurs. Although it has been found that all computer equipment has been subjected to such unwanted pilfering, the problem is most severe with laptop computers, due to their inherent highly portable nature.
As a result, substantial effort has been expended in attempting to create a securement system for computers, particularly laptop computers. In this regard, many computers, particularly laptops, incorporate a slot formed in the body thereof which can be employed with a cooperating locking key or adapter. However, in spite of the substantial effort that has been expended in creating a wide variety of slot engaging adapters, as well as associated locking hardware, these prior art systems have failed to provide a universally applicable, easily used, secure and dependable, fully integrated computer locking system which is capable of satisfying all of the consumer requirements and demands.
Therefore, it is a principal object of the present invention to provide an integrated computer locking system which is easily employed and securely affixes and lockingly retains any desired computer or similar product in any desired location.
Another object to the present invention is to provide an integrated computer locking system having the characteristic features described above which virtually eliminates the ability of unauthorized persons from gaining access to the lock by attempting to pick the lock using known techniques.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an integrated computer locking system having the characteristic features described above which incorporates an easily used, readily engageable locking plate assembly which is constructed for being lockingly secured and retained in the receiving slot of a computer and cooperatingly associated with a cable and combination lock to provide the desired computer securement.
Another object to the present invention is to provide an integrated computer locking system having the characteristic features described above which employs a combination lock construction as a component of this system which provides two separate and independent locking members integrally formed therein, for enabling virtually all types of products and locations to be quickly and easily employed as anchors or securement devices.
Another object in the present invention is to provide an integrated computer locking system having the characteristic features described above wherein the two separate and independent locking members operate using the same combination lock assembly, thereby providing flexibility as well as ease of construction and assembly.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an integrated computer locking system having the characteristic features described above wherein the combination lock component employs visual indicators which are prominently displayed in an easily seen and readily recognized manner.
Other and more specific object will in part the obvious and will in part appear hereinafter.
By employing the present invention, all of the difficulties and drawbacks of prior art lock assemblies have been overcome, and an easily employed and highly effective computer lock system is attained. In the present invention, a uniquely constructed padlock is employed which incorporates an integrated, elongated cable member which is simultaneously securely locked in a closed position with a conventional shackle member. In addition, this present invention incorporates a dual plate, computer engaging and locking member which is able to be quickly and easily inserted into the receiving slot typically formed in a computer, such as a laptop computer, or other valuable product. In this way, the securely mounted and locked engagement of any desired computer or other product is easily attained.
One principal component of the present invention is the use of a uniquely constructed combination padlock having a dual locking system. In this padlock, the housing incorporates a conventional shackle constructed for locked engagement in the housing, while also incorporating an elongated cable member which is securely locked to the housing simultaneously with the shackle. In this way, the single padlock is capable of simultaneously locking two separate and distinct areas or components. The preferred construction of this unique combination padlock is best described in detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,474,116.
The second principal component of the locking system of the present invention is the uniquely constructed dual plate, computer engaging member. In the preferred construction of computer engaging member, a first plate component is axially moveable between two alternate positions within a second plate component which peripherally surrounds, at least partially, and securely holds the first plate component.
In addition, the first plate component comprises a uniquely constructed distal end which is dimensioned for being insertable into the receiving slot of a computer. In the preferred embodiment, the distal end of the first plate component is dimensionally enlarged both in width and thickness compared to its adjacent, intermediate bridging or interconnecting portion. Furthermore, the terminating end portion of the first plate member comprises overall dimensions which enable the end portion to be inserted into the computer slot only when the first plate component is disengaged or extended from the second plate component.
In the preferred embodiment, the dual plate computer engaging member is constructed with the first plate component slidable captured within the second plate component for movement between a first fully engaged position and a second disengaged position, When the first plate component is disengaged from the second plate component, the distal end of the first plate component is insertable into the slot formed in the computer. Preferably, the dimensions employed for constructing the distal end of the first plate component are close but less that the dimensions of the slot. As a result, insertion ease is achieved.
When the first plate component is moved into its engaged position, the distal end portion of the second plate component is aligned with and overlies the distal end of the first plate component. As a result, the overall thickness of dual plate computer engaging member is increased, causing the distal end of the first plate component to be lockingly engaged within the slot, and incapable of being withdrawn.
In order to maintain a dual plate computer engaging member securely affixed and lockingly interconnected to the computer, when in the engaged position, apertures are formed in the proximal ends of first and second plate components. By constructing these apertures to be co-axially aligned with each other when in the engaged position and enabling the cable member to pass through the apertures of these plates, movement of the first plate component relative to the second plate component is prevented. As a result, the dual plate member is retained in its securely locked and fully engaged position with the computer.
By securing the padlock and/or the cable member to a desired fixed location, the desired secure retention of a laptop computer in a precisely desired location is realized. As a result, the present invention provides the precisely desired computer securement with ease, efficiency and dependability.
The invention accordingly comprises the features of construction, combination of elements and arrangement of parts which will be exemplified in the constructions hereinafter set forth, and the scope of the invention will be indicated in the claims.

Locking and securing system for slot bearing products


An exemplary apparatus includes a sensor array configured to sense a gas stream temperature, pressure, and humidity. The sensor array includes a plurality of sensors, each configured to sense at least one of the gas stream conditions. The apparatus further includes an electronic control unit comprising a memory storage device, a condition evaluation module, a display module, and a wireless transmission module. The memory storage device stores a plurality of condition parameters, each condition parameter corresponding to one of the gas stream conditions. The condition evaluation module is configured to determine if one of the sensed conditions violates one of the corresponding parameters, and is further configured to output a warning command in response to the determining. The display module is configured to display information relating to at least one of a sensed condition and a condition parameter. The wireless transmission module is configured to wirelessly transmit data relating to at least one of the warning command and one of the sensed conditions.

The present invention generally relates to gas monitoring devices, and more particularly relates to a wireless gas condition monitoring device.
Gas monitoring devices offer a number of potential benefits for applications in which a gas is delivered from a source to a point of use. Gas monitoring devices provide particular benefits when the gas is a compressed gas, such as compressed air. In such systems, the compressor may begin to fail, or leaks may develop in the delivery system, resulting in unsatisfactory delivery of the compressed gas. Contaminants, such as a compressor-lubricating oil, may also become present in the compressed gas. Gas monitoring devices allow a user to monitor conditions of the gas, and to take appropriate steps to remedy any undesired conditions. Conventional designs often place sensors near a point of use, and transmit the data to a control system via cabling. These approaches suffer from a number of disadvantages and shortcomings, including the fact that in large delivery systems, thousands of feet of the cabling may be required. There is a need for the unique and inventive apparatuses, methods and systems disclosed herein.

Wireless gas condition monitoring device


An apparatus for sequentially and automatically cutting a piece of dimension lumber at a number of predetermined angles to produce a building component, such as a rafter or truss web or chord, with composite or compound angles, is disclosed. The apparatus includes infeed and outfeed tables tiltable about a longitudinal axis and equipped with fences along which a workpiece moves longitudinally via moving devices. Clamps hold the workpiece at different positions relative to a cutting station during a cutting operation. A cutter, which for example includes a circular saw blade, is mounted for a positioning movement about a vertical axis at the cutting station, as well as for vertical movement to cut a workpiece at a predetermined composite or compound angle. The entire lumber cutting process at both ends of the workpiece, including lumber movement on the table past the cutting station, angular cutter and table adjustment, cutter movement, and clamping and unclamping, is under the control of a programmable computer operating in conjunction with appropriate sensors and pulse counters on the equipment.

Most lumber used in the construction industry is known as dimension lumber, which the present invention is intended to use. Dimension lumber has opposite sides parallel, with adjacent sides forming a right angle, and is generally known by the nominal dimensions of the sides, e.g., 2.times.4, 2.times.6, 4.times.8, etc. The longer sides hereinafter are called "faces," and the shorter sides are called "edges." The pieces of dimension lumber to be processed by the present invention are called "workpieces" herein and, after cutting or processing, are called "components," e.g., rafters of several kinds, and webs and chords for trusses.
There are three kinds of rafters with which the present invention is primarily concerned:
1. "regular" rafters: PA1 2. "jack" rafters: PA1 3. "hip" and "valley" rafters: PA1 1. the distance between the outside edges of the double top plate; PA1 2. the vertical distance from the upper face of the top-plate to the ridge line; and PA1 3. the inclined, or slant, distance between the outside edge of the double top plates and the ridge line. PA1 1. FIG. 1C discloses a rafter simply laid upon the double top plate and the ridge beam, without cutting the rafter, except perhaps for a small notch at the upper end where it rests on the ridge beam: PA1 2. FIG. 1B discloses a rafter notched at both upper and lower ends to fit over the ridge beam and the double top plate, respectively. In this case: PA1 3. FIG. 1A discloses a rafter cut at both upper and lower ends to rest against the face of the ridge beam and the upper face of the double top plate, and the lower edge of the rafter intersects the lower edge of the ridge beam and the inner edge of the double top plate. In this case: PA1 1. since jack rafters have at least one end thereof cut at a composite angle, i.e., an angle both to the edges and to the faces, the lengths of opposite faces (and/or edges) thereof are unequal; and PA1 2. hip and valley rafters have at least one end which requires two cuts, both of which are at composite angles (making a compound angle) to the faces and edges, but which are usually at right angles to each other (although not necessarily). Although the lengths on the faces (or edges) may be equal, the length on the measuring line will be different (greater) than both. PA1 1. jack rafters, as disclosed in place in FIG. 2, and especially in FIG. 3, have at least one end thereof which is cut at an angle to both the edges and the faces; this is a "composite" angle; PA1 2. hip rafters, as disclosed in FIG. 2, have at least one end which requires two cuts, both at composite angles to the faces and edges; however, the cut faces usually are at right angles to each other, although they do not have to be; this is a "compound" angle; and PA1 3. valley rafters (not shown in place) have the same form as hip rafters, but are needed where two sloping roofs create a valley, and present the same problems in cutting as a hip rafter. PA1 1. a table having a plane surface normally horizontal, upon which is placed a workpiece movable along its longitudinal axis. The table: PA1 2. means for cutting the workpiece, including: PA1 3. another tiltable table, hereinafter called an "outfeed" or "second" tiltable table, having the same features as the infeed table. PA1 4. means for tipping the workpiece from its edge to its face, or vice versa, before the table is tilted; PA1 5. clamp means for holding the workpiece and the finished component during processing; and PA1 6. retractable extensions on the end of each table next to the work station, so that the workpiece is supported as it moves into and out of the work station. The extensions are retracted during cutting to avoid damage thereto or to the cutting means. PA1 1. the workpiece is placed on the horizontal surface of the first, or tiltable infeed, table, where it comes under control of the computer, and is: PA1 2. the work station includes a cutting means (e.g., a rotary saw with its rotational, or cutting, plane normal to the horizontal), which is: PA1 3. upon completion of the first cut, the cutting means is withdrawn to its initial position; PA1 4. the workpiece is: PA1 5. the cutting means is: PA1 6. upon completion of the second cut, the cutting means is withdrawn to its initial position; PA1 7. the workpiece is: PA1 1. the position and movement of the workpiece, including the starting, stopping, and distance travelled therebetween; PA1 2. the various angles and tilts; PA1 3. the thickness of the cutting means (e.g., saw kerf, water or steam jet, etc.); PA1 4. after operating on these data, it sends appropriate control signals to the various means for moving, clamping, tilting, and adjusting, to obtain a component of predetermined length along its longitudinal axis between the surfaces of the ends thereof, which have simple or predetermined composite angles at one or both ends.
those which intersect their support or supported members, i.e., plates or ridge beams, respectively, at right angles to the faces, but at an angle to the edges thereof; PA2 those which, at one end, intersect at least one of their support or supported members at something other than a right angle to each of the faces and edges of the rafter, requiring a cut at what is called hereinafter a "composite" angle on that end of the rafter; and PA2 those which intersect their support or supported members where two or more come together at an angle, requiring two cuts, called hereinafter "compound" cuts, on that end of the rafter, one or both of which may be composite angles. The angle at which the support or supported members come together is often, but not always, a right angle. PA2 a. the "measuring line" runs along the lower edge of the rafter; and PA2 b. the "ridge line" is at the bottom of the rafter where it meets the adjoining or complementary rafter. PA2 a. the "measuring line" runs parallel to the rafter's lower edge, from the outer upper edge of the double top plates to the center line of the ridge beam above its upper edge; and PA2 b. the "ridge line" is at the intersection of the two rafter measuring lines. PA2 a. the "measuring line" runs parallel to the lower edge of the rafter, from the outer upper edge of the double top plates to the point of intersection of the measuring line with the face of the ridge beam; and PA2 b. the "ridge line" runs down the midpoint of the ridge beam intersecting the projection of the measuring line. PA2 a. includes, on the surface thereof, extending parallel to the longitudinal axis, a barrier or fence against which the workpiece is held as it is being moved and cut; PA2 b. is tiltable from the horizontal along a tilt axis in the surface of the table, parallel to the longitudinal axis, to obtain a first angle of workpiece orientation; and PA2 c. includes means for moving the workpiece lengthwise along its longitudinal axis; PA2 a. means for orienting the cutting means to a second angle with respect to the workpiece, by rotating it about a second or pivot axis, preferably perpendicular to the horizontal and passing through the table tilt axis; and PA2 b. means for moving the cutting means across and through the workpiece, thereby cutting it at a predetermined composite angle composed of the first and second angles. PA2 a. tipped about its longitudinal axis from its face to its edge, or vice versa, to secure the optimum orientation for the subsequent operations; PA2 b. tilted to a first angle to the horizontal, by tilting of the first table about a first, tilt axis parallel to, but displaced from, the longitudinal axis of the workpiece (The outfeed table is also tilted to the same first angle, at this time or during the cutting operation, but prior to the movement of the workpiece to the outfeed table); and PA2 c. moved lengthwise along the longitudinal axis of the workpiece into a work station, and clamped; PA2 a. rotated about a second, pivot axis inclined and preferably perpendicular to the horizontal and passing through the first or tilt axis, to a second angle thereto; and PA2 b. drawn across the workpiece at the second angle, cutting it at a first predetermined composite angle, the resultant angle determined by the first angle and the second angle; PA2 a. moved lengthwise a predetermined distance along its longitudinal axis through the work station to the outfeed table, which is tilted to receive it; PA2 b. clamped; and PA2 c. tilted to a third angle to the horizontal, by tilting of the second table and also, in unison, the first table depending on the length of the workpiece, about the first or tilt axis; PA2 a. rotated about the second or pivot axis to a fourth angle; and PA2 b. drawn across the workpiece at a fourth angle, cutting it at a second predetermined composite angle, determined by the third angle and the fourth angle; PA2 a. moved a second predetermined distance lengthwise along its longitudinal axis to an ejection point; and PA2 b. the second table is tilted clockwise, the collapsible fence is collapsed, the clamp is released, and the workpiece is allowed to slide off the outfeed table to a receiving means.
FIG. 2 illustrates each of these kinds of rafters.
The present invention is also useful in cutting all of the webs and chords for a single truss in one operation. Formerly, an individual component for a number of trusses had to be made up at the same time, to reduce the amount of hand adjustment, and therefore cost, per component. Otherwise, it became very expensive to produce them for a single truss, since adjustments had to be made between the cutting of each different component.
To lay out a roof structure, certain distances must be accurately known:
It will help in understanding the following discussion to refer to FIGS. 1A-C of the drawings herein, which disclose three typical arrangements of rafters and their associated support or supported members, and will help to illustrate the concepts of "measuring line" and "ridge line":
The first structure of FIG. 1C is an older method of construction little used at the present time.
The second and third structures of FIGS. 1B and 1A represent methods of construction which are more widely used at present.
Regular rafters, i.e., those on which the ends are cut at right angles to the faces (or the edges), even though the ends may be cut at something other than a right angle to the edges (or the faces, respectively), do not present a great problem to manufacture, since the length of a given rafter as measured on one face (or edge) is the same as the length measured on the other face (or edge).
However, hip, valley, and jack rafters present a more difficult problem of manufacture:
Present machinery for making cuts to produce composite or compound angles on roof structure components still requires substantial hand labor in the set-up and/or operation of cutting equipment.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,568,739 teaches the use of a gauge mounted on a table-top fence to tilt the lumber so that the saw blade remains vertical when making the compound cut. A disadvantage of this method is that the measuring line of the lumber shifts laterally across the table top and shifts vertically as the gauge length is changed for different roof slopes, causing the reference point for length measurement to change. This shifting makes the gauge method inaccurate for making precision compound or composite angle cuts using a push-feed system.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,545,274 teaches a means of tilting the axis of travel of a saw blade to correspond to the complement of the roof slope, and then angling the saw blade to make the compound cut. Lumber is moved past the cutting station in a sideways manner. A separate cutting station is required for cuts on the other end of the component and, to cut components of differing lengths, one of the cutting stations must be movable in relation to the other, which takes time. Further, the cutting process is not automatic.
There is no known machinery presently available to sequentially and automatically make the cuts necessary to achieve composite and compound angles. Further, there is no known machinery presently available to automatically make the sequential angled cuts to make all of the webs and chords for a single truss without intermittent manual adjustment of machinery during the process.


The encoder includes a scale having a first periodic pattern and a second periodic pattern, a sensor relatively movable with the scale. The sensor outputs in a first detection state a first periodic signal changing with a change period corresponding to the first periodic pattern and outputs in a second detection state a second periodic signal changing with a longer change period corresponding to the second periodic pattern than that of the first periodic signal. A processor calculates a position in a relative movement direction of the scale and sensor by using both the first and second periodic signals. The processor takes in the second periodic signal, the first periodic signal and the second periodic signal in this order at mutually different times, calculates phases of the second, first and second periodic signals at a specific time and calculates the position at the specific time by using the calculated phases.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an encoder that is usable for various apparatuses such as optical apparatuses and outputs, with relative movement of a scale and a sensor, a signal showing position of a movable member provided in the apparatus.
2. Description of the Related Art
Encoders that are used to detect position and speed of a movable member are constituted by a scale provided with a periodic pattern and a sensor outputting a periodic signal that periodically changes corresponding to the periodic pattern with relative movement of the sensor and the scale. Such encoders include an incremental encoder that, for example, produces two periodic signals (two phase signals) having mutually different phases from one periodic pattern and detects a relative position of the scale and the sensor from number of periods and the phases of the two phase signals. Moreover, the encoders also include an absolute encoder that, for example, produces two paired two phase signals from two periodic patterns having mutually different periods and detects an absolute position of the scale or the sensor from a difference (phase difference) between the phases of one of the two paired two phase signals and the phases of the other paired two phase signals.
Such an absolute encoder has an advantage that a reset operation to detect a reference position for position detection before start of the position detection such as at a time of power-on, which is needed for the incremental encoder, is not needed.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2012-026765 discloses an absolute encoder capable of acquiring more information from a small number of scale tracks by forming multiple periodic patterns whose periods are mutually different in one scale track and by switching a detection period of a sensor in chronological order. The absolute encoder disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2012-026765 requires, in order to read the periodic patterns having the mutually different periods in chronological order, switching of the detection period of the sensor according to the period of the periodic pattern to be read.
However, switching of the detection period of the sensor generally needs a sufficient time period though it depends on characteristics of the sensor and a circuit relating thereto. Moreover, since reading of the periodic pattern, that is, detection of a positional change cannot be performed during the switching of the detection period, a large relative positional change amount (high relative movement speed) of the scale and the sensor during the switching of the detection period generates a detection error in a detected position after the switching of the detection period.


In a stereo sound digital recording system in which a plurality of tunes or programs are sequentially and digitally recorded on a magnetic tape, the left and right analog input signals are combined and converted to a digital signal. The analog input signals are also applied to a detector which detects the head of the program or tune and which causes to be generated a start identification sub-code signal which is automatically added to the digital signal, before the modulation thereof, and which is recorded on the tape for about nine seconds in the non-sound portion preceding the tune or program. A second sub-code signal, in the form of a program number signal, may also be added to the digital signal, simultaneously with the program start identification sub-code signal, to provide recorded numbers respectively identifying programs which are sequentially recorded on the tape.

The present invention relates to a magnetic recording/reproducing device typified by the R-DAT system in which an audio analog signal is converted into a digital signal which is recorded on the inclined track-of a magnetic tape by a rotary head and, thereafter, reproduced and converted back into the audio analog signal which is then outputted.
The R-DAT system was recently standardized. Since the audio analog signal is converted into the digital signal to be recorded and reproduced in the R-DAT system. high-degree audio information can be enjoyed for a long period of time. A large number of tunes or programs can be recorded on a single magnetic tape in the R-DAT system. Code signals for the tunes or programs can be additionally recorded on the tape so that a desired tune can be freely selected from among the other tunes.
Each inclined track has a PCM (pulse code modulation) central area P, in which the digitized (pulse-code-modulated) audio signal is recorded, and two sub-code areas (S.sub.1 and S.sub.2) which are located before and behind the PCM area and in which sub-code signals are recorded.
In the standardization, a start identification signal, which is one of the controlling identification signals in the sub-code areas, is required to be 1 for a prescribed time (9 seconds or about 600 tracks) from the beginning or head of the tune or program and to be 0 thereafter in the tune.
In the standardization, a SC2 start flag signal, which is one of the optional code signals (ID-1=00) in the identification recording section (PCM-ID) of the PCM area, is allowed to be 1 for the prescribed time (9 seconds) from the head of the program or tune and be 0 thereafter.
Thereafter, the head of the tune or program can be quickly searched by rapidly winding or rewinding the magnetic tape and locating the tape portion in which the start identification signal or the SC2 start flag signal is 1.
On the other hand, the method of recording the code signals for quick searching-out has not yet been standardized. In the simplest recording, a user listens to a tune to search out the head of the tune and, then, manually records a code signal for the head of the tune. However, this simple recording technique not only is complicated in operation but also has the drawback that it is impossible for the user to leave the recording device during the recording. Therefore, the efficiency of the recording is low.
Also, a program signal (program number signal) corresponding to early program may be recorded as another one of the sub-code signals. In a conventional device, a program head detection signal, which is the start identification signal, and the program number signal are separately recorded. For that reason, the recording operation is further complicated. Sometimes, one of the signals is recorded but the other is not recorded, so that it is difficult to accurately search out a desired program.

Music start signals in a magnetic recording/reproducing device


A CCD sensor has a photosensitive section, a transfer section, and an output section. The photosensitive section is split up into three regions (front, middle, and rear). When it is necessary to output the middle region and it is not necessary to output the front and rear regions, a method may be implemented so that the rear region is not output through the output section. The data from the photosensitive section is transferred to the transfer section in parallel and in synchronization with a shift pulse. The period of a transfer pulse is changed with respect to the shift pulse so that only the data corresponding to the front and middle regions is serially output from the transfer section. New data is then transferred from the photosensitive section to the transfer section in a manner such that the data corresponding to the new front region overlaps with the data corresponding to the first rear region.

The present invention relates to a method of driving a CCD sensor, and more particularly to the changing of a transfer pulse period with respect to a shift pulse period.
A CCD sensor, having a photosensitive section composed of a plurality of photosensitive picture elements, has been recently applied, as a light detecting element for converting optical images into electrical signals, to an image reading device such as an image scanner. In this case, generally all the picture element signals output by the picture elements in the photosensitive section are processed as image data. However, sometimes the picture element region at the middle of the photosensitive picture element array is a necessary picture element region having image data which must be output and the other two picture element regions on both sides of the necessary picture element region are accordingly unnecessary picture element regions having image data which need not be output. In this case, covers for blocking optical paths (namely, optically shielding boards) are provided over the two end portions of the photosensitive section in the CCD sensor, so that the picture element signals output by the two end portions are processed into predetermined signals. This keeps the unnecessary image data from being output.
The optical shielding board, having a shielding range determined with mechanical dimensional accuracy, should guard the necessary picture element region with an optical path nonblocking margin provided on the side of the unnecessary picture element region at its edge which is the border line between the necessary picture element region and the unnecessary picture element region. That is, because of the guard region, the entirety of the unwanted image data cannot be accurately kept from being output using the above-described optical shielding board.
Furthermore, although the effective image data is reduced, the unnecessary picture element regions output picture element signals having a predetermined level, and the total number of picture element signals is maintained as it is. Therefore, the signal processing time is not reduced thus impeding the high speed operation of the CCD sensor.

Method of driving a CCD sensor by changing the transfer pulse period relative to the shift pulse period


An anvil includes a base and projections and. The base is installed at an attachment position on an outer peripheral surface of a rotating drum. The projection protrudes from a front surface of the base in a normal direction H of the rotating drum and is formed in a line shape extending in the cross direction CD along the front surface of the base. On the front surface of the base, one end in the cross direction CD of the projection is provided forward of the other end in a rotation direction R. In the projection, a cut portion is formed to extend in a direction opposite to the protrusion direction of each protrusion. The cut portion extends from the front surface of the projection, protruding from the front surface of the base, to the vicinity of the middle of the projection.

An absorbent article such as a disposable diaper generally includes: a front waistline portion to be fitted to the front waist of a wearer; a back waistline portion to be fitted to the back waist of the wearer; a crotch portion to be fitted to the crotch of the wearer; and leg-surrounding opening portions which open at both sides of the crotch portion. The front waistline portion and the back waistline portion are joined to each other at waist lateral-side portions.
In the steps of manufacturing a disposable diaper, a web is folded into two at the crotch portion by overlapping its first web to form the front waistline portion and its second web to form the back waistline portion with each other, and the web thus folded is joined at the left and right waist lateral-side portions, thereby forming the web into pants-type diapers. Ultrasonic joining using an ultrasonic joining apparatus is employed for the joining of the web at the left and right waist lateral-side portions (for example, Patent Document 1).
The ultrasonic joining apparatus includes: a rotating drum having an anvil formed thereon, the anvil being configured to form a joint pattern by which the front waistline portion and the back waistline portion are joined at the left and right waist lateral-side portions; and an ultrasonic horn configured to generate ultrasonic waves. The ultrasonic joining apparatus joins the first and second webs of the web, which is folded into two at the crotch portion, by pressing the ultrasonic horn intermittently against certain positions of the left and right waist lateral-side portions of the first and second webs while conveying the first and second webs between the rotating drum and the ultrasonic horn in a direction in which manufacturing processes flow.
The anvil includes: a projection being provided on the outer peripheral surface of the rotating drum and protruding in a normal direction of the rotating drum; and multiple protrusions protruding from the projection in the normal direction. When the ultrasonic horn is pressed against the anvil with the web interposed therebetween, the web is melted by being heated from the inside thereof, and is pressed against the protrusions protruding from the projection. As a result, a convexo-concave joint pattern is formed on the web.
Demand for diapers for adults has been growing in recent years. A diaper for adults is larger in size, and thus its manufacturing line is larger than a diaper for children. For example, since a waist lateral-side portion of the diaper for adults is longer than that of the diaper for children, the size of the anvil needs to be accordingly increased in length in a cross direction in a manufacturing line.
Thus, the following problems occur in the conventional ultrasonic joining apparatus. The ultrasonic horn is pressed against the anvil with the web interposed therebetween. Hence, if the anvil is large in size, damages caused by the mutual interference of vibrations generated by the ultrasonic horn are likely to be locally accumulated in the anvil or accumulated in a peripheral member connected to the anvil. This shortens the time to replace the anvil or the peripheral member, and increases manufacturing costs. Moreover, the damages on the anvil result in a reduction in yield rate.

Ultrasonic joining apparatus and absorbent article manufacturing apparatus


In order to suppress the damage and the degradation in durability of a bearing of an expander, simplify the configuration of the expander, and reduce the manufacturing cost thereof, an expander of the present invention includes an expander rotor that is rotationally driven by an expanding force transmitted from vapor of a working medium introduced into an expansion chamber and a first bearing that supports a first rotation shaft of the expander rotor to a vapor inlet, a casing includes therein first bearing chambers that have a pressure lower than that of the vapor inlet and accommodate the first bearing, and a passage that leads lubricant to a low-pressure portion having a pressure lower than that of the first bearing chamber is connected to a position above the lowermost portion of the first bearing in the first bearing chamber.

Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an expander.
Description of the Related Art
A power generation apparatus disclosed in Japanese Patent No. 4684882 includes an expander, a generator, and a cooling medium pump which are disposed in order from the downside toward the upside and are integrated with one another.
The expander includes a rotary scroll that is rotated by the expansion of a vapor cooling medium flowing into a working chamber. The generator includes a motor shaft that is connected to the rotary scroll through a shaft and a rotor that is attached to the motor shaft. In the generator, power is generated by the rotation of the motor shaft and the rotor using the rotational movement of the rotary scroll transmitted through the shaft. A bearing that supports the motor shaft is provided inside a housing of the generator.
A vapor cooling medium including lubricant is introduced into the working chamber. The vapor cooling medium that has been used to rotate the rotary scroll flows to the upper portion of the generator through a discharge gas passage formed in the housing of the generator, and flows into the housing. At this time, the flow velocity of the vapor cooling medium decreases with an increase in the size of the passage, and hence the lubricant is separated from the cooling medium. The separated lubricant falls to the space inside the housing, further flows and falls while being supplied to the bearing or the like, and then is accumulated in an oil reservoir between the housing and the rotary scroll. The lubricant that is accumulated in the oil reservoir is pumped toward the cooling medium pump through a shaft passage formed inside the shaft, is used to lubricate each component, and is discharged to the outside along with a liquid cooling medium while being dissolved in the liquid cooling medium.


A negative electrode for a lithium ion secondary battery including a current collector and a negative electrode active material layer on the current collector, wherein the negative electrode active material layer includes: a first composite particle with a first graphite core particle and a first non-graphite-based carbon material coating a surface thereof; and a second composite particle with a second graphite core particle and a second non-graphite-based carbon material coating a surface thereof, and wherein an average particle diameter of the first composite particles is 5-30 μm; an average particle diameter of the second composite particles is 2-25 μm, and is smaller than the average particle diameter of the first composite particles; the mixing ratio of the first composite particle A and the second composite particle B is 50:50-95:5 in mass ratio; and a density of the negative electrode active material layer is 1.4-1.7 g/cm3.

Lithium ion secondary batteries, since being high in the energy density and excellent in the charge and discharge cycle characteristics, are broadly used as power sources for small-size mobile devices such as cell phones and laptop computers. Further in recent years, in consideration of the environmental problem and in growing concern for the energy saving, there have been raised demands for large-size batteries requiring a high capacity and a long life, in electric cars and hybrid electric cars, power storage fields and the like.
Lithium ion secondary batteries are generally constituted mainly of a negative electrode containing, as a negative electrode active material, a carbon material capable of occluding and releasing lithium ions, a positive electrode containing, as a positive electrode active material, a lithium composite oxide capable of occluding and releasing lithium ions, a separator separating the negative electrode and the positive electrode, and a nonaqueous electrolyte solution in which a lithium salt is dissolved in a nonaqueous solvent.
As carbon materials to be used as the negative electrode active material, amorphous carbon and graphite are used; particularly in the applications requiring a high energy density, graphite is usually used and various types of graphite-based materials are being developed.
For example, Patent Literature 1 discloses, as a negative electrode material for a lithium ion battery, a composite graphite particle having a core material composed of a graphite and a carbonaceous layer present on its surface. Patent Literature 1 describes that the carbonaceous layer is obtained by adhering an organic compound on a core material and heat-treating it at 500° C. or higher; the amount of the carbonaceous layer is 0.05 to 10 parts by mass with respect to 100 parts by mass of the core material; and the composite graphite particle has a BET specific surface area of 0.2 to 30 m2/g. Patent Literature 1 describes that the composite graphite particle has a high acceptability of lithium ions; and use thereof enables providing the lithium ion battery good in the cycle characteristics and the output and input characteristics.
Patent Literature 2 discloses that in a nonaqueous electrolyte secondary battery, a negative electrode containing mixed graphite particles of coated graphite particles coated with an amorphous carbon and non-coated graphite particles coated with no amorphous carbon is used.
Patent Literature 2 describes that the mass of the amorphous carbon in 100 parts by mass of the coated graphite particles is 0.1 to 10 parts by mass, and the specific surface area of the mixed graphite particles of the coated graphite particles and the non-coated graphite particles is 2 to 5 m2/g. Patent Literature 2 describes that use of such mixed graphite particles enables suppressing deposition of lithium during high-rate charge and suppressing the cycle deterioration due to a decrease in the internal resistance of the negative electrode.
Patent Literature 3 discloses a mixed carbon material containing a carbon material A and a carbon material B, wherein both of the carbon material A and the carbon material B are each composed of a core material composed of a graphite powder and a surface carbon substance (at least one of an amorphous carbon and a turbostratic carbon) adhering on or coating a part of its surface. Then Patent Literature 3 describes that the compression density of the carbon material A is 1.80 to 1.90 g/cm3, the compression density of the carbon material B is 1.45 to 1.65 g/cm3, and the compression density of the mixed carbon material is 1.75 to 1.84 g/cm3; and the average particle diameter of the carbon material B is 7 μm or larger and 14 μm or smaller, and is smaller than that of the carbon material A; and the specific surface area of the carbon material A is 4 m2/g or smaller, and the specific surface area of the carbon material B is 6 m2/g or smaller. Patent Literature 3 describes that a lithium ion secondary battery using such a mixed carbon material, while having a high negative electrode density and thereby having a high capacity, achieves a high charging acceptability and additionally has a small irreversible capacity.
Then, Patent Literature 4 describes that when the packing density of a negative electrode is made high by pressing in order to improve the capacity of the negative electrode, since the vicinity of the negative electrode surface is excessively compressed and the size of voids in the surface vicinity becomes smaller than that in the interior, resultantly causing a nonaqueous electrolyte solution to hardly permeate into the negative electrode, the amount of the electrolyte solution held by the negative electrode becomes insufficient, resultantly bringing about the deterioration of the charge and discharge cycle characteristics of a secondary battery. Then Patent Literature 4 describes that in order to solve such a problem, the negative electrode is fabricated by a method comprising a step of applying and thereafter drying a coating containing a fibrous carbonaceous material and a graphitic material on a current collector to thereby form an active material-containing layer having a density of 1.0 to 1.3 g/cm3, and a step of raising the density of the active material-containing layer to 1.3 to 1.6 g/cm3 by pressing. Patent Literature 4 describes that by thus fabricating the negative electrode, since the sizes of voids in the active material-containing layer of the negative electrode can be made uniform, the charge and discharge cycle life of the secondary battery can be improved.
Further Patent Literature 5 discloses a carbonaceous electrode plate for a nonaqueous electrolyte solution secondary battery composed of a carbonaceous molding sheet having a density distribution or a porosity distribution in the sheet thickness direction, and having a higher density or a lower porosity in the interior portion than in the outer surface portion. Patent Literature 5 describes that such a carbonaceous electrode plate is an excellent negative electrode in which the outer surface portion exhibits the performance as the negative electrode and simultaneously functions to cause an electrolyte solution to permeate into the electrode interior; and the interior layer plays a role of doping and de-doping more lithium and also functions as a current collector having a high conductivity.
Further Patent Literature 6 describes that a negative electrode material for a nonaqueous secondary battery contains composite graphite particles (A) made by graphitizing natural graphite and a binder and carbonaceous particles (B); the composite graphite particles (A) have a tap density of 0.5 g/cm3 or higher and 1.5 g/cm3 or lower, a BET specific surface area of 1 m2/g or higher and 10 m2/g or lower, and a particle median diameter of 5 μm or larger and 30 μm or smaller; the carbonaceous particles (B) are one or more selected from the group consisting of natural graphite, artificial graphite, resin-coated graphite and amorphous carbon; the active material density of an electrode fabricated by using such a negative electrode material is 1.8±0.03 g/cm3; and the in-electrode porosity of 7.5% or higher and 30% or lower as obtained by measuring the cross-sectional image of the electrode. Patent Literature 6 describes that use of such a negative electrode material enables providing, even in the case where the density of the active material layer is made high, a nonaqueous secondary battery having a low initial charge and discharge irreversible capacity and a high capacity, and having excellent discharge load characteristics, charging acceptability, cycle characteristics and electrolyte solution permeability.

Negative electrode for lithium ion secondary battery and lithium ion secondary battery


The present invention relates to a method of producing glutathione, wherein photosynthetic membrane vesicles and enzymes catalyzing glutathione synthesis are combined and glutamate, cysteine and glycine are used as reaction substrates. As enzymes catalyzing glutathione synthesis, γ-glutamylcysteine synthetase and glutathione synthetase may be used together, or bifunctional glutathione synthetase may be used alone. According to the conventional methods, there is a problem in that expensive adenosine triphosphate should be continuously supplied when glutathione is produced. However, according to the present invention, since photosynthetic membrane vesicles are used as a source to regenerate adenosine triphosphate, it is possible to continuously produce glutathione without additionally adding adenosine triphosphate, thereby reducing production costs of glutathione.

Glutathione (GSH) is a tripeptide composed of L-glutamate, L-cysteine, and glycine and is synthesized in most eukaryotes and some prokaryotes. Glutathione is biosynthesized by two step enzymatic reactions catalyzed by γ-glutamylcysteine synthetase (GSH-I, EC 188.8.131.52) and glutathione synthetase (GSH-II, EC 18.104.22.168) using L-glutamate, L-cysteine, and glycine as starting materials. Recent studies have revealed a novel biosynthetic pathway mediated by one enzyme in addition to the previously known glutathione synthesis pathway mediated by the two enzymes mentioned above, and it has been found that an enzyme catalyzing the novel biosynthetic pathway is bifunctional glutathione synthetase (bifunctional γ-glutamylcysteine synthetase/glutathione synthetase, GshF) (see Janowiak and Griffith. 2005. J. Biol. Chem. 280: 11829-11839, Vergauwen et al. 2006. J. Biol. Chem. 281: 4380-4394).
Glutathione contains a thiol group having strong reducing power, and it acts in vivo in concert with glutathione peroxidase (GSH peroxidase), glutathione reductase (GSH reductase), and glutathione S-transferase (GSH S-transferase) to perform an antioxidant function. It may be involved in immune stimulation and detoxification of xenobiotics (see Pastore et al. 2003. Clinica Chimica Acta 333: 19-39). In general, it is known that glutathione synthesis genes are essential for survival, and organisms deficient in these genes are less resistant to oxidative stress and various harmful substances. In addition, there is a report that various human diseases are associated with a decrease in glutathione concentration in body (Wu et al. 2004. J. Nutr. 134: 489-492). Accordingly, based on the antioxidant activity of glutathione, glutathione is widely used as an additive in foods, medicines and cosmetics for the purpose of preventing aging and promoting health.
To date, known methods of producing glutathione include organic synthesis methods, enzymatic methods, and fermentative methods. The organic synthesis method refers to a method of chemically synthesizing glutathione, and was developed in 1935 and commercialized in 1950 (Harington and Mead. 1935. Biochem. J. 29: 1602-1611, Li et al. 2004. Appl. Microbiol. Biotechnol. 66: 233-242). Glutathione synthesized by the organic synthesis method is optically inactive (racemic). However, since organisms selectively use only L-glutathione, an additional step of isolating L-glutathione is required to use glutathione synthesized by the organic synthesis method.
As soon as the biosynthetic pathway of glutathione was discovered in the 1950s, attempts to biologically produce glutathione began (Bloch. 1949. J. Biol. Chem. 179: 1245-1254). Among such methods, a method of producing glutathione by fermentation using Escherichia coli or yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Candida sp.) is currently the most commercially used method. In the fermentative method, glucose or molasses is used as a carbon source. Generally, Escherichia coli or yeast are cultured for 20 to 30 hours under fermentation conditions with the carbon source, and then glutathione is extracted. When the fermentation method is used to produce glutathione, various methods may be additionally performed to enhance glutathione production. For example, L-cysteine may be added to medium to enhance a glutathione production rate (Alfafara et al. 1992. Appl. Microbiol. Biotechol. 37: 141-146). In addition, efforts were made to increase glutathione production by overexpressing two genes (GSH-I, GSH-II) responsible for glutathione synthesis in fermentation strains, but no significant increase in glutathione production was observed.
Another way to biologically produce glutathione is to use enzymes. In commonly used biological methods, Escherichia coli or yeast is treated with a surfactant to increase the permeability to substrates, and then L-glutamate, L-cysteine, glycine and adenosine triphosphate are added to the surfactant-treated cells. After subsequent incubation, L-glutathione is produced in cells. As another example, there is a method of producing glutathione using purified γ-glutamylcysteine synthetase and glutathione synthetase, but the method is not widely used. The enzymatic methods are advantageous in that the reaction is selective and yield is higher than that of the fermentative methods. However, in the case of the methods, since the unit price of adenosine triphosphate required for the reaction is high, the enzymatic methods are difficult to commercialize. To overcome this cost problem, it is possible to supply adenosine triphosphate by using an enzyme that regenerates adenosine triphosphate or by using glycolysis that takes place in cells, but the cost problem cannot be completely solved by such methods. Therefore, when a system capable of continuously supplying adenosine triphosphate at low cost is provided, production of glutathione using enzymes is likely be commercialized.
The above described background art has been provided to aid in understanding of the present invention and should not be interpreted as conventional technology known to a person having ordinary skill in the art.

Method of continuously producing glutathione using photosynthetic membrane vesicles


A system and methods to mutually satisfy a consumer with a discount and a vendor with a minimum number of sales by establishing a tipping point associated with an offer for a good or service. If the tipping point is met, the sale of the good or service is executed and the consumer is charged and receives an indication of the discounted sale, such as a certificate. If the tipping point is not met, the discount offer is abandoned and the consumer is not charged. Once the tipping point is established, the vendor receives a payment, even before the consumer uses the certificate. The system and methods also include a reward or loyalty program, an exchange or secondary market for the purchased deals, and a matching algorithm that matches customers to relevant goods or services.

Retailing is the exchange—sale and purchase—of goods and services between a vendor or merchant and a consumer or customer. Typically, negotiation is absent between the vendor and consumer with respect to the terms of a sale or purchase of a good or service. Retailing characteristically employs a vendor-controlled format whereby the vendor determines which goods or services to offer for sale, when the goods or services will be offered for sale, and the non-negotiable fixed price at which the good or service will be sold.
Discounts are an integral part of retail strategies for many goods and services. Vendors rely upon discounts for a variety of reasons, such as to promote new and existing goods and services and to increase the sales of that particular item or service, or to increase the sales of the merchant's other goods and services. Further, consumers rely upon discounts as a way to reduce their costs.
Discount techniques include providing coupons and rebates to potential customers, but these techniques have several disadvantages, such as a historically small percentage of consumer participation and fraud. Since the participation level is so small, merchants are forced to canvass an area to attract the correct demographic of potential customers for its products or services. Most of the coupons or rebates (or the advertisements containing the coupons or rebates) end up with consumers that do not need or want the goods or services.
Further, fraud is an increasing problem in that coupons may be copied, or rebates may be used to obtain cash back for goods and services that the fraudulent consumer never actually purchased.
Coupons and rebates are typically distributed using direct mail, newspaper print, and magazines and have associated with them a low percentage of users of those actually receiving the coupons. Besides not being environmentally friendly due to paper waste, coupons and rebates may not be cost effective.
Further, advertising and marketing associated with coupons and rebates can be expensive when done through radio or television medium, and extremely ineffective when done through print advertisements. Regardless of the advertising medium however, there is very little reason for the consumer to pass along the advertisement or coupon to others, so that a merchant must advertise or market the discount to each individual.
A vendor offers coupons or rebates in the hopes of securing future sales at full retail prices, repeat sales and ultimately an increase in overall sales. Ultimately, vendors cannot offer goods and services at a discount unless the vendor can ensure a minimum number of sales to justify the discount.
Discounting techniques also include pricing curve group discount models, but traditional pricing curve group discount models confuse consumers and leave them feeling like they did not get the best possible deal.
There is currently no system and methods to mutually satisfy the consumer with a discount and the vendor with a minimum number of sales, while at the same time providing the merchant with expense-free advertising and marketing for the goods or services. There is also no system or methods that utilize the strength of a social network to distribute information about the discounts, and create an incentive for the customer to distribute the information about the discount.
There is also no current system that pays the merchant for the sale of the discounted items sold up front, prior to the merchant having to provide the goods or services to the customer that has paid for those goods or services. The present invention satisfies these needs.

System and methods for discount retailing