A novel fatty polypropoxylate ester which is an ester of an aliphatic or an aromatic monoacid formed by reacting the acid with a stoichiometric excess of a polypropoxylated fatty alcohol. The compounds have the following structural formula:

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to fatty polypropoxylate esters of aliphatic and aromatic monocarboxylic fatty acids. These compounds have unique pigment dispersion and emolliency properties. The fatty polypropoxylate esters of the present invention are particularly useful in the formulation of sunscreen lotions, sunscreen sprays, self-tanning compositions, make-ups and other pigmented products, cold creams, lotions, skin moisturizers, antiperspirants, after shaves, pre-electric shaves, topical pharmaceutical products, lipsticks and cleansing creams. The present invention further relates to topical preparations incorporating the fatty polypropoxylate esters of the present invention.
2. Prior Art
There has been an increased awareness among the public of the potential for skin damage from ultraviolet radiation, with frequent news reports of greater risk from sun-induced photo aging, melanoma, and other skin disorders. The contribution of UVA radiation as well as the widely recognized contribution of UVB radiation to skin damage has engendered the development of a broad range of sunscreen products from the cosmetic industry. Sophisticated sunscreen formulations have been developed which incorporate combinations of UVA and UVB absorbers in vehicles which provide wash-off resistance and enhanced esthetics. Because of the regulatory limitations on the levels at which organic sunscreens may be used in formulations and the desirability for high absorbency formulations (high SPF) with broad spectrum protection, the use of physical sunscreens in conjunction with organic sunscreens in formulations has increased greatly.
Physical sunscreens consist of very finely divided (micronized) inorganic metallic oxides, typically Titanium Dioxide or Zinc Oxide. These micronized physical sunscreens appear transparent on the skin by virtue of their small particle size. Similar to other finely divided particulate products used in cosmetic formulations such as pigments for foundations and makeups, micronized Zinc Oxide and micronized Titanium Dioxide are dispersed within the formulation by mixing, using either low-shear or high-shear methods. In order to make stable, cosmetically acceptable products, uniform dispersions must be produced, with all particles wetted out and which remain in suspension over a period of time without settling, gelling or agglomerating. Producing such stable suspensions has proved to be a challenge, although some successes have been achieved.
For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,116,604 to Fogel describes the use of neopentanoate esters, in particular isoarachidyl neopentanoate, as cosmetic emollients for sunscreen products. U.S. Pat. No. 5,716,602 to Uick describes sunscreens formulated to include a water resistance agent and an insect repellent. One form has in an aqueous emulsion DEET, a sunscreen agent, an anionic surfactant, an alkylated PVP, and octyldodecyl neopentanoate. Both of these inventions use of Elefac I-205, i.e., Octyldodecyl Neopentanoate.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,476,643 to Fogel describes the use of two specific neopentyl glycol diesters, as wetting, dispersing, spreading and deterging agents for micronized TiO2, ZnO and other pigments. These esters, neopentyl glycol di-2-ethyl hexanoate and neopentyl glycol di-isostearate, are used in varying combinations and may also be used with an emulsifying agent for a water dispersible pigmented make-up cleaner composition.
Emollients such as Finsolv TN (C12-C15 Alkyl Benzoate) and TRIVENT NP-13 (Tridecyl Neopentanoate) have also been employed with some success as dispersants for physical sunscreens, as have various glycols and propoxylates, such as PPG-3 Myristyl Ether. See for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,928,631 to Lucas which describes a skin composition for controlling environmental malodors on the body. The composition comprises from about 0.1% to about 5%, by weight of a solubilized, water-soluble, uncomplexed cyclodextrin; from about 0.1% to about 36%, by weight of an oil phase selected from the group consisting of emollients, moisturizers, and skin protectants; one or more surfactants, and an aqueous carrier.
Still, there remains a need for superior dispersants with desirable esthetic properties for use in pigmented cosmetic compositions, particularly sunscreen formulations that contain physical sunscreens.
Additionally, since formulators often find it useful to fully disperse pigments, e.g., micronized metallic oxides, in a portion of the oil phase by high shear techniques such as milling, there is a need for forming oil phase dispersions which have a high solids content of pigments, particularly micronized metallic oxides, that are fluid.
It is a broad object of the present invention to provide a class of agents with superior dispersant properties suitable for use in the formulation of topical personal care products.
It is another object of this invention to provide compounds which are superior dispersants and have desirable esthetic properties for use in pigmented cosmetic compositions.
It is a further object of this invention to provide compounds which are superior dispersants, and have desirable esthetic properties for use in sunscreen formulations containing physical sunscreens.
It is yet another object of this invention to provide a dispersant that is useful for formulating by high shear techniques, such as milling, oil phase dispersions that have a high solids content of pigments and micronized metallic oxides.
It is a more specific object of this invention to provide dispersing agents having improved dispersant properties that are polypropoxylated fatty alcohol chains covalently bonded by ester linkages to aliphatic and aromatic monocarboxylic acids.
The aforedescribed objects and others are achieved through the present invention. Broadly, the invention is directed to certain aliphatic and aromatic monocarboxylic acid esters of polypropoxylated fatty alcohols. These compounds demonstrate unusual and unexpectedly superior properties as pigment dispersants, especially for micronized Zinc Oxide, e.g., Z-Cote HP-1 from BASF, micronized Titanium Dioxide, and uncoated pigments such as those used in foundations and makeup products. Additionally, these propoxylated alcohol esters can be used to produce uniform milled dispersions of pigments and micronized metallic oxide sunscreens that have exceptionally high solids content, exhibit unusual fluidity and when applied to the skin demonstrate a dry, elegant emolliency.
Generally, the fatty polypropoxylate esters of this invention are esters of an aliphatic or an aromatic monoacid formed by reacting an acid with a stoichiometric excess of a polypropoxylated fatty alcohol.
Broadly, the compounds of this invention have the following structural formula:
wherein R1 is derived from a polypropoxylated fatty alcohol and has the structural formula:
wherein R5 is a saturated or unsaturated, substituted or unsubstituted aliphatic or aromatic moiety containing from 4 to 24 carbon atoms, and x is an integer from 3 to 30; and
wherein R is derived from an aliphatic or aromatic monocarboxylic acid and has the structural formula:
xe2x80x83wherein R2, R3 and R4 are independently selected from the group consisting of methyl, ethyl, propyl or isopropyl; or
xe2x80x83wherein R6 is H or OH or NH2 or methyl or ethyl.
The present invention provides fatty polypropoxylate esters possessing exceptional pigment dispersant and esthetic emollient properties long sought by formulators for use in personal care and topical pharmaceutical preparations.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there are provided compositions for topical application that include such the fatty polypropoxylate esters.
The emollient dispersants of the present invention are fatty polypropoxylate esters of aliphatic and aromatic monocarboxylic acids.
The aliphatic monocarboxylic acids suitable for preparing the compounds of the present invention contain from 2 to 24 carbon atoms. The aromatic monocarboxylic acids suitable for preparing the compounds of the present invention contain from 7 to 9 carbon atoms. Preferred aliphatic monocarboxylic acids contain from 4 to 18 carbon atoms. Examples of suitable aliphatic monocarboxylic acids include 2-Ethyl Hexanoic acid, Caproic acid, Neopentanoic acid, Isostearic acid, Neoheptanoic acid and Oleic acid. Examples of suitable aromatic moncarboxylic acids include Benzoic acid and p-Aminobenzoic acid.
The fatty polypropoxylate esters of the present invention are formed by reacting the above described aliphatic and aromatic monocarboxylic acids with polypropoxylated fatty alcohols. The polypropoxylated fatty alcohols preferably have between 3 and 30 moles of propoxylation, and most preferably between 3 and 10 moles of propoxylation. The fatty alcohols utilized to prepare these polypropoxylated fatty alcohols may be saturated or unsaturated, substituted or unsubstituted, aliphatic or aromatic, and may be straight chained or branched chained, having between 6 and 24 carbon atoms. Saturated aliphatic fatty alcohols, either straight chain or branched chain, with 12 to 14 carbon atoms are most preferred.
The fatty polypropoxylated esters of the present invention are particularly useful as agents that confer superior pigment dispersion and unusual, dry, elegant emollient properties to topical formulations, especially to those containing physical sunscreens and other pigments. The fatty polypropoxylated esters of the present invention are also singularly useful in the preparation of fluid, high solids content dispersion grinds of micronized physical sunscreens such as Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide for use in sunscreen formulations. The esters are useful in the formulation of sunscreen lotions, sunscreen sprays, self-tanning compositions, make-ups and other pigmented products, cold creams, skin moisturizers, antiperspirants, after shaves, pre-electric shaves, topical pharmaceutical products, lipsticks and cleansing creams. The dry, elegant emolliency imparted by the fatty polypropoxylated esters of the present invention is manifested primarily when the esters are utilized as a full or partial replacement for the mineral oil and petrolatum emollient agents of the prior art. A distinct improvement in the esthetics and emollient properties of mineral oil and petrolatum-based products is discernible when as little as 25% of the mineral oil or petrolatum has been replaced by the fatty polypropoxylated esters of the present invention. Therefore, topical preparations in accordance with the present invention can include a second emollient agent of mineral oil, petrolatum and the like along with the fatty polypropoxylated esters of the present invention in a ratio of up to about 3:1 of the second emollient agent to the emollient agent of the present invention. These topical formulations include the essential compounds of the present invention, one or more active ingredients and water. As mentioned above, a second emollient agent of mineral oil, petrolatum and the like may be included as desired. Suitable active ingredients for use in topical preparations include organic sunscreens, physical sunscreens, self-tanning agents, pigments, opacifying agents, moisturizers, film-formers, thickening agents, emulsifiers, antiseptic agents, conditioning agents and deodorant actives.
The topical preparations of the present invention, in addition to including the primary components of the fatty polypropoxylated esters of the present invention, one or more active ingredients, water and the optional second emollient agent, may also include fragrances, humectants, protein derivatives, coloring agents, preservatives and the like.
Typical topical formulations in accordance with the present invention include the essential fatty polypropoxylated esters of the present invention either alone or in combination with the second emollient agent, in a range of from about 0.2% to about 40.0% by weight of the composition, preferably from about 2.0% to about 20.0% of the composition. As noted above, the second emollient agent, when present, may be blended with the fatty polypropoxylate ester emollients of the present invention in a ratio of about 3:1 of the former to the latter.
The topical preparations of the present invention are formulated using techniques that are well known to practitioners in the cosmetic formulating art. Typically, the ingredients are combined with mixing and the application of heat as necessary until a homogeneous product is obtained. The water soluble ingredients and water-insoluble ingredients are mixed together separately and combined with suitable emulsifying agents.
The topical compositions of the present invention are topically applied directly to the skin. The compositions can be delivered by placing the composition into a dispensing means and applying an effective amount via spraying or rubbing the composition onto the desired skin surface, either the entire body or selected portions thereof. Preferably the dispensing means is a wipe or a spray dispenser. Distribution of the composition of the present invention can also be achieved by using a pre-formed applicator such as a roller, pad, sponge, tissue, cotton ball, hand, etc. Alternatively, the user may combine the composition of the present invention with a wipe substance of his or her own choosing. To do this, the user simply chooses a wipe substance such as a commercial paper towel, tissue, sponge, cotton, pad, washcloth, or the like; and pours, from a bottle or other suitable container, a solution of the composition of the present invention over the chosen wipe substance and applies the composition to the desired area of the body. In this manner, the user may use as much or as little of the composition of the present invention as he/she desires, depending upon their intended use.
The following examples set forth below are intended to illustrate certain aspects of the present invention, and are not to be considered limiting as to the scope and nature of the present invention.

Monocarboxylic acid esters of propoxylated fatty alcohols as pigment dispersants

Abstract: wherein R1 is a polypropoxylated fatty alcohol having the structural formula:

Abstract: wherein R has the structural formula:

Abstract: The compounds possess exceptional pigment dispersant and esthetic emollient properties for use in personal care and topical pharmaceutical preparations, e.g., lipsticks, cream foundations, waterproof sunscreens, sunscreen lotions.


The present invention provides an off-chip apparatus and a method for driving micro fluid wherein one or a plurality of impedance members, plunger positioning members and pressure difference design are used to drive the fluid and control the flow speed in a microfluidic system. The present invention also provides a method for driving fluid and controlling flow speed, wherein a slow pressure balancing mechanism is produced by the foregoing device so the flow speed of fluid can be controlled.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an off-chip apparatus and a method for driving continuously and controlling the flow speed of fluid in a microfluidic chip. It is applicable to the field of microfluidic technology.
2. Description of Related Art
In recent years the development of microfluidic chips has earned a lot of attention due to the ability to integrate electronic, chemical and biomedical technologies to the chip. Microfluidic chips are also applicable to a wide range of fields such as pharmaceutical research, genetic engineering, gene expression, sequencing, protein assays, environment monitoring and clinical diagnosis. Advantages associated with microfluidic chips include the reduction of experimental error from inaccuracies in operation, the enhancement of system stability, the reduction of sample volume required, and the saving of time and labor.
The operation of a microfluidic chip often requires an active driving apparatus to move the fluid in the chip at a flow speed within a specified range. In the design of the driving apparatus, some features for microfluidic applications must be considered:    1. The amount of the fluid to be handled is very small, often at the nano- or micro-liter level. Therefore, the active driving apparatus must move the fluid with small positive or negative pressure.    2. The flow speed of the fluid driven must be controlled within a specified range. If the flow speed of the fluid is too fast or too slow, the microfluidic chip may not perform its function properly. In a bioassay chip, for example, if the fluid is driven too fast, the analyte in the fluid may leave the reaction zone before the necessary reactions are completed. Therefore, in addition to the need for low driving pressure, the apparatus must also provide design variables that may be customized to vary flow speed as needed for different applications.    3. The apparatus must provide a sufficient driving duration in whole process when moving the fluid. Again consider the bioassay chip example. The driving apparatus must continuously move the liquid sample at a flow speed within a specified range during the whole process to complete the necessary reaction on the chip. Often a bioassay may take seconds to minutes for completion.    4. Product cost. Microfluidic chips have a wide range of applications. Because, in bioassay, the parts are often disposable, they must be inexpensive.
Technologies used to drive the fluid on a chip are often divided into two categories. One is an off-chip independent pump, often larger than the chip and attached to it. The other is an on-chip micro driving mechanism. The off-chip independent pump can be one of several types: diaphragm, bellows, centrifugal, drum, flexible impeller, gear, hose, peristaltic pump or syringe pump. When the volume of the liquid to be driven is small, a syringe pump or peristaltic pump may be applicable. Although both pumps meet the requirements of driving fluid in a microfluidic chip, they may be expensive.
There are many types of on-chip micro pumps: bubble pumps, membrane pumps, diffuser pumps, rotary pumps, electrohydrodynamic pumps, electrophoretic pumps or ultrasonic pumps. Although on-chip micro pumps may meet the requirements for liquid volume, flow speed control and driving duration, one major disadvantage is that they often limit the choice of the material used for the microfluidic chip. Most on-chip micro pumps use silicon as a substrate, which requires photolithography as part of the manufacturing process. In many cases, additional parts, such as electrodes made from metal layers, magnetic coils made from special metals, or activating devices made from piezoelectric materials, are needed to make an on-chip micro pump. Such parts limit the choices of chip materials and increase the manufacturing cost of the product. In addition, the complexity of the manufacturing process of such parts leads to challenges in reproducibility of product quality.
In U.S. Pat. No. 6,802,228 an electro-mechanical device, a complicated mechanism, is used to control the syringe pump and drive the fluid. In U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,418,968, 6,748,978 a porous layer embedded in the chip as a valve to control the flow of the fluid limits the choice of material for the chip. In US Application No. 2002/0072719 the design requires collecting body fluid in a syringe. In U.S. Pat. No. 5,944,698 a syringe is designed to release liquid one drop at a time. Because the syringe must be filled with liquid before use, it may not be very convenient for certain microfluidic applications.
Therefore, the following features are desirable in an off-chip fluid driving apparatus: a mechanism based on a simple design, the ability to drive small quantities of liquid, flow speed within a specified range, sufficient driving duration, low manufacturing cost and simplicity in driving operation.

Microfluidic driving and speed controlling apparatus and application thereof

Industrial Technology Research Institute


A display input device includes a touch screen and a control unit. When the control unit determines that a scroll operation is performed, it controls the touch screen to start scroll processing to scroll display content on the screen. After the control unit controls the touch screen to start the scroll processing, when it determines that an adjust operation is performed on the touch screen in which a contact body is moved while keeping contact with the touch screen, it changes scroll speed of the scroll processing by the touch screen in accordance with a contact position of the contact body performing the adjust operation on the touch screen.

The present disclosure relates to a display input device, an image forming apparatus, and a control method for a display input device.
A display input device provided to an image forming apparatus or the like displays various screens. Some screens displayed on the display input device enable scrolling of display content.
A conventional display input device has a touch screen. In the conventional display input device, when the touch screen receives a scroll operation, scroll processing is started to scroll display content on the screen.
For instance, the conventional display input device sets a scroll speed based on pressing force of a contact body (such as a user's finger or a touch pen) against the touch screen when the scroll operation starts. As the pressing force of the contact body is larger, the scroll speed is slower.

Display input device, image forming apparatus, and control method for display input device


A refrigerant scroll compressor for a motor vehicle air conditioning system having a fixed scroll, a orbiting scroll engaging with the fixed scroll, wherein the fixed scroll and the orbiting scroll cooperate to compress a refrigerant gas. An intermediate pressure chamber is disposed adjacent the orbiting scroll, an oil return duct provides fluid communication between the intermediate pressure chamber and a high pressure area of the refrigerant scroll compressor, and at least one intermediate pressure duct is formed in one of the orbiting scroll and fixed scroll and is in fluid communication with the intermediate pressure chamber.

The use of refrigerant scroll compressors in motor vehicle air-conditioning systems is highly desirable, since this type of compressor has a robust structural design and can also be produced and used cost-effectively. Scroll compressors moreover operate radially to the inside, which results in a relatively short axial installation length for the compressor. An electrical refrigerant compressor can thus be designed without requiring any additional installation space compared to a mechanical refrigerant compressor.
The principle of compression of a scroll compressor consists of the fact that a orbiting scroll is moved in an oscillating manner within a fixed scroll such that a space forms between the flanks of the spirals, which becomes smaller from the external radial perimeter towards the center and therefore compresses the refrigerant gas that was collected at the periphery. The final compression pressure is obtained in an axial area of the spirals and the refrigerant gas is axially discharged at high pressure. For this purpose it is important that the orbiting scroll and the fixed scroll are sealed on their axial sides which lie one on top of the other, in order to prevent a radial cross flow of the refrigerant gas to the extent possible. For this reason, refrigerant scroll compressor design principles are used, which, by forming an intermediate pressure chamber, make it possible for the refrigerant gas to act on the orbiting scroll, so that a resulting force in the axial direction is created, whereby the orbiting scroll is pushed against the fixed scroll and thus seals the scrolls against one another.
A known problem with refrigerant scroll compressors consists of the fact that the oil return must be designed for process safety and at the same time must be able to develop a sufficient sealing force with reference to the orbiting scroll by controlling the intermediate pressure.
A scroll compressor with improved oil circulation and intermediate pressure control is known from U.S. Pat. Appl. Pub. No. 2009/0191081 A1. In this context, a scroll compressor is disclosed which realizes an oil return via the intermediate pressure chamber towards the suction side of the compressor.
This design from the prior art has the disadvantage, however, that the oil return and the intermediate pressure can only be poorly controlled.

Refrigerant scroll compressor for motor vehicle air conditioning system including at least one sealing means for bottom surface sealing of orbiting scroll


A vessel with a downward-facing mooring part moors to a submerged buoyant mooring element anchored to the ocean bottom by hoisting the mooring element from a stowed position, at a depth of net neutral buoyancy of the mooring element and its anchoring system, until a mating upper part of the mooring element comes into contact with the mooring part. The mooring operation is completed safely, quickly, and positively by securing the mooring element to the vessel with a multiplicity of hooks that are lowered by actuators mounted in the vessel to engage a mooring ring on the upper part of the mooring element and are then raised to exert a predetermined compression force on a resilient compression member. The mooring part may include a turret rotatably mounted in the vessel, or the mooring element may have an upper part that makes sealing contact with the hull of the vessel and a lower part that is rotatable with respect to the upper part and is connected to the anchor lines, so that the vessel may weather vane in response to wind, wave, and current forces.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to the mooring of tankers or other vessels in unprotected waters. More particularly, the invention relates to a mooring system which combines a submerged buoyant mooring element anchored to the seabed by catenary lines and a vessel provided with a hoisting apparatus for raising the mooring element to the vessel and apparatus for securing the vessel to the mooring element independently of the hoisting apparatus.
2. Background Art
In recent years, a number of undersea oil and gas fields have been developed in offshore areas that are subject to extreme weather conditions. Oil or gas is typically delivered from a wellhead on the sea floor to a semi-permanently moored converted tanker or to a special purpose vessel known as a floating storage and off-loading (FSO) vessel or a floating production storage and off-loading (FPSO) vessel. These vessels are designed to remain on station permanently, unless oncoming severe storms or ice floes threaten damage to or loss of the vessel. In such an event, the well is shut in and the vessel is unmoored and sails or is towed away. Upon passing of the storm or ice floe condition, the vessel returns and is again moored above the wellhead.
A typical mooring system, such as is described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,604,961 and 4,892,495, includes a buoyant mooring element that is connected to the wellhead by a flexible pipe and to the sea floor by a number of angularly spaced catenary lines. The system is arranged so that the weight of the portions of the catenary lines that are not resting on the sea bottom counteracts the buoyancy of the mooring element to maintain it normally at a predetermined submerged depth, called the stowed position, when no vessel is moored to it. This assures that the mooring element will not be a navigation hazard or be damaged by a collision.
Mooring is accomplished by pulling the submerged mooring element up to the vessel and securing it rigidly by mechanical latching or clamping devices to a rotary turret mounted in a recess or well in the bottom of the vessel. The securing apparatus must withstand separating forces acting between the vessel and the mooring element during higher sea states than the maximum sea state that will permit the mooring operation. The connecting elements of the securing apparatus thus need to be large and heavy and to be precision made so as to mate perfectly for avoiding stress concentrations. Not only does the requirement for precision increase the time to fabricate the securing apparatus and its cost, but also the relatively close fit between the components on the vessel and those on the mooring element demands careful alignment of the mating surfaces during mooring. Thus, this operation can take place only in a relatively low sea state, and the time required to wait for the sea state to subside after the storm has passed is additional lost production time from the field.
Another problem with the present technology is the possibility of damage to the vessel or the mooring element during the mooring operation because a relatively long time is required to secure the mooring element to the turret after the hoist line has brought the mooring element close to the vessel bottom. During this time a number of rolling and pitching cycles of the vessel may take place in even moderate sea states, and these movements can result in multiple collisions between the vessel and the mooring element, causing bending and denting of the mating surfaces.
Finally, unmooring usually is accomplished by releasing the latching or clamping connectors while they are under load. This procedure also has an inherent risk of structural deformation and damage to the connectors, particularly if there is any binding or delay in releasing some of the connectors during disconnect. Repairs to damaged mechanical mooring components can mean additional weeks of costly oil field production shutdown.

Apparatus for securing a vessel to a submersible mooring buoy


A system and a method for conveying data using the vector components of the acoustic field, in addition to the scalar component is described. Receivers capable of determining the transmitted data values by measuring one or more parameters of an acoustic field are utilized. Measured parameters of the acoustic field may include both the scalar and vector components. The described system and method may optimize the conveyance of communications through a fluid.

The present invention relates to the field of acoustic communications. More particularly, the invention relates to the measurement of one or more parameters of the acoustic field for information recovery.
Acoustic waves have been used for target localization and SONAR applications for many years, especially in underwater applications. The steady growth of ocean exploration activity in recent years has resulted in a rising need to convey data through underwater channels. Numerous applications of acoustic communications pose an increasing demand on high-speed underwater wireless telemetry and data communication systems. These systems often require a combination of sensors, autonomous underwater vehicles, moored instruments, and/or surface ships to communicate with each other. Examples of such applications include: real-time remote monitoring of underwater tools, construction, and/or environmental factors in the offshore oil industry, continuous observation of ocean phenomena over geographically large areas, observation of fisheries, as well as many naval and security applications, including, but not limited to harbor monitoring systems and tactical surveillance operations.
Underwater communication systems generally use acoustic waves to convey information. In the underwater environment, electromagnetic waves do not propagate, as they attenuate rapidly.
In general, underwater acoustic channels are bandwidth-constrained. For distances from 10 km up to 100 km (long range), the available bandwidth is about a few kHz, whereas in a 1-10 km medium range setup, the available bandwidth is almost a few 10 kHz. Communications over short ranges, smaller than around 100 m, may have an available bandwidth exceeding 100 kHz. Underwater communication may be complicated by the harsh multipath conditions, and/or channel-alone time variations due to water surface fluctuations, internal waves, and/or turbulence. The multipath conditions may result in delay spreads up to several hundreds of symbols for high data rates. Further, channel-alone time variations may result in Doppler spreads up to several 10 Hz. After the first generation of underwater (analog) modems, second generation (digital) modems used non-coherent techniques such as frequency shift keying (FSK) and differentially coherent schemes like differential phase shift keying (DPSK). Due to the need for higher spectral efficiencies over typical channels of interest, coherent systems with phase shift keying (PSK) and quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) were also developed.
Data rates available from existing systems are much lower than the data rates required for the real-time transmission of data, such as video and telemetry signals, over medium and long distances. For example, a typical commercially available modem provides only up to 2400 b/s at a 2 km depth and 3 km range setup.
Traditionally, underwater acoustic transmission has been limited to the scalar component of the acoustic field, i.e., the pressure. Existing multichannel underwater receivers are, generally, composed of spatially separated pressure-only sensors resulting in large size arrays. Array size is a limitation in modem applications, especially for small autonomous underwater vehicles. For example, the medium frequency (MF) 3 kHz receive array of a modem designed for a 21-inch diameter autonomous underwater vehicle includes four hydrophones and is 1.5 m long. For smaller size autonomous underwater vehicles, the necessary modem array may prove unwieldy.
In the past few decades, a large volume of research has been conducted on theory, performance evaluation, and design of acoustic vector sensors. These acoustic vector sensors have been used for the detection of acoustic signals, for example, underwater target localization and SONAR applications. For example, vector sensors have been studied for use in applications including accurate azimuth and elevation estimation of a source, avoidance of the left-right ambiguity of linear towed arrays of scalar sensors, and acoustic noise reduction due to a highly directive beam pattern.
The presently disclosed novel system and method include all of the same advantages present in traditional techniques but eliminate associated disadvantages.

System and method for using acoustic field parameters for communication


A composite core for an electrical cable, the composite core defining a longitudinal axis that defines a center of the composite core, the core comprising a plurality of longitudinally extending reinforcing fibers embedded in a resin matrix, the fibers oriented substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis and a non-conductive insulating layer surrounding the plurality of longitudinally oriented fibers. The insulating layer may further comprise a plurality of glass fibers. The insulating layer may also comprise a type of resin, including for example, thermosetting resin or thermoplastic resin.

Electrical power transmission and distribution cables are designed having a load bearing member to support aluminum for electricity conduction. For example, traditional aluminum conductor steel reinforced cables (ACSR) are designed having aluminum conductor to transmit the power wrapped around a steel core that is designed to carry the transfer load. Typical ACSR cables can be operated at temperatures up to 100° C. on a continuous basis without any significant change in the conductor's physical properties related to a reduction in tensile strength. The inherent physical characteristics of the components of these traditional cables limit ampacity.
It is known that ampacity gains can be obtained by increasing the conductor area that wraps the core of the transmission cable. However, increasing conductor weight causes numerous problems. Weight increases due to increased conductor area cause the cable to sag. In addition, large load increases relate to increased tension placed on the cable infrastructure which, depending on the load, may require structure reinforcement or replacement, wherein such infrastructure modifications are typically not financially feasible. Thus, there is financial motivation to increase the load capacity on electrical transmission cables while using the existing infrastructure.
Thus, there is a need to design electricity transmission and distribution cables that can handle increased ampacity without the corresponding sag and weight limitations of the current cables.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Fiber reinforced composite core for an aluminum conductor cable


A suspension device for façade elements of a façade of a building. The suspension device includes suspending elements engaging in receiving regions of elements of the suspension device that are arranged on the building side. The elements of the suspension device arranged on the building side include at least one base element that is fastened to the building and an adjusting device that is adjustable on the base element.

The present disclosure relates to a suspension device for a façade of a building. The suspension device for façade elements of a façade of a building includes suspending elements which engage in receiving portions of elements of the suspension device that are arranged on a building side or facade.
For façades having prefabricated elements, these elements are fastened to the floor ceilings, or floor slabs, of buildings by suspension devices.
German Patent Documents DE 44 12 505, DE 75 09 864, U.S. Pat. No. 4,483,122 or the German Patent Document of the same type, DE 102 34 807, disclose such suspension devices. However, the suspension devices known from the state of the art have the disadvantage that, constructively, their further developments require relatively high expenditures and their handling is relatively cumbersome.
The present disclosure is directed to a further development of the suspension devices of the above-mentioned type such that their construction and their handling are simplified.
The present disclosure therefore relates to a suspension device for façade elements of a façade of a building. The suspension device includes suspending elements engaging in receiving regions of elements of the suspension device that are arranged on the building side. The elements of the suspension device arranged on the building side include at least one base element that is fastened to the building and an adjusting device that is adjustable on the base element. Two of the receiving regions are constructed on the at least one base element and a position of a first of the receiving regions and a size of a second of the receiving regions is adjustable by the adjusting device. The first receiving region cooperates with a first of the suspending elements to form a fixed bearing and the second of the receiving regions cooperates with the second of the suspending elements to form a movable bearing.
Accordingly, the elements of the suspension device arranged on the building side have at least one base element fastened to the building and an adjusting device which can be adjusted on the base element and is designed for the position and/or the size of at least one of the receiving regions on the base element.
As a result, it becomes possible to adjust, depending on the situation, the receiving regions in predetermined areas at the installation site, which simplifies the assembly. In this case, the suspension device has a constructively simple design.
Two of the receiving regions may be constructed on the base element, and the position of the receiving devices can be adjusted by the adjusting device.
However, it may be expedient for two of the receiving regions to be constructed on the base element and for the position of one receiving region and the size of the other receiving region to be adjustable by the adjusting device. This is particularly advantageous when one of the receiving regions of the base element, in an interplay with one of the suspending elements, forms a fixed bearing, and when the other of the receiving regions of the base element, in an interplay with another of the suspending elements, forms a movable bearing. In this simple manner, one defined fixed bearing and one movable bearing, respectively, are formed with a given tolerance whose position and/or size can, in addition, be adapted in a simple manner to the installation situation.
It is within the scope of the present disclosure for two movable bearings and two fixed bearings to be alternately constructed on the base elements arranged side-by-side on the building.
The position and/or the size of the movable bearing and/or of the fixed bearing may be adjusted on the base element by the adjusting device.
It is advantageous for the position and/or the size of the movable bearing and/or of the fixed bearing on the base element to be adjustable horizontally parallel to the façade plane by the adjusting device in order to be able to easily vary the position of the movable bearing and of the fixed bearing in this direction, for compensating tolerances and take into account the installation situation.
Other aspects of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following descriptions when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Suspension device for a façade, and facade


Optical devices comprising addressable pixels are tiled in an array configured for generating an image line. The addressable pixels are grouped into center pixels and addressable sub-pixels are grouped at the ends. The optical devices are tiled in staggered rows with addressable. sub-pixels and/or pixels overlapping along the array. To optimize the quality of the image, addressable sub-pixels are selectively operated and/or disabled to remove artifacts and maximize pixel density in the image line generated by the overlap regions. Arrays of optical devices, in accordance with the invention, are used generate image lines for display and print applications. The optical devices can be any light valve including MEM devices such as diffraction grating light valves and LCD devices.

The present invention relates to the field of optical devices. More particularly, the present invention relates to tiling a plurality of arrays of optical devices configured for imaging with higher resolution than provided by a single array.
Print and display resolution has become a critical parameter in the design of imaging systems. From paper print, photo print and display, industries are demanding higher and higher resolutions for a wide range of imaging applications. Besides the higher resolution, there is also a demand for reproducing images with minimal artifacts, distortions and/or other defects.
One solution for the demand of high fidelity and high resolution print and display imaging has been to use imaging systems capable of generating images with a greater number of smaller pixels. In certain applications, pixels are configured as a linear, or substantially linear, arrays of pixels for generating an image line on a display unit or print medium.
Optical MEM (micro-electro-mechanical) devices are useful in imaging technologies. Examples of optical MEM devices that can be used in imaging technologies are disclosed in the U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,311,360, 5,841,579 and 5,808,797, all issued to Bloom et al., the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.
Briefly, optical MEM devices described in the above referenced patents have one or more sets of movable ribbons that comprise a support layer and a reflective top-layer. The support layer is preferably a silicon nitride layer and the reflective top-layer is preferably an aluminum layer. The ribbons are coupled to a substrate at opposite ends of the ribbons, whereby center portions of the ribbons (active portions) move up and down to modulate an incident light source. Imaging with the aforementioned optical MEM devices offers the capability of generating high contrast, high resolution images efficiently within a compact circuit package. In certain applications, each pixel within an image is formed with three or more sets of ribbon pairs.
What is desired is a method of making an array of optical MEM devices for imaging which is capable of generating image lines with high resolution while minimizing artifacts, distortions, and/or other defects.
Embodiments of the invention are directed to optical devices, arrays of optical devices and related methods. In accordance with the embodiments of the invention, an optical device preferably comprises an array of addressable optical MEM devices having ribbon pairs for modulating a light source. The array of ribbon pairs are grouped into a center group and end groups. The center group has sets of ribbon pairs, such as three ribbon pairs per set, that are collectively addressed to image pixels. The end groups have fractional sets of ribbon pairs, such as one pair of ribbons per set, that are addressed to image sub-pixels. The optical MEM device preferably comprises bond pads corresponding to each set and fractional set of ribbon pairs for coupling to a driver circuit. It will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that optical devices other than MEM devices can be used including arrays of liquid crystal display (LCD) pixels. In such a case, a sub-pixel of an LCD would be formed of a separately addressable LCD device which is reduced in size relative to an LCD pixel. The present invention can be implemented using an LCD formed using any conventional LCD technology.
The ribbons are preferably elongated ribbons formed from silicon-based materials, such as silicon-nitride, silicon-oxide and combinations thereof. The ribbons preferably have layers of reflective material, such as aluminum, for reflecting light from the top surfaces of the ribbons. The ribbons can have any dimension suitable for the applications at hand, but preferably have lengths in a range of about 50 to about 500 microns and widths in a range of about 4.0 to about 40 microns and are capable of modulating light having at least one wavelength in a range of about 300 to about 3000 nanometers.
An apparatus, in accordance with embodiments of the invention, comprises one or more linear arrays of optical MEM devices for generating pixels in an image line. The array comprises a first row of optical MEM devices and a second row of optical MEM devices that are tiled in a staggered configuration with respect to the first row, such that end groups of ribbons, as described above, form overlap regions for generating pixels in the image line. In accordance with further embodiments, the apparatus comprises a third row of optical MEM devices staggered relative to the first row and/or second row. In yet further embodiments, the apparatus comprises a display means, such as a screen or a monitor for displaying image lines and/or a print means for printing image lines onto a suitable print medium.
In accordance with the method of the invention, optical MEM devices configured for generating pixels and end sub-pixels are tiled (arranged) in an array, with the ends forming overlap regions, as described above. A test image is generated from the array and selected end sub-pixels, or sub-pixels and pixels, are disabled or suppressed to optimize the image quality and/or tailor the image quality for the intended application. Preferably, selected sub-pixels are disabled to remove artifacts and defects and to maximize pixel density of the image line corresponding to the overlap regions.

Optical device arrays with optimized image resolution


A data recording/playback configuration whereby data compatible with a standard such as the BD standard, AVCHD standard, or the like, and data incompatible with a standard are usable is realized. In the event that recorded data is data compatible with a standard such as the BD standard, AVCHD standard, or the like at the time of data recording processing as to a medium, the management information of the data is recorded in a first management information file only for data compatible with a standard, and in the event that the recorded data is data incompatible with a standard, the management information of the data is recorded in a second management information file. Also, management information updating processing for recording all of management information recorded in the first management information file in the second management information file is performed. An existing device which executes only processing as to data compatible with a standard performs processing by applying first management information, and a new-type device which can perform processing as to data incompatible with a standard can play all of data by processing to which second management information has been applied.

For example, with a recording/playback device, a video camera, or the like, various media are employed, such as a hard disk, a disc-type medium such as DVD or Blu-ray Disc®, flash memory, and so forth.
In the event of performing data recording/playback employing media, a recording/playback application to be executed at a device performs data recording/playback processing in accordance with a format stipulated beforehand. For example, examples of the standard of a recording/playback format of high-definition Hi-Vision video include the AVCHD (Advanced Video Codec High Definition) standard, and BD (Blu-ray Disc) standard. Note that examples of descriptions regarding the AVCHD standard include Patent Literature 1 (Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2008-5294) and Patent Literature 2 (Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2008-5295). Also, examples of descriptions regarding the BD standard include Patent Literature 3 (Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2007-179671).
With the AVCHD standard and BD standard, a data format serving as an allowable object of recording processing or playback processing is stipulated. For example, in the event of performing recording/playback of an HD (High Definition) image, recording/playback of data in a predetermined format is performed, such as 1080/60i, 1080/50i, or the like. Note that [1080/60i] indicates that recording/playback of 1080 lines is performed with an HD (High Definition) image of 1920×1080 pixels as 60 field images per one second using the interlace method. [i] indicates the interlace method. Incidentally, the progressive method is indicated with [p].
The current Hi-Vision data is stipulated as an image of 1920×1080 pixels, but further, there has been developed a device which performs recording and playback of an image of around 4000×2000 pixels (=4 K×2 K) as a high-definition image. Also, development of various devices has been performed, such as a device which performs [1080/60p] for performing recording/playback by the progressive method different from the above-mentioned interlace method, or a device for performing recording/playback of an image for the right eye and an image for the left eye for a 3D image that is a three-dimensional stereoscopic image.
However, with the AVCHD standard and BD standard, a 4K×2K image, 1080/60p, and 3D image data are not allowed as recording/playback data. Accordingly, this leads to a problem wherein even if a 4K×2K ultra-high-definition image is generated as recorded data, data recording to which the existing AVCHD standard or BD standard has been applied may not be performed.
As one solution to solve this problem, it can be conceived to define a new standard for recording various images such as a [4K×2K] image, [1080/60p], [3D] imager, and further [1080/60i] that is the current high-definition image, and so forth. However, in the event that such a new standard has been defined, this causes a problem wherein an existing device which performs data recording and playback in accordance with the existing AVCHD standard or BD standard may not be used.

Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and program


A motor includes a rotor part having a rotor shaft and a rotor magnet, a stator part oppositely disposed to the rotor magnet via a gap space, a bearing rotatably supporting the rotor shaft, a spring member abutting with one end of the rotor shaft to urge the rotor shaft in an axial direction. A spring member side restricting part is provided in the spring member to prevent fluctuation in the radial direction of the rotor shaft and a rotor shaft side restricted part is provided in the rotor shaft and engages with the spring member side restricting part.

A conventional motor 100 includes a rotor part 101 having a rotor shaft 103 and a rotor magnet 104 and a stator part 102 which is disposed so as to face the rotor magnet 104 through a clearance as shown in FIG. 5. The rotor shaft 103 is rotatably supported by bearings 105, 110 and one end of the rotor shaft 103 is urged by a plate spring 107 in an axial direction through a ball 108.
The bearing 105 includes a ball 105a abutting with a fitting hole which is formed on the other end of the rotor shaft 103 and a ball holding body 105b for holding the ball 105a. The bearing 110 is a radial bearing for supporting the rotor shaft 103 in a radial direction and is disposed on the under side of the rotor magnet 104 in FIG. 5. A clearance is formed between the inner peripheral face of the bearing 110 and the outer peripheral face of the rotor shaft 101, and thus the rotor shaft 101 rotates smoothly without being locked (see Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. Hei 9-135562).
However, in the motor 100 shown in FIG. 5, the fluctuation occurs in the rotor shaft 101 due to the positioning errors or the like between the rotor magnet 104 and the stator part 102 when the motor is rotated, and noises are generated between the bearings 110, 105 or the like and the rotor shaft 103. It has been known that these noises are two different types of noise, i.e., striking noise and sliding noise.
The striking noise has been considered to be generated by the rotor shaft 101 that moves radially due to the clearance formed between the inner peripheral face of the bearing 110 and the outer peripheral face of the rotor shaft 103 and the rotor shaft 103 that strikes against the inner peripheral face of the bearing 110. When the rotor shaft 103 strikes the bearing 110, a rattling sound is generated. This indicates the generation of the striking noise. The sliding noise is considered to be generated when the ball 105a integrally rotated with the rotor shaft 103 slides to the ball holding body 105b and when the ball 108 integrally rotated with the rotor shaft 103 slides to the plate spring 107. Further, the sliding noise is considered to be generated between the rotor shaft 103 and the bearing 110 when the rotor shaft 103 is rotated.


A terminal apparatus for auto pairing and a remote control apparatus and method thereof are provided. The terminal apparatus includes an IR receiving unit configured to receive an IR signal including first identification information of an external apparatus from the external apparatus, a radio frequency (RF) communication unit configured to perform wireless communication with the external apparatus which transmit the IR signal including the first identification information, a storage unit configured to store a pairing list including identification information of at least one external apparatus, and a control unit configured to control the RF communication unit to perform pairing for wireless communication with the external apparatus according to whether or not identification information of at least one external apparatus in the pairing list corresponds to the received first identification information.

1. Field
Apparatuses and methods consistent with exemplary embodiments relate to technology for wireless communication between apparatuses, and more particularly, to a terminal apparatus for auto pairing and a remote control apparatus and method thereof which perform auto pairing for wireless communication between the remote control apparatus and a terminal apparatus.
2. Description of the Related Art
In general, Bluetooth is a wireless interface standard for enabling wireless communication between terminal apparatuses which are around about 10 m to about 100 m apart. To perform Bluetooth communication between the terminal apparatuses, a user should directly perform pairing for Bluetooth communication between the terminal apparatuses.
However, some users are not familiar with how to configure their terminal apparatuses. For example, elderly and/or child users of mobile Bluetooth communication apparatuses, may not be not familiar with how to configure a pairing setting for Bluetooth communication between terminal apparatuses. In addition, the users cannot perform Bluetooth communication between the terminal apparatuses due to lack of knowledge for Bluetooth communication, and thus users do not use Bluetooth devices with their own terminal apparatuses.
In addition, even when the users are familiar a pairing setting method for Bluetooth communication between terminal apparatuses, users may not correctly select their desired terminals among peripheral terminals searched through their own terminal apparatuses or users may input a wrong personal identification number (PIN) code and fail to perform pairing with their selected terminals. Therefore, there exists a problem among users that are not familiar with a pairing setting method or input wrong information for pairing setting that a lot of time and effort is spent configuring the settings for pairing for Bluetooth communication between the terminal apparatuses.

Terminal apparatus for auto pairing, remote control apparatus and method thereof


Techniques are described for detecting and replacing burned-in subtitles in image and video content.

Image and video content often includes burned-in subtitles, e.g., subtitles delivered not as a text file but as an integral part of the image or video content. For a content delivery service, the presence of burned-in subtitles can be problematic, especially when a copy of the original content without burned-in subtitles is not readily available. In particular, a content delivery service delivering content with burned-in subtitles is conventionally unable to remove burned-in subtitles, which presents challenges for delivering content to users who prefer subtitle-free content and challenges for delivering content with subtitles in a language other than the language of the burned-in subtitles.

Detection and replacement of burned-in subtitles


A range-finding method, a apparatus, a terminal system, and a computer-readable storage medium are provided. The range-finding method includes: transmitting a first check code from a transmitting terminal to a receiving terminal by using a first communication technology; transmitting a modulated signal from the transmitting terminal to the receiving terminal by using a second communication technology different from the first communication technology, where the modulated signal carries a second check code; acquiring a first moment at which the modulated signal is transmitted and a second moment at which the modulated signal is received; demodulating the second check code in the modulated signal; acquiring a range-finding confidence according to the first check code and the demodulated second check code; and acquiring a measured distance between the transmitting terminal and the receiving terminal according to the first moment, the second moment, a transmission speed of the modulated signal, and the range-finding confidence.

At present, most range-finding methods are performed based on a transceiver integrated module. That is to say, after a detection signal is transmitted, a signal reflected by an object is detected. A time spent by the signal to go back and forth is calculated according to a time difference between transmitting and receiving of the signal, thereby realizing a range-finding function. Since the reflected signal is greatly affected by a reflective material, it is often difficult to accurately identify the received signal. In particular, when the detection signal is transmitted at an excessively large field angle, the transmitted signal is excessively dispersive. As a result, signal power attenuates faster with the increase of distance, measurable range is too small, and it is difficult to be distinguished from interference signal. In addition, in the reflection-based range-finding method, since the detection signal is required to go back and forth between a transmitting terminal and a to-be-detected object, the measurement frequency decreases significantly with increase of measured distance.

Range-finding method, range-finding apparatus, terminal system, and computer-readable storage medium


The present disclosure relates to the field of touch technology, and in particular, to a touch display panel and a manufacturing method thereof, and a touch display device, which is used to solve the problem that the touch structure existing in the prior art cannot meet the usage requirements due to inability to combine flexibility with light transmittance. The touch display panel includes: a substrate, a thin film encapsulation layer, an OLED element layer, and a touch structure; the OLED element layer includes a plurality of light-emitting devices arranged in an array manner, projections of the touch structure and the light-emitting device of the OLED element layer are not overlapped with each other along a direction from the substrate to the thin film encapsulation layer, thereby avoiding the influence of the touch structure on the display effect by staggering the positions of the touch structure and the light-emitting devices, and selecting materials with better flexibility to manufacture the touch structure to meet the usage requirements for a flexible touch display panel.

With the development of touch technology and display technology, a touch display device has been increasingly sought after by people, which not only saves space and is convenient to carry, but also enables a comfortable and very convenient experience through directly operating by a user with a finger or stylus etc. At present, various technical fields have been widely applied, such as personal digital processing (PDA), touch type mobile phones, portable notebook computers and the like which are commonly used in the market.
Active Matrix Organic Lighting Emitting Display (AMOLED) is an emerging flat panel display, which is named as a new generation display that can replace the liquid crystal display (LCD), for its advantages such as active illumination, high contrast, fast response, thinness and so on. At present, the combination of touch technology and AMOLED display technology has attracted people's attention. It is foreseeable that touch type AMOLED displays will become the mainstream in the market.
Generally, touch display panels can be classified into three types according to a composition structure: an Add-On type, an On-Cell type, and an In-Cell type. The display panel and the touch screen of the Add-On type touch display panel are separately fabricated and assembled, and the touch screen is attached to the outer surface of the display panel. The touch-control electrodes of the On-Cell-type touch display panel are disposed on the display panel, and the touch-control electrodes of the In-Cell-type touch display panel are disposed inside the display panel. The On-Cell type and the In-Cell type can realize the integration of the touch panel and the display panel, making the display device thinner and lighter.
Please see FIG. 1, FIG. 1 is a structural schematic view of an On-Cell type touch display panel in the related art. As shown in FIG. 1, the On-Cell type touch display panel 100 generally comprises a first substrate 110 and a second substrate 120 disposed opposite to each other, an OLED element layer 130 disposed between the first substrate 110 and the second substrate 120, and a touch layer 140 disposed on the second substrate 120.
However, the touch structure of the presented On-Cell type touch display panel cannot meet the usage requirements due to inability to combine flexibility with light transmittance, which has become an urgent technical problem to be solved by a person skilled in the art.

Touch display panel, manufacturing method thereof and touch display device

KUNSHAN NEW FLAT PANEL DISPLAY TECHNOLOGY CENTER CO., LTD.

KUNSHAN GO-VISIONOX OPTO-ELECTRONICS CO., LTD


A spark gap point and spark gap assembly for a welding-type device are disclosed for igniting and stabilizing a welding-type arc. A double-headed spark gap point having spark gap surfaces on two ends is incorporated into a spark gap assembly with a pair of single-headed spark gap points that each have only a single spark gap surface. All spark gap points are arranged coaxially on a base so that each spark gap surface faces another spark gap surface. A spark gap is created between each set of opposing spark gap surfaces. When a high voltage is applied across the spark gap points, sparks periodically arc across the spark gaps, creating a high frequency, high voltage signal usable to ignite or stabilize a welding-type arc.

The present invention relates generally to welding-type devices, and more particularly, to an assembly for igniting or stabilizing an arc of a welding-type device. Specifically, the invention is directed to a spark gap assembly of a welding-type device for arc ignition or stabilization.
In some welding-type processes, it is often desirable to employ a high frequency voltage signal in starting or maintaining an arc. In doing so, a high voltage, high frequency signal is generated and applied across an arc gap, e.g. from a torch to a workpiece. This may be done initially to establish an arc, to maintain an arc in the event of arc rectification, or continuously. Thus, an arc may be ignited or stabilized without actual contact occurring between the torch electrode and the workpiece. The use of a high voltage, high frequency signal is equally applicable for igniting both AC and DC welding arcs. In AC arc systems, arc rectification is prone to occur when the welding voltage signal from a welding-type power source cycles through a null point. In such a case, a high voltage, high frequency signal could be applied at each null point in the frequency cycle of the welding voltage signal, or as necessary to correct rectification.
One method of producing a high voltage, high frequency signal for such an application is through use of a spark gap assembly. A high voltage signal is applied to spark-inducing elements such that a spark is periodically generated across a small gap between surfaces of spark-inducing elements. A typical spark gap assembly includes a number of spark gap points held in place by various securing means. As used herein, "spark gap point" will refer to the conductive elements across which a high voltage signal is applied. Known spark gap points have a spark gap surface at only one end of the body of the spark gap point. "Spark gap surface" refers to those conductive surfaces between which a spark arcs.
Spark gap points are typically arranged such that the spark gap surface of one point faces the spark gap surface of another point. The spark gap surfaces are separated by a distance known as a spark gap. Such systems usually include one or two pairs of spark gap points, although use of more than two pairs is possible. When one pair of spark gap points is used, a single spark gap is defined between the spark gap surfaces of the points. Likewise, if two pairs of spark gap points are used, two spark gaps are defined. That is, one spark gap is created between each pair of points, and a jumper wire is used to electrically connect the two pairs. Conventional spark gap assemblies utilize pairs of spark gap points and, as such, two spark gap points are necessary to form one spark gap. Therefore, known spark gap assemblies may contain an unnecessary number of parts, and as a result, may be unnecessarily complex and costly to manufacture and assemble.
Conventional spark gap assemblies having two spark gaps, i.e. two pairs of spark gap points, are constructed so that the required four spark gap points are aligned along two separate rows. Because the spark gap points must be arranged in this manner, the size of a spark gap assembly is increased and a jumper wire is necessary to electrically connect the pairs of spark gap points. Additionally, requiring two separate rows of spark gap points in the same assembly limits the possible shapes of the assembly. And, the use of an extra wire creates an additional possibility for electrical shorts or circuit breakdown, and could vary the electrical resistance between spark gaps.
Such an assembly also presents increased construction complexity and manufacturing costs. Constructing a spark gap assembly is made more difficult when there are multiple rows of spark gap points. This is due to the precise alignment desired for spark gap points arranged along multiple axes. Precise alignment of spark gap point housings, threaded screw holes, and other securing means must be performed twice, once for each separate row of spark gap points. Furthermore, the use of more parts increases production costs. For example, jumper wires present not only added part costs, but also added construction steps since they must be soldered or otherwise electrically connected to the spark gap points.
Conventional spark gap assemblies are also prone to misalignment when in use. Under certain operating conditions, it may be expected that some components will become unfastened. This is especially significant in spark gap assemblies, where precise alignment is critical. Therefore, as more parts are used, the possibility of spark gap surface misalignment increases. In addition, the type of fastening or securing means used can affect an assembly's propensity for misalignment. Known spark gap assemblies use methods of securing spark gap points which may not be optimal. For example, when fasteners do not directly engage a spark gap point, the spark gap point may be more likely to shift within its housing.
Also, the method of applying a high voltage input signal to spark gap points can affect performance. Typical spark gap assemblies employ a method of indirectly conducting input voltage signals to spark gap points. Frequently, the high voltage input is applied to a heat sink or securing means to be conducted to the spark gap points indirectly. Performance of a spark gap assembly can be increased by applying the input voltage signal directly to the spark gap points, rather than indirectly conducting the signal through other components.
It would therefore be desirable to have spark gap points and a spark gap assembly for welding-type devices which provide spark gaps using fewer parts. In particular, it would be desirable to have a spark gap assembly constructed such that the spark gap points may be inline, rather than arranged in multiple rows. Such an arrangement would require fewer parts, reduce the expense and complexity of manufacturing, and would be less prone to misalignment. Additionally, providing for application of a high voltage signal directly to spark gap points would improve performance.


An example apparatus includes a semiconductor wafer with a plurality of probe pads each formed centered in scribe streets and intersected by saw kerf lanes. Each probe pad includes a plurality of lower level conductor layers arranged in lower level conductor frames, a plurality of lower level vias extending vertically through lower level insulator layers and electrically coupling the lower level conductor frames; a plurality of upper level conductor layers, each forming two portions on two outer edges of the probe pad, the two portions aligned with, spaced from, and on opposite sides of the saw kerf lane, the coverage of the upper level conductor layers being less than about twenty percent; and a plurality of upper level vias extending vertically through upper level insulator layers and coupling the upper level conductor layers electrically to one another and to the lower level conductor layers. Methods are disclosed.

Integrated circuits are produced as a plurality of dies on a semiconductor wafer. The semiconductor wafer is subjected to various processing steps, including: forming active areas within the semiconductor material by use of doping and ion implantation; deposition and patterning of insulator layers; and forming conductor layers such as metallic layers. The insulator layers are formed over the semiconductor substrate, and are also formed between and surrounding conductor layers and over the entire structure to provide electrical insulation between layers of conductors. The conductor layers include materials such as doped polysilicon, aluminum, and copper conductor layers. Another insulator layer is formed over the entire device and is referred to as the "passivation layer" or sometimes referred to as a "protective overcoat" or "PO" layer. The passivation layer provides electrical insulation as well as protection from moisture and other impurities that can corrode or adversely affect the conductors and the semiconductor substrate. The insulator layers are thin, brittle layers of materials that can be sometimes be considered ceramic materials, such as silicon dioxide, silicon nitride, silicon oxynitride, silicon carbide, and polyimide.
After the integrated circuits are completely manufactured but while the integrated circuits still reside on a single semiconductor wafer, the devices are separated one from another. This operation is referred to as "singulation" or "dicing" of the semiconductor wafer. Singulation of integrated circuit devices from a semiconductor wafer includes physically separating the devices by a sawing or scribing operation. Mechanical sawing or laser sawing is used to saw through the semiconductor wafer in kerf lanes or scribe street areas that are defined between the integrated circuit dies. Sometimes the separation is performed by laser scribing followed by a mechanical breaking operation along a scribed area.
Because the scribe street areas are portions of the semiconductor wafer that are subjected to the same processing steps and conditions as the integrated circuit dies, and which can contain conductors and insulators as well as active areas on the semiconductor wafer, test structures are often formed in the scribe streets. These test structures can be used to characterize the expected performance of the integrated circuit dies prior to completing the manufacturing process. If the tests on the structures in the scribe streets indicate that the expected performance of the integrated circuit dies formed on the semiconductor wafer does not meet or exceed the requirements for the devices, the remaining manufacturing steps, including the use of expensive test and packaging equipment, and the use of various packaging materials, bond wires, solder balls and so forth can be saved. If the integrated circuit devices on the semiconductor wafer cannot meet the necessary performance requirements, the costs of completing these devices can be avoided. In addition, by using the test structures in the scribe streets, useful parametric information can be gathered about the devices on the semiconductor wafer without possibly damaging the bond pads in the finished integrated circuit dies. For example, parametric information on materials such as conductivity/permittivity, transistor threshold voltages, device speed and device power consumption can be obtained using test structures formed in the scribe lane areas.
Testing can be done using a wafer probe card with fine probe needles making electrical contact to bond pads or probe pads for the test structures formed in the scribe streets. Once the semiconductor wafer is diced into individual integrated circuit dies using the kerf lanes in the scribe street areas, these test structures will be destroyed.
When the semiconductor wafer is sawed, chipping of the semiconductor wafer can occur. In a mechanical dicing operation, a rotating saw blade has to cut through the insulating layers, the conductor layers, and through the semiconductor wafer. When thick metal structures are present in the saw kerf lane where the saw blade enters the semiconductor wafer, chipping problems are increased. The metal can also clog the teeth in the saw blade, causing damage to the tool and to the semiconductor wafer. The saw blade has significant vibration and heat is generated while the saw blade is rotating and cutting through these mechanically brittle layers. Use of thick metal layers to form bond or probe pads in the saw kerf lane has resulted in increased chipping and unwanted cracking in the semiconductor wafer during sawing.
Laser cutting can also be used to separate the wafer into individual integrated circuit dies. In one approach a laser is used to scribe trenches into the surface of the wafer, and the wafer is then broken mechanically along the cuts. In other approaches the laser is used to cut through the semiconductor wafer. In either of these laser dicing approaches, cracks and chipping in the semiconductor wafer can occur. These chipping and cracking problems are increased with increased metal density in the saw kerf lanes.
U.S. Pat. No. 8,309,957, filed Apr. 13, 2010, issued Nov. 13, 2012, entitled "Replacement of Scribeline Padframe with Saw-Friendly Design," listing Chatterjee et. al. as inventors, which is co-owned with the present application and which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety herein, discloses reduced metal density in scribe probe pads.

Methods and apparatus for scribe street pads with reduced die chipping during wafer dicing


The present invention relates to a kind of glasses structure for advertising mainly comprising a movable cover plate, a pair of glasses and a hook mounting. The movable cover is inserted to the front frame of the glasses at the two convex pieces found on each side by means of a convex axis designed at both sides of the upper section of the glasses. The hook mounting is specially designed such that the pair of glasses can be kept at the waist to a belt and the movable cover plate can thereon be used as a very convenient means of publicity.

The present invention relates to a kind of portable advertising plate which is very low in capital and yet very effective. The commonly used sunglasses are usually kept inside a case at the waist and are taken out when needed. In the present invention,the case is substituted by the movable cover plate and the hook mounting such that the advertising plate can be used as a very practical,economical and effective means of advertising.


A headlamp of an embodiment of this invention includes a laser element, a light emitting section, and a parabolic mirror. A part of the parabolic mirror is provided so as to face an upper surface of the light emitting section, which upper surface has a larger area than that of a side surface of the light emitting section. The light emitting section emits fluorescence in such a manner that distribution of the fluorescence corresponds to the Lambertian distribution.

In recent years, a lot of research has been done for a light emitting device which emits, as illumination light, fluorescence that a light emitting section including a fluorescent material generates in response to excitation light emitted onto the light emitting section by an excitation light source such as a semiconductor light emitting element, e.g., a light emitting diode (LED) or a semiconductor laser (LD: Laser Diode).
Examples of such a light emitting device encompass a vehicle headlamp disclosed in Patent Literature 1. The vehicle headlamp includes an LED module or an LD module as an excitation light source, and generates white light by emitting excitation light onto a fluorescent material formed into small dots each having a diameter of approximately 0.5 mm or less. The white light thus generated is reflected forward by a reflector having an elliptic spherical surface or a paraboloidal surface, so that the white light is incident on a projector lens.

Light emitting device, illumination device, vehicle headlamp, and vehicle


A simulator apparatus for a combined simulation of electromagnetic wave analysis and circuit analysis, which is configured to produce stable solutions with a smaller amount of processing loads. An electromagnetic wave analyzer calculates magnetic field at a simulation time t.sub.em 01 and then electric field at another simulation time t.sub.em 02 thereby performing a transient analysis of electromagnetic waves. A circuit analyzer solves the given circuit equation at still another simulation time t.sub.cs that is incremented by a variable time step size .DELTA.t.sub.cs determined in accordance with the circumstances. A current source data transfer unit compares t.sub.em 01 and t.sub.cs, and if their difference falls below a time difference threshold .lambda.1, it calculates current source data for the equivalent circuit, based on the magnetic field obtained by the electromagnetic wave analyzer. The current source data transfer unit then transfers the resultant current source data to the circuit analyzer. An electric field data transfer unit, on the other hand, compares t.sub.em 02 and t.sub.cs, and if their difference falls below a time difference threshold .lambda.2, it calculates electric field data for the circuit's local space, based on the voltage obtained by the circuit analyzer. The resultant electric field data is then transferred to the electromagnetic wave analyzer.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to simulator apparatus for a combined simulation of electromagnetic wave analysis and circuit analysis, as well as to computer-readable media containing a simulation program designed therefor. More particularly, the present invention relates to a simulator apparatus for a combined simulation of electromagnetic wave analysis and circuit analysis, in which the time step size of the circuit analysis may vary in accordance with the circumstances, and a computer-readable medium containing a simulation program that performs such a simulation.
2. Description of the Related Art
In today's computational electromagnetics, the Finite-Difference Time-Domain (FD-TD) method is used as a practical technique to analyze the transitional behavior of electromagnetic waves by using a computer for numerical simulation. The FD-TD, which solves Maxwell's equations in the time and spatial domains with difference methods, is actually implemented to a variety of cases because of its wide scope of applications.
In the field of circuit analysis, on the other hand, there are different computer simulation tools which numerically analyze the transient behavior of an electronic circuit. Generally, they calculate the circuit's node voltages and branch currents on the basis of Kirchhoff's laws. The circuit analysis tools are further equipped with programs for modeling the characteristic equations of semiconductor devices and other circuit elements having nonlinear voltage-current characteristics, and to solve those nonlinear equations, they employ some numerical techniques such as Newton-Raphson methods.
Researchers have also proposed another numerical simulation method that performs both an electromagnetic wave analysis and a circuit analysis in a combined manner. In this proposed method, the simulation steps proceed along the time axis, keeping a close linkage between the electromagnetic field physics obtained by the electromagnetic wave analysis and the voltage-current physics obtained by the circuit analysis. With capabilities of both an electromagnetic wave analysis and a circuit analysis, this hybrid numerical simulation technique provides an advantage in that it solves the characteristics of circuit elements and the electromagnetic field behavior in their surrounding space in a unified manner. It is particularly useful for the analysis of high-frequency signals propagating in a circuit.
When using FD-TD techniques to numerically simulate the transient behavior of an electromagnetic wave, it is desirable that the time step size (.DELTA.t.sub.em) be as large as possible within a range determined by the following condition for stability. ##EQU1##
Here, v is the speed of electromagnetic waves; .DELTA.x.sub.min, .DELTA.y.sub.min, and .DELTA.z.sub.min represent the minimum values of spatial discretization intervals defined in the x-, y-, and z-directions, respectively. The above constraint about the time step size derives from the following reasons: (a) the numerical solution would diverge if .DELTA.t.sub.em was larger than the right side of the condition (1), and (b) the overall computation time of numerical simulation would increase if an unnecessarily small value was set to .DELTA.t.sub.em. Usually, the time step size .DELTA.t.sub.em is determined within the following range. ##EQU2##
Once it is determined, the value of .DELTA.t.sub.em is used without changes, throughout the simulation period.
As opposed to this, the time step size (.DELTA.t.sub.cs) in the transient circuit simulation normally varies in accordance with the circumstances. For example, when numerically solving nonlinear circuit equations, the time step size should be reduced if the solution for potential differences does not converge. To allow the electromagnetic wave analysis and circuit analysis to exchange data with each other, it is therefore necessary to synchronize their simulation clocks in a reliable and efficient manner, so that they will transfer data to each other at the definite time points.
Now, the next paragraphs will discuss the timing of data transfer operations between the electromagnetic wave analysis and the circuit analysis.
FIG. 9 is a diagram which shows the timing of data transfer in a conventional simulator. The upper half of FIG. 9 shows a process of electromagnetic wave analysis, while the lower half shows a process of circuit analysis. In the equations appearing in the following section, the superscripts (e.g., n, n+1/2, . . . ) affixed to the variables indicate a specific time step k, or the k-th time step within a simulation process, meaning that a time of (k.times..DELTA.t.sub.em) has elapsed since the beginning of the process.
(S31) The simulator calculates magnetic field values at t.sub.em =(n+1/2).DELTA.t.sub.em, where n is a natural number, and t.sub.em is a simulation time in the electromagnetic wave analysis. Here, the magnetic field H is calculated by EQU H.sup.n+1/2 =H.sup.n-1/2 -(.DELTA.t.sub.em /.mu.) rot E.sup.n (3)
where .mu. is permeability, and "rot" represents the rotation (or curl) of a vector function.
(S32) The simulator then calculates current source data I on the basis of the magnetic field H obtained in step S31 as part of the electromagnetic wave analysis, and transfers the resultant value to the circuit analysis. This current source data I is obtained by the following. EQU I.sup.n+1/2 =.SIGMA.H.sup.n+1/2 (4)
(S33) Based on the current source data I supplied from the electromagnetic wave analysis, the simulator executes a circuit analysis at t.sub.cs =(n+1/2).DELTA.t.sub.em, where t.sub.cs is a simulation time in the circuit analysis. Here, the behavior of the circuit is given by the following equation. EQU V.sup.n+1/2 =Z.sup.-1 I.sup.n+1/2 (5)
(S34) Based on the voltage V obtained through the circuit analysis, the simulator calculates the electric field E in a specific part (i.e., cell) of the computational domain in which the circuit is located. The electric field E, given by the following, is then passed to the electromagnetic wave analysis.
E.sup.n+1 =V.sup.n+1/2 /d, (6)
where d is the dimension of a cell in which the circuit under analysis is located.
(S35) The simulator calculates the electric field at t.sub.em =(n+1).DELTA.t.sub.em, according to the following equation. EQU E.sup.n+1 =E.sup.n +(.DELTA.t.sub.em /.epsilon.) rot H.sup.n+1/2, (7)
where .epsilon. is a dielectric constant. The electric field data supplied in step S34 is then adapted to the electric field calculated in step S35, thereby yielding the entire electric field at t.sub.em =(n+1).DELTA.t.sub.em.
The combined simulation for electromagnetic wave analysis and circuit analysis is accomplished in this way, by allowing the two processes to exchange the current source data and electric field data. The conventional simulation process, however, is likely to produce an unstable solution even if the time step size .DELTA.t.sub.em satisfies the stability condition (2). This problem seems to be caused by a time lag of .DELTA.t.sub.em /2 between the magnetic field calculation (S31) and the electric field calculation (S35) as part the electromagnetic wave analysis. The conventional simulation process, however, does not take that time lag into consideration, unfortunately. That is, the simulator calculates the electric field at a specific time point (n+1).DELTA.t.sub.em on the basis of the voltage at a past time point (n+1/2).DELTA.t.sub.em, which makes the solution unstable. It may be possible to avoid such instability of solutions by reducing .DELTA.t.sub.em to about half the standard step size that is suggested by the stability condition (2). This choice, however, leads to two times longer computation time. Further, the value of t.sub.cs is varied in accordance with the progress of the circuit analysis, and therefore, ten is not always equal to t.sub.cs. In a conventional simulation process, the analysis often fails due to the inconsistency in t.sub.cs and t.sub.em.

Apparatus for combined simulation of electromagnetic wave analysis and circuit analysis, and computer-readable medium containing simulation program therefor


The invention relates to a relay controller for controlling an excitation current of a relay, wherein the relay controller is designed, upon the energization of the relay by means of a switch, to control the excitation current through the excitation winding of the relay in such a way that through the excitation winding there flows firstly a pull-in current and, after a pull-in time has elapsed, through the excitation winding there flows a holding current that is lower than the pull-in current, and wherein the relay controller is designed, upon the switching-off of the relay by means of the switch, to feed a commutation current that flows through the excitation winding to the commutation device through the first terminal and through the second terminal of the relay controller.

The present invention relates to a relay controller for driving an excitation winding of a relay, and a relay device for switching loads.
When relays are used, high-side or low-side switches that connect an excitation winding of the relay to the operating voltage are used. In this case, the term high-side or low-side identifies the position of the switch relative to the load, which in this case is the excitation winding of the relay. A high-side switch is connected by one terminal to a battery, and a low-side switch is connected by one terminal to a reference potential, usually earth. A relay with a high-side switch is illustrated in FIG. 1. The current through the excitation winding is limited by the coil resistance of the excitation winding for example in automotive applications. The disadvantages of such arrangements are the high current consumption after switch-on, the high costs of the excitation winding and the high inductance of the excitation winding. The high inductance of the excitation winding, which arises as a result of the many windings with a thin wire having a high impedance, makes it more difficult for commutation of the relay to be effected, and a slow drop-out of the relay operating contacts of the relay is the consequence. The slow drop-out of the secondary side of the relay can enable sparking to occur at the relay operating contacts of the relay. This sparking considerably impairs the service life of the relay.
A current-saving relay driving system reduces the current after the pull-in of the relay armature, that is to say shortly after switch-on, in order thus to reduce the power consumption of the switched-on relay. Such a circuit arrangement for the operation of a relay is disclosed in DE4410819. In DE4410819, a switch T1 bridges a holding resistor R4, which sets the holding current of the excitation winding of the relay. As a result of the bridging of the resistor R4, a higher pull-in current is available at the first moment of switching on the excitation winding.
For commutation purposes, a commutation voltage has to be applied counter to the current direction via the excitation winding; the higher said commutation voltage, the more rapidly the energy of the excitation winding is reduced and the faster the commutation becomes. A diode reverse-connected across the excitation winding can be used for commutation purposes, such that the commutation current can flow through the then conducting diode, as is illustrated in FIG. 3. The diode has the disadvantage that a forward-biased diode permits only a low commutation voltage across the excitation winding, with the result that the commutation takes place slowly. As is illustrated in FIG. 3, a zener diode can also be used for commutation purposes, said zener diode being connected to the excitation winding of the relay in such a way that the commutation current can flow through the zener diode undergoing breakdown. A zener diode has the disadvantage of a very high power loss. Moreover, a high proportion of energy is drawn from the battery and converted in addition to the energy in the winding in the switch.
As illustrated in FIG. 3, a resistor can also be used for commutation purposes, such that the commutation current can flow through the resistor connected in parallel with the excitation coil. A resistor permits a high voltage on the excitation winding. The higher the voltage on the excitation winding is chosen to be, the more rapidly the excitation current decreases. The relay contacts open more rapidly in the case of a high commutation voltage at the excitation coil than in the case of a low commutation voltage. Rapid opening of the relay contacts reduces erosion of the relay contacts. A resistor has the disadvantage that a high voltage pulse arises shortly after turn-off, which pulse can only be controlled with expensive high-voltage semiconductor switches. A resistor has the further disadvantage that current flows through the resistor when a relay is switched on.
In automobiles, in particular, in which the petrol consumption is directly dependent on the current requirement of the electronics used, solutions which reduce the current consumption of the electronics and hence the CO2 emissions of the automobile, are inexpensive to manufacture and have a long service life are becoming important.


A temperature-robust polymer shroud for a roller bearing seal includes a shroud body and an inner diameter leg defining respective portions of a single continuous part. The shroud body encircles a rotation axis of the polymer shroud and extends predominantly in directions orthogonal to the rotation axis from an inner diameter to an outer diameter. The inner diameter leg connects to the shroud body at the inner diameter, encircles the rotation axis, and is oriented at an oblique angle to the rotation axis to extend both (a) radially inward from the inner diameter and (b) axially away from the inner diameter along a first direction parallel to the rotation axis. A roller bearing seal includes a seal case, an elastomer lip, and the temperature-robust polymer shroud.

Demand for lower freight transportation cost is driving up the average freight car weight around the world. To carry heavier weight, the freight cars must be equipped with strong bearings capable of carrying both axial and radial loads.
Tapered roller bearings efficiently carry both axial and radial loads. A tapered roller bearing includes one or more rows of tapered rollers. Each row encircles the rotation axis of the bearing. Each tapered roller has the shape of a truncated cone. This geometry allows the tapered roller bearing to support axial loads (loads parallel to the rotation axis of the bearing). A popular choice for freight cars is the double-row tapered roller bearing which has two rows of tapered rollers. The two rows are tapered in opposite directions to locate the shaft, or journal, in both directions along the rotation axis.
Tapered roller bearings, as well as other types of roller bearings, operate with a lubricant within the bearing to reduce friction between the rollers and the raceways on which the rollers roll. To contain the lubricant within the bearing and to prevent water, dirt, and other contaminants from entering the bearing, the bearing is sealed. The seal may be a contact seal that forms a physical barrier between the inside of the bearing and the external environment. Common contact seals include a rubber ring that seals a gap between a rotating and non-rotating portion of the roller bearing.

Temperature-robust polymer shroud for roller bearing seal