A branching filter is a surface acoustic wave device in which a first filter having a relatively low bandpass frequency and a second filter having a relatively high bandpass frequency are connected to a common terminal. A junction-side resonator that is included in the second filter and that is connected in closest proximity to the common terminal is connected in series. The resonant frequency fsr of the junction-side resonator is higher than the center frequency f0, which is the center of the passband, of the second filter, and is more preferably set so as to satisfy the expression: f0+BWxc3x970.2xe2x89xa6fsrxe2x89xa6f0+BWxc3x970.7, where BW is the bandwidth of the passband.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to surface acoustic wave devices and communication apparatuses including such surface acoustic wave devices. More particularly, the present invention relates to a surface acoustic wave device that is advantageously used as a surface acoustic wave branching filter and to a communication apparatus including such a surface acoustic wave device.
2. Description of the Related Art
Surface acoustic wave devices (hereinafter referred to as xe2x80x9cSAW devicesxe2x80x9d) include a surface acoustic wave element utilizing surface acoustic waves (SAWs) that propagate along the surface of a piezoelectric element, and are used in delay lines, filters, resonators, and other apparatuses. Since SAWs have a shorter wavelength than electromagnetic waves, they offer advantages in that, for example, SAW devices can be easily miniaturized. Thus, in the field of portable telephones and other electronic apparatuses, SAW devices are often used as filters in radio frequency circuits.
In recent years, particularly in the field of mobile communication, including portable telephones, there has been an increasing demand for further miniaturization and lower profile. Thus, SAW devices have also been required to be reduced in size and height. In particular, a portable telephone performs both transmission and reception in different frequency bands with a single antenna. Therefore, the demands on the use of SAW devices as branching filters are becoming greater.
Examples of technologies for such branching filters include a SAW branching filter disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 5-167388. This technology uses a plurality of SAW resonators (hereinafter simply referred to as xe2x80x9cresonatorsxe2x80x9d), as shown in FIG. 10, to constitute two SAW ladder filters (hereinafter may be referred to as xe2x80x9cfiltersxe2x80x9d). The filters are connected in parallel to define a branching filter.
More specifically, the branching filter uses ladder filters Fi and Fii having a configuration in which series resonators S and parallel resonators P are alternately connected, and the filters Fi and Fii are connected in parallel to a common terminal T0. Among the resonators S and P that constitute the filters Fi and Fii, resonators Si and Sii that are directly connected to the common terminal T0 are connected in series. When the filters Fi and Fii are compared, the filter Fii has a relatively high bandpass frequency, and is used as a reception filter when used in a communication apparatus. On the other hand, the filter Fi is used as a transmission filter.
As described above, with the branching filter being constituted by two SAW filters, and with respect to the filter Fi, the following filter characteristic (an impedance characteristic) is required. That is, the filter Fi needs to have an impedance that is close to the impedance of the entire circuit in the passband of the filter Fi, and needs to have an impedance that is significantly larger than the impedance of the entire circuit in a rejection band that is a passband of the filter Fii. When typical transversal SAW filters are used, it is not easy to achieve such a filter characteristic, resulting in a complicated circuit configuration of the entire branching circuit.
In contrast, the technology of Publication No. 5-167388 discussed above uses series resonators in which the resonators Si and Sii that are in closest proximity to the common terminal T0 are connected in series. Thus, the series resonators allow matching of impedance characteristics of the filters. The series resonators can also be used for phase adjustment in the configuration of the entire branching filter. Consequently, the impedance in the rejection band outside the range of the passband becomes quite high relative to the circuit impedance, thus making it possible to achieve the impedance characteristic described above.
In addition, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 11-068512 discloses a branching filter that uses SAW filters having a configuration other than a ladder filter. This technology utilizes, in the same manner as Publication No. 5-167388 discussed above, series resonators as elements for phase adjustment for a branching filter configuration.
In the case of a configuration in which SAW ladder filters are used to constitute a branching filter as discussed above, when resonators that are directly connected to a common terminal are connected in series in each SAW filter, the resonators (series resonators) can function as elements for phase adjustment. The series-connected resonators can also be used for phase adjustment in a bandpass filter other than a SAW ladder filter.
In order to prevent the deterioration of the impedance characteristics of each SAW filter, the impedance and frequency of the series resonators are critical parameters that affect the characteristics of the entire branching filter. Thus, in the technology disclosed in Publication No. 11-068512, the frequency of the series resonators, and the resonant frequency in particular are designed to match the center frequency of the passband of the SAW filter. This makes it possible to effectively prevent a decrease in the impedance characteristics of the SAW filter including the series resonators.
In the technology of Publication No. 5-167388, the resonant frequency of the series resonators is not particularly limited. With a ladder filter, however, in order to prevent a decrease in the impedance characteristics, it is still preferable to match the resonant frequency of the series resonators to the center frequency of the passband of the SAW filter including the series resonators.
In the technologies of the related art, when the resonant frequency is matched to the center frequency of the passband of the SAW filter under the condition that the impedance of the series resonators is set to be high for phase adjustment, this causes a problem in that the passband width is reduced.
That is, since the series resonators are used for phase adjustment, there is a need to restrict the impedance to a high range. Consequently, changes in the impedance of the resonators become considerably sharp relative to changes in the frequency. In particular, the frequency dependence of the impedance is maximized between the resonant frequency and the anti-resonant frequency.
When the resonant frequency of the series resonators is set to be the same as the center frequency of the passband of the SAW filter, there is no particular problem in a frequency band lower than the center of the passband since the impedance of the series resonators is low. In contrast, in a frequency band higher than the center of the passband, a sharp change in the impedance causes the impedance of the series resonators to become high. This results in an unsatisfactory matching in the high band, so that the high band, which is supposed to be a pass band, effectively becomes a rejection band (elimination band), thereby reducing the passband width.
When the band width ratio is small, even matching the resonant frequency of the series resonators to the center frequency of the passband does not substantially reduce the passband width. However, when the band width ratio is large, there is a problem in that sufficient matching between the SAW filters cannot be achieved.
In order to overcome the problems described above, preferred embodiments of the present invention provide a SAW device, constituted by a plurality of SAW filters, that achieves an improved matching characteristic and that prevents a reduction in passband even in the case of a large band width ratio of each SAW filter when used as a branching filter. In addition, preferred embodiments of the present invention provide a communication apparatus including such a novel SAW device.
According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a SAW device includes a first SAW filter that has a relatively low bandpass frequency, a second SAW filter that has a relatively high bandpass frequency and that includes a plurality of SAW resonators, and a common terminal to which the first and second filters are connected. One of the SAW resonators which is connected in closest proximity to the common terminal is connected in series and has a resonant frequency that is higher than the center frequency of the passband of the second surface wave filter.
In the above configuration, among the plurality of SAW resonators (resonators) included in the second SAW filter (second filter), the resonant frequency of the resonator (junction-side resonator) adjacent to the common terminal, i.e., adjacent to a portion to which both the filters are connected, is higher than the center frequency of the passband of the second filter. Thus, the condition f0 less than fsr is satisfied, where f0 is the center frequency and fsr is the resonant frequency of the junction-side resonator.
Typically, a SAW device having a configuration in which two SAW filters are connected to a common terminal is preferably used. In such a configuration, the junction-side resonator is also used as a matching element. For this reason, however, it is conventionally difficult to achieve satisfactory matching at a frequency higher than the resonant frequency, i.e., in a high band, so that the passband width is reduced.
In contrast, in the SAW device having the configuration according to preferred embodiments of the present invention, the center frequency f0 of the passband of the second filter and the resonant frequency fsr of the junction-side resonator satisfies the condition f0 less than fsr. This allows a reduction in the frequency dependence of the impedance in the passband. The present invention, therefore, can provide a branching filter that prevents the reduction of the passband.
According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, a SAW device includes a first SAW filter that has a relatively low bandpass frequency, a second SAW filter that has a relatively high bandpass frequency and that includes a plurality of SAW resonators, and a common terminal to which the first and second filters are connected. One of the SAW resonators which is connected in closest proximity to the common terminal is connected in series and has a resonant frequency fsr that is within the range given by the expression:
f0+BWxc3x970.2xe2x89xa6fsrxe2x89xa6f0+BWxc3x970.7xe2x80x83xe2x80x83(1)
where f0 is the center frequency of the passband and BW is the passband width of the second SAW filter.
Preferably, the resonant frequency fsr is within the range given by the expression:
f0+BWxc3x970.3xe2x89xa6fsrxe2x89xa6f0+BWxc3x970.6xe2x80x83xe2x80x83(2)
In the above configuration, the resonant frequency of the junction-side resonator included in the second filter is set in the range defined by expression (1), and preferably, within the range defined by expression (2). Consequently, the resonant frequency is further optimized, so that not only the passband can be prevented from being reduced, but also can be further broadened. This configuration, therefore, can provide a branching filter having a broader passband.
Preferably, the SAW filters are ladder-type filters.
In the above configuration, since the filters are of a ladder type, it is possible to ensure broadening of the passband and to provide a branching filter having improved performance.
The SAW device may further include matching device connected adjacent to the common terminal.
In the above-described configuration, the junction-side resonator functions as a phase-adjusting element, and the inclusion of the matching device can achieve satisfactory matching of the filters.
According to still another preferred embodiment of the present invention, a communication apparatus includes a SAW device having the configuration according to preferred embodiments described above. The SAW device is used as a branching filter.
In the above configuration, since the SAW device of various preferred embodiments of the present invention is used as a branching filter, it is possible to provide a communication apparatus having a highly favorable transmission and reception capability.
Other features, elements, characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments thereof with reference to the attached drawings.

Surface acoustic wave device and communication apparatus


A portable beverage dispensing system includes a supply of flat water and a supply of pressurized gaseous carbon dioxide. A first motorless carbonator is configured to receive a portion of the flat water and a portion of the carbon dioxide and to cause a portion of the carbon dioxide to dissolve in the flat water to produce partially carbonated soda. A second motorless carbonator is configured to receive a portion of the partially carbonated soda and a portion of the carbon dioxide and to cause a portion of the carbon dioxide to dissolve in the partially carbonated soda and to produce fully carbonated soda. The system also includes a dispenser for selectively dispensing the fully carbonated soda.

Post-mix beverage dispensing systems provide a convenient and efficient means for dispensing carbonated beverages to consumers. Such systems produce carbonated water, and mix flavored syrups with the carbonated water in desired ratios at a dispensing head or bar gun. Where such systems can be used, post-mixed beverages are highly cost-effective compared to more expensive pre-packaged carbonated beverages such as canned or bottled soft drinks.
Presently, commercial airlines typically serve prepackaged beverages to their passengers. Prepackaged beverages such as canned beverages are stored at room temperature in a portable cart that is sufficiently narrow to pass down the aisles of most commercial aircraft. As passengers request carbonated beverages, flight attendants remove the selected canned beverages from the portable cart, and pour the beverages over ice in a glass or cup. This process is time-consuming, and can be difficult or impossible under turbulent flight conditions. On short flights, at least some passengers often are unable to obtain a beverage due to the time required to dispense canned beverages to previously served passengers. In addition, the cost per serving of canned beverages is considerably higher than the cost per serving cost post-mixed carbonated beverages. Serving pre-packaged beverages also generates considerable waste such as empty beverage cans that must be handled, temporarily stored, and discarded. In addition, pre-packaged carbonated beverages have a limited shelf life.
The challenges associated with producing compact and portable post-mix beverage dispensing systems are numerous. Such systems must operate without external sources of water and electric power. In addition, such systems must be sufficiently compact to permit their use in limited spaces such as the narrow confines of airplanes. Because such systems necessarily include stored high pressure carbon dioxide gas, the systems also must comply with stringent government safety regulations governing the packaging and transportation of high pressure gas containers. Furthermore, the makers of the most popular carbonated beverages (e.g. Coke ® and Pepsi ®, require their products to be consistently dispensed according to exacting product standards. One such requirement is that the dispensed beverages have a commercially acceptable level of carbonation of about 3 percent to about 4 percent.
Others have attempted to produce compact and portable post-mix beverage dispensing systems with limited success. For example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,411,179 and 5,553,749 to Oyler et al. describe self-contained beverage dispensing systems that use a single low-pressure motorless carbonator to carbonate flat water to produce soda for use in post-mixing and dispensing carbonated beverages. Unfortunately, such low-pressure motorless carbonators produce soda having only about 2.5 percent carbonation, which is well below a commercially acceptable level of carbonation and/or product standards dictated by makers of Coke ® and Pepsi®. Others have tried to address this problem by developing portable beverage dispensers that include a single high-pressure motorless carbonator. The term "high pressure motorless carbonator" as used herein refers to a motorless carbonator that operates at an internal pressure of at least about 100 psi. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,021,922, U.S. Pat No. 6,234,349, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,253,960 to Bilskie et al. describe self-contained high-pressure beverage dispensing systems that include a single motorless carbonator that operates at a gas pressure of between 90-110 psi. Unfortunately, these systems also do not provide a highly portable and compact beverage dispensing system that produces soda that consistently meets commercially acceptable levels of carbonation and complies with applicable federal safety regulations for use on commercial aircraft.
Accordingly, there is a need for an effective, compact, and highly portable beverage dispensing system that operates without external sources of water and electric power. In addition, there is a need for such a system that is sufficiently compact to permit its use in limited spaces such as the narrow aisles of airplanes and passenger railcars. Such a system also must comply with applicable government safety regulations, and must consistently supply a commercially acceptable level of carbonation.


In a power control system which connects power from the power storage device to a power grid and supplies power to a load, the power from the power storage device is connected to the load and the power grid via a DC/DC converter, a smoothing capacitor, and a DC/AC converter. By a first power control unit for controlling flow power of the power grid to be a power command value, and by a second power control unit for suppressing reverse flow power, an output power command for the DC/AC converter is generated, an output power command for the DC/DC converter is generated so that voltage of the smoothing capacitor becomes target voltage, and the output power command is corrected so as to suppress voltage variation in the smoothing capacitor.

A conventional power control system connects a power generation system, a battery, and a power grid, and controls a power storage system which supplies power to a load. The control of the power storage system includes a step of determining whether or not the power grid is connected to the load, and a step of determining whether or not power is generated by the power generation system, and operation is performed in one of a plurality of operation modes of the power storage system, based on a determination result of at least one of the generated power amount of the power generation system, a charge status of the battery, a charged power amount of the battery, a power consumption amount of the load, and time (for example, see Patent Document 1).


A lamp socket has a casing, a switching contact assembly, a stem assembly, an electric tab, a photo switch, a first electric connector and a second electric connector. The switching contact assembly is mounted in the casing and around the stem assembly. The stem assembly has a pawl. The pawl has multiple surfaces. The electric tab is mounted on two of the surfaces of the pawl and selectively contacts the switching contact assembly. The first electric connector and the second electric connector are connected electrically to the photo switch. The contact between the electric tab and the switching contact assembly switches via turning the stem assembly to turn on or off two lights. Furthermore, the lamp socket turns on one of the lights based on ambient light.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a lamp socket, and especially to a lamp socket that controls two lights manually or automatically with a photo switch.
2. Description of the Related Art
A conventional lamp socket has a switch with multiple contacts and selectively turns two bulbs on or off so the lamp has three levels of brightness. Turning on one bulb, the other bulb or both bulbs provides the three levels of brightness. However, the lamp socket does not turn on the bulbs based on ambient light.


One embodiment of the invention includes an electrochemical cell and an externally applied electrical potential used to drive a direct synthesis reaction to produce alane.

Alane (also called aluminum hydride, with the chemical formula AlH3) is a potential source of hydrogen for future fuel cell powered vehicles. Onboard a fuel cell vehicle, alane can be decomposed to give hydrogen. A byproduct of the reaction is aluminum metal. For alane to be widely used in fuel cell vehicles, the aluminum metal must be reprocessed back into alane with high energy-efficiency. Directly reacting aluminum metal and hydrogen gas to produce alane is difficult because the thermodynamics are not favorable.
The synthesis of alane is well developed. Beginning in the 1960's (and continuing today) alane has been considered an attractive rocket propellant. However, thus far there has been no need to directly react aluminum and hydrogen to form alane. Therefore, because directly reacting aluminum and hydrogen is difficult, the prior art synthesis procedures are indirect. For example, the best developed synthesis of alane (AlH3) begins with aluminum chloride (AlCl3) and sodium alanate (NaAlH4). These compounds are reacted in a solvent, such as tetrahydrofuran (THF) according to the reaction3NaAlH4+AlCl3→4AlH3+3NaCl  Reaction 1which gives alane and the byproduct NaCl. For this synthesis method to be used to reprocess aluminum, the aluminum together with the NaCl generated in Reaction 1, must first be processed into AlCl3 and NaAlH4. These reactions can be carried out by established methods but are energetically very inefficient.
The thermodynamics of alane have also been well studied. These studies indicate that the direct synthesis of alane from aluminum and hydrogen, proceeds according to the reactionAl+3/2H2→AlH3  Reaction 2
Using the thermodynamic calculation module in HSC Chemistry for Windows, the standard enthalpy change, ΔH°, for the direct formation of alane from aluminum metal and hydrogen gas according to Reaction 2 is −11.3 kJ/mol-AlH3 or −7.5 kJ/mol-H2. Because ΔH° is negative, this reaction is exothermic and might be expected to proceed spontaneously. However, because hydrogen gas is being incorporated into a solid phase, the standard entropy change is also negative. From HSC, ΔS°=−194.8 kJ/K-mol-AlH3 or −129.9 kJ/K-mol-H2. Thus, the standard Gibb's free energy change, ΔG°, which is given byΔG°=ΔH°−T*ΔS°  Equation 1where T is the absolute temperature, is +45.5 kJ/mol-AlH3 or +30.3 kJ/mol-H2 at 20° C. (293 K). Because ΔG° must be negative for a reaction to proceed, the direct synthesis of alane, according to Reaction 2, does not occur under standard conditions. Reaction 2 can be forced to proceed by increasing the pressure until the loss of entropy is overcome. The positive ΔG° may be overcome by applying very high pressures on the order of 104 to 105 atmospheres. However, using these high pressures is very energetically inefficient, technologically difficult and not practical. Because of these limitations, direct synthesis at high pressures has not been widely practiced.
There are other problems associated with the synthesis and storage of alane. Alane decomposes in water. Further, alane decomposes at temperatures above approximately 100° C.

Apparatus and method for synthesis of alane


A system, method, and apparatus are directed towards managing a Voice over IP (VOIP) message over a network, where the VOIP message may employ the Real-time Transport Protocol (RTP) and possibly Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) over the User Datagram Protocol (UDP). The invention enables a VOIP client device, such as an IP phone, and the like, to communicate a message to a local proxy residing on a local computing device. The communications between the VOIP device and the local proxy may employ SIP/RTP over UDP. Upon receipt of the communications, the local proxy converts the transport protocol to another transport protocol, such as Transmission Control Protocol (TCP). The local proxy may also perform a port translation on the message. The converted communications may then be sent to a remote server, where it may be employed in its present SIP/RTP over TCP format, or be converted back to using UDP.

The present invention relates generally to network communications, and more particularly, but not exclusively, to a system and method for relaying a Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP) Session Initiation Protocol/Real-time Transport Protocol (SIP/RTP) message over a network.
Internet Protocol (IP) Telephony, also known as Voice over Internet Protocol (VOIP), is a technology that makes it possible to have a voice conversation over an IP network, such as the Internet, instead of a dedicated voice transmission line.
Depending on the service, one way to place a VOIP call is to employ specialized phones, sometimes called IP Phones, or VOIP phones, that may look like a normal phone. Such VOIP phones may connect to the network through an RJ-45 connector, or operate through a wireless connection.
Because VOIP make it possible to have voice conversations over IP networks, VOIP allows for a cost effective alternative to the traditional public switched telephone networks (PSTNs). Because of its relatively lower costs and ease of use, VOIP phone services have been rapidly increasing in popularity. With such an increase in popularity, there has been an increased desire to be able to integrate at least some of the VOIP features with a variety of other communication services.
However, because IP does not by default provide any mechanism to ensure that data packets are delivered in sequential order, or provide any quality of service guarantees, many implementations of VOIP face problems dealing with latency and/or possible data integrity issues. Another problem with at least some of the VOIP implementations is that they may be unable to provide VOIP traffic through firewalls, network address translation (NAT) devices, and the like. Thus, it is with respect to these considerations and others that the present invention has been made.


A system for tracking game play frequency in a casino game, said system including a central server networked to a game unit, and a kiosk associated with the game unit. The central server stores personal information and registration biometric data of a player, wherein the personal information includes accrued comp point information. The kiosk includes a biometric reader for receiving a biometric identifier of a player, at least one of the central server and the kiosk compares the registration biometric data with game unit biometric data extracted from the biometric identifier to determine comp points based on game play on the game unit.

Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to casino gaming systems, and more particularly to a system and method of identifying and tracking gambling activity on casino gaming systems.
Electronic gaming machines (EGMs) have existed for decades. An EGM is a generic term for any electronic or electromechanical game that operates by chance and that rewards a player with game award credits. Typical EGMs include simulated reel slot machines, video poker, bingo, keno, blackjack and lottery. Typical EGMs are coin operated. That is, a player wishing to wager inserts a coin(s) into the EGM in order to play. Additionally, many EGMs are capable of receiving paper money in exchange for an opportunity to play.
Over the years, EGMs were developed that were capable of accepting substitutes for money. As gaming flourished, EGM operators sought to increase the efficiency of game play. For example, instead of using money to wager on an EGM, the use of credit cards was considered as a basis for activating game play. That is, a credit card could be used to insert credits into the machine. However, some laws within the United States limit, or even prohibit, the use of credit cards for paying off gaming debt. Thus, credit cards may not be a viable option for game play on an EGM due to legal restrictions.
Some gaming systems utilize casino debt cards. Typically, a player pre-pays for a debit card at the cashier""s desk, or from a vending machine. The card is then inserted into an EGM, which electronically reads the amount paid for the EGM and deducts the cost of game play from the card. If a player wins, additional funds are added to the debit card. At the end of game play, the debit card is xe2x80x9csoldxe2x80x9d to an operator for cash.
Tickets or vouchers are also used for gaming. In this case, an EGM is wired to accept a ticket/voucher. Through a variety of methods, the monetary value of the ticket is transferred to the EGM. Unfortunately, however, the tickets/vouchers, much like cash, may be lost, stolen or destroyed. Additionally, if the EGM runs out of paper to print the tickets/vouchers, the system typically requires an attendant to insert more paper into the machine. Thus, additional time and resources are needed to maintain the ticket/voucher EGM. Also, the tickets/vouchers typically must be stored after redemption. While the ticket/voucher method may be used with EGMs, the system typically is not conducive to table games, such as blackjack or poker.
Additionally, many casinos and other gaming locations issue player cards that are used to store information regarding game play frequency. The casino typically awards, or xe2x80x9ccomps,xe2x80x9d players for predetermined levels of play. Typically, the player cards are used in conjunction with gaming tokens or cash. That is, in order to play, a player still inserts money, tokens, or representative media into the EGM, while also inserting the player card into a separate card receptacle.
Typical electronic casino gaming carries heavy labor and capital costs. In addition to the heavy labor and capital costs, typical electronic casino gaming systems are inflexible in terms of game selection and updates. Due to the high cost of EGMs, a gaming location, such as a casino or bar operator may contract with a route operator who pays for the initial machine costs and supplies, and continuous service/maintenance in exchange for a percentage of gaming revenue.
The daily operating costs of electronic casino gaming are high, as an extensive labor force is required to handle the continuous movement of money between the EGMs, count room, and depository, for example. In some jurisdictions, jackpots over a certain amount are paid by a driver dispatched by the route operator to the location of the jackpot. Not only are employees needed to move the money, additional personnel are typically required to monitor all of the ensuing transactions. Such transactions include removing money from the EGMs, counting the money, wrapping and depositing the money, and refilling the EGMs. All of this money handling requires a heavy investment in security surveillance equipment and personnel. Additionally, personnel are typically needed to repair and service machines in the event of a coin jam or other such malfunction.
Additionally, the slot operation business is often a prime target for theft. Because of the large amounts of money that are continually moved between machine and depository, employees in charge of handling the money are often suspected, and sometimes rightfully so, of theft. Also, countless schemes by casino and bar patrons have been devised and implemented to steal money from the casino. Sometimes, the schemes to steal bear fruit.
Thus, a need exists for a more efficient system and method of cashless gaming. Also, a need exists for a more efficient system and method of voucherless gaming. Additionally, a need exists for a more flexible system and method of casino gaming. Moreover, a need exists for a more safe system and method of casino gaming that reduces the risk of theft.
Embodiments of the present invention provide a system for tracking game play frequency in a casino game. The system includes a central server networked to a game unit and a kiosk associated with the game unit (for example, a video poker machine, or a blackjack table). The central server stores personal information and registration biometric data of a player. The personal information includes accrued comp point information. The kiosk associated with the game unit includes a biometric reader for receiving a biometric identifier of a player. At least the central server or the kiosk compares the registration biometric data with game unit biometric data extracted from the biometric identifier to determine comp points based on game play on the game unit. The comp points are then attributed to the player.


The instant invention provides a thermoplastic composition, method of producing the same, and articles made therefrom. The thermoplastic composition according to present invention comprises the melt blending product of: (a) from 10 to 75 percent by weight of a continuous phase, based on the total weight of the thermoplastic composition, wherein said continuous phase comprises one or more thermoplastic polymers; and (b) from 25 to 90 percent by weight of a dispersed phase comprising one or more core/shell polymer particles, based on the total weight of the thermoplastic composition, wherein said one or more core/shell polymer particles comprise a crosslinked elastomer core and a thermoplastic shell and wherein said core/shell polymer has an average particle size diameter in the range of from 70 to 10,000 nm.

Thermoplastic vulcanicates (TPV) are elastomer/thermoplastic polymer blends in which elastomer phase is cross-linked during the blending process and dispersed in a thermoplastic matrix. Typical TPVs are made from crosslinked EPDM dispersed in a matrix of polypropylene.
Key properties of TPVs include (1) resistance to plastic deformation (that is, low compression and tensile set), (2) resistance to fluids, (3) retention of properties at elevated temperature relative to those at ambient temperature, and (4) low creep and stress relaxation.
TPVs are prepared by a process of dynamic vulcanization, defined as "the process of intimate melt mixing of a rubbery polymer, a curative, and a thermoplastic polymer to vulcanize (or cross-link) the rubbery polymer. Upon melt mixing of the thermoplastic and rubbery polymer under high shear, the rubbery polymer tends to become the continuous phase, and as the rubbery polymer is vulcanized, a phase inversion occurs, wherein the thermoplastic material will tend to become the continuous phase with the crosslinked rubbery material dispersed in it. Various curing agents, generally known to those skilled in the art, may be employed to crosslink the rubbery component of TPVs.
The most common polymer system in TPVs is PP/EPDM rubber; however, a number of other polymer systems have been used commercially. These include PP/NBR, PP/butyl and PP/halobutyl, PP/NR, and PP/EVA/EPDM.
The morphology of a TPV is best understood as a dispersion of small and highly cross-linked elastomer particles in a continuous phase of hard thermoplastic. The size of the elastomer phase particles is one key to the performance of the TPVs. As the size of these particles decreases, the ultimate tensile properties of the TPVs increase. The second key to TPV performance is the cross-linking of the soft elastomer phase. Cross-linked elastomeric phase provides acceptable properties, which allows the TPV to capture many of the applications previously devoted to thermoset rubbers.
TPVs have various mechanical properties such as modulus (compression or tensile), tear strength, abrasion resistance and compression set resistance, which make them suited for a broad range of rubber applications.
Despite the improved properties of currently available TPVs, the dynamic vulcanization process producing such TPVs is expensive and complex because the process steps of mixing and vulcanization compete with each other and are difficult to control. Therefore, there is a need for non-vulcanized thermoplastic compositions having acceptable mechanical properties such as modulus (compression or tensile), tear strength, abrasion resistance and compression set resistance, which make such thermoplastic compositions suited for broad range of rubber applications.

Thermoplastic composition, method of producing the same, and articles made therefrom


A ball-striking implement, in particular a tennis, squash or badminton racket, is described, the implement having a head frame including an impact surface and a stem, which is formed integrally thereon and has a handle, the impact surface being determined by at least one string which is stretched crosswise and forms string portions fastened to the head frame substantially parallel to one another. The string portions are guided in holding elements on the inside of the head frame such that the string portions are positioned in a single plane forming the impact surface.

Conventional ball-striking implements made of plastics material have a head frame with a hollow profile, into which through-holes are drilled. Through these through-holes, the continuous string is stretched crosswise in loops. It is known that the through-holes, on the one hand, mechanically weaken the head frame and, on the other hand, chafe the string or string portions, as a result of which the string or string portions can tear there under high loads. Therefore, the through-holes are provided with individual eyes or eye bands made of a soft thermoplastic polymer.
Rackets are also known with a central strip made of thermoplastic polymer which is less hard than or as hard as the string. Hollow profiles made of fibre-reinforced plastics material are formed integrally on the central strip on both sides. The through-holes are in this case drilled into the central strip or prefabricated, for example with channels produced or pressed by injection molding.
In order to avoid these drawbacks, EP-A-0142286 discloses a tennis racket which is manufactured by injection molding and has shaped therein a wire with rectangular eyes into which the string is stretched crosswise. The rectangular eyes are in this case arranged in the plane of the impact surface. As the head frame is pear-shaped in its embodiment and the rectangular eyes are arranged with the upper rims substantially parallel to the inside of the head frame, the string is drawn during stringing into either the left or right corner of the respective eyes. It is therefore difficult, if not impossible, to achieve uniform stringing of the tennis racket. Furthermore, the respective string portions are as a result not all positioned in the same plane, as they are drawn around the eyes, making it almost impossible to achieve a stringing or impact surface that is precisely plane-parallel to the head frame.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.


A heat sink for electronic components having a heat dissipator connected to at least one electronic component and a ventilator designed to supply the heat dissipator with air. The heat dissipator includes at least one thermally conductive plate connected to the electronic component and having a plurality of openings.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a heat sink for electronic components and a process for making the heat sink.
2. Description of the Related Art
Heat sinks are devices used to lower the temperature of electronic components and circuits by dissipating the heat these components and circuits produce during operation. They comprise a dissipating element usually consisting of a central element, associated to the electronic component and having a plurality of dissipating fins.
Heat sinks known to prior art include devices known as xe2x80x9cactivexe2x80x9d heat sinks. This type of heat sink is equipped with a fan, positioned close to the dissipating element, which conveys air directly to the element in order to cool it. Through the fan, cooling occurs by forced convection and therefore much more quickly.
In these heat sinks, the shape of the dissipating elements, and especially of the fins, varies according to the amount of heat to be dispersed and the size of the electronic circuit to which the heat sink is applied. Once the shape of the dissipating element has been defined, the dissipating element can be made using any of several different known methods. For example, there are aluminium heat sinks made by extrusion, having a plurality of suitably cut fins, or made from die formed metal sheets.
Heat sinks may also be made by sintering and pressing metal powders. Heat sinks having fins that are glued or brazed on a plate and with or without holes in them, are also known in prior art. The manufacturing of heat sinks of this kind involves considerably complex processes and a high production cost.
Moreover, each heat sink must be adapted to a particular electronic circuit and positioned relative to the fan in such a way as to ensure the correct heat exchange. The heat sink, however, especially if series-produced, cannot always be adapted to the circuit to ensure optimum thermal performance.
The aim of the present invention is therefore to overcome the above mentioned disadvantages. The invention has for an aim, in particular, to provide a heat sink that is economical to make and, at the same time, provides good thermal performance.
Yet another aim of the present invention is to provide a heat sink that is easy to make and can be series-produced without limiting thermal performance.
A heat sink for an electronic component comprising heat dissipating means connected to at least one electronic component, the dissipating means having at least one thermally conductive plate having a plurality of openings and being attachable to the electronic component ventilation means for supplying the heat dissipating means with air.
A process for making a heat sink for electronic comprising the steps of forming at least one thermally conductive plate having a plurality of openings joining the plate to a thermally conductive base, the base accommodating connection to at least one electronic component.
Other objects and features of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood, however, that the drawings are designed solely for purposes of illustration and not as a definition of the limits of the invention, for which reference should be made to the appended claims. It should be further understood that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale and that, unless otherwise indicated, they are merely intended to conceptually illustrate the structures and procedures described herein.


Systems and methods are described for processing of laser capture microdissection (LCM) samples. A biological sample processing system includes a laminated film sample processing device including a reaction chamber mated with a biological sample carrier to form a fluidic circuit. A multiple step fluidic device includes an LCM transfer film and a surface that is spaced apart from the transfer film so as to define a fluid volume. The reaction buffer can be removed through an exit port, or stop junction, in the surface. Advantages of the systems and methods include facilitating subsequent processing reducing the volume of reagents and enhancing economy. For instance, the reaction buffer can be conveniently removed away from the LCM transfer film.

1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates generally to the liquid extraction of microdissected samples. More particularly, the invention relates to the liquid extraction of microdissected tissue samples through fluidic circuits, including the interrelationships between microdissection sample carriers and microdissection analysis vessels.
2. Discussion of the Related Art
Prior art microdissection techniques and processing are known to those skilled in the art. For example, a conventional microdissection is typically is typically performed with small surgical instruments.
A problem with this technology has been that subsequent processing of the microdissected sample is difficult because of the small size of the sample. Therefore, what is required is solution that facilitates processing of microdissected samples.
Another problem with this technology has been that use of a relatively large amount of reaction buffer and/or subsequent reagents, which dilutes the sample constituents, can make obtaining data from the comparatively small sample difficult. Therefore, what is also required is a solution that uses a smaller volume of reaction buffer and/or other reagents.
One approach, in an attempt to solve the above-discussed problems involves using a carrier film to capture and transport the microdissected sample. This film and sample are then both dropped into the centrifuge tube where the sample is contacted by the reaction buffer. However, this approach does not necessarily reduce the volume of reaction buffer and/or subsequent reagents.
In addition, the previous approaches generally require sequential handling of samples, reaction buffer and subsequent reagents in separate apparatus, which involves many manual handling steps leading to possible human error and relatively high cost. Therefore, what is also needed is a solution that meets the above-discussed requirements in a more cost effective manner.
Heretofore, the requirements of facilitating subsequent processing, reducing the volume of reagents, and economy referred to above have not been fully met. What is needed is a solution that simultaneously addresses all of these requirements. The invention is directed to meeting these requirements, among others.

Fluidic extraction of microdissected samples


The invention relates to a motor vehicle comprising a compressed-air braking system. Said vehicle has two braking cylinders, which can be impinged by compressed-air from a compressed-air reserve by means of a manually actuated brake valve. The braking cylinders have ABS pressure-control valves, which can be selectively impinged by compressed air from the compressed-air reserve, using a slip control valve. A stability sensor detects a motor vehicle position and a control device selectively supplies the slip control valve and the ABS pressure-control valves with compressed air, in accordance with the signals of the stability sensor.

The invention relates to a stabilizing device for motor vehicles having pneumatically operated braking systems.
It is known to use an electronic stabilizing program (ESP in connection with an electronic braking system (EBS) for stabilizing motor vehicles. In the case of such an ESP, the vehicle is stabilized in critical situations by automatic wheel-selective brake interventions or by engine interventions. In the case of a passenger car ESP, the vehicle is stabilized, for example, during a beginning of a swerve, by automatic wheel-selective brake interventions as well as by engine interventions. When the instability of the vehicle starts, the measured vehicle movement will no longer correspond to the (intended) vehicle movement defined by the driver via the steering wheel. In this situation, the ESP stabilizes the vehicle by means of wheel-selective brake interventions and by means of engine interventions, so that the movement corresponds to the driver's intention—within physical possibilities. Thus, for example, during oversteering, the front wheel, which is on the outside during cornering, will mainly be braked and, during understeering, the rear wheel, which is on the inside during cornering, will mainly be braked. For this purpose, in addition to the ABS sensor system (rotational wheel speed sensors at each wheel), sensors are also used for the steering wheel angle (driver's intention) as well as for the yaw rate and the lateral acceleration of the vehicle (actual movement) (ABS=antilock system). In order to be able to stabilize the vehicle during braking by the driver, information concerning the driver's braking intention is additionally required.
The braking of a desired individual wheel of the vehicle can take place without any problem in the case of an EBS system as a result of its structure.
The ESP for commercial vehicles, currently for semitrailer units, represents a further development of the passenger car ESP in order to cover two additional degrees of freedom—jackknifing and overturning. It is based on an electronic braking system (EBS), which is expanded by ESP sensors (steering wheel angle, yaw rate and lateral acceleration). In this case, for stabilizing the vehicle combination at a low coefficient of friction (DSP function), for example, during oversteering, the entire semitrailer is braked in addition to the front wheel which is on the outside during cornering. As a result of the semitrailer control module, this becomes possible also for conventional semitrailers (equipped only with an ABS). At a middle and high coefficient of friction, a commercial vehicle tends to overturn more easily than swerve, which is why, in this case, the so-called ROP (roll-over protection) function will engage. In this case, when the vehicle threatens to overturn, the speed of the vehicle is reduced by engine and brake interventions to such an extent that the danger of overturning is clearly reduced.
German Patent Document DE 198 13 783 A1 shows a braking system for a vehicle, which achieves driving stability by means of relatively few actuators and by means of a complicated control system.
European Patent Document EP 0 482 374 A1 shows an electro-pneumatic braking system, in which signals of a steering wheel torque sensor are used for improving the vehicle stabilization.
German Patent Document DE 196 40 141 A1 shows a motor vehicle with a pneumatically operated braking system, in which brake cylinders are provided which have ABS pressure control valves. In this case, the ABS control valves are connected to a shuttle valve which, on the one hand, can be connected by way of a brake valve, which is operated by the driver and, on the other hand, by way of an electrically actuable shut-off valve with a compressed air supply. When a control device detects an instability, the brake cylinders are acted upon by compressed air by means of the shut-off valves in order to generate, to increase, or to reduce braking forces at vehicle wheels. As a result, the lateral control force of the vehicle wheels is influenced, and torques are generated about the vertical axis of the vehicle, which torques have the purpose of stabilizing the vehicle's movement. Nevertheless, in the case of vehicles equipped in this manner, dangerous situations may occur during the operation if these vehicles are operated with a trailer or semitrailer.
It is a disadvantage of such known systems that high costs are incurred occur for providing the corresponding actuators. In addition, the known systems have complicated constructions. Nevertheless, the U.S. market in particular has a demand for stabilizing systems, such as the ESP or ROP.
It is an object of the invention to provide an improved motor vehicle.
In this case, an ASR valve provides, in particular, the following functionality. When electrically controlled, the ASR valve switches the pressure at the input of the valve through to its output. When the control is switched off, the pressure at the output is reduced or is reduced and bled.
In this case, an ABS pressure control valve provides, in particular, the following functionality. It has two magnetic valves, one of which, when controlled, separates the pressure at the input from the output. When controlled, the other magnetic valve bleeds the output. Thus, a consuming device connected to the output can be acted upon by pressure in a selective and precise manner. The magnets can also be controlled in a pulsed operation.
An idea on which the invention is based meets the demands according to the task in a manner such that the existing components of an ABS and/or ASR system in a motor vehicle are utilized, such that an ESP function is thereby achieved. Additional components may be provided for this purpose.
Thus, at least one additional valve may be provided which, while bypassing the brake valve actuated by the driver, applies the storage pressure of the vehicle to the wheel valves of the individual brake cylinders. By means of the ABS valves provided at each wheel, which now can virtually only reduce the pressure, the respective pressure for the brake cylinders will then be controlled in the appropriate manner. If it promotes the stability of the vehicle that, on one side, a certain wheel is to be braked while the other wheel of the axle is to be rotated, this can be accomplished by shutting off the pressure on one side, and, on the other side, controlling a certain pressure in front of the corresponding wheel valve.
ABS systems comprise such wheel valves. However, an additional valve, which can control a brake pressure while bypassing the driver, does not exist in the ABS system.
In the case of the stability program according to the invention, the possibility is therefore provided to preferably brake each wheel of the traction vehicle, as well as of the trailer, individually and independently.
In order to make the existing ABS/ASR systems suitable for the ESP, several concepts or embodiments will be introduced in the following. All these have in common that ABS and/or ASR components are used for keeping costs as low as possible.
The invention can be used in a simple manner in the case of traction vehicles and trailers. As a result, an ESP is provided for motor vehicles with pneumatically operated braking systems, which has almost the same control and regulating possibilities as electromechanical ESP systems. When the engine timing is additionally acted upon, a simple and good stabilization can be achieved in this manner in many emergency situations.

Stabilizing device for motor vehicles comprising compressed-air braking systems

Knorr-Bremse Systeme fuer Nutzfahrzeuge GmbH


There are disclosed a thermosetting resin composition for a powder paint in which a resin composition component (A) is a (block) copolymer obtained by allowing a vinyl-based polymer G (branch) block (component (a-1)) to graft-react with a vinyl-based polymer S (back bone) block (component (a-2)), and if the solubility parameters of the components (a-1) and (a-2) are represented by SP.sub.G and SP.sub.G, respectively, SP.sub.G and SP.sub.S satisfy the following numerical formula (I), and a thermosetting powder paint composition comprising a resin composition component (A) and a hardener composition component (B) wherein the component (A) is said thermosetting resin composition for a powder paint. By these compositions, a thermosetting powder paint composition having excellent storage stabilities, appearance properties, physical properties and chemical properties can be provided. Particularly, there can be provided a thermosetting powder paint composition suitably applied to painting of bodies of vehicles such as automobiles and parts of vehicles such as automobiles (aluminum wheel, wiper, pillar, door handle, fender, bonnet, air spoiler, stabilizer, front grill and the like), particularly, to top painting. EQU SP.sub.G <SP.sub.S (I)

(1) Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a thermosetting resin composition for a powder paint and a thermosetting powder paint composition using the same. More particularly, the present invention relates to a thermosetting powder paint composition which has excellent storage stabilites (blocking property and the like), appearance properties (cissing, smoothness, sharpness and the like), physical properties (hardness, scratch-resistance and the like) and chemical properties (weather-resistance, acid-resistance, solvent-resistance and the like) and particularly can provide a baked paint film suitable for vehicle painting use.
(2) Description of the Prior Art
Conventionally, solvent type paints are used for painting articles, and paints satisfying various requirements for use in fields such as automobiles and the like in which strict qualities are required have been developed and used.
Recently, in the technical field of paints, change from solvent type paints to powder type paints (hereinafter, referred to as powder paint) has been expected from the standpoints of local or global environmental protection (VOC (volatile organic compound) restriction), labor safety hygiene environment improvement, fire and explosion protection, resources saving and the like.
Along increase in expectation of high ability and variety of powder paints owing to historical or social requirements, powder paints have also been required to reveal high-grade paint film abilities (e.g., weather-resistance, acid rain-resistance, scratch-resistance and the like) corresponding to those of solvent type paints. However, irrespective of increased strictness of paint film abilities required for powder paints, it is not necessarily admitted that powder pants completely satisfying these requirements have been available commercially. Specific examples of conventional type powder paints include epoxy resin powder paints and polyester resin powder paints. However, these paints had problems not only in weather-resistance but also in resistance to acid rain which has been recently regarded as problematical, and had problems in the field of automobile body painting and the like.
For improving these defects, U.S. Pat. No. 3,954,898 (Japanese Patent Application Publication (JP-B) No. 48-38617) suggested an acrylic powder paint and remarkable improvement in weather-resistance was realized. Thereafter, a lot of studies have been made regarding acrylic powder paints. However, these acrylic powder paints did not fully satisfy simultaneously appearance properties, physical properties, chemical properties and storage stabilities, particularly, smoothness and blocking property. For improving smoothness, it is most effective to decrease the melt viscosity. However, the glass transition temperature should be lowered to decrease the melt viscosity, and in this method, satisfying both smoothness and blocking property was impossible.
Then, there has been suggested a resin composition which has improved smoothness by mixing a thermosetting resin having high melt viscosity and high glass transition temperature with a thermosetting resin having low melt viscosity and low glass transition temperature, the latter resin having different solubility parameter from that of the former resin (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open (JP-A) No. 8-209034). However, this resin composition revealed reduced appearance properties (cissing, smoothness) and storage stability (blocking property) and the like due to dispersion failure and localization phenomenon during storage, and did not manifest satisfactory effects, since resins having different solubility parameters were physically mixed.
Usually, a flow controlling agent is used in an acrylic powder paint for the purpose of improving smoothness and preventing cissing (cratering, fish eye). Paints or resin composition in which appearance properties, physical properties and chemical properties are improved by a flow controlling agent have been suggested (JP-A No. 57-49672, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,523,349, 5,648,117 (JP-A No. 7-179789) and the like). However, these resin compositions also revealed reduced appearance properties (cissing, smoothness) and storage stability (blocking property) and the like due to dispersion failure and localization phenomenon during storage, and did not manifest satisfactory effects, since a flow controlling agent was only physically mixed by a melt kneading method and the like.
Further, there have been suggested compositions in which a reactive functional group such as an amino group, carboxyl group, hydroxyl group, epoxy group and the like is contained, as a reactive flow controlling agent, in the molecule and this agent is reacted with a main component or curing agent component in forming a paint film to improve paint film properties (U.S. Pat. No. 5,212,245 (JP-A No. 8-325480), WO 97/30131 (Japanese Kohyo Patent Publication 11-506156) and the like). However, this reaction is only a reaction in forming a paint film, and there is almost no reaction in the paint composition and improvement in dispersibility of a flow controlling agent owing to the reaction is not considered. Therefore, these flow controlling agents also provided reduced appearance properties (cissing, smoothness) and storage stability (blocking property) and the like due to dispersion failure and localization phenomenon during storage, and did not accomplish satisfactory effects, similar to the flow controlling agents of the conventional type.
Furthermore, there has been suggested powder paints in which appearance property (smoothness) is improved by allowing a silicon component as a G (branch) block to graft-react with an acrylic vinyl copolymer component as a S (back bone) block as a technology for grafting a G (branch) block to a S (back bone) block (WO 95-15347(Japanese Kohyo Patent Publication 9-505847) and the like). This technology is apparently different from the instant application in which a G (back bone) block is a silicon component and a G (branch) block is a vinyl-based polymer, and particularly, preferably an acrylic vinyl polymer. Further, this powder paint had a problem in re-coating property since the silicon component reduces excessively the critical surface tension of the paint film surface layer.

Thermosetting resin composition for powder paint and thermosetting powder paint composition using the same


An anisotropic conductive sheet including: a sheet body including a material having an insulation property; and a plurality of conductive portions each including a material having a conductive property, each of the plurality of conductive portions being provided so as to penetrate one surface side and another surface side of the sheet body is provided. Each of the plurality of conductive portions includes a plurality of conductive fibrous members. In the plurality of conductive fibrous members in the conductive portion, a longitudinal direction (Q) of each conductive fibrous member is along a direction that is substantially same as a penetration direction (P) of the penetration between the one surface side and the other surface side and the conductive fibrous members are in contact with one another, providing electrical connection from the one surface side toward the other surface side.

Conventionally, there are anisotropic conductive sheets that in, e.g., a test of an IC package, which is an "electric component", receive the IC package and electrically connect the IC package to, e.g., a wiring substrate.
Although such anisotropic conductive sheets each include a plurality of conductive portions each having a conductive property, the conductive portions being provided in a sheet body having an insulation property, but the conductive portions often each include a plurality of metal grains (see Patent Literature 1).

Anisotropic conductive sheet and method for manufacturing the same


Embodiments are directed to interfacing a multimedia application being executed on a handset with an independent computing device. A connection between the handset and the computing device is established, which triggers a proxy application to be launched on the computing device. The proxy application is configured to interact with an agent application that runs on the handset. The computing device receives one or more user inputs associated with the multimedia application, and one or more messages are sent from the proxy application to the agent application based on the user inputs. The handset modifies the execution of the multimedia application based in part on the one or more messages conveyed to the agent application from the handset, and the handset also sends media and/or signaling related to the multimedia application to the computing device.

Wireless communication systems have developed through various generations, including a first-generation analog wireless phone service (1G), a second-generation (2G) digital wireless phone service (including interim 2.5G and 2.75G networks) and a third-generation (3G) high speed data/Internet-capable wireless service. There are presently many different types of wireless communication systems in use, including Cellular and Personal Communications Service (PCS) systems. Examples of known cellular systems include the cellular Analog Advanced Mobile Phone System (AMPS), and digital cellular systems based on Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Frequency Division Multiple Access (FDMA), Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA), the Global System for Mobile access (GSM) variation of TDMA, and newer hybrid digital communication systems using both TDMA and CDMA technologies.
The method for providing CDMA mobile communications was standardized in the United States by the Telecommunications Industry Association/Electronic Industries Association in TIA/EIA/IS-95-A entitled "Mobile Station-Base Station Compatibility Standard for Dual-Mode Wideband Spread Spectrum Cellular System," referred to herein as IS-95. Combined AMPS & CDMA systems are described in TIA/EIA Standard IS-98. Other communications systems are described in the IMT-2000/UM, or International Mobile Telecommunications System 2000/Universal Mobile Telecommunications System, standards covering what are referred to as wideband CDMA (WCDMA), CDMA2000 (such as CDMA2000 1xEV-DO standards, for example) or TD-SCDMA.
In wireless communication systems, mobile stations, handsets, or access terminals (AT) receive signals from fixed position base stations (also referred to as cell sites or cells) that support communication links or service within particular geographic regions adjacent to or surrounding the base stations. Base stations provide entry points to an access network (AN)/radio access network (RAN), which is generally a packet data network using standard Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) based protocols that support methods for differentiating traffic based on Quality of Service (QoS) requirements. Therefore, the base stations generally interact with ATs through an over the air interface and with the AN through Internet Protocol (IP) network data packets.
In wireless telecommunication systems, Push-to-talk (PTT) capabilities are becoming popular with service sectors and consumers. PTT can support a "dispatch" voice service that operates over standard commercial wireless infrastructures, such as CDMA, FDMA, TDMA, GSM, etc. In a dispatch model, communication between endpoints (ATs) occurs within virtual groups, wherein the voice of one "talker" is transmitted to one or more "listeners." A single instance of this type of communication is commonly referred to as a dispatch call, or simply a PTT call. A PTT call is an instantiation of a group, which defines the characteristics of a call. A group in essence is defined by a member list and associated information, such as group name or group identification.
Conventional docking stations for portable devices allow mobile device(s) to be connected to external workstation(s). However, conventional docking stations for portable devices typically export only basic device functions. For example, data synchronization applications perform data synchronization, but do not provide a real-time user experience of the application on the mobile device. Further, data card interfaces may allow the mobile device to be used by a workstation as a data modem, but they do not provide access to the user interface layer applications on the mobile device. Voice over internet (VoIP) protocol phone switches can provide specific functional tie-ins such as being able to initiate a phone call by clicking on a phone number. However, VoIP phone switches merely exercise a specific function of the mobile device, receiving a call, and do not actually export the user experience from the mobile device.

Interfacing a multimedia application being executed on a handset with an independent, connected computing device


A biopsy needle assembly comprising an outer tubular cannula having an angular distal end. The inner surface of the cannula adjacent the distal end is cylindrical and an end of the inner cylindrical surface opposite the distal end of the cannula is undercut to provide a sharp annular interior edge. A solid stylus is disposed within the cannula and has an angular distal end. The stylus is in sliding contact with the inner cylindrical surface of the cannula. When the needle assembly is inserted into engagement with the tissue to be removed a specimen is collected internally of the cannula and the sharp undercut interior edge secures the specimen within the cannula. After removal of the cannula from the tissue, a rod-like probe is inserted in the distal end of the cannula to push the specimen through the entire length of the cannula to remove the specimen intact.

Bone marrow biopsy is a common minor surgical procedure that is an important diagnostic test in evaluating patients with primary hematological disorders and diseases that involve the bone and bone marrow. The procedure is a simple, brief and well tolerated operation, associated with extremely low morbidity and mortality. However, under certain circumstances a biopsy specimen may be difficult to obtain and may necessitate repeated attempts at biopsy in an effort to get adequate material for the study, thus lengthening the duration of the procedure and causing additional pain, discomfort and anxiety on the part of the patient.
In the past, the biopsy procedure has been carried out using a hollow needle of varying internal diameter with a tapered distal end and diagonal cutting edge. A rod-like stylus is inserted within the hollow needle and the assembly is then inserted into the patient's body until the tissue to be removed is engaged. When the distal end of the needle has reached the tissue from which the specimen is to be removed, the stylus is removed from the needle and the needle is rotated and urged forwardly. This movement produces a cutting action of the tissue and allows the specimen to be collected interiorly of the needle.
Although biopsy needles of this construction have met with success, failure to obtain an adequate core biopsy specimen frequently occurs. Not infrequently, the biopsy specimen will be left behind, either in the bone itself, or in the soft tissue outside the bone when the needle is withdrawn from the biopsy site, thus necessitating the need for another attempt or pass at obtaining a core biopsy.


This invention is directed to lithium and lithium alloy metal substrates, coated with a polymeric layer containing dispersed lithium or lithium alloy metal particles. The coated metal finds use as anode material in solid electrochemical cells. A method of forming the same is disclosed.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention is directed to a stable, more useful form of lithium, lithium alloys and substrates coated with lithium, particularly suited for use as anodes in secondary electrochemical cells. This invention also relates to high energy density electrochemical cells. A lithium anode in such a cell is highly desirable because the use of a lithium anode results in useful voltage at a very low equivalent weight. The anode is the electrode which undergoes oxidation during the discharge portion of the discharge-charge cycle.
Lithium, however, tends to react with the organic electrolyte in the cell. When this happens, the reacted lithium is lost for recycling purposes thereby reducing the efficiency of the cell. Such loss can lead to premature destruction of the cell. The reaction products of the lithium and the organic electrolyte are deposited on the anode, eventually effectively insulating the anode from participation in the electrochemical reactions of the cell, thereby leading to cell failure.
Furthermore, lithium tends to form dendrites during recharge. These dendrites, which are nodular, poorly adhering forms of lithium, tend to fall from the anode and become isolated from the electrochemical reactions of the cell, a process known as "lithium isolation". Additionally, the dendrites may eventually lead to short circuiting of the cell if bridging by the lithium from the anode to the cathode takes place.
This invention is directed to enhancing a surface of lithium metal by creating a conducting layer of polymeric design. The enhanced lithium surface finds use in the fabrication of improved electrochemical cells and batteries made from lithium electrodes.
2. Background of the Invention
Electrochemical cells containing an anode, a cathode and a solid, solvent-containing electrolyte are known in the art and are usually referred to as "solid batteries". The use of certain of these solid batteries over repeated charge/discharge cycles is substantially impaired if the battery exhibits a drop in charge and discharge capacity over repeated cycles as compared to its initial charge and discharge capacity.
Specifically, solid batteries employ a solid electrolyte interposed between a cathode and an anode. The solid electrolyte contains either an inorganic or an organic matrix as well as a suitable inorganic ion salt. The inorganic matrix may be non-polymeric [e.g., .beta.-alumina, silicon dioxide lithium iodide, etc.] or polymeric [e.g., inorganic (polyphosphazene) polymers] whereas the organic matrix is typically polymeric. Suitable organic polymeric matrices are well known in the art and are typically organic polymers obtained by polymerization of a suitable organic monomer as described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,908,283. Suitable organic monomers include, by way of example, polyethylene oxide, polypropylene oxide, polyethylenimine, polyepichlorohydrin, polyethylene succinate, and an acryloyl-derivatized polyalkylene oxide containing an acryloyl group of the formula CH.sub.2 .dbd.CR'C(O)O-- where R' is hydrogen or lower alkyl of from 1-6 carbon atoms.
Because of their expense and difficulty in forming into a variety of shapes, inorganic non-polymeric matrices are generally not preferred and the art typically employs a solid electrolyte containing a polymeric matrix. Nevertheless, electrochemical cells containing a solid electrolyte a polymeric matrix may suffer from low ion conductivity and, accordingly, in order to maximize the conductivity of these materials, the matrix is generally constructed into a very thin film, i.e., on the order of about 25 to about 250 .mu.m. As is apparent, the reduced thickness of the film reduces the total amount of internal resistance within the electrolyte thereby minimizing losses in conductivity due to internal resistance.
The solid electrolytes also contain a solvent (plasticizer) which is typically added to the matrix in order to enhance the solubility of the inorganic ion salt in the solid electrolyte and thereby increase the conductivity of the electrochemical cell.
To make a solid electrolyte, a monomer or partial polymer of the polymeric matrix to be formed is combined with appropriate amounts of the inorganic ion salt and the solvent. This mixture is then placed on the surface of a suitable substrate (e.g., the surface of the cathode) and the monomer is polymerized or cured (or the partial polymer is then further polymerized or cured) by conventional techniques (heat, ultraviolet radiation, electron beams, etc.) so as to form the solid, solvent-containing electrolyte.
When the solid electrolyte is formed on a cathodic surface, an anodic material can then be laminated onto the solid electrolyte to form a solid electrochemical cell.
Notwithstanding the above, the initial capacity of solid batteries is often less than desirable. Moreover, even when the initial capacity of the solid battery is relatively high, such solid batteries often exhibit rapid decline in capacity over their cycle life.
Specifically, the cumulative capacity of a solid battery is the summation of the capacity of a solid battery over each cycle (charge and discharge) in a specified cycle life. Solid batteries having a high initial capacity but which rapidly lose capacity over the cycle life will have low cumulative capacity which interferes with the effectiveness of these batteries for repeated use.
The normal passivation layer of lithium surfaces in contact with the described electrolytes are relatively brittle and unstable. When the battery is cycled, the lithium is stripped from the anode on the discharge half-cycle and is plated on the recharge half-cycle. The weak passivation layer is disrupted by the cyclic process and the lithium metal reacts further with the electrolyte. Consequently, the lithium is stripped and plated selectively over the anode surface, causing the growth of dendrites or nodules which can eventually short the cell through the electrolyte.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,147,739 and 5,110,696 suggest the use of composite anodes comprising lithium or lithium alloy substrate in combination with one or more lithium insertion compounds. The intercalation compound may be adhered, mixed, embedded, or otherwise contacted as a finely dispersed layer, coating, laminate, or mixture with the lithium substrate. Such anodes, like the use of lithium/carbon anodes (U.S. Pat. No. 5,028,500), and the use of lithium alloys, although less reactive towards the electrolyte, provide lower energy density.
It would be advantageous if the lithium surface could be enhanced by a strong and stable layer which is ionically and electronically conducting.
In view of the above, the art is searching for methods to enhance the cumulative capacity of such solid batteries. It goes without saying that increases in the cumulative capacity of solid batteries would greatly facilitate their widespread commercial use.

Method of forming an anode material for lithium-containing solid electrochemical cells


A pull-out faucet main body including a valve core seat assembly and a pull-out faucet are provided. The faucet main body is composed of a main pipe and a side wall branch pipe. The valve core seat assembly includes a valve core seat and a main body fixing seat. The main body fixing seat has a body that matches an included angle between the main pipe and the side wall branch pipe. A lug is additionally provided horizontally outward on an outer side of the body, and at least one water inlet channel and a water outlet channel which are independent from each other are provided in an inner cavity of the body, and the main body fixing seat is locked and fixed inside the main pipe by a nut, and the valve core seat is exactly engaged into the side wall branch pipe.

In order to facilitate the kitchen cleaning, pull-out faucets have been widely used in daily life of households of various types and countries, and a pull-out water outlet head carrying a hose at its back of the pull-out faucet can be pulled out and returned in a certain range, which provides convenience for consumers in using them;
Due to the use requirements of the pull-out faucet, it is generally necessary to arrange a valve core in a side wall branch pipe of the pull-out faucet, and arrange water tubes in its main body, so it is often necessary to assemble a valve core seat at a corner portion between the main body and the side wall branch pipe, for fixing the valve core and connecting the water tubes, since the corner portion is not reliable to receive force, it is difficult to effectively fix the valve core seat in the corner portion.
According to the conventional practice, in the design of this structure, generally, structures capable of snapping fit with each other are provided between the valve core seat and the side wall branch pipe to realize the fitting between the valve core seat and the side wall branch pipe. However, in the process of use, due to the long-term pulling of the pull-out water outlet head, a hose inside the side wall branch pipe is brought to slide, which may impose a pulling force on the valve core seat ever and again, however, and solely using the snapping fit between the valve core seat and the side wall branch pipe may lead to a limited load-bearing capability of the valve core seat, such that the valve core seat is apt to falling off from the connection with the side wall branch pipe; moreover, the fitting manner imposes a high requirement on precision of the fitting between the valve core seat and the side wall branch pipe, and if any error occurred in the manufacturing precision causes deviation of position of the valve core disposed therein, it may cause gap between the fitting faces of the valve core and the valve core seat and the water leakage from the gap, to achieve the precision of fitting between the valve core seat and the side wall branch pipe, it is required to improve the manufacturing precision of the inner structure of the side wall branch pipe, which may result in a high manufacturing cost. Therefore, it is necessary to provide a more reasonable fitting structure to address the above issue.

Pull-out faucet main body including valve core seat assembly and pull-out faucet


A data storage library and method of operation are disclosed wherein access at least to part of at least one robotics mechanism from the data storage library's exterior is permitted. Access is accomplished through a service port in the library's housing. Access to the storage cells, and thus the data cartridges sitting therein, from the library's exterior is blocked. Blocking access to the storage cells may be provided by a geometry of the service port itself, or by a combination of a door and the robotics mechanism being serviced filling the opening created by the service port. For robotics mechanisms operating on a track, part of the track may be routed through the service port to bring the robotics mechanisms to the exterior of the library for maintenance purposes.

Automated data storage libraries incorporate one or more robotics mechanisms for moving data cartridges around within the library. From time to time, these robotics mechanisms require maintenance actions. Maintenance is usually performed through a service door in the library's housing that allows personnel to access robotics mechanisms inside the library. All of the robotics mechanisms within the library are usually shut down any time the service door is open. This shut down is done for the safety of the personnel performing the maintenance on the robots.
The approach of shutting down the robotics mechanisms during maintenance is costly to the automated data storage library owner in terms of down time of the library and security for the data within. The library can perform no useful work while the service door is open and all of the robots are shut down. Even if maintenance is required on only one robotics mechanism, the other robots must be stopped in order to avoid possible collisions with the personnel. This means that no new data cartridges can be mounted into the read/write drives, and data cartridges currently in the read/write drives cannot be dismounted during maintenance operations.
The open service door also raises a question of security for the data cartridges within the library. Once personnel have access to the interior of the library, it is easy for them to add, remove, or rearrange the data cartridges resting in the library's storage cells. An audit of all data cartridges within the library is usually performed once the service door has been closed to verify that no manual manipulation of the data cartridges had taken place. For small libraries containing only a few data cartridges, an audit can be completed in several minutes. Very large data storage libraries containing thousands of data cartridges may require more than one hour to complete an audit. At a minimum, productive time of the library is lost during the audit. In a worse case scenario, data within the library has been either corrupted or lost.
What is desired is an approach that allows access to the robotics mechanisms from the exterior of the library while simultaneously blocking access to the data cartridges stored within. In large library systems containing multiple robots, it is desirable that the robots not being serviced are allowed to continue their normal operations. Preferably, the approach also blocks personnel access to these active robots while the one robot is being serviced.


A nitride semiconductor laser device is provided herein that is reduced in capacitance to have a better response. The nitride semiconductor laser device includes: an active layer; an upper cladding layer which is stacked above the active layer; a low dielectric constant insulating film which is stacked above the upper cladding layer; and a pad electrode which is stacked above the low dielectric constant insulating film.

Nitride semiconductor laser devices, which are utilized in the recording and playing of a Blu-ray disc or the like and other uses, are being actively researched and developed. For example, to record information at a high density, turning laser light on and off fast is required and a laser device is accordingly driven with short pulses of approximately 20 ns. In pulsed operation, where a laser device exhibits a better response when its impedance is smaller, reducing the resistance that is observed during driving is important, as well as reducing the capacitance of the laser device. To reproduce information, on the other hand, a laser device is required to be reliable and raising the electrostatic discharge withstand voltage is important for the reliability of the laser device.
In the manufacture of a nitride semiconductor laser device, the crystallinity of a layered laser structure is improved commonly by digging grooves in a substrate before crystals are grown (see JP 2005-322786 A and JP 2006-190980 A). The grooves make the layers thicker in its vicinity and, in order to efficiently obtain laser devices that have identical optical characteristics from a single substrate, ridges for optical waveguides are formed at a distance from the grooves. This means that, when a plurality of devices, 102 to 104, are set between a groove 101a and a groove 101b as in FIG. 6, which is a top view of a wafer 100, one of the devices (in FIG. 6, the device 104) is always reverse to the rest of the devices (in FIG. 6, the devices 102 and 103) in terms of the placement of the ridge. Specifically, the ridge of the one device (a ridge 104a in FIG. 6) needs to be formed on the left-hand side of the device whereas the ridges of the rest of the devices (ridges 102a and 103a in FIG. 6) are formed on the right-hand side of the devices, or vice versa.
Two types of devices having different structures are thus fabricated from the wafer 100, and need to be discriminated from each other in, for example, a device characteristics test. This is because the two types of devices have different emission spots, and the point of introduction of light into an optical fiber or a tester needs to be changed accordingly when the devices are tested for emission wavelength or the like in a characteristics test. A difference in pad electrode shape, for example, can be used to discriminate one type from the other. In this case, the difference in pad electrode shape needs to be large enough to be recognizable on image in a tester or a chip mounter.
When devices having different structures are to be discriminated from one another by their pad electrode shapes, the difference in pad electrode shape or pad electrode area between the devices needs to be large for easier image recognition, as described above. However, varying the pad electrode area from one structure to another means that devices of different capacitances are fabricated from a single wafer, and creates the following inconvenience.
When a nitride semiconductor laser device is used to record information, a high frequency superposition circuit is usually employed as a countermeasure for optical feedback noise. The high frequency superposition circuit needs to be adjusted for each laser device if laser devices having different capacitances are used. This causes an increase in cost and a reduction in productivity, and is therefore impractical for actual mass production.

Nitride semiconductor laser device and wafer