Detail is apparatus for collecting particles from a liquid, including a first electrode having an upper surface defining one or more substantially circular areas of a predetermined diameter separated from a counter electrode, having an uppersurface bounding at least in part the circular area or areas of the first electrode, by a predetermined gap and equipment for applying an alternating potential difference of a predetermined magnitude at a predetermined frequency lower than the charge relaxation frequency of the liquid across the electrodes whereby particles from the liquid are focused onto the circular area or areas of the first elect through an induced electro-osmotic flow in the liquid.

The optical detection of particles, such as bacteria and viruses, adhered to a sensing medium by monitoring changes in refractive index of the medium and/or light scattered or emitted from the particles is a well-known technique. See, for example, International Patent application WO 01/42768 and references therein.
However, the sensitivity of the technique is limited by slow diffusion of the particles in the liquid to the sensor surface, even with stirring or agitation. Consequently, there is a need to improve the concentration of particles on the sensing medium of sensor surfaces.
It is well-known that a particle can become polarised in an inhomogeneous electric field and that the interaction of the induced dipole with the field leads to the movement of the particle towards or away from the area of field inhomogeneity. These effects, termed positive or negative dielectrophoresis respectively, depend on the properties of the particle and the liquid. Dielectrophoresis forms the basis for the separation of particles in a large number of apparatus.
However, one problem with the application of the technique so as to enhance particle deposition to a sensing surface, is that the areas of greatest electric field inhomogeneity are at the electrode edges. Consequently, particles accumulate at the edges and not on the surface of the planar electrodes.
A third form of dielectrophoresis can be used to separate submicrometre particles between planar electrodes (N. G. Green and H. Morgan, J. Phys. D, Appl. Phys., 1998, 31, L25-L30). The technique, known as "abnormal dielectrophoresis" because particles can collect on the surface of the electrodes, relies on an induced electro-osmotic flow in the bulk liquid when an alternating potential difference is applied to the electrodes. The bulk flow, which is driven by an interaction between the oscillating electric field and the diffuse double layer of charge on the electrodes, originates in the gap between the electrodes, and progresses over the surface of each electrode. For a detailed explanation, see N. G. Green et al., J. Colloid Interface Science, 1999, 217, 420-422 and N. G. Green et al., J. Am. Phys. Soc., 2000, Physical Review E, 61, 4011-4018 and 4019-4028.
At a certain threshold flow velocity, at which positive dielectrophoretic forces are overcome by drag forces, the bulk flow moves the particles onto the electrode surfaces. The particles collect along the surface of the electrodes at the point where the bulk flow diminishes or converges with a bulk flow originating from an opposing edge of the same electrode. The particles are apparently held on the surface of the electrode by one or more of a positive dielectrophoretic force, flow stagnation and gravity.
The present invention starts from the realisation that the application of an electric field at or adjacent a sensor surface may offer increased sensitivity for the detection and/or assay of particles. In particular, abnormal dielectrophoresis may be particularly suitable in that particles are collected on an upper surface of an electrode.
The present invention generally aims to provide an improved electrode configuration capable of focusing particles on an electrode surface thereof. The present invention, also aims to provide surface bound sensors associated with or incorporating an electrode configuration which is capable of collecting or focusing particles from a liquid onto an electrode surface.
Accordingly, in one aspect, the present invention provides apparatus for collecting particles, comprising a first planar electrode having an upper surface defining one or more substantially circular areas separated from a planar counter electrode having an upper surface bounding, at least in part, the circular area or areas of the first electrode by a predetermined gap and means for applying an alternating potential difference of a predetermined magnitude, at a predetermined frequency lower than the charge relaxation frequency of the liquid, across the electrodes whereby particles from a liquid are focused onto the circular area or areas of the first electrode through an induced electro-osmotic flow in the liquid.
It will be understood that the term "substantially circular" does not strictly require that the area or areas, which it qualifies, are wholly or truly circular. In particular, it will be apparent that the contribution of the present invention is to provide for the collection of particles by convergence of bulk flows in the liquid originating at or adjacent the bounded edges of an electrode. Thus, the term "substantially circular" may refer to whole or partially interrupted circles as well as to distorted circles.
In preferred embodiments of the present invention, the counter electrode comprises a surface bounding at least the most part of the circular area or areas of the first electrode.
In some embodiments, the upper surface of the first electrode is wholly circular and the upper surface of the counter electrode provides a wholly unbroken circular recess there around. In this embodiment the counter electrode can comprise a ring electrode surrounding the first electrode. However, these embodiments are difficult to fabricate in that the first electrode can only be connected to an alternating signal source by covering a portion of the counter electrode with an insulating material.
In another embodiment, therefore, the upper surface of the first electrode defines a circular area having a leg portion and the counter electrode comprises a broken ring surrounding the major part of the circular area of the first electrode. In this "lollipop" embodiment, the interruption in the ring bounds a portion of the leg portion of the first electrode surface.
Preferably, however, the electrode configuration is interdigital. In some embodiments, the upper surface of the first electrode comprises a plurality of circular areas having a common, horizontal central axis connected by connecting arm portions. The arms may lie on or alternatively be offset from the common axis of the circular areas. In these "pearl chain" embodiments, the counter electrode may comprise a plurality of recesses and "leg" or "tooth" portions bounding neighboring circular areas of the upper surface of the first electrode. Preferably, the leg or teeth portions define opposing, arcuate edges so as to increase the circular areas bound by the counter electrode.
In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, the upper surface of the first electrode defines a plurality of circular areas, sharing a common horizontal central axis, each having a connecting limb, substantially perpendicular, to the main body or "bus bar" of the electrode. In this embodiment, the common axes of the first electrode and the counter electrode are arranged parallel to one another with the limbs and bus bar of each electrode bounding the most part of each circular area of the other electrode.
It will be understood that the latter configuration is particularly advantageous in that particles are also focused on the circular areas of both the first electrode and the counter electrode. The configuration therefore provides optimal use of the electrode surfaces for focussing particles and is easily fabricated in a single step.
The circular area or areas of the electrode configurations of the present invention, may comprise a wide range of diameters. In particular, the diameter of the, or each circular area may be between one and three orders of magnitude higher, than the size of the particles of interest. By contrast, conventional electrode configurations supporting abnormal dielectrophoresis (see for example N. G. Green and H. Morgan, J. Phys., D, Appl. Phys., 1998, 31, L25-L30) employ surfaces having diameters which are limited to a single order of magnitude greater than particle size. The present invention is not restricted by this apparent requirement, which is thought necessary to maintain an appropriate electric field gradient. Without wishing to be bound by theory, the collection or focusing of particles would appear to depend largely on the generation of the bulk flow in the liquid.
The bulk flow induced in the liquid comprises vortices developing at the edges of the circular areas and extending over their surfaces. The size of each vortex is independent of the size of the electrode but dependant, for a given conductivity of the liquid, on the magnitude and frequency of the applied alternating potential difference applied to the electrodes. The size of each vortex peaks at a certain frequency of the applied potential difference.
The bulk flow in the liquid is also influenced by the extent of the gap between the first electrode and the counter electrode. In particular, the electro-osmotic flow, which is dependent on the on the strength of the electric field, is inversely proportional to the extent of the gap between the electrodes.
The diameter of the electrode surfaces and the extent of the gap between them are chosen so as to enable large vortex sizes to operate in the liquid without overlap on the electrode surfaces. Preferably, the diameter of the electrode surfaces is relatively large compared to the prior art. Still more preferably, the diameter of each circular area ranges from 200 to 1000 μm. Preferably, the extent of the gap ranges from 10 to 200 μm. Still more preferably, the extent of the gap ranges from 75 to 100 μm.
The choice of frequency and magnitude of the applied potential difference for a particular electrode configuration, particle size and liquid conductivity is a matter of routine experimentation. The frequency and magnitude of the applied potential difference are chosen so that the vortices developed in liquid do not overlap on the electrode surfaces. Preferably, the frequency, which may be higher or lower than the frequency at which the size of the vortices is greatest, is chosen so that the diameter of the vortices are just below the radius of the circular area and particles are focused to a tight spot. However, frequencies in which the diameter of the vortices is smaller and particles are collected in a ring may be used.
It will be appreciated that the electrode configuration of the present invention enables relatively large vortices to "reach out" into the liquid to "pull down" the particles to the electrode surfaces. The present invention offers improved sensitivity in detection of the particles not just through focusing of particles but also through the concentration effect of relatively large vortices.
The electrodes of the present invention may comprise any suitably conducting material. Preferably, the thickness of the conducting material ranges from 10 nm to 50 μm. The electrodes may be disposed on any convenient substrate comprising an insulating material. Preferably, the substrate comprises a glass or an optically transparent material. The apparatus of the present invention may, therefore, comprise a chip, which can be conveniently fabricated by photolithography and wet etching a layer of indium tin oxide (ITO) or gold on a glass substrate.
The apparatus of the present invention may comprise an array of one or more electrode configurations, comprising any number of circular areas, capable of collecting or focusing particles on a surface of an electrode.
The present invention allows focusing of particles having a wide range of diameters on a single electrode configuration or array. For example, electrode configurations defining surfaces having circular diameters ranging from 200 to 1000 μm, and a gap ranging from 10 to 200 μm are capable of tightly focusing cells, bacteria and viruses from an aqueous sample.
In particular, particles of diameter ranging from 20 nm to 5 μm suspended in aqueous liquids ranging in conductivity from 10 to 90 mS/m may be focused by applying a potential difference ranging in frequency from 0.6 to 2.5 kHz and voltage from 1 to 20 V. However, frequencies ranging from 200 to 10,000 Hz may be used depending on the conductivity of the liquid.
It will be understood from the above, that the apparatus of the present invention may comprise a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) chip enabling particles to be detected by a change in the SPR angle of light incident the chip and/or by scattering or emission of light from the particles.
In a preferred embodiment, the chip includes a sensing medium capable of retaining the collected or focused particles. The sensing medium may comprise a coating or layer of one or more molecules capable of selectively binding particles of interest—such as antibodies or lectin molecules.
In these embodiments, the apparatus may comprise a metal-clad (or dye-clad) leaky waveguide (MCLW) sensor such as those described in our co-pending international patent application PCT/GB2002/04545.
Further, the antibody layer, for example, may be provided over one or more circular areas of the electrode. Of course, different antibody layers may be provided over different circular areas of the electrode or, where more than one electrode pair is used, over different electrodes.
In a second aspect, the present invention provides a method for collecting particles from a liquid, comprising the steps of i) introducing the liquid to apparatus comprising a first electrode, having an upper surface defining one or more substantially circular areas of predetermined diameter, separated from a counter electrode, having an upper surface bounding at least in part the circular area or areas of the first electrode, by a predetermined gap and ii) applying an alternating potential difference of a predetermined magnitude at a predetermined frequency lower than the charge relaxation frequency of the liquid whereby to induce an electro-osmotic flow in the liquid that focuses the particles onto the circular area or areas of the first electrode.
In one embodiment of the method, the magnitude and frequency of the predetermined alternating potential is chosen, for a particular electrode configuration, particle size and liquid conductivity, so that the electro-osmotic flow defines vortices of size just below the radius of the circular area or areas of the first electrode. In this embodiment the focusing of the particles is tightly confined to the centre of each focusing surface.
As mentioned above, preferably the magnitude and frequency of the predetermined alternating potential is also chosen, for a particular electrode configuration and liquid conductivity, so that the vortices "reach out" into the bulk of the liquid to "pull down" the maximum possible number of particles.
For liquids of conductivity ranging from 10 to 90 mS/m, the applied potential difference preferably ranges in frequency from 0.6 to 2.5 kHz and voltage from 1 to 20 V when the diameter of the circular area or areas ranges from 200 to 1000 μm and the gap between electrodes ranges from 10 to 200 μm. However, as mentioned above, frequencies ranging from 200 to 10,000 Hz may be used depending on the conductivity of the liquid.
In one embodiment of the method, the frequency and magnitude of the applied potential difference is chosen, for a particular electrode configuration and liquid conductivity, so that viruses are tightly focused. In another embodiment, the magnitude and frequency of the applied potential difference is chosen, for a particular electrode configuration and liquid conductivity, so that bacteria are tightly focused. It will be apparent therefore that the present invention enables the focused collection of a wide range of particles. In particular, it is expected that particles ranging in diameter from 20 nm to 5 μm may be focused.
Where the apparatus of the present invention comprises an SPR or MCLW chip, the method of the present invention enables the detection and/or assay of particles in the liquid. As mentioned above, the particles may be detected by a change in the SPR angle of light incident the chip and/or by scattering or emission of light from the particles.
In a preferred embodiment, the method uses a chip incorporating a sensing medium, such as an antibody or lectin coating or layer, capable of retaining the collected or focussed particles. In this embodiment, the particles may be retained when the electrode power or signal source is turned off.
The method of the present invention may be adapted to remove (or "wash") particles from an electrode surface on which they are collected or bound, for example, by antibody coating or layer. In particular, the frequency of the signal source is chosen so that the vortices in the fluid overlap the electrode surface.
In one embodiment, particles not retained over the electrode surface by bonding with, for example, an antibody or lectin, are washed away by the fluid. The particles of interest may be separated from, for example, unwanted particles such as dust.
The association of a surface bound sensor with an electrode configuration providing an electric field offers the advantage of increased sensitivity in the detection and assay of particles in a liquid. In particular, apparatus including an electrode or electrodes supporting abnormal dielectrophoresis are less sensitive to the particular properties of the particles in that they principally rely on bulk flow in the liquid rather than their interaction with an electric field. Thus, a single apparatus may be used for the collection and detection of a wide range of particles including viruses, bacteria and cells.
The incorporation of the electrode or electrodes into the surface of the sensor enables easy fabrication and the relatively low frequencies used can be generated by standard signal generators and amplifier chips offering low power consumption.
Having regard now to FIG. 1 a), there is shown a known electrode configuration, generally designated 11, having first and second planar electrodes 12, 13 defining a gap 14 between them. An alternating potential difference applied across the electrodes 12, 13 at low frequency (<100 kHz) leads to an inhomogeneous electric field that exerts "electro-osmotic" forces on a liquid in contact with the electrodes.
The forces acting on the liquid generate a bulk flow or vortices 15 in the liquid which, provided the frequency of the applied potential difference is lower than the charge relaxation frequency of the liquid, originates in the gap 14 and moves out across each electrode surface 12a, 13a.
The bulk flow 15 creates drag forces, which act on particles 16 suspended in the liquid. At a critical point, depending on the magnitude and frequency of the applied potential difference, their magnitude is sufficient to overcome dielectrophoretic forces so that particles 16 entrained in the bulk flow in the gap are moved from the edges out across the surface 12a 13a of the electrodes. However, because the electric field is more uniform over the electrode surfaces 12a 13a and the bulk flow 15 diminishes, the upward drag acting on the particles is now insufficient to overcome the dielectrophoretic forces and/or gravity.
FIG. 1 b) shows part of a known electrode configuration, generally designated 17, in which a surface 12a of a first planar electrode 12 is bounded at opposing edges by surfaces of an adjacent counter electrode 18. As may be seen, abnormal dielectrophoresis leads to vortices 15 covering substantially the whole of the surface 12 a of the first electrode 12 so that the leakage of particles 16 away from the surface is effectively contained. The particles 16 are collected on the electrode surface 12a in a line parallel to the longitudinal length of the electrode 12.
Referring now to FIG. 2 a), there is shown a first, practical embodiment of an electrode configuration according to the present invention. The electrode configuration, generally designated 19, comprises a first, substantially circular, planar electrode 20 having a leg 21 separated from a counter electrode. The counter electrode comprises an interrupted ring electrode 22, which substantially bounds the first electrode 20 and a portion of the leg 21. Because the first electrode 20 is near circular and bounded around most of its circumference particles 16 collect thereon in a ring, which can be tightly focused to a spot 23 by selection of appropriate parameters. The focusing of particles 16 is due to a plurality of inwardly extending vortices 15 forming around the cirumferential edge of the electrode 20.
FIG. 2 b) shows an interdigital electrode configuration generally designated 24. A first planar electrode 25 comprises four near circular surfaces 26 linked along a central horizontal axis by arm portions 27. A planar, counter electrode 28 defines a surface 28a having a pair of toothed leg portions 29 and recesses 30 that complement the circular surfaces 26 and encompass the first electrode 25. Particles 16 are focused in a ring or spot 23 on each of the circular surfaces 26 of the first electrode 25.
FIG. 2 c) shows a further interdigital electrode configuration. A first planar electrode 31 comprises a linear strip or "bus bar" 32 having three protruding near circular surfaces 33, which share a common central horizontal axis. A planar counter electrode 34 defines a surface 34a having four leg portions 35 and recesses 36 that complement the circular surfaces and encompass the first electrode 31. Particles 16 are focused in a ring or spot 23 on each of the circular surfaces 33 of the first electrode 31.
FIG. 3 shows another interdigital electrode configuration, generally designated 37, which makes optimal use of the electrode surfaces for collecting or focusing particles 16. Each electrode 38 39 comprises a strip or bus bar 40 having four thumb sections 41 extending perpendicular to its longitudinal length. Each thumb section 41 defines a near circular surface 42 linked to the strip by an arm 43, and together with the bus bar 40 provides complementary recesses 44 for the thumb sections 41 of the other electrode. Particles 16 are focused in a ring or spot 23 on the circular surfaces 42 of each electrode 38, 39.


A method of assembling an upholstered furniture piece comprising decorative fasteners comprising providing an underlayment material layer, a foam material layer and a covering material layer. The foam material layer is positioned between the underlayment material layer and the covering material layer. The covering material layer extends beyond the underlayment material layer and the foam material layer. Fasteners are used to fasten the underlayment material layer, the foam material layer and the covering material layer together forming a layered component. A template may be used to guide positioning of the fasteners. The fasteners are decorative fasteners. Excess covering material that extends beyond the fasteners is stretched around the edges of the layered component and is affixed to a bottom surface of the layered component, thereby forming a layered assembly. The layered assembly is affixed to an upholstered furniture piece.

In the manufacture of upholstered furniture, such as sofas and chairs, it is often desirable to use decorative fasteners, such as decorative nails or tacks, to affix the upholstery to the frame of the furniture product. The use of decorative fasteners to affix upholstery to the furniture product provides the opportunity to create a certain desired aesthetically pleasing appearance. For example, leather and imitation leather upholstery may be affixed to a furniture frame by using decorative fasteners that include a brass colored fastener cap, to provide a rich, elegant and yet casual appearance to the furniture product. Further, a matching fabric covered fastener cap can provide an elegant and unobtrusive fastening device, or if covered in a complementary material, can provide an attractive accent to the upholstered furniture product.
Further, in the manufacture of upholstered chairs, sofas, and the like, a finished upholstered panel may be affixed to the upholstered chair or sofa, as a step in the manufacturing because, for example, a finished furniture product will generally include decorative fasteners, as compared to a furniture component, such as the upholstered panels described above.


A first transistor is provided in a first route and a second transistor is provided in a second route, the first route and the second route constituting a current mirror circuit. The sources of the transistors are grounded. In order to match VDS of the first transistor and that of the second transistor match each other, there are provided an operational amplifier receiving the drain voltages of the transistors, and a third transistor having a gate thereof connected to the output of the operational amplifier. The third transistor is provided in the first route. As a result, the current fed to the third transistor is controlled so that VDS of the first transistor and that of the second transistor match each other.

The present invention generally relates to current drive circuits and, more particularly, to a current drive circuit of a current mirror type. A current mirror circuit is often used to feed a desired current to a load. A current mirror circuit generally used has the following structure. The gates of first and second transistors are connected to each other and so are the sources of the transistors. The sources of the transistors are grounded and the gates are connected to the drain of the first transistor. A target load is connected to the drain of the second transistor.
A reference current is fed to the drain of the first transistor and a drive current proportional to the reference current is fed to the load connected to the drain of the second transistor. The ratio between the reference current and the drive current, i.e. the mirror ratio, is determined by the ratio between source-drain currents of the first and second transistors. The source-drain current IDS is proportional to the channel width W of a transistor and inversely proportional to the channel length L thereof. Generally, the source-drain current is determined by the ratio W/L.
The ratio between the reference current and the drive current is determined by the ratio W/L of the first and second transistors. However, such a definition is based on an assumption that source-drain voltages VDS of the transistors are identical. Strictly speaking, it is known that the source-drain current IDS of a transistor is proportional to (VGS−Vth)2*(W/L)*(1+λVDS), meaning that IDS is slightly affected by VDS. λ indicates a channel length modulation coefficient, VGS indicates a gate-source voltage and Vth indicates a threshold voltage. Accordingly, even when W/L is designed properly, an accurate drive current is not obtained when VDS of one of the transistors is different from an ideal value.


A method for reducing the quantization effect of precoding operations utilizing a finite codebook in MIMO systems is provided. First, at the receiver side, downlink channel state information is obtained and a set of indices of precoding matrices within a plurality of finite codebooks are selected accordingly. The selected indices of precoding matrices for each of the finite codebooks and a set of scalar coefficients are transmitted from the receiver to the transmitter. Thereafter, at the transmitter side, at least a first and a second refined precoding matrices are generated based on the selected set of indices of precoding matrices for all of the finite codebooks, and the one or more scalar coefficients and a final precoding matrix is generated at least based on the first refined precoding matrix and the second refined precoding matrix. The final precoding matrix is applied for transmission between the transmitter and the receiver.

1. Field of the Invention
The invention generally relates to wireless communication systems and methods thereof, and more particularly, to methods for wireless communication for reducing the quantization effect of precoding operations utilizing finite codebooks in multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) or multiple-input single-output (MISO) systems from a transmitter to a receiver.
2. Description of the Related Art
In wireless communications, multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO) technology involves the use of multiple antennas at both the transmitter and receiver sides to improve communication performance. MIMO technology offers significant increases in data throughput and link ranges without additional bandwidth or transmit power via higher spectral efficiency and link reliability or diversity. One of the common functions in MIMO technology is precoding, which is a signal processing technique for MIMO communications to exploit the knowledge of the information of the downlink channel quality at the transmitter side. With precoding, the transmitter can transform signals using appropriate precoding matrices and perform power allocation adaptively according to the variation of link quality. It has been shown that precoding can substantially improve the spectral efficiency for MIMO communications.
Precoding is an effective technique improving the performance of MIMO-OFDM systems. In practical systems, the precoding matrices are pre-determined and only the index of the selected matrix is fed back.
Depending on the adopted criteria for assessing link performance, different objective functions exist for the computation of the optimal precoding matrix. For example, the minimum square error (MSE) and the achieved link capacity are two commonly adopted performance measures.
For the operation of precoding in MIMO communication systems, the information of the downlink channel quality generally has to be fed back from the receiver to the transmitter side. In general, precoding may require knowledge of channel state information (CSI) at the transmitter side. To achieve the optimal performance, the full information of the downlink channel quality or the optimal precoding matrix computed by the receiver has to be fed back to the transmitter side. Such signaling process incurs considerable overhead which scales with the number of antennas, i.e., the MIMO mode, and is undesirable in most cases. In current MIMO systems, the approach of codebook-based precoding is adopted to reduce feedback overhead. In codebook-based precoding, a number of selected precoding matrices are known to both the transmitter side and receiver side prior to the transmissions. The receiver simply feeds back the index of the most preferred precoding matrix which yields the best performance based on the measured link quality and the objective function to the transmitter via the feedback channel. For example, if the number of precoding matrices is set to 2n, the length of the feedback can be n bits. Codebook-based precoding can substantially reduce the feedback overhead.
Ideally, the size of the codebook should be made as small as possible to reduce receiver complexity and the feedback overhead. However, the link performance is degraded with a small codebook size as the quantization error for the optimal precoding matrix increases in this case. Precoding gain in MIMO systems can be increased by increasing the size of the codebook. However, at the same time the complexity of codeword selection and memory requirements increase exponentially with the number of bits. A tradeoff thus exists when designing the precoder codebook. The approach of utilizing multiple finite-sized codebooks has been proposed. In the multiple-codebook approach, the receiver may feed back the indices of the preferred precoding matrices for each of the adopted codebooks. The transmitter may then construct the precoding matrix by multiplying the precoding matrices indicated by the receiver. However, such multiple-codebook approaches involve the effort of designing and storing new codebooks at both the transmitter and the receiver sides, and still suffer from inevitable quantization errors as the possible choices of the precoders are limited by the product of the respective codebook sizes. Furthermore, the consequence of feedback error corresponding to the codebooks of relatively long feedback periods could severely degrade system performance (e.g., propagation error).

Multiple-input multiple-output systems and methods for wireless communication thereof for reducing the quantization effect of precoding operations utilizing finite codebooks


A new and distinct cultivar of Diascia plant named ‘Diastrapin,’ particularly distinguished by its light coral flowers and trailing habit.

The present invention comprises a new distinct cultivar of Diascia, botanically known as Diascia barberae.
The new cultivar is propagated from cuttings resulting from the cross of 'A0075-1' and 'A0064-1'. 'A0075-1' is a pink flowering Diascia. 'A0075-1' is not commercially available and is not known by any synonyms. 'A0064-1' is a coral flowering Diascia. 'A0064-1' is not commercially available and is not known by any synonyms. Both 'A0075-1' and 'A0064-1' have not been patented.
As a result of this cross the present cultivar was created in 2001 in Enkhuizen, Netherlands and has been repeatedly asexually reproduced by cuttings in Enkhuizen, Netherlands and Sarrians, France over a three-year period. It has been found to retain its distinctive characteristics through successive propagations. The new variety is stable and reproduces true to type in successive generations of asexual reproduction.
This new Diascia plant is an annual in most climatical zones in the US, only in zones 8, 9 and 10 it is a perennial plant.


An embodiment of a scanning tunneling microscope (STM) reactor includes a pressure vessel, an STM assembly, and three spring coupling objects. The pressure vessel includes a sealable port, an interior, and an exterior. An embodiment of an STM system includes a vacuum chamber, an STM reactor, and three springs. The three springs couple the STM reactor to the vacuum chamber and are operable to suspend the scanning tunneling microscope reactor within the interior of the vacuum chamber during operation of the STM reactor. An embodiment of an STM assembly includes a coarse displacement arrangement, a piezoelectric fine displacement scanning tube coupled to the coarse displacement arrangement, and a receiver. The piezoelectric fine displacement scanning tube is coupled to the coarse displacement arrangement. The receiver is coupled to the piezoelectric scanning tube and is operable to receive a tip holder, and the tip holder is operable to receive a tip.

The present invention relates to the field of microscopy and, more particularly, to the field of scanning tunneling microscopy.
The understanding of heterogeneous catalysis at a molecular level has been one of the central issues of physical chemistry for the past half century. Single crystal surfaces have served as valuable model catalysts providing insights into heterogeneous catalysis under vacuum conditions. This vacuum surface science approach of catalysis studies has revealed a tremendous amount of information for a great number of catalytic systems. However, industrial heterogeneous catalytic reactions are usually carried out at high pressure and high temperature. There are considerable experimental challenges in the high pressure studies, which are necessary in order to understand molecular behavior under realistic conditions. The potential difference in adsorption, surface structures, and catalytic mechanisms between the model studies at low pressure and industrial reactions at high pressure is often referred as pressure gap.
A key component in studying the pressure gap is to characterize the adsorbed layer of the reactant gases at high pressure during catalytic processes. A simple extrapolation of the insights into the adsorption structure obtained at low pressure and low temperature is not necessarily applicable to high pressure and high-temperature conditions which could have different energetic pathways. Thus, to obtain a complete understanding of catalysis, it is necessary to perform studies of surface catalytic reactions under high pressure of reactants.
Scanning tunneling microscope (STM) has the unique capability of studying catalyst surfaces atom by atom, which is invaluable for elucidating the adsorption structure and the mobility of reactant molecules during catalysis. This technique can be applied in a pressure range from UHV (ultra high vacuum) to atmospheric or higher pressure since the tunneling process between the sample and tip only occurs in a very close range of 5-50 Å. It has been applied to catalytic studies under a condition of relatively high pressure by a few groups (see B. J. McIntyre et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 64, 687 (1993); J. A. Jensen et al., J. Vac. Sci. Technol. B17, 1080 (1999); P. B. Rasmussen et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 69, 3879 (1998); E. Laegsgaard et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 72, 3537 (2001); A. Kolmakov et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 74, 2444 (2003); and M. Röβler et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 76, 023705 (2005)) since the first demonstration by McIntyre et al. High pressure studies have been performed of STM by filling reactant gases into an STM chamber connected to the UHV preparation chamber (McIntyre et al.; and Jensen et al.). However, this method has disadvantages such as large volume of reactant gases and limits in sample heating, reactant gas pressure, and spatial resolution.

Scanning tunneling microscope assembly, reactor, and system

The Regents of the University of California


Apparatus for the extrusion-coating of a core, especially of an electrical conductor, with a sheathing having at least two layers or strips of different materials or differently colored materials, the apparatus having feed conduits for the plasticized materials and outflow passageways through which the core to be extrusion-coated can pass, the outflow passageways being selectively connectable to the feed conduits via a distributor device. In order to avoid the need for cleaning the conduits of the distributor device, the distributor device is formed by a sleeve (8) which is arranged rotatably between end positions in relation to an outer housing (1) having feed conduits (2, 3) for the plasticized materials. The sleeve also has a number of conduits corresponding to the number of materials to be extruded, to connect feed conduits (2, 3) alternately to the outflow cross-sections (15, 20) for the plasticized materials. The sleeve conduits of the rotatable sleeve terminate on the outside of the sleeve (8) and are mutually offset by the same angular amount as corresponding conduits in a fixed sleeve (5) that surrounds rotatable sleeve (8).

1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to an apparatus for the extrusion coating of a core, especially of an electrical conductor, with a sheathing having at least two layers or strips of different or differently colored materials. The apparatus has at least two separate feed conduits for the plasticized materials and at least two outflow passageways through which the core to be extrusion-coated can pass, and which are intended for the plasticized materials, the said outflow passageways being selectively connectable to the feed conduits via a distributor device.
2. Description of the Related Art
In such apparatus, it has been customary hitherto to provide between the feed conduits and the outflow passageways a cylinder arranged so as to be axially displaceable in a housing which receives the feed conduits and the outflow passageways or the extrusion heads, in which cylinder are arranged essentially mutually parallel conduits and intersecting conduits, via which the feed conduits are connectable selectively to the extrusion heads. At the same time, only half the number of conduits arranged in the cylinder ever receives a plasticized material, whereas the other half of the conduits is inoperative.
This results in the disadvantage that in the inoperative conduits the material remaining therein sets and clogs the conduits, so that they have to be cleaned laboriously, and this entails a very considerable outlay.
An object of the invention is to avoid this disadvantage and to provide apparatus of the type mentioned in the introduction, in which there is no need for cleaning after a change of color or of material.

Rosendahl; Maschinen Gesellschaft m.b.H.


The present disclosure provides a cylinder block for an internal combustion engine having a first cylinder, a first cylinder sleeve, a second cylinder, and a second cylinder sleeve. The first cylinder defines a first cylindrical wall while the second cylinder defines a second cylindrical wall. The first cylinder sleeve lines the first cylindrical wall while the second cylinder sleeve lines the second cylindrical wall. Each of the first and the second cylinder sleeves define a thrust sleeve region, an anti-thrust sleeve region opposite the thrust sleeve region, and a pair of Siamese regions. The outer wall of each of the first and second cylinder sleeves progressively widens toward the top sleeve surface of each of the first and second cylinder sleeves.

In its most general form, an internal combustion engine, or heat engine, includes an engine block in which at least one cylinder is formed, inside which a piston is movably mounted and connected to a crankshaft by a connecting element such as a rod. The engine block comprises three main parts, one of which is called a cylinder block, as it has one or more cylinders.
The cylinder block is covered on one side with a cylinder head (the second main part), in which the means necessary for internal combustion are arranged: in particular, intake means, exhaust means and optional ignition means. On the other side, the cylinder block is covered with an engine crankcase in which a crankshaft (the third main part) is housed.
With reference to FIGS. 2A and 2B, when the combustion engine is the linear-motion piston type, as opposed to a rotary piston engine, the engine block has at least one cylinder 112 lined by a straight sleeve 120, inside which a piston 180 can move translationally, connected to the crankshaft by a rod. The cylinder bore 112 is in the shape of a circle and the straight sleeve 120 also has a Siamese region width 154 throughout the straight sleeve 120. The cylinder head (not shown) for this cylinder block in FIGS. 2A and 2B comprises the distribution means for the cylinder or for each of the cylinders: for example, at least one intake valve, at least one exhaust valve, and an optional spark plug, as well as mechanical means for controlling the valves. And the engine crankcase contains the crankshaft and the rod and the oil reservoir needed to lubricate the engine.
Gaskets are used to form a seal between the three main parts of the combustion engine: namely, between the cylinder block and the cylinder head, and between the cylinder block and the engine crankcase. More specifically, the upper seal—i.e., the seal between the cylinder block and the cylinder head—is formed by a cylinder head gasket developed specifically for this purpose.
No matter what mode of operation such an internal combustion engine uses—i.e., two-stroke or four-stroke, compression ignition or spark ignition—this operation will always include the following stages for each of the cylinders: an intake of a fuel and the air needed for combustion, a compression of the fuel/air mixture, an internal combustion of the fuel/air mixture, and an exhausting of the combusted fuel. These four stages are organized into two or four cycles by using an appropriate combustion engine architecture.
It is easy to understand why the design of the internal combustion engine and the choice of material from which it is made are primarily determined by the stresses to which the engine is subjected during the combustion stage, which is a true explosion,
On the other hand, a compromise is sought between an engine that is resistant enough to the static and dynamic stresses to which it is exposed during its operation and an engine that is as light as possible. Taking into account the engine's ability to withstand static stresses and dynamic stresses during its operation, a compromise is sought between 1) an engine that is rigid enough to be able to withstand the pre-stressing forces from the clamp loads of the cylinder head and crankcase, plus the expansion forces resulting from the internal combustion or explosion stages, depending on the thermodynamic cycles and 2) a flexibility or resilience to absorb expansion forces and thereby minimize deformations that could result from the forces and other stresses.
Indeed, deformations are generally related to the dynamic stresses of the thermodynamic cycles. But they are also caused by the pre-stressing forces from the clamp loads of the cylinder head and the head cover covering the cylinder head.
Most of the compromises found for the architecture of an internal combustion engine that incorporate both resistance to stresses and resilience to deformation has to do with the engine design and each of the cylinders is equipped with a cylinder sleeve, made of a hard material, that determines the cylinder bore size.
The cylinder sleeve can be fixed or mobile, and when it is fixed, it can be durably attached inside the cylinder block or it can be removable.

Engine block for an internal combustion engine


A method for forming a hard bias structure in a magnetoresistive sensor is disclosed. A magnetoresistive sensor having a soft magnetic bias layer, spacer layer, and a magnetoresistive layer, is formed over a substrate having a gap layer. A mask is formed over a portion of the magnetoresistive sensor structure to define a central region. The masked structure is ion milled to remove portions not shielded by the mask, to form the central region with sloped sides, and to expose a region of the gap layer laterally adjacent the sloped sides. A first underlayer is deposited onto at least the sloped sides at a high deposition angle. A second underlayer is deposited to at least partially overlap the first underlayer, and at a first lower deposition angle. A hard bias layer is deposited over at least a portion of the second underlayer, and at a second lower deposition angle.

This invention relates to magnetic data read heads and, particularly, to a thin film magnetic read head having a magnetoresistive read transducer.
A magnetic data storage system includes, generally, a storage medium, such as a tape or desk in which the data are stored in the form of small magnetized areas; a write element, which writes data to the storage medium by magnetizing the small data bits in the medium; and a read element, which senses the recorded magnetized areas. Modern read sensors are based on the phenomenon of magnetoresistance, that is, the change in resistance of a material when a magnetic field is applied.
Magnetoresistive (MR) sensors having a spin valve structure have been employed as read transducers in magnetic disk read/write heads. Spin valve MR sensors are capable of exhibiting a giant magnetoresistance (GMR) effect, and can provide for high magnetic field sensitivity in magnetic read heads. Generally, the spin valve MR sensor includes two magnetic layers separated by a non-magnetic spacer layer. One of the magnetic layers has its magnetization direction pinned, for example by coupling to an adjacent anti-ferromagnetic (AFM) layer; the other magnetic layer is free to switch magnet position direction in the presence of an applied magnetic field. Spin-dependent electron scattering causes changes in the magnetoresistance, depending upon the angular difference between the magnetization directions in the pinned and the free magnetic layers. A low-resistance state results when the magnetic layers are ferromagnetically aligned, and a high-resistance state results in the antiferromagnetic configuration.
Various materials have been employed in the construction of the various layers of spin valve MR sensors, and some of the layers may be multi-laminate; and other layers may be present in a spin valve MR structure. A hard bias layer laterally adjacent to the spin valve structure on both sides can help stabilize the free layer. A pair of conducting leads can be formed over the hard bias layer, one on each side of the spin valve structure, to pass the sense current.
Features of a conventional spin valve MR sensor are shown by way of example in FIG. 1A. Generally, the spin valve structure 20 is formed by deposition of constituent layers of the structure over a gap layer 21, followed by masking and ion milling to remove the layers adjacent the spin valve structure 20 on either side, and to remove a surface portion of the gap layer 21 ("overmilling"). The resulting spin valve structure has sloping sides. In the bottom synthetic spin valve structure shown in this example, the layers include an antiferromagnetic (AFM) layer 22, a pinned layer 23, a free layer 24, and a capping layer 25. An underlayer 41 is formed upon the overmilled portion of the gap layer 21, and on the sloping sides of the spin valve structure 20, and a hard bias layer 44 is formed upon the underlayer 41. The hard bias layer 44 in a conventional spin valve MR sensor such as that illustrated in FIG. 1A may consist of CoPt, for example, and the underlayer 41 may consist of Cr, for example. The gap layer is typically formed of alumina (Al2O3), for example, and, where the substrate is a material different from the gap layer (for example, a silicon wafer), the gap layer is formed by deposition onto the substrate. Electrically conductive leads 46 are formed over the hard bias layer.
As is well known, the spin valve structure 20 may include other layers, and certain of the identified layers may themselves be laminates. A spin valve structure is conventionally termed a "bottom" spin valve where, as in this example, the AFM is situated below the free layer, that is, between the gap and the free layer.
The relative positions (elevations above the gap layer) of the free layer 24 and the hard bias layer 44 in the conventional spin valve MR sensor of FIG. 1A is illustrated diagrammatically in FIG. 1B. The thickness of the hard bias layer is much less than that of the spin valve structure, and appropriate alignment of the hard bias layer and the free layer is difficult to obtain using conventional processing methods. As the diagram shows, a plane generally parallel to the various layers, and located midway through the thickness 44′ of the hard bias layer, passes entirely below the free layer 24. And, as the diagram shows, a plane generally parallel to the various layers, and located midway through the thickness 24′ of the free layer passes well above the mid-plane of the hard bias layer, and in this illustration passes above the upper surface of the hard bias layer 44 in a region away from spin valve structure 20.

Method for forming a hard bias structure in a magnetoresistive sensor


A screening connection device for a circuit board mounted within a housing possesses a plug component attached to the exterior of a housing wall by means of securing screws that may be coupled to a socket component mounted to the interior of the housing wall through a cutout in the wall. The plug component includes a screening connection in electrical contact with the securing screws to connect the shield of a cable connected to the plug component whose electrical lines may be connected to the circuit board via the plug component and the socket component. In order to provide contact elements between the securing screws of the plug component and the conductor on the circuit board provided to conduct the screen potential that are simple to manufacture, that provide positive contact, and that are robust components, screening plates are mountable so that they are fixed to the circuit board so that at least one conductor for connection of the screen potential may be brought into contact. Each of these screening plates includes a securing flange that rests against the interior side of the housing wall, and a threaded socket to engage one of the securing screws of the plug component.

The invention relates to a screen connector device for a circuit board mounted within a housing with a plug component attached to the exterior of a housing wall by means of securing screws that may be coupled to a socket component mounted to the interior of the housing wall through a cutout in the wall, and that the plug component includes a screening connection in electrical contact with the securing screws to connect the shield of a cable connected to the plug component whose electrical lines may be connected to the circuit board via the plug component and the socket component.
In a known embodiment of such a screen connector device, transfer of the screen potential to the applicable conductor of the circuit board is accomplished via the metallic housing of the plug component and of the socket component. The securing screws to secure the plug component to the pertinent housing wall hereby engage in threaded sockets that are a part of a housing wall made of metal that is not yet in direct electrically-conducting contact with the conductor of the circuit board conducting the screen potential. Special auxiliary devices must resultantly be provided for contact by this conductor of the circuit board in order to connect it with the cable screen of the cable connected to the plug component.

Screen connector device for a circuit board mounted within a housing


The invention relates to method for producing an RFID label. According to said method, a coupling antenna (2) arranged on a web-shaped support material (1) comprising an RFID chip (4) arranged thereon is glued onto a secondary antenna (10). The aim of the invention is to provide an RFID label that can be produced from few recyclable materials with little complication and in an environmentally friendly manner. The invention is characterized in that first the coupling antenna (2) comprising the chip (4) is glued onto a self-adhesive secondary antenna (10) in one step, the secondary antenna having a backing adhesive layer (12).

Self-adhesive RFID labels are known that have a printable face strip or sheet having a back face provided with a layer of pressure-sensitive adhesive. The pressure-sensitive adhesive layer of the face strip is covered by a backing strip that can be removed to adhere the label. An RFID inlay is provided between the face strip and the backing strip, which RFID inlay comprises an inlay strip or sheet having a back face provided with a layer of pressure-sensitive adhesive, and on a front face of which an RFID chip and an RFID antenna are mounted. The front face of the RFID inlay is firmly adhered to the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer of the face strip. An RFID label of this type and a method for the production thereof are described in WO 2005/076206 [US 2008/0295318].
German patent application 10 2006 052 516 [WO 2008/055578] describes a self-adhesive RFID label and a method for making same, in which the same material is used for the inlay strip of the RFID inlay, including the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer thereof, as for the face strip of the label.
German application 10 2006 052 517 [WO 2008/055579] describes a chip module for an RFID label in which an RFID chip and a coupling antenna electrically connected to the RFID chip are provided on a backing strip or sheet. To produce an RFID inlay for an RFID label, the chip module is adhered with its back-face film onto a flat RFID antenna, positioned such that the coupling antenna and the RFID antenna are inductively coupled.
In German application 10 2007 026 672 a self-adhesive antenna for an RFID system, in particular for an RFID label, is described, that is punched out of an aluminum foil with a thickness of 1 μm-20 μm and adhered to an adhesive-coated front face of a backing strip.


Embodiments of the invention provide methods and apparatus for reducing steering effort in a vehicle. In one embodiment, a method for installing a steering-assist system onto a vehicle having an electrically powered steering system is provided. The method includes placing a controller between a torque sensor and an electronic control unit (ECU) disposed on the vehicle, coupling a primary signal line from the torque sensor to be in electrical communication with the controller, and coupling a secondary signal line to the controller to be in electrical communication with the ECU, wherein, when movement is detected by the torque sensor, the torque sensor provides a primary signal to the controller and the controller provides a secondary signal to the ECU, the secondary signal being different than the primary signal.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to methods and apparatus for controlling electrically powered steering systems in motor vehicles. More particularly, embodiments described herein are directed to controlling and/or adjusting a torque value involved in steering a vehicle equipped with electrically powered steering.
2. Description of the Related Art
Conventional motor vehicles typically include a steering system having a steering wheel that controls one or more ground wheels in order to control the direction of travel of the vehicle. Rotation of the steering wheel by a driver causes the one or more ground wheels to turn or realign, which, when the vehicle is in motion, causes the vehicle to change direction. These vehicles typically include some form of power-assist system which reduces the torque required to rotate the steering wheel while providing the mechanical force required to turn the one or more ground wheels. The power-assist systems include hydraulic systems and more recently, electrically powered systems, commonly referred to as electric power steering (EPS) systems.
These systems facilitate a reduction in the torque value required to rotate the steering wheel. Conventional hydraulic steering systems require about 25-30 foot·pounds (ft·lbs) of torque to rotate the steering wheel. EPS systems may be slightly more or less, depending on the type of vehicle and the factory torque value setting provided by the original equipment manufacturer (OEM). EPS systems also typically include steering effort adjustments based solely on the speed of travel of the vehicle.
While the EPS systems significantly lower the effort involved in steering the vehicle, the torque level used to turn the steering wheel is not low enough for all drivers. For example, individuals with a spinal cord injury or other debilitating disability, as well as some elderly individuals, may not have the physical strength to rotate the steering wheel at these conventional levels. These individuals often need additional reduced effort steering that is less than the OEM torque levels deliver in order to safely operate the vehicle.
Various methods for reducing steering effort in hydraulic systems are available. However, EPS systems are not easily modified due to the presence of electronic components on vehicles equipped with EPS systems, such as an electronic control unit (ECU), a controller area network (CAN), and the like, which typically perform diagnostics on the vehicle systems, including the EPS system. Thus, modification of EPS systems to reduce steering effort may cause the EPS system to malfunction and/or shut down.
Therefore, a need exists for methods and apparatus for modifying an EPS system to adjust the steering effort to a desired torque value that provides enhanced low effort steering of the vehicle.

Methods and apparatus for variable reduced effort steering in electric steering systems


A device disposed to direct a stream of air across the reflective face of an exteriorly-mounted rear view mirror on an automotive vehicle. The device is especially adaptable to large trucks whose exterior mirrors are positioned in a way to create a vacuum on the reflective face when the truck is in motion. This vacuum tends to pull moisture and foreign matter to the reflective face, thereby causing loss of vision. The device directs a stream of air over the reflective face to break the vacuum and prevent foreign matter from adhering to the face, thereby enhancing the view of the driver and reducing risk. The device is constructed in a manner to be easily mounted (only one screw is required) to a standard rear view mirror of a truck or the like.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention generally relates to air deflectors. More specifically, the present invention is drawn to a device for deflecting air over the face of an external mirror of an automotive vehicle.
2. Description of the Related Art
Driving in rainy weather presents problems of visibility for the motorist due to the effect of dirt-laden water droplets being deposited on the reflective surfaces of external rear view mirrors. This phenomena is especially severe on trucks, which trucks tend to kick up a considerable amount of spray. Most trucks are designed such that air currents flowing over the truck""s surface are not efficiently conducted away therefrom, thus exacerbating the deposition of the dirt-laden droplets on the mirrors.
In the past, the only available remedy was wiping the mirror manually. While wiping the driver""s side mirror might be accomplished expeditiously, wiping the passenger""s side mirror required that a lone driver stop and either slide over to the passenger""s side or get out of the truck. Both scenarios are time consuming and possibly hazardous. A simple, inexpensive, easy-to install device which would alleviate the above problem would certainly be a welcome addition to the art.
There are many devices in the prior art which are utilized to deflect air over the surfaces of mirrors. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,979,809 (Peters) and UK Patent Application 2 175 552 A disclose respective air scoops for a mirror assembly. It is noted that the disclosed air scoops consist of multiple assembled parts which add to manufacturing costs.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,869,581 (Matulich) describes an air deflector which is releasably attached to a mirror with adhesive. This means of attachment is not sufficient to withstand the vibrations encountered in trucks and would surely fall off of the truck mirror.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,550,988 (Harder et al.) is drawn to a rear view mirror cleaning system. The instant system incorporates a fluid dispenser for spraying cleaning fluid on the rear view mirror. Such a system would be relatively expensive and require more than usual maintenance.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,898,458 (McDonald) requires that air intake apertures be formed in the rear view mirror housing. This design would greatly increase manufacturing costs.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,963,011 (Lu et al.) and 5,179,470 (Olson) show mirror housings which are configured in a streamlined, aerodynamic design. Housings of this type are relatively expensive to manufacture.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,718,755 (Olson) discloses an air turning vane incorporated in the mirror structure. As in the patents cited immediately above, this design would be expensive to manufacture.
None of the above inventions and patents, taken either singularly or in combination, is seen to disclose a simplistic, inexpensive mirror drying device as will subsequently be described and claimed in the instant invention.
The present invention is drawn to a device disposed to direct a stream of air across the reflective face of an exteriorly-mounted rear view mirror on an automotive vehicle. The instant device is especially adaptable to large trucks whose exterior mirrors are positioned in a way to create a vacuum on the reflective face when the truck is in motion. This vacuum tends to pull moisture and foreign matter to the reflective face, thereby causing loss of vision. The device of the instant invention directs a stream of air over the reflective face to break the vacuum and prevent foreign matter from adhering to the face, thereby enhancing the view of the driver and reducing risk. As contemplated, the device is fabricated from a relatively thin, one-piece, metal sheet. The sheet is constructed in a manner to be easily mounted (only one screw is required) to a standard rear view mirror of a truck or the like.
Accordingly, it is a principal object of the invention to provide a device, which device redirects air flow over the reflective face of an exteriorly-mounted rear view mirror of a vehicle when the vehicle is in motion.
It is another object of the invention to provide a device, which device redirects air flow over the reflective face of an exteriorly-mounted rear view mirror of a vehicle in a manner to prevent water droplets and other foreign matter from adhering to the face of the mirror.
It is a further object of the invention to provide a device, which device can be easily attached to a standard, exteriorly-mounted rear view mirror.
Still another object of the invention is to provide a device which consists of a one-piece metal sheet.
It is an object of the invention to provide improved elements and arrangements thereof for the purposes described which are inexpensive, dependable and fully effective in accomplishing their intended purposes.
These and other objects of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following specification and drawings.


In at least some embodiments, an electrical system for a pump includes a power supply and a controller coupled to the power supply, the controller supporting a plurality of pump cycle levels. If a voltage of the power supply drops below a first threshold, the controller automatically causes the pump to operate at a lower pump cycle level.

A pump is a device that moves fluid from a first location to a second location. In some instances, a pump moves fluid from a lower pressure to a higher pressure. To perform these functions, the pump requires energy. If the pump has a limited power supply, proper management of the pump's power consumption is important.


A three-dimensional (3D) video apparatus and a method of providing an OSD object applied thereto are provided. The 3D video apparatus includes an on-screen display (OSD) generation unit which receives an OSD object and generates a reduced OSD object to be displayed on the 3D image on a screen, wherein the reduced OSD object is smaller than the received OSD object. An OSD insertion unit inserts the reduced OSD object into input 3D image data.

1. Field
Methods and devices consistent with the present invention relate to a three-dimensional (3D) video apparatus and a method of providing an on-screen display (OSD) applied thereto. More particularly, the present invention relates to a 3D video apparatus and a method of providing an OSD applied thereto, which can represent a 3D image through an alternate display of a left-eye image and a right-eye image.
2. Description of the Related Art
3D stereoscopic video technology has diverse application fields, such as information and communications, broadcasting, medical care, education and training, military affairs, games, animation, virtual reality, computer automated design (CAD), industrial technology, and the like, and is the core basic technology for the next-generation stereoscopic multimedia information and communications commonly required in such various fields.
Generally, 3D effect that the human eyes perceive occurs through complex action of a change of lens thickness according to the position of an object, the angle difference between the human eyes and an object, the difference in position and shape of an object seen by the left and right eyes, the disparity occurring in accordance with movement of an object, effects by various kinds of psychology and memory, and the like.
Among them, the binocular disparity, which refers to the difference in image location of an object seen by the left and right eyes, resulting from the eyes' horizontal separation of about 6˜7 cm, is the most important factor of the 3D effect. That is, due to the binocular disparity, the left and right eyes see an object with the angle difference, and due to this difference, images coming into the respective eyes have different phases. These two images are transferred to the brain through retinas of the respective eyes, and the brain feels the original 3D stereoscopic image by accurately synthesizing the transferred information.
Examples of a 3D image display apparatus include a glasses type apparatus using special glasses and a glasses-free type apparatus using no special glasses. The glasses type apparatus is classified into a color filter type for separating and selecting images using color filters having a complementary color relation with each other, a polarization filter type for separating a left-eye image and a right-eye image using a light shading effect by a combination of orthogonal polarizing elements, and a shutter glasses type for alternately intercepting the left eye and the right eye corresponding to a sync signal for projecting a left-eye image signal and a right-eye image signal onto a screen to feel the 3D effect.
A 3D image is composed of a left-eye image recognized by left eye and a right-eye image recognized by right eye, and a 3D display apparatus expresses a 3D effect of an image using the disparity between the lift-eye image and the right-eye image.
On the other hand, it is sometimes required for the 3D video apparatus to support an OSD menu. However, if an OSD object is inserted into an input 3D image using the existing method in the process of displaying the 3D image through separation of the 3D image into a left-eye image and a right-eye image, the OSD object may be displayed abnormally or the picture quality of the OSD object may deteriorate.
Accordingly, there is a need for improved methods and apparatuses for providing an OSD in a 3D video apparatus.

Three-dimensional video apparatus and method providing on screen display applied thereto


A blower of an automotive air conditioner has a lower casing a part of which is formed is a plastic housing for a motor and a porous member in the form of a flat plate disposed at a position where the plastic housing and an upper casing of the blower abut against each other. An air layer is defined between the flat-plate porous member and the lower casing to add a muffling function.

The present invention relates to a blower structure for an automotive air conditioner or the like and, more particularly, to a scroll casing structure effective to reduce noise from this type of blower.
This invention can widely be applied to blowers for home use, for use in office machines, for cooling electronic computers and for other purposes, requiring low noise performance, as well as to blowers for automotive air conditioners.
A conventional blower, such as that disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Utility Model Publication No. 48-63305, is formed of a fan, a scroll casing in which the fan is housed, and a motor for driving and rotating the fan. This blower structure is such that air is drawn from one side of the fan and blown in the radial direction of the fan. The scroll casing has a function of gradually restoring a dynamic pressure generated by the rotation of the fan to a static pressure in the scroll casing. In an automotive air conditioner, such as that disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Utility Model Publication No. 57-24566, an inside/outside air changing box has been divided for indirectly reducing various kinds of radiated noise. An, an example of means for reducing noise comprises a sound absorbing member formed of a combination of a porous elastic member and a non-porous elastic member and secured to a surface of the porous elastic member to a surface of the porous elastic member to a scroll casing, as disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 63-90415.
The prior art disclosed in the above mentioned Japanese Unexamined Utility Model Publication 48-63305 has a considerably high level of noises from the entire blower, such as air pulsation noise generated from the fan, noise of generation of vortices by separation, generation of a turbulent flow in the scroll casing, and the like. In the automotive air conditioner such as that disclosed in above mentioned Japanese Unexamined Utility Model Publication No. 57-24566, since the inside/outside air changing box is deviced for improvements with respect to these problems, with a result that restrictions are added in respect of vehicle mount conditions and the structure of the inside/outside air changing box is complicated, so that the provision of a low-priced automotive air conditioner improved performance over a wide variety of uses has not been achieved.
With respect to noise reduction based on the sound absorbing member attached to the scroll casing as described in the above mentioned Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 63-90415, a soft polyurethane foam ordinarily used as a sound absorbing material has a high sound absorbing effect with respect to high frequencies above 1000 Hz but has a low effect with respect to frequencies below 1000 Hz. The example disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 63-90415 employs a sound absorbing member consisting of two kinds of sound absorbing members attached to each other to absorb vibrational energy of sound waves of a wide range of frequencies to solve the above-described problem, but other problems described below are encountered. If such a sound absorbing member is used, for example vibrational energy of sound waves of low frequencies can be absorbed because a porous material is used as a surface layer, but sound waves cannot reach an inner layer and are, adversely, reflected, so that the effect of a porous elastic material provided on the inner layer is not sufficiently exhibited. In this case, eyed an effect equal to that of a porous elastic material alone cannot be achieved and high-frequency sound is not reduced. Further, if the operation of attaching the sound absorbing member to the scroll casing is performed over the entire inner wall surfaces of the scroll casing in an attempt to optimize the utilization of the effect, an operation to attach the sound absorbing member to a curved surface is included but the attachment process cannot be completed easily, resulting an increase in the cost. Also, there is a need for preventing separation of the sound absorbing member because it is in contact with an air passage surface.
An object of the present invention is to solve these problems and to provide a blower of this kind having a muffling effect over a wide range from low frequencies to high frequencies and thus capable of reducing noise.
The above object is achieved by forming a part of a scroll casing for holding a motor body, constructing the scroll casing by this motor-side scroll casing part and a bell-mouth-side scroll casing part in which a bell mouth is formed, providing a porous member in the form of a flat plate at a position where these two casing parts abut against each other, and constructing a muffling mechanism by the flat-plate porous member and an air layer defined between the flat-plate porous member and the bell-mouthside casing part.
With the above-described structure in accordance with the present invention, sound waves of mixed noises, such as air pulsation noise generated in the upper scroll casing having the flat-plate porous member as a blower bottom wall, vortex noise caused by separation from the blades with the rotation of the fan, and turbulent flow noise in the casing and the like pass through the porous member, so that the sound waves are reduced in medium and high-frequency ranges. Further, the sound waves reach a lower scroll casing inner wall formed of an air layer defined by the flat-plate porous member and the housing and are reflected to interfere with each other in the air layer, so that low frequency range sound is also reduced.
The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be made more apparent by the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Hitachi Automotive Engineering Co., Ltd.


A system and method are provided that are capable of selectively treating a vein using photothermolysis techniques, where an electromagnetic radiation is applied to tissue containing the vein. The radiation can be selected so that it may be more effectively absorbed by veins as compared to arteries. Thus, unwanted thermal damage to arteries in the vicinity of the vein being treated can be reduced or avoided. The radiation can have a frequency of approximately 654 nm, which can provide a ratio of absorption by veins to absorption by arteries of about 3.7. Other wavelengths near 654 nm may be provided, for example, which can have an absorption ratio greater than, e.g., about 3.3 to 3.6.

A blood vessel can be any vascular structure, e.g., an artery, a vein, or a capillary. A dilated or malformed vein can be associated with one or more of a variety of disease conditions such as, e.g., port wine stains and varicose veins.
Port wine stains can include post-capillary venules. Port wine stains can begin in infancy, and may both thicken and darken in color with time. In addition to being disfiguring, port wine stains can have adverse psychosocial effects. A conventional treatment for port wine stains may use a pulsed dye laser at a wavelength of 595 nm. A success rate for complete clearance of port wine stains may be low when using conventional treatment modalities such as the 595 nm pulsed dye laser, which can result from inadequate depth of penetration. Deep vessels can be targeted using, e.g., a 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser treatment for port wine stains. However, a wavelength of 1064 nm can be more strongly absorbed by arterial blood (which may contain primarily oxygenated hemoglobin ("HbO2")), than by venous blood (which may contain a mix of deoxygenated hemoglobin ("Hb") and HbO2)). Thus use of the Nd:YAG laser to treat port wine stains may create undesirable arterial damage, causing tissue necrosis and scarring, and can be dangerous to a patient. Although radiation from a 595 nm pulsed dye laser may be somewhat more absorbed by deoxygenated hemoglobin (Hb) than by oxygenated hemoglobin (HbO2), treatment fluence with the pulsed dye laser can still be limited by potential thermal damage to arteries. It may be desirable to have a laser that is designed specifically to target deoxygenated hemoglobin (Hb), and can be significantly more selective for veins.
Varicose veins can be dilated, tortuous veins which may result from defective structure or function of the valves of the veins, from intrinsic weakness of a vein wall, or from arteriovenous fistulas. Varicose veins can be categorized as superficial or deep. Superficial varicose veins may be primary, originating in the superficial system, or secondary, resulting from deep venous insufficiency and incompetent perforating veins, or from deep venous occlusions causing enlargement of superficial veins that can serve as collateral veins.
Superficial varicose veins may provide an undesirable cosmetic appearance. Conventional treatments for superficial varicose veins can include sclerotherapy or surgical therapy. For example, sclerotherapy can include injection of a sclerosing solution such as hypertonic saline or surfactants into blood vessels of interest, which may result in deformation of the vascular structure. Surgical therapy can involve extensive ligation and stripping of greater and lesser saphenous veins. However, an administration of such therapies can use a high degree of technical skill. Also, a fear of needles and/or surgical procedures may prevent many patients from seeking these treatments.
Lasers and other light sources can be used in photothermolysis therapy to treat dilated blood vessels, such as superficial varicose veins. Photothermolysis treatment techniques are described, e.g., in U.S. Pat. No. 5,558,667. Absorbed light, which can be provided in a form of pulses, may be used to damage the vessels while sparing surrounding tissues. For example, an irradiation of a blood vessel with an electromagnetic radiation can lead to an absorption of energy by blood components contained therein and subsequent heating of the vessel. The heated vessel may thrombose and collapse, which can produce desired therapeutic effects for treatment of venous malformations. However, nearby arteries may also be damaged by such photothermolysis techniques, which can lead to partial or complete closure of the arteries, necrosis of adjacent tissue, and unwanted scarring.
A reperfusion of treated blood vessels may reduce the effectiveness of photothermolysis treatment. Multiple treatments can be preferred because of the reperfusion of a treated vessel, which can become more likely if the amount of applied energy is limited to avoid unwanted damage to nearby arteries. High costs, number of treatments, and risk of post-treatment pigmentation are other negative factors which may be associated with photothermolysis therapy.
Superficial varicose veins may be treated using sclerotherapy, which can be effective but is often painful, and can have side effects including, e.g., hyperpigmentation, matting, and/or ulceration. Various lasers may be used for treating ectatic leg veins such as, e.g., a pulsed dye laser operating at a wavelength of 595 nm, an alexandrite laser at 755 nm, a diode laser at 800/810 nm, or a NdYag laser at 1064 nm, although the use of such lasers may not be very effective and/or may produce undesirable side effects. A phototreatment of veins using lasers or other sources of electromagnetic radiation such as, e.g., Intense Pulsed Light ("IPL") sources, may also induce unwanted thermal damage to nearby arteries.
Therefore, it may be desirable to provide a laser or IPL source that can selectively photocoagulate veins for treatment of various venous malformations, with relative sparing of arteries.

Method and apparatus for selective photothermolysis of veins


A biodegradable concentrated neutral detergent composition comprises various chelate compounds, various corrosion inhibitors, an alkaline compound, at least one sequestrant, various surfactants and hydrotropes, and water. The detergent can be highly concentrated, has a good long term shelf life, and when diluted is very effective in cleaning metals such as surgical instruments and prevents corrosion resistance of the metal even in a hard water environment.

Many surgical instrument cleaning chemistries contain corrosion inhibitor ingredients and chelating agents to help mitigate the damaging effects of water on surgical instrumentation and washing equipment.
Control of corrosion in surgical instruments and utensil processing is critical in maintaining the safe and effective operation of said devices. Many instruments and utensils contain soft metals such as copper, brass, aluminum and anodized aluminum. These soft metals are very susceptible to damage from both the detergents and the water in which they are processed. Typically neutral cleaning chemistries are used to process these metals. The neutral chemistries often contain silicate corrosion inhibitors that render them unusable for specific applications. They can also contain non-environmentally friendly corrosion inhibitors that create disposal concerns.
Heretofore, scale control has been achieved by using either a chelant or a scale inhibitor. Chelants such as EDTA (ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid), NTA (nitrilotriacetic acid), phosphates, and phosphonates inhibit calcium and magnesium scale by chemically binding to the calcium or magnesium ions in a one to one molar ratio. EDTA, NTA, and many other traditional chelants and scale inhibitors are not environmentally friendly. Additionally, the usage levels in concentrated detergents are generally 10% or greater, increasing their negative impact. Scale inhibitors such as polyacrylic acid inhibit the crystal structure of calcium carbonate, preventing the calcium carbonate salts from aggregating into particles large enough to precipitate.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,846,793 relates to compositions of the invention include: a surfactant having an HLB value from 1 to 10; and a compound of formula (I):
where; x is an integer from 2 to 6, y is an integer from 0 to 5, R is a bond or (C1-C4)alkylene, R1 is a hydrogen, halo, aryl, (C1-C4)alkyl, heteroaryl, cycloalkyl, or heterocycyl, and R2 is independently selected from hydrogen, halo, (C1-C4)alkyl, (C1-C4)alkoxy, (C2-C4)alkenylene.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,686,325 relates to an alkaline sensitive metal cleaning composition. The alkaline sensitive metal cleaning composition contains an alkaline concentrate and a corrosion inhibitor concentrate. The alkaline concentrate includes a source of alkalinity in an amount sufficient to provide a use solution having a pH of at least 10.0, and a first chelant component that exhibits soil removal properties when used at a pH of at least 10.0. The corrosion inhibitor concentrate includes a corrosion inhibitor component for reducing corrosion of alkaline sensitive metals when used in a use solution having a pH of at least 10.0, a second chelant component for stabilizing the corrosion inhibitor in the corrosion inhibitor concentrate when the corrosion inhibitor concentrate is provided at a pH that is less than 8.0, and a surfactant component for providing cleaning properties when used at a pH of at least 10.0.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,597,766, 7,642,224, and 7,648,583 relate to an aqueous, concentrated neutral detergent composition for use in cleaning medical instruments and metal components (parts, tools, utensils, vessels, equipment, and surfaces) having scale control and corrosion inhibition properties when diluted to about 1/40 ounce per gallon to about 1/10 ounce per gallon in potable water. In addition, the concentrate may be applied directly to metal surfaces, such as stainless steel, to remove rust and other stains, without causing any additional corrosion or other damage to the metal surface.
U.S. Publication 2008/0108539 relates to corrosion inhibitor systems, in particular to cleaning and corrosion inhibiting compositions for surfaces of aluminum or colored metals and alloys thereof under alkaline conditions, especially in the food and pharmaceutical industries. The cleaning and corrosion inhibiting compositions comprise as a corrosion inhibitor at least one alkyleneoxy alkylphosphate di- or triester having the general formula as set forth therein.
U.S. Publication 2008/0221006 relates to an aqueous, alkaline cleaning composition comprising a source of alkalinity, a biodegradable surfactant system further comprising one or more surfactants, one or more hydrotropes, and a UV-analyzable surfactant, and a biodegradable chelating agent.
U.S. Publication 2009/0298738 relates to an alkaline concentrated detergent composition for use in cleaning hard surfaces, medical instruments and other metal components (parts, tools, utensils, vessels, equipment) having cleaning efficacy at much lower alkali content than traditional alkaline cleaners and enhanced scale control properties even when diluted to about 1/40 ounce per gallon to about 1/10 ounce per gallon in potable water and even in exceptionally hard water.
WO 2009/125335 relates to a substantially nonaqueous concentrated composition comprising an amine oxide surfactant, a water-soluble solvent, a source of alkalinity, a chelating agent and a hydrotrope wherein the concentrate composition is useful in preparing a water soluble solution. The composition may optionally include any one or combination of a nonionic surfactant, anionic surfactant, a corrosion inhibitor, dye, perfume, or preservative.
WO 2009/125336 relates to a substantially nonaqueous solid concentrated composition comprising an amine oxide surfactant, an alkali metal hydroxide, a secondary source of alkalinity, a chelating agent, a nonionic surfactant, and a hardening agent wherein the concentrated composition is useful in preparing an aqueous solution. The composition may optionally include any one or combination of an anionic surfactant, a corrosion inhibitor, dye, perfume, or preservative. The ultra-concentrated composition of the invention is suited for solid deliveries.

Biodegradable concentrated neutral detergent composition


The invention relates to a hydrocarbon transport device intended to be immersed and arranged at an extraction wellhead, comprising a first pipe through which a first fluid leaving the extraction well flows, the first pipe being arranged in an external protective casing, a piloting system to pilot the temperature in the first pipe controlling an activation element of a regulating system for regulating a heat exchange between the first pipe and the liquid medium filling the immersed external casing, the regulating system comprising at least a second pipe arranged around the first pipe and delimiting an annular space enclosing at least one regulating fluid, this regulating fluid being injected into or expelled from the annular space by the activation element of the regulating system.

1. Field of the Invention
The technical scope of the present invention is that of hydrocarbon transport pipes able to regulate the temperature of the hydrocarbons.
2. Description of Related Art
To prepare for the depletion of subsea oil fields at low and medium temperature, which is to say at a temperature of less than 120° C., oil producers are obliged to exploit the deep geological layers of the subsea oil reserves, for example at depths of around 4000 or 6000 meters, or even deeper. Because of a mean geothermal gradient of 30° C./km, the hydrocarbons leaving the oil wells can reach temperatures of over 150° C. The temperatures observed can be, for example 210° C. or even 240° C. at the wellhead.
One technical problem is thus to provide installations adapted to these temperatures, both to support the thermal expansion by resisting to the stresses or by authorizing and controlling them, and to select materials adapted to these temperatures. Mechanical structures such as expansion loops, for example, enable substantial expansion, and mitigate the phenomenon of buckling of hydrocarbon pipelines. Another solution is disclosed in patent application GB-2188394 which describes a helical structure enabling the expansion of the pipelines. These approaches are not economically viable in the case of pipelines of several kilometers or several tens of kilometers in length and for which free expansion can reach several meters per kilometer.
In addition to the constraints depending on the dimensional variations, the constitutive metallic material of the pipeline has a maximum yield strength that corresponds to an acceptable maximum stress and that reduces as the temperature increases. The acceptable maximum stress is reduced, for example, by 75 MPa for carbon steel exposed to 200° C. and by 140 MPa for duplex steel, which is appreciable given a maximum elasticity of around 400 or 450 MPa at ambient temperature.
In the event of completely restrained thermal expansion, the stresses due to temperature changes increase by more than 2 MPa/° C. and it has been observed that high temperatures can lead to substantial increases in the thickness of the pipe walls to allow them to withstand the internal pressures. Restraining the thermal expansion thus results in additional force exerted on the pipeline.
There is, therefore, a strong need to reduce the temperature of hydrocarbon transport pipelines. This need for cooling is all the more important at the wellhead where the temperatures are the highest.
Even downstream of the well outlet, after part of the heat has dissipated, high temperatures can remain and cause technical problems. Chemical products injected into the wellstream namely have maximal operating temperatures. Thus, an anti-corrosion product is inoperative at above 100° C., for example. Electronic components may also be damaged or destroyed at temperatures above their maximum operating temperature.
Lowering the temperature thus enables the installations to operate more efficiently from a mechanical point of view but also enables chemical additives or electronic equipment to be used the closest from the well outlet.
A solution that is sometimes implemented consists in installing a portion of non-insulated piping at the well outlet to facilitate cooling. The length of such piping rarely exceeds a few tens of meters, that only enables marginal cooling of 10 to 20° C. when the oil well is in maximum production. Moreover, such a solution is not satisfactory for production stoppages involving a risk of forming plugs of hydrocarbons in the non-insulated part. Indeed, the temperature of the effluent cannot be allowed decrease to the temperature of the sea environment, typically 4° C., since this could lead to the formation of gas hydrates and other solids which could block the hydrocarbon pipeline.
Another issue is the variation of pressure and temperature at the well head as the oil reservoir is being exploited. Initially, the wellhead will be exposed to high temperature and pressure. This will require substantial cooling at the beginning of exploitation and less cooling, or even no cooling at all, at the end of exploitation.
There is thus a need for the temperature to be regulated in the hydrocarbon transport pipeline.
A subsea installation must furthermore meet the requirements of simplicity and robustness.

Underwater hydrocarbon transport and temperature control device


Aspects of the disclosure provide a method for avoiding reselection of fake cell. The method includes transmitting a first request for network service of a wireless communication network in a first cell from user equipment, receiving a first reject message without integrity protection, adding the first cell to a set-aside cell list, and selecting a cell from other cells that are not included in the set-aside cell list to request network service.

The background description provided herein is for the purpose of generally presenting the context of the disclosure. Work of the presently named inventors, to the extent the work is described in this background section, as well as aspects of the description that may not otherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing, are neither expressly nor impliedly admitted as prior art against the present disclosure.
A false base station can create a fake cell and convince a mobile device to camp on the fake cell. While camping on the fake cell, the mobile device may make a request for a network service. In response to the request, the false base station can transmit a non-integrity-protected reject message to the mobile device. Upon receipt of the reject message, the mobile device can switch into an out of service state until the mobile device is restarted.

Avoiding reselection of a fake cell in a wireless communication network


Methods for detecting a number of luminary fixtures in an indoor environment using an electronic image capture device and electronic computing device are presented, the methods including: capturing a ceiling scan of the indoor environment with at least the electronic image capture device; analyzing a synthetic ceiling image corresponding with the ceiling scan using the electronic computing device to identify a number of luminary candidates; and converting the number of luminary candidates to define the number of luminary fixtures. In some embodiments, the capturing the ceiling scan further includes: moving the electronic image capture device through the indoor environment; capturing the indoor environment; generating a point cloud of the indoor environment; colorizing the point cloud; extracting the colored point cloud of a ceiling; dividing the extracted point cloud into a number of rooms; and generating the synthetic ceiling image for each of the number of rooms.

Building energy efficiency is important since energy consumption inside buildings is a major part of total energy consumption in most modern societies and as such contributes heavily to carbon emissions. A large percentage of electricity consumption in today's commercial buildings is due to lighting. Lighting is the lowest hanging fruit during energy audit of buildings. For example, an energy audit usually involves counting the number and type of luminaries installed in a building. From the audit, consumption due to the installed luminaries may be estimated. The energy consumption of the installed luminaries may then be compared with the energy consumption of potential luminary replacements. This would provide the property owners an estimate of achievable electricity savings by upgrading the lighting in their building. A typical energy audit involving lighting consists of a human with a clipboard and pen to walk inside building and write down the kind of luminary in each room of a building. This can be laborious, tiring, error prone and inaccurate.
As methods for detecting luminary fixtures are provided herein.