An error processing system comprising a client/server based PC application supported by SQL Server databases for use with legacy usage metering and billing services. The error processing system provides increased functionality, flexibility and reliability of error processing at a much lower cost than was possible using error processing and correction systems built into legacy usage metering systems. Error processing is simplified for users by implementation of a PC based GUI screens developed in Visual Basic.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to error processing and correction for legacy computer systems and applications. More particularly, the present application relates to error processing and correction for utilities and telecommunications service providers.
2. Background of the Invention
In many commercial settings a service or product provider (also referred to herein as "provider") performs certain services or provides products to its customers on one date and then bills those customers at a later date. Often times, the bills are cumulative of several days, weeks or months, of usage of the services or products offered. Elaborate tracking and billing systems have been developed over time to record the customer's usage and generate bills or invoices for delivery to the customer. Such tracking and billing systems can become very complex in situations where the provider offers multiple lines of services and products, each having different rates or prices, or where the provider offers volume discount rates and prices or other special offers to customers. The tracking and billing operations become even more complex when the provider also serves as an intermediary between the customers and other providers. Tracking and billing operations are commonly performed in utilities-related industries because of the metered nature of the products and services provided to consumers. Such operations are also used in telecommunications services to track the use of and to bill for local and long distance telephone service and associated enhancements (such as, e.g., caller-id, privacy screening, and the like.) Other examples of tracking and billing operations include those used in the home entertainment industry such as cable television satellite television services, particularly those offering pay-per-view services.
Traditional tracking and billing operations, i.e., those developed for highly regulated industries such as utilities and telecommunications, have been very stable systems because they were based on highly customized applications designed to perform a limited tracking or billing function for a particular service or industry. Software applications used in such tracking and billing systems have been very large-scale programs which were designed to operate on mainframe computer systems such as provided by IBM or Amdahl. Because of the high customization and the criticality of such tracking and billing operations, any changes to the software code usually must support all prior functionality. Such established applications are often referred to in the art as "legacy systems" because they have been handed down from one generation of software to the next, generally without major changes that would affect existing capabilities. As a consequence, these legacy systems have been very difficult to upgrade or integrate with other systems as the industry has evolved. To maintain stability and compatibility, the software applications have been strictly controlled so that any changes to the code require much fault-testing and operational verification prior to actual implementation in the live systems.
Conventional billing and tracking architectures typically comprise multiple billing and tracking sites with multiple billing and tracking systems deployed at each site. As discussed above, because many of these billing and tracking systems are legacy systems with little or no integration, changes at one site or in one billing and tracking system may need to be repeated at other sites or in other systems. FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram showing a typical layout for conventional billing and tracking systems for multiple sites. Tracking and billing site 110 has one or more computers systems for collecting usage data and generating billing records. In FIG. 1A, site 110 has computer system 112 for collecting raw usage data from metered systems or services (not shown in FIG. 1A). Raw usage data from computer system 112 is provided to computer 114 for error detection and other data processing before being provided to computer system 116 for final processing of billable usage data which is then sent to a bill generator (not shown in FIG. 1A). As shown in FIG. 1A, other tracking and billing sites 130 and 140 include multiple computer systems providing essentially the same functions as provided by computer systems 112, 114 and 116 at tracking and billing site 110. Computer systems 112, 114 and 116 shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B may comprise a single computer system having one or more non-volatile data storage media.
FIG. 1B shows a more detailed schematic diagram of the computer systems and the functions performed by each system at conventional tracking and billing system 110. Raw usage data received from metered systems (not shown in FIG. 1B) is stored in database 117 on computer system 112. The raw usage data from database 117 is routinely provided to computer system 116 for by error/usage function 118. As used herein, a function comprises the computer hardware and software associated with a general process performed on a computer system. Function 118 passes valid usage records on to computer system 116 for storage in database 120. The usage records stored in database 120 comprise the billable usage records that are subsequently fed to a bill generator system (not shown in FIG. 1B). Function 118 also sends records having usage errors to computer system 116 for storage in database 122. Correction function 123 on computer system 116 analyzes and corrects the records stored in database 122 then sends the corrected records back to computer system 112. The corrected records are stored in database 124 on computer system 112. Computer system 112 sends the corrected records from database 124 to computer system 114 for processing by error/usage function 118 along with the raw usage records from database 117.
Because error correction function 123 is embedded into computer system 116, changes related to error correction processes cannot be rapidly implemented. Any such change would need to be thoroughly tested to ensure no software coding errors or other vulnerabilities have been introduced in the operational system. Even when such a change is successfully implemented at a site, the change is only available at that site. If the billing and tracking function is also carried out at other sites, the changes would have to be duplicated independently at each site. Moreover because each site may have its own unique configuration, the system testing described above would need to be duplicated at each site.
Error processing systems are a critical component of both tracking and billing systems. This is especially true when the tracking or billing operation supports hundreds of thousands, even millions, of customers and when the value of each individual service and product sold is insignificant. In such cases, manually correcting errors in individual discrepancies would be too costly in light of the small revenue associated with the individual item or customer. Accordingly, software applications for automating resolution of errors in tracking or billing records have been incorporated into legacy systems. Because the error processing systems have been imbedded in the legacy system, changes to the application have been subject to the same rigid controls described above.
Prior to deregulation of the utilities and telecommunications industries, there was little need for rapidly implementing changes in the tracking or billing applications to accommodate changes in business goals or operational procedures. In today's competitive environment, service providers must be able implement changes rapidly as the business expands into new territories or otherwise transforms its operations.
Due to the problems/limitations with the legacy error processing systems described above, as well as the need to have an effective system to handle error messages from multiple sources, a new wholesale error processing and correction system is needed.

Method and system for server-based error processing in support of legacy-based usage and billing systems


A method of operating a high speed, error-free data transmission system in a noisy medium comprises compressing data determined to be compressible, forward error correcting the data and interleaving the data in a bit matrix memory to enhance the forward error correction. Digital information packets are formulated including a header bearing a packet number, the total packet byte count, any packet number resend request, the data byte count of the actual data and a CRC. The digital information packet is loaded onto a transmitter carousel having a fixed number of sectors. The receiver receives the data, requests resend of any packet (by number) that is defective, error corrects if necessary and sequentially loads the packet onto a receiver carousel. Packets or sequential packet groups are removed from the carousel, selectively decompressed and the data words extracted and sent to the output.

This invention relates generally to data transmission systems and particularly to a method of operating a high speed data transmission system that is capable of error-free transfer of data in a noisy medium or in one containing other aberrations. The inventive method will be of particular benefit when used in a cellular telephone environment.
The prior art discloses many information transmission systems. A fundamental form is a basic telephone to convey voice frequency electrical signals over a pair of wires. Information that is transmitted over telephone lines is generally less susceptible to noise, phase changes and interruptions, than is information that is sent over a radio frequency link. Dedicated or so-called "leased lines" are telephone lines that essentially bypass the telephone switching network and are even less susceptible to noise. Accurate, high speed transfer of data in such a medium is quite realizable.
The fairly recent cellular telephone service uses radio links to interconnect mobile telephones with other mobile telephones and with conventional telephones via a telephone switching network. Mobile telephone service involves a very hostile environment. It uses frequency modulation of an RF carrier that is susceptible to interference, noise, fading, signal loss and phase shifting. While presently analog voice signals are carried reasonably well, the analog transmission of digital data, which is readily carried out over normal telephone lines, is rendered nearly impossible due to noise and other aberrations, such as those above mentioned, in the cellular telephone medium.
There are two fundamental problems in data transmission: accuracy and speed. Conventional data transmission systems are known wherein data is formulated into blocks or packets and some form of error protection, such as a check sum or a cyclic redundancy code (CRC), is appended to the data for providing a means at the receiver to determine whether the data has been corrupted or impaired during transmission. If an impaired packet is received, the receiver signals the transmitter to retransmit, beginning with the impaired packet.
There are well-known mathematical and physical techniques for compressing data to reduce the necessity of transmitting repetitive bit groupings. In data compression, a "compression table") (or "hash" table as it is colloquially referred to) is constructed of patterns of characters or bit groupings with the various patterns being identified. The pattern identifiers are transmitted rather than the character patterns or bit groupings themselves. These techniques can be shown to improve system throughput by allowing more data to be sent in a shorter time period and are in common usage. In the preferred embodiment, a system of data compression based upon the Lempel-Zev-Welch (LZW) compression technique is utilized. Information on LZW compression may be found in A Method for Construction of Minimum Redundancy Codes by D. A. Huffman, Proceeding of the IRE, 1952 and Pattern Matching in Strings SIAM, by D. E. Knuth, Journal on Computing, June 1977. There are many other treatises on the subject.
The technique known as forward error correction (FEC) is also known for detecting and correcting errors in data. Mathematical models by Huffman and Golay, (and others), for error correcting bit strings are known. In all of the FEC systems, the number of bytes of transmitted information is significantly increased and generally permits the detection of only a limited number of bit errors in a protected bit packet and the correction of a lesser number of bit errors in the protected bit packet. Errors in excess of the correctable number require retransmission. FEC systems have been sparingly used.
In Golay encoding, which is used in the invention, a check word is created to forward error correct a code word. A code word is generally the same as a data word. The term, however, is used herein to differentiate from a data word since, in the embodiment of the invention chosen for purposes of description, a 12 bit code word is equal to one and one-half 8 bit data words. A significant drawback to Golay FEC is that the size of the check word is non-linearly related to the number of bits to be forward error corrected. For example, in a system where three bits are protected, the check word size is equal to the code word size, i.e., the number of bits processed is doubled. Throughput suffers accordingly. FEC encoding in a high speed transmission system, such as one operating at 4800 Baud, is of limited use because it does not significantly decrease the need to resend data that is corrupted. For example, a noise pulse 0.1 seconds in duration will destroy or impair 480 bits. Consequently, such FEC techniques have not found favor in high speed data transmission systems operating over even moderately hostile links. Further information on FEC and Golay encoding may be found in the following: The Theory of Error--Correcting Codes by F. J. MacWilliams and N. J. A. Sloane, Amsterdam: North Holland, 1977; Analog Transmission Performance on the Switched Telecommunications Network by F. P. Duffy and J. W. Thatcher, Jr. Bell System Technical Journal, Volume 50, pgs. 1311-1347, April 1971; and Data Communications, Networks and Systems by T. Bartec, Macmillan Company, 1985.
In a data transmission system, an uncorrectable, defective bit packet received by the receiver requires that a replacement bit packet be sent by the transmitter. In most high speed systems, the transmitter sends a continuous sequence of packets. The receipt of a bad packet, and subsequent notification thereof by the receiver, causes the transmission to be aborted, with the transmitter having to resend the bad packet and all succeeding packets. This type of operation also significantly degrades system throughput.
The present invention is specifically directed to a high speed, error-free method of data transmission in a very noisy environment, such as a cellular telephone link, but is also beneficial in land-based wire line or other transmission systems. The preferred embodiment of the invention is used with a modem that meets CCITT (Consultant Committee on International Telephone and Telegraphy) Specification V.32. The V.32 specification is currently directed to data transmission rates of 9600/4800 Baud. The inventive method is embodied in a protocol that incorporates a number of novel features including adaptive data compression, selective FEC, interleaving to expand FEC effectiveness, error protection and a data carousel for permitting retransmission of defective digital information packets by interspersing them into the normal sequence of packet transmissions. Each of the aspects of the invention is useful apart from its combination in the preferred embodiment of the invention. The preferred method also uses variable packet sizes, where the size of the bit packets is based, in part, on the rate of data input to increase data transmission. An added benefit of the inventive method is that the transmitted digital information is secure because the processing also encrypts the data.

High speed, error-free data transmission system and method


A curtain header assembly is configured to be selectively positioned within an internal cabin of a vehicle. The curtain header assembly includes a main spanning bracket having a first end and a second end that is opposite from the first end. The main spanning bracket connects to a curtain track that retains one or more curtain couplings that are configured to moveably secure a curtain to the main spanning bracket. A first connection arm extends from the first end of the main spanning bracket, and is configured to be removably secured to a first fitting secured to a first fixed structure within the internal cabin. A second connection arm extends from the second end of the main spanning bracket, and is configured to be removably secured to a second fitting secured to a second fixed structure within the internal cabin.

Commercial aircraft typically include an interior cabin that may be divided into numerous sections. A cockpit is generally separated from a passenger cabin, which may include a first class section, a business class section, and a coach section. The passenger cabin may also include one or more work areas for flight personnel, such as galleys, which may include food and beverage storage structures. One or more aisles pass through the passenger cabin and connect each of the passenger sections to one or more paths to one or more doors of the aircraft.
Each passenger section may be separated from an adjacent passenger section by a cabin transition area, which may include one or more monuments, such as walls, work stations, or the like. Curtains may be used to separate sections of an aircraft for a variety of reasons, including class separation, privacy, work areas, and the like. For example, a cabin transition area between a business class section and a coach section may include a curtain assembly within an aisle and curtain assemblies above and behind seat backs on either side of the aisle. A curtain moveably connected to a curtain track that spans over any aisle may be selectively opened and closed. When opened, such as during a boarding process, passengers may pass from one section to another section, such as from the business class section to the coach section. During flight, the curtain may be closed to indicate that passengers are not allowed to pass (or at least discouraged from passing) from the coach section into the business class section.
Known class or section dividers include a moveable curtain positioned within an aisle and lateral curtains extending from the aisle to outboard interior walls within a cabin. The curtain assemblies are typically fixed in position. In particular, a curtain track (to which a curtain is moveably coupled) is typically fixed between two attachment points within the internal cabin. In order to reposition the curtain track, portions of monuments, stowage bins, and/or the like are typically removed to expose fasteners. Aircraft technicians, such as mechanics, then remove the fasteners and mounting structures and secure the assemblies at another position. As can be appreciated, the process of repositioning curtain tracks is time and labor intensive.
However, between or even during flights, aircraft staff may opt to reconfigure the sections onboard an aircraft. For example, between flights, aircraft crew may opt to expand one section onboard a subsequent flight, depending on the number of type of passenger seats for the subsequent flight. Nevertheless, there may insufficient time for aircraft technicians to board the aircraft and move the section dividers, such as the curtains within the aisles.

Systems and methods for adaptively positioning a cross-aisle curtain header assembly within a vehicle


The invention relates to an illumination device (10) for illuminating a surface (101), with at least one lighting element (20) and an illuminating body (30), wherein the lighting element (20) emits an artificial light (21,21), a housing element (40) comprises the lighting element (20) and supports the illuminating body (30), the illuminating body (30) comprises a transparent light conductive material suitable to illuminate the surface (101) lying subjacent. The invention discloses, that the illuminating body (30) comprises a surface pattern (80), forming a Fresnel-type lens to optically magnify the surface (101).

In the U.S. Pat. No. 6,951,403 B2 a device for illuminating a generally flat surface is described, which comprises a battery operated light source contained within a housing to which a transparent light conductive illuminating body is mounted. The device may be placed with the illuminating body over a book or other flat surfaces for illuminated viewing through the transparent illuminating body. The illuminating body is tapered in a wedge shape to deflect the conducted light onto the underlying surface. Unfortunately, the described device is less convenient for reading books, which possess in general a curved reading area. The interaction of the curved reading area with the tapered illuminating body leads to a deformed image of the illuminated page. In addition, the device is a relatively thick wedge shaped light guide where the thickness results in relatively high weight and this reduces ease of use. It also results in a relatively high mechanical stiffness making it very difficult to bend the device over a curved reading area.
Furthermore, there are magnification lenses known, which can be clipped onto the illumination devices described above. Unfortunately, such magnification elements possess a relatively small magnification. Another option to optically magnify a surface is to use a bar magnifier. This bar magnifier is often an acrylic body, possessing a curved top surface and thereby optically magnifying the surface on which the bar magnifier is lying. The disadvantage of such bar magnifier is their weight and the distortion of the image.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.


The present invention is an apparatus for precisely dispensing a desired weight of a particulate material from the outlet of a material hopper. The apparatus is made up of a trap chamber for collecting an initial weight that is less than the desired weight of the particulate material. The trap chamber includes an upper surface with an inlet in communication with the hopper outlet and a lower surface including an outlet. The surface area of the inlet is smaller than the surface area of the trap chamber outlet. The invention also includes a dispensing valve having a closed position covering the trap chamber lower outlet opening and an open position uncovering the trap chamber lower outlet opening. Other components include a flow meter for measuring an initial weight of particulate material comprising most of the desired weight, plus a measured fill weight of particulate material equal to the difference in the desired weight and the initial weight and an actuator in communication with the dispensing valve to open and close the valve. The actuator is responsive to a signal generated by the flow meter.

(1) Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to bulk material feeders. More particularly, the invention is a precision gravimetric feeder for precisely dispensing solid particulate materials.
(2) Description of the Prior Art
Numerous solid particulate materials are packaged in receptacles for sale to the ultimate consumer or downstream processor. A brief exemplary listing of such materials include plastic and metal components and parts; food items, such as cereals, corn meal, rice, spices, soybeans, and a variety of other materials, such as tobacco, plastic pellets, etc. Exemplary receptacles include boxes, containers, pouches, packages, cartons, and bags.
Packages of these products may be labeled according to the number of items contained therein or by the weight of the contents. In practice, these products are packaged by a filling system that places a predetermined volume of the solid particulate material product into package containers. The filled packages are then weighed and subsequent packages are adjusted in volume until the proper weight per package is achieved.
This method of dispensing solid particulate material products is problematic in that it results in packages that are significantly under or over weight. Accordingly, the contents of these packages must be discarded or recycled back into the filling system. The problem is caused by the contents of the packages being placed into the package container before the contents are weighed, thus making it impossible to control particular package weights. What is needed is an apparatus that precisely measures the desired weight of solid particulate material as the material is being packaged.
It has been found that this need can be addressed by dispensing a measured initial weight of particulate material comprising most of the desired weight, plus a measured fill weight of particulate material equal to the difference in the desired weight and the initial weight. A precise fill weight is achieved by discharging the material through a small area opening to limit the quantity of material dispensed during a given time, with a dispensing valve shutting off the flow of fill material when the desired fill weight has passed through the opening.
More specifically, particulate material supplied from a material source such as a hopper is initially captured in a trap chamber positioned below the hopper. The trap chamber has a chamber inlet in communication with the hopper and an outlet in the lower part of the chamber to discharge material from the trap chamber. The chamber inlet is preferably above the chamber outlet, so that particulate material exiting the chamber inlet falls downward through the chamber outlet. Importantly, the area of the chamber inlet is smaller than the chamber outlet, e.g., the area of the inlet is from about 25% to about 75% of the area of the outlet.
An actuator-controlled valve having open and closed positions covers the chamber outlet. A flow meter is positioned to receive and weigh the initial material weight and fill material exiting the trap chamber. When the total weight of material measured reaches a predetermined value, the flow meter instructs the actuator to move the valve to its closed position. The total weight of material measured will be slightly less than the weight of material dispensed, since a small quantity of material will be between the valve and the flow meter at the time the signal is generated. Thus, the measured weight will be equal to the weight actually measured, plus this in-transit weight. Due to the relatively small size of the chamber inlet, the weight of material passing the valve at the time the signal is received is relatively small. Therefore, a high degree of accuracy is possible.
Operation of the present invention begins with the dispensing valve closed. As soon as an initial weight of material collects in the trap chamber, the dispensing valve can be rapidly opened, releasing the initial weight of material to engage the flow meter. The flow meter totals the initial weight of particulate material together with a trickle of particulate material that follows the release of the initial weight. As the particulate material total approaches the desired weight, the flow meter generates a signal that commands the valve actuator to close the dispensing valve, shutting off the trickle of particulate material flowing from the trap chamber outlet. The dispensed weight may be slightly less than the desired weight depending on the geometry of the trap chamber and the speed of the dispensing valve closure.
In particular, the trap chamber is provided to collect an initial weight of particulate material that is less than the desired weight of particulate material. Preferably, the trap chamber is sized to hold an initial weight of material that is less than the desired weight from about 50% to about 90%.
The dispensing valve has a closed position covering the trap chamber outlet and an open position uncovering the trap chamber outlet. Furthermore, a valve actuator is in communication with the valve to open and close the trap chamber outlet. The actuator can be, but is not limited to electromechanical, pneumatic or hydraulic types. The actuator responds to a signal generated by the flow meter. The signal can be an analog signal or a logic signal. In either case, the signal will command the actuator to close the trap chamber valve.
The preferred dispensing valve is made up of a housing having an aperture and a gate member that is adapted for sliding movement through the aperture between a valve-open position and a valve-closed position. The aperture of the gate valve is at least as large as the trap chamber outlet. In the valve-closed position, the gate member extends across the trap chamber outlet to close off the flow of particulate material. Preferably, the valve actuator can slide the gate member from the valve open position to the valve-closed position within at least about 50 milliseconds. Similarly, it is preferred that the actuator slides the gate member from the valve-closed position to the valve open position within at least about 50 milliseconds.
The flow meter can be a solid particle mass flow meter used as a dynamic weighing apparatus for accurately weighing particulate material while the particulate material is in motion. Preferably, the solid mass flow meter used as a part of the present invention can accurately weigh solid mass flow rates between the range of 5 lb/min. and 5000 lb/min. Particularly suitable solid particle mass flow meters are described in earlier U.S. Pat. No. 5,219,031, issued Jun. 15, 1993 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,230,251, issued Jul. 27, 1993, to the present inventor.
Generally, the solid particle mass flow meter is comprised of a curved weigh pan having inlet and outlet ends, and an inwardly curved surface extending between pan ends. The pan is positioned to receive a continuous stream of solid particulate material tangentially at the inlet end, i.e., the material stream is directed substantially perpendicular to the radius of curvature of the pan at the upper end. As a result, the material flows around the curved surface of the pan without impacting the pan, eliminating errors due to the movement of the pan under impact forces.
The pan is mounted on the distal end of an elongated support arm, with the proximal end of the arm being attached to a suitable support at a distance from the pan. To permit pan displacement, the arm is either flexible or is pivotally attaching at its proximal end. When material flows over the inwardly curved pan, an inward centripetal force, and corresponding outward force, is exerted causing the pan to move outwardly. This outward movement, corresponding to the weight, or change in weight, of material moving across the pan is measured by a displacement measurement instrument such as a transducer, which is positioned to measure the displacement of the pan.
Since the outward force exerted against the pan is due entirely to the centripetal force, and is independent of any impact or frictional forces, measurement is highly accurate and can be measured instantaneously. For optimal measurement independent of non-centripetal force factors, the pivot point of the arm is preferably located so that a line extending from the arm to the pan approximately midway between the inlet and outlet ends is perpendicular to the radius of curvature of the pan.
Operation of the invention typically begins with the dispensing valve in the valve-closed position. As material is loaded into the hopper, an initial weight of material collects in the trap chamber as particulate material dribbles through the trap chamber inlet. Once the trap chamber is adequately filled, precise dispensing of the particulate material may begin.
The dispensing process starts upon receipt of a signal that indicates an empty container is ready to be filled. The actuator responds to the signal by moving the valve to its open position, releasing the initial weight of particulate material. The initial weight of solid particulate material falls through the outlet of the trap chamber and is directed onto the solid mass flow meter""s weigh pan tangential to the pan inlet end. The material moving across the pan surface is discharged from the pan outlet end preferably into a packaging receptacle. As soon as the initial weight is released, additional particulate material dribbles through the trap chamber inlet and into the trap chamber. However, the dispensing valve remains in the valve-open position and the trap chamber does not collect the dribble of particulate material. Instead, the dribble of material flows freely through the trap chamber outlet and, like the released initial weight, is directed onto the solid mass flow meter""s weigh pan tangential to the pan inlet end. As the dribble of particulate material continues to flow, the solid mass flow meter measures the difference between the released weight and the desired weight. When the total measured weight of particulate material reaches a predetermined value, the solid mass flow meter generates a signal that commands the dispensing valve to abruptly close, thus gravimetrically dispensing a precise weight. The desired weight equals the predetermined value plus an in-transit amount of particulate material. The present invention is capable of dispensing weights that are within 0.1% of the desired weight. Due to the small surface area of the trap chamber relative to the trap chamber outlet, the flow rate of particle material exiting the trap chamber outlet after the release of the initial weight is significantly less than the average flow rate. As a result, errors involving valve closure speed and repeatability are greatly reduced. For example, a 75% reduction in flow rate after the release of the initial weight, results in a dispensing accuracy increase of ten-fold.


An adjustable time constant control system for a servomotor, determines the optimum adjustable time constant for a servomotor based on a moving amount, load, or the like, for every block of a machining program to reduce the machining time required by the adjustable time constant control system. A determination as to whether a velocity reaches a command velocity (Vt) is made based on the distance to a target moving position (step S1) . If the velocity reaches the command velocity (V.sub.t), the command velocity (V.sub.t), the command velocity (Vt) is used as a velocity (V) (step S2). On the other hand, if the velocity does not reach the command velocity (V.sub.t), a reaching velocity (Vu) is calculated (step S3), and the calculated value is used as a velocity (V) (step S4). Further, the maximum torque (Tmax) corresponding to the velocity (V) is determined from the torque curve (step S5), and an accelerating torque (Ta) is calculated based on the maximum torque (Tmax) (step S6). Furthermore, acceleration (a) is calculated (step S7), and an adjustable time constant (.tau.) is calculated based on the acceleration (a) and the velocity (V) (step S8). The largest one of the adjustable time constants (.tau.) of all drive shafts is determined as an adjustable time constant for each shaft (step S9). Therefore, the optimum adjustable time constant can be determined, to reduce the machining time required by the adjustable time constant control system.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an adjustable time constant control system for a servomotor, which controls operations of movable parts in a machine tool while determining accelerating and decelerating time constants, and in particular, to an adjustable time constant control system, which controls movable parts in a machine tool while determining the optimum adjustable time constant every block,
2. Description of the Related Art
In an adjusting operation of a numerical control unit in the field, an accelerating time constant and decelerating time constant for each servomotor are preset, each servomotors being operable to drive a corresponding one of respective drive shafts or axes, Hereinafter, a term "adjustable time constant" is used, which includes the accelerating and decelerating time constants. The adjustable time constant is greatly influenced by the conditions in which the numerical control unit is operated. This makes it difficult to uniformly determine the adjustable time constant. For this reason, the adjustable time constant is conventionally determined on the basis of judgment in experience, a tentative operation, or the like.
However, if the time constant is determined with a sufficient margin, a cycle time becomes long, conversely, if it is determined to a small value, positioning accuracy is lowered due to generation of vibration, or the like. Therefore, the time constant must be determined to an appropriate value, but it is difficult to find the objective standard of judgment in a short time. For this reason, in controlling movable parts in the machine tool by using an adjustable time constant with a sufficient margin, it is hard to improve an operation speed even if there is a sufficient margin of power in a torque generated by the servomotor.

Adjustable time constant control and method system for a servomotor


A passbook printing machine which executes a transaction by user manipulation with the use of a passbook, and the passbook is returned to the user after transaction data is printed therein. The machine comprises a printer for printing the transaction data in the passbook and a controller which selects either a brief printing mode or an ordinary printing mode. In the brief printing mode, only the latest transaction data is printed in the passbook, and in the ordinary printing mode, not-printed former transaction data is print-out in addition as the latest transaction data. The controller selectively executes one of the printing modes in response to a user's command.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a passbook printing machine by which transactions are automatically executed upon user operation, using a passbook as a transaction medium. In particular, it relates to a passbook printing process wherein the printing time can be shortened to thus reduce the transaction time.
2. Description of the Related Art
Automatic machines provided with a means for printing on a passbook are widely utilized in the banking field. In this operation, the user inserts a card or a passbook into the automatic machine, which then executes an automatic transaction, and after the transaction is completed, the transaction details are printed in the passbook, which is then returned to the user.
In the process of such an automatic transaction, desirably the transaction time is as short as possible.
FIG. 9 is a flow chart of a prior art sequence of a transaction function executed by an automatic machine using a passbook. The sequence is begun by the insertion of the passbook by the user and is ended when the passbook is returned to the user.
First, the passbook is inserted into the machine and a magnetic stripe provided on the passbook is read by the machine to check the passbook data. Various data, such as a branch code, an account number, a validity code, and an identification number are recorded on the magnetic stripe, and therefore, the validity of the passbook and the account number can be checked by reading that data.
When the validity is confirmed by the check, the user then inputs an identification number (secret number), which is compared with the number recorded on the passbook. When the check is positive, the machine determines that there are no obstacles to starting a transaction.
Subsequently, the user inputs a desired transaction amount, which is the final step in the input operation process.
The machine then communicates with a host computer in accordance with the input data, and the host computer identifies the account number, renews the data, determines the permission/rejection of the transaction, and then transmits direction signals. If a transaction permission signal is received, the machine carries out the transaction by, e.g., counting and discharging bills. Then the transaction data is printed in the passbook, and subsequently, the passbook is discharged from of the machine to end the transaction.
In the process of printing the transaction data, former transaction data not printed in the passbook, if any, is transmitted to the automatic machine from the host computer as well as the latest transaction data and both are printed in the passbook.
The amount of not-printed former transaction data is increasing these days since the majority of cash transactions is usually carried out through automatic transfer machines without using a passbook.
Therefore, the printing time is increased when conducting a transaction using the passbook, which is undesirable for a busy person or when other persons are waiting to use the automatic machine.


A crystal forming apparatus and method for using the apparatus, the apparatus including a plate and a film. The plate has a site adapted to hold a screening solution. The film is adjacent to the plate. The film seals the site and is adapted to contain a precipitant solution inside the site with an air gap between the screening solution and the precipitant solution. In a preferred embodiment, the film is transparent. In another preferred embodiment, the plate comprises a second transparent film supported by a lattice structure and the precipitant solution is sandwiched between the two films.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to crystallization chambers and to apparatus and methods for conducting multiple crystal forming experiments.
2. Background of the Invention
There remains a need in the prior art for a fast, reliable, and cost-effective crystallization apparatus that enables a researcher to conduct multiple crystal forming experiments, with minimal set-up effort and small amounts of sample solutions. Small sample size is particularly important in protein crystallization, where the protein is scarce and very expensive, and one kind of protein is used with, for example, two thousand different crystal growing solutions to ascertain which ones promote crystal growth. In the specific context of crystallization apparatus that use multiple-well microplates (see, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,221,410 to Kushner et al., which is incorporated by reference herein), there remains a need for a crystallization apparatus that is fast, reliable, and easily automated, yet can also be used with manual methods. Specifically, there is a need for an apparatus that is compatible with robotic systems that dispense small volumes of sample solutions and detect the presence of very small crystals.
According to a representative embodiment, the present invention is a crystallization apparatus, as well as a method for using the apparatus, that provides a film on which to place sample solutions. In addition to the film, the apparatus can include other components on which complementary solutions can be placed, and which, together with the film, form a plurality of independent crystallization environments or sites. The apparatus and method can be adapted to perform, for example, hanging drop, sitting drop, or sandwich drop vapor diffusion crystallization. As used herein, sandwich drop refers to a drop that contacts an upper and lower surface.
An embodiment of the present invention provides a crystal forming apparatus that includes a plate and a film. The plate has a site adapted to hold a screening solution. The film is adjacent to the plate. The film seals the site and is adapted to contain a precipitant solution inside the site with an air gap between the screening solution and the precipitant solution.
In an aspect of this embodiment, the plate is a microplate and the site is a well of the microplate. A sample of screening solution can be disposed in the well and a sample of precipitant solution can be held by the film and suspended over the sample of screening solution.
In another aspect of this embodiment, the plate is a second film supported by a first support structure. The first film is supported by a second support structure. The second support structure is disposed on top of the second film. The first film is disposed on a side of the second support structure opposite the second film. The second support structure and the first film are adapted to seal the site. The second support structure is, for example, a lattice having a first through-hole, a second through-hole, and a passageway connecting the first through-hole to the second through-hole.
Another embodiment of the present invention provides a method for forming crystals that includes depositing a screening solution into a well of a microplate, depositing a precipitant solution onto a film, and placing the film over the well such that the precipitant solution is suspended over the screening solution.
Another embodiment of the present invention provides a method for forming crystals that includes depositing a screening solution onto a first film, depositing a precipitant solution onto the first film proximate to the screening solution, sealing the screening solution and the precipitant solution within a site between the first film and a second film, and providing, within the site, an air gap between the screening solution and the precipitant solution.

Crystal forming apparatus and method for using same


A hot water circulating system capable of constantly ensuring smooth and effective supply of water from an open tank to a water boiler without causing an air lock phenomenon irrespective of a variation in operating conditions of the system. In the hot water circulating system, a connection pipe is arranged between the open tank and a second communication pipe for interconnecting the water boiler and a radiator so as to directly feed water of a low temperature from the open tank to the second communication pipe. Such construction, even when the supply of water from the open tank to the water boiler is not carried out in synchronism with emptying of water out of the water boiler being heated, to thereby cause a large amount of steam to be produced in the water boiler, permits water introduced from the open tank through the so-arranged connection pipe into the second communication pipe to effectively liquefy the steam introduced into the second communication pipe, resulting in eliminating a trouble that the steam stops the circulation of hot water.

This invention relates to a hot water circulating system, and more particularly to a hot water circulating system which is adapted to forcibly circulate hot water heated in a water boiler by means of a vapor pressure produced in the water boiler without using a circulating pump.
In a coffee syphon which has been widely used to make coffee, when water in a lower pot of the coffee syphon is boiled, a vapor pressure produced in the lower pot causes the water to be forcibly pushed up into an upper pot of the syphon, resulting in only vapor pressure being in the lower pot. When the syphon is decreased in temperature, vapor in the lower pot is liquefied to cause a negative pressure to be produced therein, so that the water forced up to the upper pot is caused to forcibly flow down to the lower pot by suction, during which coffee is made.
The above-described principle of the coffee syphon has been widely utilized in a conventional hot water circulating system, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 33664/1976, Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 53929/1982, Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 2403/1987 and Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 186626/1985. More particularly, the conventional hot water circulating system is so constructed that hot water produced in a water boiler is forcibly fed to a radiator which takes a suitable form such as a fan coil unit, a floor mat or the like by means of a vapor or steam pressure to discharge heat at the radiator and then returned to the water boiler. Unfortunately, in the conventional hot water circulating system, when fresh water is supplied from an open tank to the water boiler after water is emptied out of the water boiler, the supplied water is caused to be immediately boiled to produce a large amount of steam in the water boiler, so that the pressure of the steam hinders the fresh water from being successively fed from the open tank to the water boiler. In order to eliminate such a disadvantage as described above, the assignee proposed a lot of hot water circulating systems, for example, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 15492/1988.
Nevertheless, each of the proposed hot water circulating systems as well as the conventional system described above each is disadvantageous in that even when the timing of opening a valve to feed water from the open tank to the water boiler is deviated in only a small amount, a large amount of steam is caused to be produced in the water boiler as soon as water is supplied from the open tank to the water boiler, leading to an air lock phenomenon which interrupts the circulation of water through the system. For example, when a simple valve such as a check valve is used for this purpose, a small degree of variation in temperature at each section of the system, operating conditions or the like causes the circulating cycle to be suddenly interrupted during the operation of the system.
Also, the conventional hot water circulating system has another disadvantage that water escapes in the form of vapor from the open tank in use of the system because the temperature of the water is increased above an ambient temperature, so that it is required to frequently replenish the open tank with water.


A housing contains a pick-up coil for detecting an external magnetic field; a power supply; a tone generator; and an electric circuit powered by said power supply and arranged to activate said tone generator in response to an output from said magnetic field pick-up including a piezoelectric material surrounded about its circumference by a thin layer of magnetostrictive material. Since the electrical output of the piezoelectric material is dependent on the stress imparted to it by the magnetostrictive material, and since the dimensional change in the magnetostrictive material is proportional to the magnetic field in the environment in which the magnetostrictive material is located, the electrical output of the piezoelectric material provides a measure of magnetic field strength.

This invention relates to antipilferage tags or markers. Such tags are applied to articles of commerce in order to protect them from theft at the point of sale premises. Typically, the tag is a magnetic medium which is deactivated when a shop assistant carries out a routine procedure at the time of effecting a sale. Such deactivation prevents detection of the magnetic tag when it (and the article to which it is attached) pass through a detection system, typically in the form of a walk-through framework which emits an alternating magnetic interrogation field. This field is designed to interact with a tag prior to deactivation and, in substantially all known prior systems, to cause a warning signal to be emitted in the event that detection of a non-deactivated tag occurs.


Provided are an apparatus and a method for encoding a high fidelity video, and an apparatus and a method for decoding a high fidelity video. A video encoding method for encoding first to third planes having different color components includes performing intra prediction in the first plane or inter prediction between each frame for a block of the first plane, and generating a first residue corresponding to a difference between the block of the first plane and the predicted block of the first plane, predicting a block of the second plane using a reconstructed pixel peripheral to the block of the second plane and a reconstructed pixel peripheral to the block of the first plane corresponding to the reconstructed pixel peripheral to the block of the second plane, and generating a second residue corresponding to a difference between the block of the second plane and the predicted block of the second plane, predicting a block of the third plane using a reconstructed pixel peripheral to the block of the third plane and any one of a reconstructed pixel peripheral to the block of the first plane corresponding to the reconstructed pixel peripheral to the block of the third plane and a reconstructed pixel peripheral to the block of the second plane corresponding to the reconstructed pixel peripheral to the block of the third plane, and generating a third residue corresponding to a difference between the block of the third plane and the predicted block of the third plane, and encoding the first to third residues.

Generally, most of video coding algorithms are based on an YCbCr color space signal. However, since most of video acquiring and playing apparatuses are based on RGB signals, an RGB color space signal should be converted to a YCbCr color space for YCbCr video coding, and again the YCbCr color space should be converted to an RGB color space for reproduction. This scheme may not be suitable for a high fidelity video field such as a digital cinema, medical video and digital video archiving because the image quality may be deteriorated by a round-off error prevalent in the course of converting a color space.
As requirements for a high fidelity video coding increase more and more, JPEG-2000 and H.264/AVC may directly support the RGB color space signal as well as the existing YCbCr color space signal. Since the RGB color space has a high correlation between R/G/B colors, it is known as an ineffective color space in terms of video compression. On the other hand, since the YCbCr color space is a space in which the correlation between each color is largely reduced, it is mostly used in the video compression application of a general home appliance field. Since H.264/AVC High 4:4:4 Intra/Predictive profile standardized in 2007 supports a coding scheme independently without using the correlation between R/G/B/planes, it is predicted that a compression rate of a RGB video coding may be improved.

Apparatus and method for encoding and decoding high fidelity video, and computer-readable storage medium


Systems and methods are provided for a fracturing process and in particular, to providing a fracturing system including a fracturing plug configured to seal a wellbore to prevent fluid from passing through the wellbore, a gun configured to generate a perforation cluster, wherein the perforation cluster allows fluid exchange between the wellbore and a subterranean formation, a setting tool configured to initiate setting of the fracturing plug and firing of the gun to generate the perforation cluster, and a sensor configured to measure parameters proximate to the wellbore, wherein the sensor is retrievable after a fracturing process, measuring the parameters proximate to the wellbore with the sensor and transmitting the parameters measured by the sensor to an operator.

Completion of a wellbore through hydraulic fracturing is a complex process. The hydraulic fracturing process includes a number of different variables that can be altered to perform a well completion. Specifically, parameters related to perforation initiation and creation, e.g. through a plug-and-perf technique, can be altered during a hydraulic fracturing process to perform a well completion. Furthermore, parameters related to fracture creation and stabilization can be altered during a hydraulic fracturing process to perform a well completion.
Currently, fracturing jobs are performed by operators that rely heavily on their own knowledge and experience to complete a well. Hydraulic fracturing technologies have developed to provide real time fracturing data to operators performing a fracturing job. However, operators still rely on their own knowledge and experience to interpret this real time fracturing data and perform a well completion. This is problematic as operators are often unable to properly interpret the wealth of real time fracturing data that is gathered and provided to them in order to control a hydraulic fracturing job.
Specifically, as the hydraulic fracturing process is complex and encompasses a number of different variables that can be altered to perform a well completion, it becomes difficult for operators to alter the variables of the hydraulic fracturing process based on real time fracturing data to properly control a hydraulic fracturing job. As a result, operators tend to rely more heavily on their own knowledge and experience instead of real time fracturing data to control a hydraulic fracturing process, often leading to detrimental effects on a well completion job.

Smart fracturing plug with fracturing sensors


In order to avoid a damaging of the guiding table and of the bottom apron guided around it when a lap formation occurs on the bottom delivery roller of a drafting unit, it is known to arrange the table top of the guiding table so that it can be swivelled away. In this known construction, a leaf spring is provided which holds the table top in its swivel position. In order to ensure a secure and precise guiding during the swivel movement of the table top, the new apron table is constructed with a projection which is provided on both sides with opposite surfaces which are positively guided during a swivel movement of the table top in a receiving device developed as a connecting link guide.

This invention relates to an apron table arrangement for a drafting unit, comprising a guiding table which carries at least one bottom apron and which is provided with a table top which can be swivelled away from a bottom delivery roller.
From the German Patent Document DE-AS 23 10 105, an apron table arrangement of the above-mentioned type is known which is provided with a table top which can be swivelled away from the bottom delivery roller. By means of the swivel arrangement of the table top, it is to be achieved that in the case of a lap formation at the bottom delivery roller, damage to the apron table or to the bottom apron and running disturbances are avoided. These occur particularly when a bottom apron arranged close to the bottom delivery roller comes in contact with a lap formed at the bottom delivery roller. In the above-mentioned patent document, it is suggested that the table top is disposed in a socket of a bottom apron bridge in a swivelling manner by means of a projection formed in the area of this boundary edge. A leaf spring which is arranged on the underside of the table top reaches over a longitudinal shoulder of the bottom apron bridge in the manner of a clamp. When a lap is formed at the bottom delivery roller, this lap presses against the bottom apron and thus swivels the table top, which is arranged in a swivelling manner, and the bottom apron guided over it gradually away from the bottom delivery roller. By the force of this leaf spring, the table top which may be swivelled away, is held in an engagement with the bottom apron bridge during its swivel movement. The known arrangement has the particular disadvantage that the swivelling table top during its swivel movement is not guided sufficiently securely. Furthermore, the provided leaf spring requires increased constructional expenditures. Finally, fiber fly can easily catch in the area of the leaf spring.
It is an object of the invention to provide an arrangement of an apron table by means of which the secure guiding of the table top is ensured during its swivel movement.
In order to achieve this object, it is suggested according to the invention that the table top has a projection which is provided on both sides with respective opposite surfaces which are guided during the swivel movement of the table top in a positively locking manner in a receiving device constructed as a connecting link guide.
By means of the development according to the invention, it is achieved that the table top is guided precisely and securely during its swivel movement because of the positively locking guiding of the projection in the receiving device. A detaching or an undesirable shifting of the table top during the swivel movement is excluded as a result of the positively locking guiding. Furthermore, the arrangement according to the invention has the advantage that the table top of the apron able which carries the deflecting edge is swivelled away precisely corresponding to the thickness of the lap at the bottom delivery roller. Thus, the swivelling angle of the table top that can be swivelled away is a function of the respective thickness of the lap forming at the bottom delivery roller.
In a development of the invention, it is suggested that the opposite surfaces and the connecting link guide are configured in such a manner that a moving of the table top out of the receiving device is possible only after a swivelling of the table top. As a result, it is ensured that when a lap formation occurs on the bottom delivery roller, the table top that can be swivelled away is first held securely in the receiving device. Only after a swivelling of the projection about a predetermined angle, will it be easily possible to pull the projection with the table top connected with it out of the receiving device, and thus lift off the whole apron table arrangement. Subsequently, cleaning work can be carried out in an unhindered manner on the bottom delivery roller. The installation of the apron table takes place in the reverse manner in that the projection is introduced again into the corresponding receiving device.
In the case of a further development of the invention, the receiving device has curved guiding surfaces in its end area which are arranged opposite and at a distance from one another and which have a common center of curvature. Thus, this area of the receiving device is constructed with cylindrical surfaces which are arranged at a distance from one another and which have a common center of curvature. During the swivel movement of the table top, the corresponding opposite surfaces of the projection are guided on these guiding surfaces of the receiving device. Thus, the projection is moved along a curvature following the curved path of the guiding surfaces. This has the result that the table top does not carry out a linear movement but a swivel movement as long as the projection is moved along the curved guiding surfaces. So that the table top is swivelled away from the bottom delivery roller, the center of curvature of the guiding surfaces, which at the same time is also the swivelling point of the projection, must be arranged on the side of the projection which faces away from the bottom delivery roller. In order to permit the desired guiding within the guiding surfaces, the opposite surfaces of the projection must be adapted to the contour of the corresponding guiding surfaces. The projection therefore has opposite surfaces which rest against the guiding surfaces of the receiving device. Advantageously, the guiding surfaces are bounded on one side by a stop surface and on the other side by surface lines. At the surface lines, the guiding surface facing the bottom delivery roller changes into a plane guiding surface and the guiding surface facing away from the bottom delivery roller changes into a curved guiding surface. Thus the guiding surfaces on the side which faces the underside of the table top end in surface lines where one of the guiding surfaces leaves the radius of curvature. At this point, both guiding surfaces lose their guiding function for the projection, even though the curvature is continued at the supporting surface facing away from the bottom delivery roller. The guiding surfaces of the receiving devices may be constructed in a very short length. They may possibly be reduced almost to the surface lines themselves.
In an advantageous further development of the invention, it is provided that the course of the stop surface, of the guiding surfaces and of the supporting surface is constructed approximately in the shape of an S.
It is advantageous for the receiving device to be arranged in a holding device which is provided with an essentially horizontally extending supporting surface on which the table top rests with its underside in its operating position. This horizontally extending supporting surface secures the apron table additionally against a movement in the direction of the bottom delivery roller. It also supports the apron table against the pressure forces which act from the weighting arm onto the apron table.
In a further development of the invention, it is provided that the opposite surfaces of the projection are adapted to the corresponding guiding surfaces of the receiving device in such a manner that, in the operating position of the apron table, a front face of the projection rests against the stop surface of the receiving device. So that the apron table and the apron winding around it do not rest on the bottom delivery roller in the operating position, the swivel movement of the apron table in the direction of the bottom delivery roller must be limited. This is achieved by means of the stop surface provided in the receiving device on which the front face of the projection rests in the operating position. In this case, a type of construction is advantageous in which the front face of the projection is completely enclosed by the connection between the two guiding surfaces of the receiving device.
In a further development of the invention, it is provided that the guiding surfaces of the receiving device extend along the whole circumferential length of the opposite surfaces of the projection. As a result, a particularly good and uniform guiding is achieved during the swivel movement of the table top. It is a function of the length of the opposite surfaces which swivel angle results during the swivel movement. For the length of the swivel movement, the central angle which is formed by the circumferential lengths of the opposite surfaces of the projection is decisive, which central angle is specifically measured from the surface lines of the receiving device in the direction of the end of the projection. The opposite surfaces end where the radius of curvature is left. If the opposite surfaces, dimensioned according to the center angle formed by them, have different lengths, the swivel angle is determined by the smallest center angle which is formed by one of the two opposite surfaces. As soon as, during a swivel movement, that point of an opposite surface at which it leaves the radius of curvature exceeds the above-mentioned surface line of the assigned guiding surfaces of the receiving device, both opposite surfaces will no longer rest against the two guiding surfaces of the receiving device. As a rule, the stop can then, possibly after a transverse movement, be pulled out of the receiving device. Advantageously, the center angle of one of the opposite surfaces of the projection formed by the circumferential length is smaller than that of the other opposite surface. As mentioned above, the length of the swivel movement is a function of the shortest of the two opposite surfaces relative to the center angle formed by them. If the apron table is to be produced for a very specific swivelling angle, it is sufficient, when machining the stop, to take into account only one, specifically the shorter of the two opposite surfaces. Since the other opposite surface does not have to be taken in account with respect to its length, the manufacturing expenditures are reduced.
In an advantageous further development of the invention, it is provided that the center of curvature is situated between connecting lines which extend from the center of the bottom apron roller to the deflecting edge of the table top in the operating condition and in the swivelled-up condition. In the operating condition, the connecting line will then be situated between the deflecting edge and the center of the bottom apron roller below the center of curvature. The bottom apron is made of a material which has a certain elasticity and permits a linear expansion. During the operating condition, the bottom apron is tensioned in itself because of its elasticity. As a result of the fact that the swivel point of the projection during the operating condition is situated above the connecting line between the deflecting edge and the center of the bottom apron roller, the apron table is held in its operating position because of the tension of the apron.
Advantageously, the projection can be constructed in one piece with the table top and can be molded onto it. This reduces manufacturing expenditures. In addition to the lower manufacturing expenditures, the further advantage is achieved that unnecessary edges at which fiber fly may collect are avoided. Expediently, the table top and the projection may be made of plastic. It is possible to produce the profile for the table top and the projection in a length of several meters and then cut the table top with the projection in each case in the required length off this longitudinal profile made of plastic. Since, in contrast to the known constructions, additional components, such as leaf springs and screws, are not required, the manufacturing of such an apron table is particularly simple. Naturally, instead of the plastic material, another material may be advantageously used by means of which the manufacturing of the profile is possible in a simple and cost-efficient manner.
It is advantageous, during the operating condition, for an element of the weighting arm to rest with spring pressure against the table top. It is known that during the operating condition the top aprons rest against the bottom aprons, the top aprons being spring elastically disposed in the weighting arm. If the apron table extends in the longitudinal direction of the machine along several drafting units, for example, along the two drafting units of a twin drafting unit, it may be provided that a cage support of the weighting arm presses directly against the apron table between two drafting units.
In a further development of the invention, it is provided that a common table top is provided for several drafting units arranged next to one another in the longitudinal direction of the machine. Since, in the case of such a development of the invention, a separate table top and separately provided holding elements are not provided for each individual spinning unit, the manufacturing expenditures are reduced.
In a further development of the invention, it is provided that at least two holding devices are provided for one table top which are arranged at a distance from one another and which are each equipped with receiving devices for the projections of the table top. It is advantageous in this case for a holding device to be provided at least at each front face of the table top extending along several drafting units. In this case, it is particularly expedient for the spacing of the table tops to correspond to the spacing of the drafting unit system in the longitudinal direction of the machine. Conventionally, two adjacent drafting units respectively are manufactured as so-called twin drafting units, a weighting arm being provided for one twin drafting unit which receives the top rollers for both drafting units of the twin drafting unit. It is therefore particularly expedient for one table top to be provided for each twin drafting unit for the two drafting units belonging to the twin drafting units.
It is advantageous for the holding devices to have an approximately U-shaped design, the receiving devices for the projection being developed on at least one of the legs. In this case, it may advantageously be provided that the respective outer legs reach around the edge faces of the table top, and the inner legs are constructed with receiving devices having guiding surfaces. By the reaching around the edge faces of the table tops, it is achieved that a shifting of the table top, which otherwise is held only by the guiding surfaces of the receiving devices, is prevented in the longitudinal direction. Additional fastening elements for the table top are not required.
It is advantageous for the holding devices to be detachably fastened on a bearing rail extending along several spinning stations. Conventionally, it was customary to arrange the apron tables along a length between two roller stands and to fasten them to the roller stands, for example, screw them on. In the case of a lap formation on one of the bottom delivery rollers between the roller stands, for the elimination of the fault, all drafting units had to be stopped between two roller stands, so that the apron table could be removed and the disturbance could be eliminated. In the case of the further development suggested here, the table top is no longer, as customary, fastened to the roller stands, but on holding devices which, in turn, are fastened on a bearing rail. This bearing rail extends between two roller stands and is advantageously fastened to the bearing carriages for the bottom apron roller. This arrangement permits the arranging of several table tops between two roller stands which are each assigned to individual or to a small group of drafting units, particularly in each case to one twin drafting unit and are each guided in holding devices which, in turn, are detachably fastened on the bearing rail.
In a further development of the invention, it is provided that the holding devices, on the sides facing the bearing rail, have lappings which partially reach around the bearing rail while forming a form closure.

Apron table arrangement for a drafting unit

Spindelfabrik Suessen, Schurr, Stahlecker & Grill GmbH


By providing a shackle holding assembly mounted in controlling engagement with the termination end of the long leg of the shackle, movement of the shackle is controlled and accidental changes to the combination are prevented. Preferably, the shackle holding assembly comprises a rim-bearing holding member mounted to the free end of the elongated leg of the shackle which is engaged with a spring member biased to prevent unwanted axial movement of the shackle. As a result, user force is required to axially move the shackle into the combination re-setting position.

This invention relates to combination locks, and, more particularly, to combination locks constructed to virtually eliminate unwanted changes to the pre-set combination.
Numerous lock 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 its ease and convenience of use is a combination lock which employs a plurality of rotatable independent dials, each of which forms one of the indicia, usually numerals or letters, comprising the combination for releasing the lock. Although locks of this general nature have been available for several decades, these prior art combination lock constructions suffer from common deficiencies which have not been successfully overcome.
Although many manufacturers have attempted to solve the problems associated with rotatable dial or combination locks, these prior art constructions have been unable to produce a construction which substantially eliminates the ability of unauthorized persons discovering the combination for opening the lock. Although numerous attempts have been made in prior art constructions for achieving a system which would eliminate or prevent unauthorized opening or picking of a lock, these prior art constructions have failed to provide the desired results.
Another common problem which has consistently plagued prior art constructions is the cost of construction for producing and assembling prior art combination locks. In order to attain a combination lock which provides all of the features desired by consumers, prior art constructions typically incorporate numerous small components, each of which require expensive assembly procedures to produce the final product. As a result, these prior art lock constructions typically are expensive to produce, thereby reducing the ability of these locks to reach a broad base of consumers.
Another problem commonly found with prior art combination locks is the inability of these prior art constructions to prevent contaminants from reaching the rotatable, internal components of the lock, thereby causing damage to these components or interfering with the ease of operating the lock by an individual knowing the actual combination. Although numerous attempts have been made to reduce the adverse effects caused by contaminants reaching these components, such attempts have been incapable of satisfactorily eliminating this problem.
A further problem, which has consistently annoyed the user and caused the user to incur substantial problems is the ability of many prior art combination locks to enter a combination re-setting mode, without the user""s knowledge. As a result, consumers are often unable to open a lock or cannot use the lock since the desired combination had been altered without their knowledge.
Therefore, it is a principal object of the present invention to provide a combination lock construction 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 a combination lock having the characteristic features described above which employs a minimum of components and is quickly and easily assembled, thereby providing a lock capable of being constructed at a competitive price.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a combination lock construction having the characteristic features described above which effectively seals the rotating components from external contamination and effectively prevents any external contaminants from reaching the rotating components thereof.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a combination lock construction having the characteristic features described above which prevents the combination for the lock from being accidentally changed or altered without the user""s complete knowledge.
Other and more specific objects will in part be obvious and will in part appear hereinafter.
By employing the present invention, all of the difficulties and drawbacks of the prior art constructions are virtually eliminated and an effective, easily produced, combination lock is achieved which is capable of virtually eliminating the ability of unauthorized persons from opening the lock, using known picking techniques, while also preventing the combination from being accidentally changed or altered. Furthermore, the lock construction of the present invention is constructed with the interior chambers thereof virtually sealed from ambient surroundings, thereby preventing unwanted contamination from entering the interior of the lock and the rotating components thereof. In this way, the prior art degradation and interference of the lock operation by contamination is virtually eliminated.
In accordance with the present invention, a minimum number of components are employed in combination with a housing and a movable shackle in order to provide the desired, unique combination lock construction of this invention. In general, in addition to the shackle and housing, only a plurality of rotating dials and a plurality of tumbler sleeves are required to provide the desired locking mechanism. Preferably, in order to assure user security that a locked item remains locked and incapable of access by unauthorized personnel, four dials and tumbler sleeves are employed with the housing.
As is well known in the lock industry, individuals seeking to pick or open a lock without knowledge of the combination use the audible sound produced by the tumbler entering the open chamber when properly aligned therewith. By rotating a dial and listening for the sound produced when the proper position is reached, such trained individuals are capable of determining the requisite position for each tumbler, without knowledge of the actual combination.
In the present invention, the ability of unauthorized persons to determine the actual combination using the sound is thwarted by incorporating in the housing a plurality of false void zones having a construction similar to the actual open chamber or open zone which provides the lock release for each tumbler. By providing a plurality of false void zones as part of the lock construction, the ability of trained individuals to pick the lock is virtually eliminated.
In the preferred construction, the central housing of the combination lock of this invention incorporates an elongated lock release groove or slot which provides the lock release zone for each of the independent rotatable tumbler sleeves. In addition, the housing also incorporates a plurality of non-releasing open zones or slots formed in association with the lock release groove for each rotatable tumbler sleeve. In this way, the desired false click is provided for each rotatable dial in order to thwart unwanted opening of the combination lock of this invention.
In addition, in the preferred construction, all of the rotatable components are mounted in a single elongated bore formed in the housing and a sealing cap is employed to effectively close and seal the elongated bore once the components are mounted therein. As a result, ease of assembly is attained and, once assembly is completed, the elongated bore and the rotational components positioned therein are effectively sealed from external contamination. As a result, dirt, dust, debris, etc., commonly present in the environment, is eliminated from contaminating the working components of the combination lock of this invention. In this way, contamination from environmental sources which has often caused prior art lock assemblies to become defective or injured is effectively overcome.
In addition to these features, the present invention achieves a combination lock using a minimum number of independent components each of which is capable of being quickly assembled into the final product. As a result, a construction is attained which is capable of being manufactured at a competitive price, while providing a high quality, highly effective combination lock which prevents exposure to environmental contamination and also incorporates means for virtually eliminating unauthorized persons from opening the lock without knowledge of the combination.
Another important feature incorporated into the lock of the present invention is the control elements which prevent the pre-determined combination from being changed or altered without the user""s knowledge or control. In order to attain this important and highly desirable control, the combination lock of the present invention incorporates a shackle holding assembly comprising a holding member or a sleeve or bowl which is mounted to the free end of the elongated leg of the shackle, with the sleeve/bowl incorporating a radially extending outer rim.
In addition, spring means are mounted in cooperating relationship with the rim of the sleeve/bowl, with the spring means being maintained under compression between the sleeve/bowl and a bottom surface of the housing of the combination lock.
In the preferred construction, a plug member is employed for forming the cooperating contact surface on which the spring means is maintained. In this way, ease of assembly is attained with a minimum of components being employed.
In typical prior art combination lock assemblies, the combination is changed by axially moving the long leg of the shackle downwardly towards the base or bottom of the lock housing in order to release the tumblers and allow the indicia bearing dials to freely rotate. However, in these prior art constructions, axial movement of the shackle has occurred without the knowledge of the user, with the dials being rotated to a new combination, completely unknown to the user.
By employing the construction provided in the present invention, unwanted axial movement or slippage of the shackle""s long leg is prevented. In the present invention, the spring force is constantly acting upon the rim of the sleeve/bowl which is engaged with the terminating end of the long leg of the shackle. As a result, unwanted axial movement of the shackle is prevented.
Whenever a user wishes to alter the combination of the lock, the user must exert an activation force on the long leg of the shackle in order to axially move the shackle against the spring force. Only by providing an activation force to the shackle is the shackle leg able to move axially downwardly.
Once the shackle leg has been moved downwardly, the indicia bearing wheels are forced to move, thereby allowing this use to change the combination to a new setting. Once completed, the activation force is removed and the spring force causes the sleeve/bowl and shackle to be returned to their original positions. In addition, the spring means and the sleeve/bowl continue to biasingly maintain the shackle in this raised position, providing assurance that the newly set combination cannot be altered or changed accidentally.
The invention accordingly comprises an article of manufacture possessing the features, properties, and the relation of elements which will be exemplified in the article hereinafter described and the scope of the invention will be indicated in the claims.


An adaptor for converting the oil filtering of engines, so equipped, from internal paper-based cartridge type oil filters to automotive type spin-on oil filters is disclosed herein. The adaptor includes a mount which has screw threads at one end to allow mounting to the oil filter cavity housing in the engine. The mount has screw threads at the other end to allow the mounting of a housing as well as the spin-on oil filter. An axial hollow port in the mount allows the flow of filtered, pressurized oil from the spin-on oil filter into the main engine oil galley. The housing attached to the mount provides a sealing surface for the spin-on oil filter to mate against, thus completing the installation. The housing includes ports for the delivery of pressurized, unfiltered oil from the engine oil filter cavity to the intake ports of the spin-on oil filter.

There are internal combustion engines that employ the use of a lubricating oil filtering apparatus that is comprised of an assemblage of parts that include the oil filtering medium (paper or some combination of paper and synthetic filtering media) as a separate oil filter element, housed internally within the engine structure and held in place or sealed by an access plate or cover. In addition to these parts, several associated parts are included to complete the oil filtering system such as an oil pressure bypass valve, gaskets to seal the oil filter assembly to the engine and positional devices within the assembly to properly position the oil filter for efficient and safe operation. When an oil filter element is to be removed and replaced during normal routine lubrication system maintenance, the access plate or cover is removed and the combination of parts described above are removed and disassembled for cleaning and oil filter element replacement. The used oil filter element is discarded and replaced with a clean, new, unused oil filter element. All of the non-replaceable parts of the oil filtering apparatus must be cleaned and inspected as part of the routine oil filter change operation, properly reassembled with the clean, new, unused oil filter element and then this assembly is installed into the oil filter cavity in the engine. This operation is time consuming, messy and provides the opportunity to improperly assemble the parts potentially damaging the engine upon starting following an oil filter change. Improperly assembled parts can also leak oil upon starting and operating the engine causing the potential for engine damage and environmental pollution as well as a safety hazard created by leaking oil on the pavement. Additionally, choices in oil filtering elements, and types of oil filtering media are generally limited to only a few examples from oil filter manufacturing companies and there are few (if any) opportunities to employ modern, highly efficient oil filter media that are offered in other types of oil filters.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a simplified, new and advantageous spin-on oil filter adaptor that allows for much cleaner, easier, simpler and less costly oil filter changes to be made during normal routine lubrication system maintenance. The used spin-on oil filter is unscrewed and dismounted from the adapter and a new, unused spin-on oil filter is threaded into place and tightened.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a new spin-on oil filter adaptor that allows the much wider choice of oil filter products that are available from most automotive and motorcycle parts supply stores.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a new spin-on oil filter adaptor that eliminates the time consuming and complicated disassembly, cleaning and proper reassembly of the stock (or standard) internal paper cartridge based oil filtering apparatus.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a new spin-on oil filter adaptor that provides for the opportunity to utilize modern, sophisticated, efficient and high performance spin-on oil filter designs and products potentially extending oil and oil filter change intervals as well as providing far superior oil filtering performance over existing filtering media found in the stock (or standard) internal paper cartridge based oil filter elements.

Spin-on oil filter adaptor for engines equipped with internal paper cartridge oil filters


A holding and release mechanism for a flexible line or a rigid rod, particularly a bow string release mechanism for use in drawing a bow string back and releasing the same to propel an arrow to the target. The mechanism comprises dual yoke arms slotted to receive a flexible line or rigid rod to which are attached a swinging lever holding member having dual rod-like extensions extending perpendicular thereto. The line or rod is held by the rod-like extensions between the dual slotted yoke arms. The swinging lever is pivotally attached to the slotted yoke arms and is held by a retaining rod at the rearward extension thereof at a detent position. The retaining rod is urged out of the detent position by a trigger which moves the retaining rod rearwardly. The retaining rod is held in the detent position by a coiled spring under tension positioned on the circumference of the retaining rod. The trigger engages said rod and, upon actuation, moves said rod rearwardly out of the detent position thus releasing the swinging, lever holding member.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to holding and release mechanisms, particularly a holding and release mechanism for a bow string.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Quick release mechanisms such as those intended to quickly release an animal leash are known. In U.S. Pat. No. 3,099,250 to Soles, Jr., one end of a quick release mechanism can be held by the dog handler and the other end can be attached to the animal dog collar.
Many bow string quick release devices intended for use in archery and in bow hunting have appeared over the years. Some of the most important and desirable features necessary in such mechanisms have been overlooked. This invention provides a new and reliable releasing mechanism which is compact, light in weight, easy to attach to a flexible line, such as a bow string, or a rigid rod, such as can be attached to a dog collar. The quick release mechanism of the invention can be used in either hand and, when used as a bow string release, allows an arrow to be centered on either side of rod-like bow string holding pins, thus avoiding the disadvantages of the more conventional release mechanisms which require positioning the arrow above the release and holding mechanism.
In U.S. Pat. No. 4,132,215 to Burton and U.S. Pat. No. 4,062,339 to Wilson, there are disclosed bow string holding and release mechanisms in which the holding and release mechanism is positioned directly below the position of the arrow on the bow string. As is well known in the art, arrows are usually fitted with a nock prior to insertion of the arrow on the bow string. The nock fits over the blunt end of the arrow so as to hold it firmly in position and is slotted so as to receive the bow string. A particularly annoying problem, associated with bow string holding and release mechanisms in which the arrow and the nock are positioned directly above the holding and release mechanism, is that the angle of the bow string when drawn tends to put uneven pressure on the slotted area of the nock, sometimes causing breakage of the nock. Generally, this position of the arrow results in resistance to the rearward movement associated with drawing the bow string but, most importantly, this position of the arrow interferes with the accurate trajectory of the arrow upon release of the bow string holding mechanism.
In U.S. Pat. No. 3,749,076 to Suski et al, a bow string holding and release mechanism is described in which the arrow and nock, instead of being positioned above the release mechanism, as described in the above references, is held at the apex of the angle formed by the drawn bow string. This is accomplished by utilizing a nock of special design which is slotted as usual to receive the bow string but is additionally grooved and adapted to fit within a blind bored portion of the holding mechanism which is in turn itself slotted to receive a detent which is adapted to engage the slotted portion of the nock, thus holding it in position.
In U.S. Pat. No. 2,819,707 to Kayfes et al, another mechanism is disclosed for holding an arrow and nock in a bow string holding and releasing mechanism at the apex of the angle formed by the drawn bow string. In this mechanism, the bow string is held on either side of the nock and arrow by two jaws which pivot on mounting pins and are spring biased so as to force the jaws apart. Upon release of a detent mechanism at the opposite end of the jaws, the jaws open.