The invention relates to an electronic circuit arrangement for triggering excitation windings of electromagnetic components, provided with supplementary circuit elements, in particular free-running circuit elements, preferably solenoid valves (MV.sub.1 to MV.sub.n), whereby in order to provide a flexible open-loop control, the components are each connected in series to a controllable contact element (3). To reduce the degree of complexity of the circuit, the manufacturing price and the space requirement, it is proposed that the connecting terminals (1, 4) of this series connection lead directly, and the connections (2) between the components (MV.sub.1 to MV.sub.n) and the contact elements (3) lead via diodes (D.sub.1 to D.sub.n), respectively, to a collecting point (A, B, C), to which collecting points (A, B, C) is linked one and the same supplementary circuit-element configuration (T.sub.F,C.sub.L,10,11) shared by all components. Accordingly, the component parts of the supplementary circuit elements are subject to multiple use; they are available to all of the electromagnetic components.

The invention relates to an electronic circuit arrangement for triggering solenoid valves.
These types of circuit arrangements are used, for example, to trigger the excitation windings of solenoid valves, as find application in particular in the open-loop control of injection systems for combustion engines.
The known electronic circuit arrangements used in injection systems for combustion engines require a relatively complex circuitry to trigger the solenoid valves. On the one hand, this results in a relatively high manufacturing price, while on the other hand, however, the electronic components also require a suitable space.
The JP-A-5 854 611 discloses an electronic circuit arrangement of two excitation windings of an electromagnet, in the case of which the excitation windings are connected in series to a controllable contact element in the form of switching transistors. Both excitation windings of the electromagnet can be connected via a break device to a power supply device. Furthermore, a free-wheeling circuit, which comprises one series connection each of a diode and of a Zener diode, is provided for each excitation winding. From the document DE-A-2 452 077, one knows of a triggering and current-recovery circuit for the printer magnets of a high-speed printer, in the case of which a multitude of excitation windings are connected in series both by means of contact elements as well as by means of diodes to a current source. One connecting terminal each of all excitation windings is connected to a shared line, which is connected in the closed-circuit condition via a contact-break distance of a switching transistor and in the blocked condition via a diode, which is poled in the blocking direction, to a power supply device. The electromagnets are disconnected by switching over the contact elements assigned to each of the excitation windings, whereby the excitation windings are separated from the power supply unit and from a capacitor contained therein. The induction voltage induced in the excitation windings of the electromagnets is fed back into the power supply unit via the diode, which is assigned to each excitation winding and switched for this voltage in the conducting direction.

Electronic circuit arrangement for triggering solenoid valves


An integrated circuit includes a detector configured to monitor a high-drive signal and a low-drive signal that drives a high-side switch and a low-side switch respectively of an integrated circuit switching regulator. The detector monitors both the rising edge and the trailing edge of each of the high-drive and the low-drive signals respectively to determine a timing overlap between the signals and generates a detection signal indicating a dead-time value proportional to the presence or absence of the timing overlap between the signals. An output circuit can be configured to process the detection signal from the detector to enable a correction of the timing overlap between the signals if timing overlap is detected.

Cross-conduction in switching regulators occurs when a high-side switch (connected to the input of a power supply) and low-side switch (connected to ground) are turned on at the same time, thereby creating a short circuit from the input supply to ground. This can lead to large current spikes and voltage transients that can degrade the reliability of the switches and decrease performance of precision circuits. Cross-conduction can be avoided by ensuring that the signal that turns on the high-side switch (HDRV) is not high at the same time as the signal that turns on the low-side switch (LDRV). In other words, a non-overlap or "dead-time" between the HDRV and LDRV signals should be provided by circuit design principles and tolerances. One issue with design tolerances is that to ensure there is no signal overlap, more dead-time may be selected than required, which can result in decreased efficiency of the switching regulator. Automated testing systems can be employed to measure the HDRV and LDRV signals to determine if any overlap exists while testing for a minimum of dead-time to promote efficiency.
There are two instances when cross-conduction can occur because of signal overlap. In one instance, overlap can occur when the LDRV signal is rising high (low-side switch is turning on) and HDRV is falling low (high-side switch is turning off). The other overlap case is when the HDRV signal is rising high and the LDRV is falling low. Unfortunately, for switching regulator integrated circuits (ICs) having integrated switches, the HDRV and LDRV signals are internal to the chip and thus not readily observable by test equipment to ensure that they do not overlap. An obvious solution is to route the drive signals external to the IC for testing but such strategy can increase costs of the IC by adding extra pins and also introduce noise in the system.

Cross-conduction detector for switching regulator


A hand-held 3D ultrasound instrument is disclosed which is used to non-invasively and automatically measure amniotic fluid volume in the uterus requiring a minimum of operator intervention. Using a 2D image-processing algorithm, the instrument gives automatic feedback to the user about where to acquire the 3D image set. The user acquires one or more 3D data sets covering all of the amniotic fluid in the uterus and this data is then processed using an optimized 3D algorithm to output the total amniotic fluid volume corrected for any fetal head brain volume contributions.

Measurement of the amount of Amniotic Fluid (AF) volume is critical for assessing the kidney and lung function of a fetus and also for assessing the placental function of the mother. Amniotic fluid volume is also a key measure to diagnose conditions such as polyhydramnios (too much AF) and oligohydramnios (too little AF). Polyhydramnios and oligohydramnios are diagnosed in about 7-8% of all pregnancies and these conditions are of concern because they may lead to birth defects or to delivery complications. The amniotic fluid volume is also one of the important components of the fetal biophysical profile, a major indicator of fetal well-being.
The currently practiced and accepted method of quantitatively estimating the AF volume is from two-dimensional (2D) ultrasound images. The most commonly used measure is known as the use of the amniotic fluid index (AFI). AFI is the sum of vertical lengths of the largest AF pockets in each of the 4 quadrants. The four quadrants are defined by the umbilicus (the navel) and the linea nigra (the vertical mid-line of the abdomen). The transducer head is placed on the maternal abdomen along the longitudinal axis with the patient in the supine position. This measure was first proposed by Phelan et al (Phelan J P, Smith C V, Broussard P, Small M., "Amniotic fluid volume assessment with the four-quadrant technique at 36-42 weeks' gestation," J Reprod Med Jul; 32(7): 540-2, 1987) and then recorded for a large normal population over time by Moore and Cayle (Moore T R, Cayle J E. "The amniotic fluid index in normal human pregnancy," Am J Obstet Gynecol May; 162(5): 1168-73, 1990).
Even though the AFI measure is routinely used, studies have shown a very poor correlation of the AFI with the true AF volume (Sepulveda W, Flack N J, Fisk N M., "Direct volume measurement at midtrimester amnioinfusion in relation to ultrasonographic indexes of amniotic fluid volume," Am J Obstet Gynecol Apr; 170(4): 1160-3, 1994). The correlation coefficient was found to be as low as 0.55, even for experienced sonographers. The use of vertical diameter only and the use of only one pocket in each quadrant are two reasons why the AFI is not a very good measure of AF Volume (AFV). Some of the other methods that have been used to estimate AF volume include:
Dye dilution technique. This is an invasive method where a dye is injected into the AF during amniocentesis and the final concentration of dye is measured from a sample of AF removed after several minutes. This technique is the accepted gold standard for AF volume measurement; however, it is an invasive and cumbersome method and is not routinely used.
Subjective interpretation from ultrasound images. This technique is obviously dependent on observer experience and has not been found to be very good or consistent at diagnosing oligo- or poly-hydramnios.
Vertical length of the largest single cord-free pocket. This is an earlier variation of the AFI where the diameter of only one pocket is measured to estimate the AF volume.
Two-diameter areas of the largest AF pockets in the four quadrants. This is similar to the AFI; however, in this case, two diameters are measured instead of only one for the largest pocket. This two diameter area has been recently shown to be better than AFI or the single pocket measurement in identifying oligohydramnios (Magann E F, Perry K G Jr, Chauhan S P, Anfanger P J, Whitworth N S, Morrison J C., "The accuracy of ultrasound evaluation of amniotic fluid volume in singleton pregnancies: the effect of operator experience and ultrasound interpretative technique," J Clin Ultrasound, Jun; 25(5):249-53, 1997).
See also: U.S. Pat. No. 6,346,124 to Geiser, et al. (Autonomous Boundary Detection System For Echocardiographic Images). Similarly, the measurement of bladder structures are covered in U.S. Pat. No. 6,213,949 to Ganguly, et al. (System For Estimating Bladder Volume) and U.S. Pat. No. 5,235,985 to McMorrow, et al., (Automatic Bladder Scanning Apparatus). The measurement of fetal head structures is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,605,155 to Chalana, et al., (Ultrasound System For Automatically Measuring Fetal Head Size). The measurement of fetal weight is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,375,616 to Soferman, et al. (Automatic Fetal Weight Determination), Segiv et al. (in Segiv C, Akselrod S, Tepper R., "Application of a semiautomatic boundary detection algorithm for the assessment of amniotic fluid quantity from ultrasound images", Ultrasound Med Biol, May; 25(4): 515-26, 1999), Grover et al. (Grover J, Mentakis E A, Ross M G, "Three-dimensional method for determination of amniotic fluid volume in intrauterine pockets."Obstet Gynecol, Dec; 90(6): 1007-10, 1997). None of the currently used methods for AF volume estimation are ideal. Therefore, there is a need for better, non-invasive, and easier ways to accurately measure amniotic fluid volume.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

3D ultrasound-based instrument for non-invasive measurement of amniotic fluid volume


The present invention relates to processes for removing contaminants from lipophilic fluids, adsorbent materials employed in such processes, and lipophilic fluids produced by such processes.

Lipophilic fluids, such as dry cleaning solvents, may comprise contaminants and often times do comprise contaminants especially after fabric articles have been treated in the dry cleaning processes.
The presence of contaminants in a post-fabric article treatment lipophilic fluid is undesirable for various reasons, especially if re-use of the lipophilic fluid is desirable. One reason is that soils and/or other contaminants removed from the fabric article during the lipophilic fluid treatment could become commingled and/or associated with the contaminants, thus redeposition of the soils and/or other contaminants onto the fabric article or new fabric articles could potentially occur if the lipophilic fluid is reused prior to removing any contaminants.
Accordingly, there is a need for a process for removing and/or reducing contaminants from a lipophilic fluid.

Removal of contaminants from a lipophilic fluid


The present invention is directed to bazedoxifene ascorbate, compositions containing the same, dispersions thereof, preparations thereof, and uses thereof.

Bazedoxifene (1-[4-(2-azepan-1-yl-ethoxy)-benzyl]-2-(4-hydroxy-phenyl)-3-methyl-1H-indol-5-ol; or bazedoxifene free base), having the chemical formula shown below:
belongs to the class of drugs typically referred to as selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs). Consistent with its classification, bazedoxifene and its salts demonstrate affinity for estrogen receptors (ER) but show tissue selective estrogenic effects. For example, bazedoxifene acetate demonstrates little or no stimulation of uterine response in preclinical models of uterine stimulation. Conversely, bazedoxifene acetate demonstrates an estrogen agonist-like effect in preventing bone loss and reducing cholesterol in an ovariectomized rat model of osteopenia. In an MCF-7 cell line (human breast cancer cell line), bazedoxifene acetate behaves as an estrogen antagonist. These data demonstrate that bazedoxifene is estrogenic on bone and cardiovascular lipid parameters and antiestrogenic on uterine and mammary tissue and thus has the potential for treating a number of different disease or disease-like states wherein the estrogen receptor is involved.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,998,402 and 6,479,535 report the preparation of bazedoxifene and salts thereof. The synthetic preparation of bazedoxifene and its salts has also appeared in the general literature. See, for example, Miller et al., J. Med. Chem., 2001, 44, 1654-1657.
Further description of the drug's biological activity has appeared in the general literature as well (e.g. Miller, et al. Drugs of the Future, 2002, 27(2), 117-121).
Because drug formulations showing, for example, improved stability, solubility, and bioavailability are consistently sought, there is an ongoing need for new forms of existing drug molecules. The ascorbic acid salt of bazedoxifene and compositions containing the same described herein helps meet these and other needs.


A receiver is to receive an encoded data block that was encoded using a convolutional encoder and includes source bits and error detection bits. The receiver may include a Viterbi decoder, a de-mapper and an error detection unit. The error detection unit is to determine whether an error correction capability of the Viterbi decoder is sufficient to recover the source bits from the encoded data block. The Viterbi decoder is to decode the encoded data block only if the encoded data block is not free of errors and if the error correction capability of the Viterbi decoder is sufficient to recover the source bits from the encoded data block.

It is common practice to embed error detection code, such as, for example, cyclic redundancy check ("CRC"), into digital data to be transmitted from a communication device, prior to encoding and transmitting the data. After the transmitted data is received by another communication device, it is common practice to decode the received encoded data by, for example, a Viterbi decoder, and to check the decoded data for errors using the error detection code.
It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements shown in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity. Further, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.

System and method for error detection in encoded digital data


Provided herein are methods and materials for the production of hydrophobic coatings, which may be thermally treated to produce binary hydrophobic-hydrophilic regions.

The wettability of a material is dependent on both its physical and chemical characteristics. If a liquid spreads completely across the surface of a material and forms a film, the contact angle, θ, is close to 0 degrees)(°). If the liquid beads on the surface, the surface is considered to be non-wetting. For water, the substrate surface is considered to be hydrophobic if the contact angle is greater than 90°. Certain applications may require a hydrophobic coating with a high contact angle of at least 150°. These coatings may be said to be superhydrophobic.
Surfaces patterned with alternating (binary) hydrophobic-hydrophilic regions offer a template for efficient fluid collection and management technologies. Micro-fluidic channels and wettability micro-patterns produced from various photodegradation techniques of hydrophobic chemistry or plasma chemical approaches provide avenues for producing various forms of hydrophilic micropatterns on hydrophobic surfaces. However, most patterning techniques require the use of masks (e.g., plasma chemical, photodegradation techniques, photo-induced techniques, UV-irradiation) or closed environmental chambers. Masks limit the flexibility in changing the type of pattern during the process, while chambers limit scalability and increase the patterning costs. Finally, in some superhydrophilic patterning techniques, the property is not permanent. Such coatings also require large concentrations of filler particles to attain superhydrophilicity, which may reduce their adhesion and durability as compared with other coating systems.
A non-toxic, environment friendly process for forming surfaces with binary hydrophobic-hydrophilic regions is desired. Compared to other organic-based approaches, advantages of such a process will include inherent thermal stability and scalability to large-area applications.

Method for preparing micro-patterned superhydrophobic/superhydrophilic coatings

THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS


A system and method for pairing an X-ray system with a wireless device is provided. In one embodiment, a method includes generating a unique pairing code with control circuitry that controls the operation of the X-ray system, providing the unique pairing code to the wireless device in the form of a pulse sequence and receiving a wireless signal indicative of the unique pairing code from the wireless device. The wireless device is then paired and enabled for use with the X-ray system.

The subject matter disclosed herein relates to pairing devices with systems via charge pulse sequences.
A number of radiological imaging systems of various designs are known and are presently in use. Such systems are based upon generation of X-rays that are directed toward a subject of interest. The X-rays traverse the subject and impact a film or a digital detector. In medical diagnostic contexts, for example, such systems may be used to visualize internal tissues and diagnose patient ailments. In other contexts, parts, baggage, parcels, and other subjects may be imaged to assess their contents and for other purposes. In general, X-ray systems of the type referred to by the present disclosure may include projection X-ray systems, fluoroscopic systems, X-ray tomosynthesis systems, computed tomography systems, and various mixed or combined-modality systems that utilize X-ray imaging in conjunction with other imaging physics, such as ultrasound, positron emission tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and so forth.
In typical X-ray examination procedures, where possible, a user (e.g., an X-ray technician) is positioned away from the location of exposure, and often behind a shielded barrier to avoid or reduce exposure to radiation. To further reduce radiation exposure to the technician, the technician may utilize a handheld device to initiate exposure from a distance. In some implementations, each X-ray unit has a unique handheld device. That is, each X-ray unit may have a dedicated handheld device that is enabled for use only with that particular X-ray unit. However, in a situation where a handheld device is inadvertently switched with another, there may be an increased chance of accidental X-ray emission by using the wrong handheld device.

System and method for pairing a wireless device with a system through a charge cradle


According to the present invention, even if tracking fails during reproduction of information from an optical disk and a movement is made to an adjoining track, the reliability of data to be transferred is improved and a countermeasure can be taken immediately. An unrecorded area decision unit decides based on the amplitude of a reproduction signal whether a block concerned is a recorded area or an unrecorded area. A track-off detection unit monitors a tracking servo signal, detects occurrence of a tracking failure, and registers a block, which is recognized as an area where the tracking failure has occurred. If the block is an unrecorded area and recognized as an area where a tracking failure has occurred, reproduction is ceased but data signifying that the block is an unrecorded area is not transferred to an upper-level system and retry is performed to achieve reproduction.

(1) Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an information reproducing apparatus and an information reproducing method capable of reading information recorded on an optical disk without an error.
(2) Description of the Related Art
For accurate reproduction of information from an optical disk, not only information on identification of read data but also information on the position (address) thereof should be correct. When user data is recorded in each block on a digital versatile disk (DVD) or Blu-Ray disk (BD), information on the address (position) of the block is also recorded. When data is reproduced from a recorded block, an address (DID) specified in the recorded data is referenced in order to check whether the address of the block is correct. No problem therefore takes place. However, when no data is recorded in a block, an address (DID) is also left unrecorded. The address cannot therefore be referenced. For identifying an address of an unrecorded area on an optical disk, technologies described below are adaptable.
(1) For the DVD±R/RW formats, there is a technology for managing the positions of blocks on an optical disk, which have data left unrecorded, using an unrecorded block management area on the disk. When a disk drive is instructed an address, from which information is reproduced, by a host, the disk drive references management information so as to decide whether the instructed block has data recorded or left unrecorded (refer to, for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. H9-288883).
(2) For the DVD-RAM format, pre-pits that represent an address are formed in an optical disk in advance. When an address reading ability is improved, even the address of an unrecorded block can be correctly read by checking the pre-pits (refer to, for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-297445).
(3) For the DVD±R/RW formats and BD-R/RE formats, address information is recorded by forming a wobbling groove in a disk so that the address of each block can be learned even with data left unrecorded (refer to, for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2001-266486).

Information reproducing apparatus and information reproducing method


A support for a bundle of parallel tubes, comprising at least two spaced apart transverse support plates, wherein each plate is provided with a plurality of openings of substantially rhombical or substantially frustro-rhombical shape, each of which openings having a maximum of two mirror symmetry axes including a characteristic mirror symmetry axis, the openings being large enough to accommodate at least two tubes, wherein openings in different support plates are arranged to form support passages for parallel tubes so that support passages extending through the same opening in one support plate extend through different openings in another support plate, and wherein the characteristic mirror symmetry axes of at least two openings belonging to the same support passage are arranged to extend in different directions.

A major area of application of tube bundles is in shell-and-tube heat exchangers. A shell-and-tube heat exchanger comprises a cylindrical vessel in which a bundle of parallel tubes are arranged extending in longitudinal direction of the vessel.
As is well known, the shell-and-tube heat exchanger is an indirect heat exchanger in which heat is transferred between a fluid passing through the tubes of the tube bundle (the tube side) and a fluid passing through the space outside the tubes (the shell side). Details of the shell-and-tube heat exchangers can for example be found in Perry's Chemical Engineers' Handbook, 6th edition, 1984, McGraw-Hill Inc., page 11-3 to 11-21. The ends of the tubes of the tube bundle are secured to a tube sheet. The heat exchanger can include two tube sheets, one at each end of the cylindrical vessel, or a single tube sheet at one end of the cylindrical vessel in the event the heat exchanger is a U-tube exchanger.
The tubes need to be supported. This can be done by axially spaced apart transverse supports.
It will be understood that the intermediate portions of the tubes have to be supported as well, for example to prevent damage to the tubes due to vibrations caused by the fluid flow. To support the intermediate portions of the tubes, a support can be used including transverse support plates that are spaced apart along the length of the tubes.
A conventional support comprises segmental baffles, and there are several kinds discussed in Perry's. Baffles do not only support the tubes, but also influence the fluid flow through the shell side. Therefore the design of a baffle is as well determined by heat-transfer considerations.
Another type of tube support is formed of rods or bars arranged in lanes between the rows of tubes. A transverse support consists of a support ring that has an outer diameter that is somewhat smaller than the inner diameter of the cylindrical vessel and parallel rods or bars that are secured at their ends to the support ring.
Tubes of a tube bundle are most commonly arranged on an equilateral triangular pitch (wherein the tubes are so arranged that their centres are on the corner points of equilateral triangles). A square pitch (wherein the tubes are so arranged that their centres are on the corner points of squares) is also used, often for mechanical cleaning purposes in removable-bundle exchangers.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,143,709 discloses a support for a bundle of parallel tubes, which support comprises a plurality of transverse support plates spaced apart along the length direction of the tubes to be supported. Each plate is integrally formed from a single sheet wherein a plurality of holes is cut on a regular grid, each of which holes is large enough to accept a plurality of tubes. The holes can be generally rectangular-shaped, generally square-shaped, generally triangular-shaped or generally rhombical (diamond-shaped).
At least one of the support plates of the known support is disposed out of phase or staggered. Tubes extending through the same hole in one support plate extend through different holes in another support plate, so that the cooperating adjacent plates support the tubes from opposite sides against lateral movement.
The generally triangular-shaped or generally diamond-shaped embodiments are adapted to support tubes on a triangular pitch. However, in these embodiments the width of the cross-laths of the supporting grid must be made significantly less than the shortest distance between adjacent tubes, which is not optimal for reasons of mechanical strength.
Applicant has found that tube supports can very advantageously be manufactured using expanded metal, and this is the subject of International Patent Application No. PCT/EP03/01074 in the name of Applicant, which was unpublished at the first filing (priority) date of the present application.
A sheet of expanded metal is made from sheet metal that is slit according to an arrangement of staggered parallel dashed lines, and stretched (expanded) perpendicular to the dashed lines into a structure of cross laths with interstices. Its manufacture is simple and cheap. Moreover the sheets can easily be cut to a desired shape for a particular application, e.g. circular shape, for example by laser cutting.
The openings of expanded metal have substantially rhombical or frustro-rhombical shape. Substantially rhombical shape (the shape of an equilateral parallelogram) is obtained when the slits along a virtual dashed line are much longer than the non-slit parts (so-called bonds) between them. After stretching of the slit sheet metal, the bonds form corner points each connecting four so-called strands of equal length. If the non-slit parts between the slits are relatively long, than a substantially frustro-rhombical shape is obtained. By frustro-rhombical it is meant that two opposite corners of a rhombical shape are cut off along a pair of parallel lines. Known expanded metal is stretched to a maximum of 90 degrees, resulting in approximately square openings, as can for example be obtained from Sorst Streckmetall GmbH, Hannover, Germany.
The strands after stretching of expanded metal are not perfectly straight but often slightly S-shaped; i.e. curved at the connections with the bonds, with a substantially linear central part in between. It will be understood that the V-shape of pairs of adjacent (neighboured) strands in the direction of stretching is somewhat distorted. The stretching angle is suitably defined by the central parts of the strands forming the (distorted) V-shape.
Also, when expanded metal is stretched out, the strands are twisted out of the plane of the sheet metal, unless the sheet is subsequently flattened again. The slight S-shape of the strands and their attachment to the bonds has the consequence that the openings have no more than two mirror symmetry axes, which can be along and perpendicular to the direction of the stretching. This will be discussed in more detail with reference to the drawings.
To account for deviations of the openings in expanded metal from a perfect rhombical or frustro-rhombical shape are, the term 'substantially rhombical or frustro-rhombical shape' is used in the description and in the claims. The term therefore encompasses perfect and imperfect or distorted such shapes.
Applicant has found that the deviations from perfect rhombical or frustro-rhombical shape make it difficult to use expanded metal in a staggered arrangement like in U.S. Pat. No. 4,143,709, since at least two different types of passageways are formed with slightly different cross-section and shape, which is undesirable for optimum tube support.
It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved support for a tube bundle, comprising at least two transverse support plates provided with a plurality of openings, wherein openings in different support plates are arranged to form support passages for parallel tubes so that support passages extending through the same opening in one support plate extend through different openings in another support plate. It is a particular object to provide such a support that provides optimised mechanical stability. It is another particular object of the invention to provide such an improved support that can be made of expanded metal.


A method for symbol synchronization of received digital signal and a digital signal reception apparatus are provided. The method comprises steps of correlating the received digital signal with the received signal delayed by one symbol so as to obtain a first correlation value result as a combined effort of a strongest path and other paths; removing substantially effect of the strongest path from the first correlation result so as to obtain a second correlation result which exhibits contribution of a fastest path; searching a maximum correlation value and its position of the fastest path so as to determine symbol synchronization timing for initiating FFT processing. The digital signal reception apparatus is characterized by a symbol timing detecting unit for determining symbol synchronization timing of the fastest path through substantially removing the effect of a strongest path.

Synchronization is one crucial subject for digital signal receiving system, which includes symbol timing, frequency synchronization and sample clock synchronization in OFDM system. For the symbol timing which determines the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) placement location, the proper selection of this location has a major performance impact on all post FFT algorithms. Therefore, it is desirable to achieve good timing early in the acquisition.
In some current systems, e.g. the Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) system, the received signal generally has frame structure as illustrated in FIG. 1, wherein effective symbols are separated by guard intervals (GI) each of which is a copy of an end portion of the effective symbol. Since there is no pilot can be used before the fast Fourier transform (FFT), the symbol timing will be estimated by the cyclic guard intervals.
Conventionally, the symbol timing determination is to calculate the correlation value of the received signal with the received signal delayed by one symbol, detect the peak of the correlation value, and obtain the timing, which is used as the indication for FFT processing initiation for the received signal.
The conventional estimation algorithm is to search maximum correlation peak, which is corresponding to timing position. The basic principle of these algorithms is shift auto-correlation. Since the cyclic prefix i.e. the guard interval is a copy of an end portion of the effective symbol, their correlation has a big correlation peak value. A conventional method of searching the correlation peak can be represented in the following equation:
                                          n            ɛ                    =                      argmax                                      (                                                Λ                  r                                                                  (                                      n                    r                                    )                                            )                                                                                Λ              r                                                  (                              n                r                            )                                =                                                                ∑                                  n                  =                                      n                    r                                                                                n                    r                                    +                                      N                    g                                    -                  1                                                                          (                                                      r                                          l                      ,                      n                                                        ·                                      r                                          l                      ,                                              n                        +                        N                                                                                )                                                                                    (        1        )
Where, is rl,n is nth received sample of lth symbol, rl,n+N is its N samples delay, nr is starting position of searching, Ng is guard interval length, nε is estimated symbol timing position, and Λr(nr) is likelihood function of received signal at the time nr.
This method is valid under AWGN, ETSI-Rayleigh/Ricean, ETSI-Ricean and some moderately dispersive channel. But in long path channel such as Single Frequency Network (SFN) channel, especially two-path channel whose first arrived path is not the strongest one and the strongest path is far away from the first path, even its channel delay over a guard interval, the conventional estimation algorithm gives a little effort. It only estimates position of average peak or maximum peak, as the result, symbol timing error of the receiver is very big. If the conventional method is used, the first path will be ignored, and Inter-Symbol Interference (ISI) will be generated. Therefore, it is desirable to search the first path in order to avoid ISI and make channel estimation module "see" all Channel Impulse Response (CIR).
There are many studies focus on how to detect the fastest timing in order to achieve good timing as earlier as possible. The synchronization in strong SFN channel can be achieved by using a double correlation method which will find the middle point of the impulse response of channel. As the result, the first useful path is still discarded. If the distance of two path reaches guard interval or even larger, the error will be larger. Moreover the double correlation method needs more memory resource than the single correlation.
EP patent application EP1005204 discloses a symbol synchronization error reduction method aiming to solve the above mentioned problem by selecting a fastest timing among timings detected in a timing detection step during a predetermined time. With reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, in one embodiment of this invention, a digital signal reception apparatus with a fastest timing detection section is provided. FIG. 2 shows a part of the configuration of the digital signal reception apparatus, wherein the received signal is converted into the digital signal in A/D converter 101, and then delayed by one symbol in delayer 102, a multiplier 103 calculates the correlation value of the received signal with the one-symbol-delayed received signal, an integrator 104 integrates the calculated correlation value, a subtracter 105 and a decider 106 executes a decision to detect the peak of the correlation value for each frame of the received signal. With respect to the peaks of the correlation values output from the decider 106, a fastest timing detection section 107 compares the peaks for each of a plurality of received frames and output the fastest symbol synchronization timing as the FFT processing initiating timing. FIG. 3 shows a part of conventional configuration of the fastest timing detection section 107, wherein a counter 201 suspends counting operation at the peak detected timing for each frame of the received signal, a switch 202 switches the counted numerical value for each frame to output to respective memory 203, and a comparator calculates the stored numerical value and output the least numerical value as the fastest symbol synchronization timing.
As described above, this invention aims to provide a digital signal reception apparatus which improves the accuracy for the symbol synchronization acquisition and reduces the error possibility under multipath environment. However, it's still methodologically complicated, so that the memory resource needs for the computation is high.
Therefore, it is desirable to develop an improved method for symbol synchronization of the digital signal reception, which overcomes drawbacks of the prior arts.

Method for symbol synchronization of received digital signal and digital signal receiver using the same method


An improved minnow container that is adapted to carry water and oxygen therein when in an upright position is disclosed. The container comprises a water receiving and retaining chamber that is substantially open at its bottom end and has a first opening in the top thereof and an oxygen receiving and retaining chamber that is substantially open at its bottom end and is sealed above the open bottom end so as to preclude the escape of oxygen therefrom when the container is in its upright position. A barrier means physically separates the oxygen receiving and retaining chamber and the water receiving and retaining chamber so as to preclude the passage of fluid between the water receiving and retaining chamber and the oxygen receiving and retaining chamber. The barrier means terminates at a lower boundary in a passageway that is generally below the barrier means. The passageway connects the water receiving and retaining chamber in fluid communication with the oxygen receiving and retaining chamber. When the container is in use in its upright position, the oxygen receiving and retaining chamber contains oxygen, the passageway contains water, and the water receiving and retaining chamber contains water above the level of the passageway, and the oxygen is precluded from exiting the oxygen receiving and retaining chamber. The container is adapted to pass oxygen from the oxygen receiving and retaining chamber through the passageway and into the water receiving and retaining chamber, and concurrently to pass water from the water receiving and retaining chamber through the passageway and into the oxygen receiving and retaining chamber, when the container is rotated from its upright position to a fully rotated position, whereat the oxygen receiving and retaining chamber is substantially filled with water, which is held therein by ambient air pressure in the water receiving and retaining chamber. Oxygen is then added into the oxygen receiving and retaining chamber.

Sport fishing is a very popular sport enjoyed by many millions of people. Typically, often as dictated by local laws, sport fishing involves the use of a device such as a fishing rod with a hook on the end of a fishing line as opposed to a large net that might be used in commercial fishing. In order to lure fish to the hook, either live bait, such as minnows or worms, is used, or alternatively artificial bait, such as a colourful metal and/or plastic lure is used. Many fisherman consider live bait to be superior over lures in attracting fish, especially in certain circumstances or for attracting particular fish. The main reasons for this is that the live bait moves within the water and is therefore more readily noticed by the fish, and moreover that the live bait being used is typically a natural food for fish.
The problem with live bait, however, is that it needs to be kept in a suitable environment in order survive, from the time of purchase until it is used on the fishing hook. In the case of minnows, the minnows must be kept in sufficiently oxygenated water for a period of perhaps several hours. Typically, minnows are purchased at a fishing supply outlet and must be transported to the fishing site, which may be several hours drive away. Further, the minnows must remain alive while at the fishing site, which could also cover a time period of several hours.
Presently, the most common form of receiving live minnows, if the minnows are to be transported a long distance, is a suitable plastic bag tied-off at the top and partially filled with water. At a large number of fishing supply outlets, a supply of oxygen (O.sub.2) in the form of a cylinder with compressed O.sub.2 therein, is pumped into the plastic bag in order to create a volume of gaseous oxygen above the water, thus providing a free oxygen supply for the minnows. The closed plastic bag is intended to preclude the oxygen from escaping. Once the oxygen that is dissolved in the water starts to run out, the minnows by instinct go to the surface of the water and start to gulp from the free oxygen supply in order to ingest the needed oxygen. Overall, it has been found that this above described manner allows minnows to live for many hours, depending on the number of minnows per given volume of water and so on. Unfortunately, as soon as the bag is unsealed and opened to the atmosphere, the free oxygen supply is no longer available to the minnows. The minnows must then rely on whatever oxygen must remain in the water or on a fresh supply of water.
What is needed is a way to keep a supply of oxygen available to the minnows without having to carry around a supplementary supply of compressed oxygen.
It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved minnow container that makes available a source of oxygen (O.sub.2) to live minnows in water within the container.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a separate chamber member that allows an existing bucket, cooler, or other suitable carrying apparatus to be adapted into an improved minnow container that makes available a source of oxygen (O.sub.2) to live minnows in water within the container.


A surgical assembly according to an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure includes, among other things, a housing, a first arm extending outside the housing and a linkage assembly housed by the housing and connected to the first arm. Movement of the linkage assembly inside the housing is linked to movement of the first arm outside of the housing.

This disclosure relates to orthopedic surgical instrumentation, and more particularly to a surgical impactor/extractor assembly and method of use for installing and/or removing a prosthetic device, such as a femoral implant or trial.
Total or partial knee arthroplasty has been performed for many years to treat patients with diseased knee joints. Numerous cuts (i.e., resections) must be made in the femur to prepare the femur for receiving a prosthetic device. Surgical tools may be necessary for installing and/or removing prosthetic devices. Although impactor/extractor tools are known, additional advances in this field of technology are desired.

Surgical impactor/extractor assembly and method of use


An attachment device for quickly and conveniently attaching a downrigger release mechanism to an associated downrigger cable. The device includes a generally one-piece body which defines an internal cavity for receiving the downrigger cable. An arcuate access slot is defined by the body and communicates with the internal cavity. This arrangement permits the downrigger cable to be flexed and inserted laterally into the internal cavity, with relaxation of the downrigger cable thereafter retaining the cable within the cavity.

Downrigger systems are used for many different types of fishing. Ordinarily, such arrangements include a spool and boom-like arm for dispensing a downrigger line or cable from a boat, with an associated fishing line releasably secured to the downrigger cable. A spring-loaded release mechanism attached to the downrigger cable is typically employed for this purpose, with the release mechanism releasably receiving the fishing line. The release mechanism is positioned on the downrigger cable so that the lure or bait on the fishing line is drawn behind the boat at the desired depth. When a fish strikes, the fishing line is pulled from the release mechanism, whereafter the fisherman uses the rod and reel which carries the fishing line to boat the catch.
One spring-loaded release mechanism that has been quite commercially successful is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,925,920, which patent is incorporated herein by reference.
The present invention contemplates an arrangement to facilitate convenient attachment of a release mechanism to an associated downrigger cable or line. The invention facilitates such attachment without raising the downrigger cable, and permits a plurality of release mechanisms to be secured to the same cable.

Attachment device for downrigger release mechanism


Methods and systems are described for selecting a resource based on a measure of a processing cost. Resource information is received identifying a first resource and a second resource for processing by a program component. One or more of a first measure of a specified processing cost for the processing of the first resource and a second measure of the processing cost for the processing of the second resource is determined. One of the first resource and the second resource is selected based on at least one of the first measure and the second measure. The selected one of the first resource and the second resource is identified to the program component for processing.

Many personalization options on computing devices consume energy not required to perform computing tasks. For example, a primary purpose of a desktop background is esthetic. Mouse pointer effects, window effects, document previews, and many other examples exist. Currently, a user can configure a device to automatically turn such features on or off based on whether the device is plugged into an electrical outlet or drawing energy from a battery. Other features, such as the brightness of a display, can be adjusted based on whether a device is plugged in or not. These configuration options give no consideration to resources being processed by the corresponding features.
Accordingly, there exists a need for methods, systems, and computer program products for selecting a resource based on a measure of a processing cost.

Methods, systems, and computer program products for selecting a resource based on a measure of a processing cost


Provided are a server, a method of controlling a server, and a program that can increase the variations on methods for acquiring an item or the like and enhance interest in a game. Included are receiving, from a user, an item change request for changing first item data; displaying, to the user, a selection screen to display a plurality of options after receiving the item change request; and providing the user with second item data when a selected option on the selection screen is a correct answer.

Conventionally, in a battle game server, each user's deck is formed by a plurality of battle cards or the like stored for each user, and the battle game server allows a plurality of users to compete with each other based on the total value of the attack strength and defense strength of the deck (for example, see JP 2008-220984 A (PTL 1)). In such a battle game server, the user acquires a battle card by methods such as purchasing the battle card.
In a conventional battle game server, however, the methods for acquiring battle cards and the like are limited, causing the user to lose interest in the game. In particular, since it is difficult to acquire a battle card or the like with a high rarity value, the user ends up with the impression that such an item cannot be acquired at all and suffers a drastic loss of interest in the game.
Exemplary embodiments of present disclosure have been conceived in light of the above circumstances and therefore provides a server, a method of controlling a server, and a program that can increase the variations on methods for acquiring a battle card or the like and enhance interest in the game.

Server, method of controlling a server, and program


Problems caused by interaction between paging optimization and synchronizing CSG information are mitigated by setting a network indication indicating, for example, that a subscriber is no longer a member of a CSG, but the network has not yet received confirmation that an access terminal associated with the subscriber has been informed of this. A timer-based scheme may be employed for removing a CSG ID from the subscriber information for a subscriber once it is determined that the subscriber is no longer a member of the CSG. In addition, a temporary member of a CSG may determine whether it is still a member of a CSG upon expiration of a CSG timer. Also, the frequency with which an access terminal registers may be changed based on various criteria. Furthermore, an allowed CSG list may be selectively included in a page message depending on the destination of the page message.

1. Field
This application relates generally to wireless communication and more specifically, but not exclusively, to improving communication performance.
2. Introduction
A wireless communication network may be deployed over a defined geographical area to provide various types of services (e.g., voice, data, multimedia services, etc.) to users within that geographical area. In a typical implementation, access points (e.g., corresponding to different cells) are distributed throughout a network to provide wireless connectivity for access terminals (e.g., cell phones) that are operating within the geographical area served by the network.
As the demand for high-rate and multimedia data services rapidly grows, there lies a challenge to implement efficient and robust communication systems with enhanced performance. To supplement conventional network access points (e.g., macro access points), small-coverage access points may be deployed (e.g., installed in a user's home) to provide more robust indoor wireless coverage or other coverage to mobile units. Such small-coverage access points may be referred to as, for example, femto access points, femto cells, Home NodeBs (HNBs), Home eNodeBs (HeNBs), or access point base stations. Typically, such small-coverage base stations are connected to the Internet and the mobile operator's network via a DSL router or a cable modem.
In practice, there may be a relatively large number of small-coverage access points deployed in a network. Consequently, when an access terminal being paged has moved in idle state, the network could potentially need to send page messages to a large number of access points (e.g. HNBs and HeNBs). However, many of these access points may have restricted access (e.g., comprise closed subscriber group (CSG) cells). Consequently, paging optimization may be employed to avoid sending pages to access points that an access terminal is not authorized to access. For example, the network may only page an access terminal at those access points that are associated with a tracking area identifier (TAI) that is in the access terminal's registered TAI list and that are associated with a CSG identifier (CSG ID) that is in the access terminal's allowed CSG list (e.g., CSG whitelist).
A potential problem with such paging optimization relates to its interaction with the synchronization between the network and the access terminal of CSG subscriber information (e.g., the allowed CSG list). For example, a subscriber may be removed from a CSG, but the access terminal's allowed CSG list may not be updated for some time. If the network is updated and then does not page the access terminal at any access points associated with this CSG, it is possible that the access terminal may be in idle mode at an access point for this CSG and not be reachable for paging. As another example, when a CSG subscription expires, the entry for this CSG in the allowed CSG list of the access point may not immediately be removed. In this case, if the access terminal camps on an access point for this CSG in idle mode prior to determining that the subscription has expired, the access terminal may not be reachable for paging.
An additional potential problem of paging optimization relates to how long the CSG ID of an expired CSG is to be stored in the network (e.g., in a subscription server, a mobility manager, etc). One possible approach is to store the CSG ID until after the CSG ID is removed from the access terminal list (e.g., by an open mobile alliance device management (OMA-DM) update or over the air (OTA) update). However, such an approach requires OMA-DM or OTA to be run to remove the CSG.
As mentioned above, paging optimization may be employed to avoid sending pages to access points where an access terminal is not authorized. One way of achieving this is to include the access terminal's whitelist (e.g., a CSG whitelist) in the page. For example, a mobility manager may use its knowledge of the whitelist to filter the pages that it sends out. Thus, the paging optimization may be optionally performed at the mobility manager. As another example, if an access point gateway is employed (e.g., a HeNB gateway, HeNB-GW), the access point gateway may use the whitelist included in the page to filter the page. Thus, the paging optimization may optionally be performed at an access point gateway. As yet another example, upon receiving a page including a whitelist, an access point may use the whitelist to decide whether or not to transmit the page over the air. Thus, the paging optimization may optionally be performed at the access point. This may be useful if the mobility manager or the access point gateway does not perform any paging optimization. However, there may be a concern that sending a whitelist to an access point may violate security concerns if the access point (e.g., a HeNB) is a customer device.


A baseball bat swing training aid includes a housing configured for storing a plurality of balls therein. A ball positioning mechanism is disposed within the housing and includes an arm selectively extendable out of the housing. A ball holder is disposed on an end of the arm. The baseball bat swing training aid further includes a mechanism for removably yet securely fixing the ball positioning mechanism within the housing.

The present invention generally relates to a device for aiding in the batting of a ball. More particularly, the present invention resides in a baseball bat swing training aid.
Devices for aiding in the training of a batting swing are generally known in the art. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,176,838 discloses a batting baseball tee. However, the disclosed tee is not collapsible for easy portability or storage of the tee. In another example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,672,124 discloses an automatic batting tee apparatus. However, the disclosed tee is not able to store balls within its housing. In a further example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,413,175 discloses a batting tee. However, the disclosed tee is bulky and not able to store balls. In yet another example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,682,445 discloses a durable batting tee. However, while the disclosed tee is collapsible, the tee is not capable of storing a number of balls.
Accordingly, there is a need for a baseball bat swing training aid that is not only collapsible, but able to store balls for use. There is a further need for a swing training aid that is not only portable, but also compact for storage. There is an additional need for a training aid that is easily movable between storage and use configurations, and that relies on minimal support for maintaining an upright configuration. There is a further need for a swing training aid that is economical and easy to manufacture. The present invention fulfills these needs and provides other related advantages.


A motion space presentation device includes: a work area generation unit configured to generate a three-dimensional region in which the movable robot operates; an image capture unit configured to capture a real image; a position and posture detection unit configured to detect an image capture position and an image capture direction of the image capture unit; and an overlay unit configured to selectively superimpose either an image of a segment approximation model of the movable robot as viewed in the image capture direction from the image capture position, or an image of the three-dimensional region as viewed in the image capture direction from the image capture position, on the real image captured by the image capture unit, according to the difficulty in recognizing each image.

(1) Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a motion space presentation device and a motion space presentation method which generate data for presenting the motion space of a movable robot which operates according to a motion planning.
(2) Description of the Related Art
Conventional robots have a sufficient dedicated motion space into which workers are prohibited from accessing. However, in recent years, robots for performing a task while sharing space with people, such as a housekeeping robot and a double arm robot for cell production are increasing in number.
When a worker works in close proximity to such a robot, the worker may come into contact with the robot and may get injured unless the worker properly perceives the motion space of the robot. Even when the worker does not get injured, the idling time of the robot may increase, or the task being performed by the robot may fail because of an emergency stop of the robot.
In order to avoid such trouble, the movable robot disclosed by Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2009-123045 (hereinafter referred to as Patent Reference 1) projects a dangerous area on a floor surface on which a movable robot operates, thereby presenting a dangerous area to achieve smooth operation of the robot.
FIG. 27 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the movable robot shown in Patent Reference 1.
A motion planning unit 9902 determines the motion of a movable robot 9901.
A motion control unit 9903 calculates the information for driving a wheel 9906 based on the determined motion and the information of the wheel 9906 measured by an encoder 9908. A drive unit 9904 drives the wheel 9906 based on the calculated information. In addition, the motion control unit 9903 calculates the information for driving an arm 9907 based on the determined motion and the information of the arm 9907 measured by an encoder 9909. A drive unit 9905 drives the arm 9907 according to the calculated information.
In this manner, the movable robot 9901 operates and/or operates the arm 9907. Based on the determined motion, a display control unit 9910 determines the dangerous area in which the movable robot 9901 may move and/or operate. A projector 9911 projects the determined dangerous area on the floor surface on which the movable robot 9901 moves, thereby presenting the dangerous area to achieve smooth operation of the robot.

Motion space presentation device and motion space presentation method


A lead-free piezoelectric ceramic composition includes a first crystal phase made of an alkali niobate/tantalate type perovskite oxide having piezoelectric properties, and a second crystal phase made of an M-Ti—O spinel compound (where the element M is a monovalent to quadrivalent element).

The majority of conventionally mass-produced piezo ceramics are made from PZT (lead zirconate titanate) materials and thus contain lead. However, In recent years, the development of lead-free piezoelectric ceramics has been desired in order to eliminate the adverse influence of lead on the environment. As materials for the lead-free piezoelectric ceramics (referred to as "lead-free piezoelectric ceramic compositions"), compositions represented by the compositional formula: ANbO3 (where A is an alkali metal) such as potassium sodium niobate ((K,Na)NbO3) are proposed. However, the lead-free ANbO3 piezoelectric ceramic compositions themselves have a problem of inferior sinterability and humidity resistance.
As a measure against this problem, Patent Document 1 described below discloses a technique of adding Cu, Li, Ta, or the like to the lead-free ANbO3 piezoelectric ceramic compositions in order to improve sinterability and to eventually improve piezoelectric properties.
In addition, Patent Document 2 discloses a lead-free piezoelectric ceramic composition represented by the general formula: {Lix(K1-yNay)1-x} (Nb1-zSbz)O3 (where 0≤x≤0.2; 0≤y≤1.0; and 0≤z≤0.2 except for the case of x=z=0) and capable of achieving relatively good sinterability and piezoelectric properties.

Unleaded piezoelectric ceramic composition, piezoelectric element using same, device, and method for manufacturing unleaded piezoelectric ceramic composition


Disclosed is a block polyisocyanate obtained by blocking at least a part of isocyanate groups of a polyisocyanate, which is derived from an aliphatic diisocyanate and a polyol and satisfies all of the conditions (1)-(5) shown below, with a pyrazole compound. (1) Average number of isocyanate groups: 3.0-20 (2) Diisocyanate monomer trimer concentration: 10-50% by mass (3) Isocyanate group concentration: 5-22% by mass (4) Polyol content concentration: 5-40% by mass (5) Diisocyanate monomer concentration: 3% by mass or less.

A coating film formed from urethane coating composition using a polyisocyanate as a curing agent is excellent in chemical resistance, flexibility and the like. Particularly, when a polyisocyanate obtained from an aliphatic or alicyclic diisocyanate is used, the coating film is further excellent in weatherability. Therefore, the polyisocyanate is used in the form of a room-temperature curable two-component urethane coating composition or a thermosetting one-component urethane coating composition in a wide variety of fields such as construction, heavy-duty coating, automobiles, industrial uses and there repairing.
Since the thermosetting one-component urethane coating composition does not react at room temperature and is excellent in storage stability, it is excellent in workability because the mixing of a polyol and a polyisocyanate immediately before use, which is required in the case of a two-component urethane coating composition, is not required. However, the curing temperature of the one-component urethane coating composition is high and has been desired to be decreased. The high baking temperature has limited coating on a material having low heat resistance, as well as been causing a lot of energy to be consumed.
There are several proposals for improving the low-temperature curability of a blocked polyisocyanate.
A certain degree of low-temperature curability was achieved by using a pyrazole compound as a blocking agent (Patent Document 1). However, unsmoothness, which was clearly visible to the naked eye, was formed on the surface of the coating film formed by using the compound as a curing agent, thereby sometimes providing a very poor appearance of the coating film.
In addition, a technique is proposed in which the number of the isocyanate functional groups is increased to improve the low-temperature curability of a blocked polyisocyanate (Patent Document 2). Although the technique achieved a certain degree of the low-temperature curability, the hardness of the cured coating film was insufficient in some cases.
Because the necessity of a high temperature in curing brings about increase in the generation of carbon dioxide gas and the energy cost, further low-temperature curability is desired.    PATENT DOCUMENT 1: European Patent No. 0159117    PATENT DOCUMENT 2: JP 08-325353 A

Block polyisocyanate and urethane composition containing the same


The present invention relates to detection and alarm systems for predicting and detecting the location of spills, leaks, emissions, and/or pollution sources, i.e., unwanted fluid (liquid/gas) flow/escape, at refineries, e.g., oil and gas refineries, and plants, e.g., petrochemical, chemical, pharmaceutical, and food processing plants, and avoiding said unwanted flow/escape. According to one embodiment, said system comprises at least one detector, at least one battery powered radio frequency transmitter, preferably, according to one embodiment, a 900 megahertz spread spectrum transmitter, and a central processing location which, according to one embodiment, is preferably capable of handling up to 3000 points in a single cell site.

The present invention is directed to the containment and detection of fugitive emissions, for example, leaking from valves and bolted flange connections. Also, the present invention is directed to a system for detecting and monitoring emissions. In another embodiment, the present invention relates to enclosures for valves and pipe connections or joints. In another aspect, the present invention relates to novel detectors for the detection of fugitive emissions.
One of the major environmental concerns is the amount of polluting emissions which are leaked directly into the atmosphere due to the failure of present systems. The existing systems are expensive and technically inadequate. It is believed that the two primary sources responsible for over 95% of industrial fugitive emissions are valve stuffing boxes and bolted pipe flange connections used in the oil and gas, and petrochemical industries.
One example of the present state of the art in detection systems includes equipment which monitors large areas; such equipment detects leaks only after the emissions have entered the atmosphere. Another detection system requires an individual to use small, hand-held units in order to detect leaks. This method is unreliable, especially if detection takes place in the presence of even a small cross wind. Both methods allow leakage to continue for significant periods of time before detection and correction can occur. The ever stricter standards set by environmental agencies has led to the need for a more effective and efficient monitoring system for fugitive emissions. The present invention provides a solution to eliminate 95% of the fugitive emissions.
The present invention is directed to a monitoring system which detects fugitive emissions, for example, those leaking from valves and bolted flange connections in the oil and gas, and petrochemical industries. The invention is also directed to systems applicable in the chemical, pharmaceutical and the food processing industries. The system of the present invention may be comprised of a set of enclosures, a set of detectors for the enclosures, a set of signalers in communication with the detectors, and, if desired, a central processing location for monitoring the status of the enclosed sites.
The present invention is also directed to novel enclosures for pipe flange connections and valve stuffing boxes as used in the oil and gas, and petrochemical industries. The pipe flange connection enclosures are comprised of members, preferably two semi-circle shaped members, which when combined encompass the flange connection. The members form a centrally located internal channel. On either side of the centrally located channel are walls, preferably of gaskets or seals, such that when the semi-circle members are joined around or encompass a pipe flange connection, the centrally located channel forms an enclosure around the gasket area between the pipe flanges of the connection. The channel of one of the members includes a port for sealably receiving a detector of the present invention. Alternatively, one of the members also includes a port in the channel for receiving a vent plug.
The present invention is also directed to new enclosures for valve stuffing boxes. The valve stuffing box enclosures are preferably comprised of two members or half-pieces preferably shaped when joined like a hollow frustrum, i.e., it is frustro-conical in shape when joined. Each member may include, according to one embodiment, gaskets or seals around the inside top portion, i.e., the narrow end of the frustrum and at the inside bottom portion, i.e., the wider end of the frustrum. In addition, one member of the pair includes lengthwise channels for receiving the other member having lengthwise gaskets or seals.
In a preferred embodiment, the valve stuffing box enclosures of the present invention are comprised of two members or half-pieces (mirrored pieces/halves) that when joined are preferably shaped like a hollow frustrum. Preferably, the enclosures do not include any gaskets or seal-type material around any of the edges of the members. Preferably, each member includes a receiver to receive a side of the other half to form a mechanical connection between the two halves. The receiver of one half and the opposing side of the other half when joined form a mechanical seal such that emissions leaked from the valve stuffing box are reliably detected by the detector in communication with the inside space of the enclosure.
The invention is also directed to valve stuffing box enclosures comprising first and second members (mirror image half-pieces) having an inside and an outside, the outside having preferably, a greater circumference than the inside. Each member includes a receiver on the inside running vertically along an edge of the member, preferably for a majority of the length of said member. The receivers are constructed preferably as folds or pleats integral with the member such that they accept the other member when joined together to form a mechanical seal on the inside of the members sufficient to ensure reliable detection by a detector associated with the enclosure.
The valve stuffing box enclosures are preferably used in conjunction with the pipe flange connection enclosure. The valve stuffing box enclosures are designed to overlap and connect to the pipe flange enclosure forming a heretofore unknown and unrealized combination for the containment and detection of emissions from valve stuffing boxes.
The present invention is also directed to a heretofore unknown adsorption detector. The preferred detector is comprised of a substrate, e.g., metal or ceramic, electrode elements, adsorbent particles, like carbon, of substantially the same size, and an elastomer or a binder type gas permeable material. Preferably, the detector is operated in a non-current saturated mode or in a linear region and can detect substances having a Van der Waals xe2x80x9caxe2x80x9d constant of less than about 9. Optionally, if desired, the detector may include non-adsorbent particles. Further, if desired, the detector may include a temperature detector or sensor. In some systems, for example, smaller systems, an indicating cartridge can be used as the detector and signaler. For instance, chemical-treated granules affixed to paper or chemical granules will change color when a threshold emission occurs. The indicator material (or detector/signaler) is enclosed in a housing, like a cylinder, which is installed or connected to the enclosures of the present invention. It is the main object of the present invention to provide a monitoring system to detect emissions before any significant amounts reach the atmosphere which is both convenient and inexpensive to use.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a monitoring system for valve stuffing boxes and pipe flange connections as used in the oil and gas and petrochemical industries.
It is another object of this invention to provide novel enclosures for pipe flange connections and valve stuffing boxes.
It is another object of the present invention to provide novel adsorption detectors for detecting fugitive emissions at heretofore unmeasurable low levels in the field.

Fugitive emissions detection system and components thereof


A Web server storing a Java program for generating an HTML file of a Web page includes a portion for obtaining an HTML file, a first conversion portion for converting the file into Java codes, a portion for replacing the codes with a part of a Java program related to the Web page structure, the Java program being for generating the HTML file, a portion for extracting Java codes of a part related to a designated Web page structure, a second conversion portion for converting the codes into an HTML file, and a portion for transmitting the file to the terminal device. If the HTML file contains a tag indicating an unmodifiable part, the first conversion portion converts the tag into a Java code indicating an unmodifiable part. The second conversion portion converts the code contained in the Java codes into the tag.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a modification to a Java program for a Web server that has a function of a Java servlet.
2. Description of the Prior Art
One of Java (a trademark of Sun Microsystems, Inc. in the U.S.A.) technologies that are program languages of Sun Microsystems, Inc. is the Java servlet that is used for a Web server. When executing a program using a Java servlet, a hypertext that is an HTML file written by a hypertext markup language (HTML), i.e., a description language for displaying a Web page responding to a request from a World Wide Web browser (a WWW browser) can be generated, and the hypertext can be transmitted to the WWW browser.
This program includes mainly business logic, screen generation (drawing) logic and control logic. The business logic performs an application process such as user authentication. The screen generation logic is related to a structure such as Web page designing and generates an HTML file in accordance with a result of the process by the business logic. Therefore, performing this program can generate an HTML file for displaying a Web page having contents responding to instructions of each user. Namely, a dynamic Web page having unfixed contents can be provided to each user.
Utilizing this Java servlet having the above-mentioned feature, many providers have opened sites for providing services (such as on-line shopping or information search) by Web to network users.
These providers should design a structure for performing application processes (such as user authentication, selection of goods, accounting and searching) when opening sites utilizing the Java servlet, as well as a Web page. Since a lot of labor is required for these works, they usually ask programmers who are capable of Java programming to make the business logic and the control logic, and also ask Web designers to make the screen generation logic.
Programmers and Web designers should make these logic with Java codes or JSP (Java Server Pages) so that these logic work on a servlet engine.
In order to carry out the work utilizing Java efficiently, a technique is proposed for defining each screen and a servlet by one to one relationship as described in Japanese unexamined patent publication No. 2001-344105.
However, since a high technology skill is required for the work utilizing Java or JSP, creation and modification of the screen generation logic are still very difficult for Web designers even if the technique described in the above-mentioned document is utilized.
Accordingly, after opening a site, a lot of hours may be consumed for updating Web pages in the site so that update of Web pages may be delayed. Otherwise, the program may contain bugs so that smooth management of the site becomes difficult.

Web server having function of Java servlet, method for updating Java program and computer program


A slab laser includes first and second slabs defining an ionizing chamber intermediate the first slab and the second slab. A Radio Frequency Power Amplifier (RFPA) generates pulses to the ionizing chamber. The laser has a viewing window with access to the ionizing chamber and an optical sensor mounted to access the ionizing chamber through the viewing window. A controller is in communication with the optical sensor, and varies RFPA pulse power in response to the detection of glowing plasma by the optical sensor.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention is directed to a system and method for monitoring pre-ionization in a gas laser prior to firing the laser.
2. Prior Art
Slab type gas lasers, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) lasers, are widely used for industrial purposes and have developed into lightweight and economical devices for performing various industrial cutting, engraving and similar operations. Metal plates or slabs are utilized as electrodes having a large contact area and forming a chamber between the plates. Typically, cooling is provided within the slabs, such as a water cooling system, to prevent overheating of the laser.
In order to maintain conditions in which gas lasers are ready to fire a laser beam, the plasma in the firing chamber is pre-ionized, also known as "tickling" the laser. In order to ready the plasma to maintain the laser in a condition in which it is ready to fire quickly, short radio frequency pulses are sent to the laser tube. In this condition, the laser tube is ionized, but not ionized to such an extent that the laser actually emits a laser beam. Pre-ionizing the laser tube also creates a better Radio Frequency (RF) load matching between a Radio Frequency Power Amplifier (RFPA) and the laser allowing for improved rise time and fall time of the emitted laser beam.
It has been found that maintaining the proper pre-ionized state presents several challenges. If the pulses are not sufficiently wide, there will be delay in reaching an ionized state for firing the laser. Moreover, if there is a load mismatch between the laser tube and the RFPA, damage can be done to the RFPA from excess voltage feedback. Furthermore, if the pulses are too long, the laser may fire prematurely. Therefore, maintaining the proper pulsing prevents load mismatching and inaccurate laser firing.
In order to overcome these problems related to maintaining a pre-ionized state ready for firing of the laser, systems have been developed in an attempt to monitor the condition of the laser tube. In one system, the reflected RFPA power is monitored to determine if the laser is sufficiently pre-ionized. Although such a system may prevent some of the problems related to damage and inaccurate firing, the system has several drawbacks. The reflected RF power is an indirect measurement and also may not be sufficiently accurate to maintain the proper pre-ionized condition. Moreover, such a system is expensive and complicated and adds unwanted cost to the laser.
It can be seen that a new and improved system for maintaining the plasma in a laser at a pre-ionized condition is required. Such a system should be accurate and provide for maintaining a proper state of readiness to fire the laser tube. Moreover, such a system should provide for accurate, inexpensive and direct measurement of the conditions of the laser tube and controls to maintain the proper RFPA power and pulse width directed at the laser chamber. The present invention addresses these as well as other problems related to maintaining and monitoring pre-ionized conditions for gas slab lasers.

Gas laser pre-ionization optical monitoring and compensation


The c-arm x-ray system according to the present invention presents a system that provides at least one x-ray beam projection and an auxiliary projection without the need to rearranging or move elements of the c-arm to avoid inaccuracies through mechanical deflection of the supporting c-arm. This is achieved by comprising a main x-ray source, and at least one auxiliary x-ray source with a lower continuously radiated power than the main x-ray source and mechanically coupled to the main x-ray source, which is formed as a cold carbon nanotube based field emitter.

X-ray technology is widely used for medical, industrial and security imagining purposes. The designs of current c-arm x-ray machines for medical purposes with conventional x-ray imaging exposures a three-dimensional object to form a two-dimensional image. As a result, the 3D spatial resolution in the projection direction is lost. This limitation can be overcome by using c-arm systems and moving the c-arm into different positions to obtain images of the object of interest from different points of view with the so called multi-planar mapping.
Particularly the cardiovascular surgery poses high demanding requirements on the x-ray systems. Additional information of different projections is very important during planning and execution of cardiovascular surgery or catheter manipulation. In prior art this could be achieved by volume imaging methods utilizing a c-arm.
In detail, for the purpose of volume imaging with a current c-arm device, the source and the detector of the c-arm rotates more than 180 degrees on a circular trajectory around the object of interest, e.g. a patient, or to obtain 3D spatial depth information. Several successive mapping images of the object are obtained to achieve the data for constructing of a full three dimensional dataset of the scanned volume. The c-arm carries the radiation source and the detector, both of which are of physically heavy weight in current embodiments. During the rotation of the c-arm on a semi circular trajectory the weight force on both of the devices act perpendicular, whereby the burden on the c-arm throughout the acting of weight forces changes with the rotation of the c-arm, and whereby this results in mechanical deformation of the c-arm construction. For example, if the rotation of the c-arm starting at a horizontal position and the c-arm is turning over 180 degrees into reverse horizontal position, the weight forces acting at the ends of the c-arm cause the maximal mechanical deflection of the c-arm, due to the weight of the detector and the x-ray tube. In consequence the deformation induces a rotation-dependent variation of the alignment of the detector and the radiation source, though that the detector and the radiation source are not arranged opposite to each other. This drawback of the current c-arm construction accounts to the forming of artifacts in multi-planar mapping of the data of the object of interest.
The US Patent Application Number 2004/066907 A1 discloses a medical x-ray diagnostic installation that has a first x-ray radiator attached to a c-arm as well as a second x-ray radiator that is mounted separately from the c-arm at a holder device that can be attached to a stationary structure. A radiation receiver that optionally detects the x-rays emitted by the first x-ray radiator or the x-rays emitted by the second x-ray radiator is attached to the c-arm. The radiation receiver can preferably be rotated around an axis that resides perpendicularly on the plane defined by the c-arm. With this x-ray diagnostic installation, standard examinations for conventional c-arm devices can be implemented and computer tomographic exposures can be generated upon employment of the second X-radiator.
The PCT Application WO2006/090323 discloses a computer tomography apparatus for examination of an object of interest, the computer tomography apparatus comprising a first electromagnetic radiation source adapted to emit electromagnetic radiation to an object of interest, a second electromagnetic radiation source adapted to emit electromagnetic radiation to the object of interest, at least one detecting device adapted to detect electromagnetic radiation generated by the first electromagnetic radiation source and by the second electromagnetic radiation source and scattered on the object of interest, and a determination unit adapted to determine structural information concerning the object of interest based on an analysis of detecting signals received from the at least one detecting device.


An architecture that allows target service interactions to be realistically simulated in a development environment. The architecture includes a proxy service, an interaction recorder, an interaction store and an emulator service. The proxy service delegates service requests received from a client component to a target service. If it is in “record” mode, the proxy service routes any interaction data corresponding to the interaction (between the target service and the client component) to the interaction recorder. Upon receipt, the interaction recorder records the interaction data in the interaction store. Later, the proxy service can be placed in “replay” mode so that a subsequent service request for the target service is delegated to the emulator service. Upon receipt, the emulator service retrieves the corresponding interaction data from the data store and replays the same to emulate/simulate the target service.

1. Field of the Invention
In general, the present invention provides a method, system and program product for recording and replaying target service interaction data. Specifically, the present invention allows a service interaction to be realistically simulated in a development environment.
2. Related Art
As computing technology becomes more advanced, a key area of development has been in Business-to-Business and Enterprise Integration Applications. In service-oriented applications, middle tier components are represented by services and processes. Services often access remote resources, such as Enterprise Information Systems (EIS). Some typical examples of an EIS are CICS, IMS, SAP, PeopleSoft, etc.
In a service-oriented application, client components (e.g., JAVA Beans, Enterprise JAVA Beans, processes, etc. {JAVA, JAVA bean and Enterprise JAVA bean are trademarks of Sun Microsystems Corp. in the U.S. and/or elsewhere}) do not execute EIS transactions directly. Rather, each EIS transaction is typically executed by invoking an operation defined by a target "service" that is described by one or more Web Services Description Language (WSDL) files. These WSDL files capture the following information about the service: (1) port type, or interface describing the service operations, and the format of input and output data; (2) service bindings describing the address of the EIS system to connect to; and (3) operation bindings describing the name of the EIS function to execute, and additional system-specific information (e.g., protocol).
Service invocations are generally performed by a service invocation framework. Some examples of service invocation frameworks include International Business Machine Corp.'s Web Services Invocation Framework (WSIF) and JService container. The service invocation framework provides a level of indirection between the caller and the callee. The client component generally needs to be aware of the interface (port type) of the service, but not necessarily the binding used to invoke the service. To this extent, a typical service invocation using WSIF involves the following high-level steps: (1) client code registers the target service with WSIF-WSDL definition files are loaded; (2) WSIF looks up the required service provider based on the binding of the requested service; (3) WSIF uses the provider to create a dynamic port containing connection information; (4) client code uses the dynamic port to create input and output messages; (5) client code uses the dynamic port to create an operation instance; (6) client code prepares a message containing data that is used as input to the underlying transaction, and a message that is used to hold the results; (7) client code calls the execute( )method of the operation instance, passing the input message as argument; and (8) client code processes the message that holds the transaction results.
Unfortunately, one of the key problems encountered during development of Business-to-Business and Enterprise Integration Applications involves unit testing and debugging of middle-tier components. Specifically, the EIS running production transactions should not be interfered with during the development process, otherwise side effects from interactions during the development process are captured in the production system. The same logic applies to other types of resources accessed by a given service such as a remote EJB. During the lifecycle of a service-oriented application, it will go through the following phases: (1) initial creation; (2) unit testing; (3) integration testing; (4) certification testing; (5) deployment to production environment; (6) monitoring and problem/determination in the production environment; and (7) iterative development to fix problems, and subsequent re-deployment.
During phases 6 and 7, to perform problem determination and iterative fixes, developers need to work in an environment that very closely resembles the production environment. Setting up duplicate EIS's with a replicated subset of production data is frequently a very difficult, time-consuming, and expensive process. It involves setting up duplicate hardware and software, and placing additional workload on key technical staff. In addition, it is very difficult to test and demo new applications in a field environment because the required EIS environment is not portable. Conventional logging often does not provide sufficient information to precisely identify the problem, and it can be impossible to validate the fix without re-deployment.
In view of the foregoing, there exists a need for production phase EIS and Service interactions to be recorded in such a way that they can be replayed during future development phases. Specifically, a need exists for a system in which realistic service interactions can be simulated during application development. To this extent, there is a need to be able to simulate interactions using actual production data as opposed to sample data.

Method, system and program product for recording and replaying target service interaction data

International Business Machines Corporation


A computer-implemented method and system is provided for presenting published information in a browser. Aspects of the preferred embodiment include providing a user control via a browser that allows for controlling a pacing of presentation of published information in the browser; receiving a pace setting from the user control; associating the pace setting with a subscription; and queuing published information corresponding to the subscription for presentation in the browser based on the pace setting.

Today's more popular browsers, such as MICROSOFT'S INTERNET EXPLORER and MOZILLA FOUNDATION'S FIREFOX, use synchronous communications protocols, such as the Hypertext Transport Protocol (HTTP), to exchange information over the Internet. With a synchronous communications protocol, one entity in a network (e.g., the browser) makes a connection to another network entity (e.g., a web server), sends a request to the other entity, then waits for a reply before sending additional requests.
Synchronous communications protocols work well for supporting certain browsing tasks, such as when the browser sends a request to the web server for a web page, and then waits for a reply from the server to display the requested page. Other browsing tasks, however, are not carried out as efficiently using synchronous communications protocols. For example, an application, such as a web service, may need to notify the browser that an event has occurred. A method and protocol enabling this is disclosed in the cross-referenced U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/160,612. In the supported protocols the web service does not need to wait for a response from the browser. However, allowing the Web service to send notifications without some form of pacing by either the browser or the Web service could result in published information associated with the notifications being presented at the browser too quickly for user to view or process.
Current methodologies for controlling flow in network protocols fail to provide a solution. For example, conventional network-level flow control occurs below the application layer of a network protocol. In this type of flow control, updates transmitted by a server are received on a client device and may be buffered in a network stack before being displayed in the application. If a user's application allows the display of the updates to be paused, the network stack may eventually run out of buffer space. This will trigger a flow control message in the client device that is sent to the server to request that the server stop sending updates. This type of flow control is based on system resource constraints, rather than by the control of the user or the application to pace the rate at which the updates are sent.
Current client-side caching also does not allow a user or application to pace the rate at which updates are sent and displayed. For example, conventional browsers and media players may make use of a cache for storing content received over a network from a server. However, this does not provide any type of flow control under direct control of the user, rather content is merely buffered in the cache on the client device. If the client runs out of cache space, older cached content is typically discarded to make room for new content. Further there is no ordering to the content in current browser caches. As in traditional flow control, this method is driven by system resource constraints and not controlled directly by user or application requirements.
A user can pace the rate of data received on a client device by using a request/response protocol, which is utilized in conventional browsers. Although, there is a one to one relationship between a request and a response containing the data, this type of protocol is unsuitable for receiving real-time data or data that is event generated. It is inefficient in that it requires the initiation of a separate request for each update/resource. The request/response protocol almost always requires the user to explicitly instruct the device to send the next request and thus is not useful where a passive mode of data reception is most appropriate.

Method and system for presenting published information in a browser