An earphone having an under hanger reduces movement of the earphone from vibrations that occur while a user is typically in motion. The earphone preferably includes: a housing for housing a speaker therein; a protector installed in a front surface of the housing and having a mesh for delivering a sound from the speaker; and an under hanger provided at a lower part of the housing to closely contact along a lower part of the rear side of an earflap of a user. The provision of an under hanger in a lower part of the earphone prevents from being easily separated from a user's ear. Further, by providing an under hanger made of a soft material, as the earphone closely contacts with the user's ear, a sound quality is improved and a wearing feeling of the earphone is improved.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an earphone, and more particularly, to an earphone having an under hanger.
2. Description of the Related Art
In general, in order to view a movie, or to listen to music, users are able to employ various electronic devices, including but in now way limited to a radio, cassette player, compact disk player, MP3 player, and portable multimedia player (PMP). In order to listen to a sound through such an electronic device, a user may use a headset or an earphone so as not to disturb others around them, and to be able to concentrate on the audio/visual material, or at least mask ambient background noise.
The earphone is used by inserting a soft-coated piece into/adjacent a user's ear canal. Earpieces can be generally classified as an open-type earphone, closed-type earphone, or semi-closed type earphone according to a form thereof. It is now more common than ever for a pair of earpieces extend from a common feed, so that the user can listen in stereo and/or reduce background noise that would be heard when only a single earpiece is used.
In general, the earphone is temporarily attached to the user by having the user insert a specially designed portion into an earflap. However when the user moves, for example, when performing an exercise such as jogging, the earphone is easily separated (i.e. backs out) from the user's ear. In order to solve the problem, a fixed part such as an earhook can be formed in a cover of the earphone and is typically arranged along an outer portion of the ear, so that the earphone is not easily separated from the user's ear. However when the user wears such an earphone for a long time period, the user can feel a pain in their ear, and the earphone has a somewhat complicated structure.
Therefore, there is a long-felt need in the art for an earphone having a simple structure that is not easily separated from the user's ear while the user is in motion.

Samsung-ro, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do


A compliant gear assembly includes a hub subassembly including a first hub component defining a first axis and a second hub component movable relative to the first hub component in a controlled direction perpendicular to the first axis. A gear ring, which is rotatably mounted on the hub subassembly and defines a gear ring axis of rotation, is coupled to move with the second hub component between a biased position in which the gear ring axis of rotation is coaxial with the first axis and a translated intermediate stop position in which the gear ring axis of rotation is parallel to but not coaxial with the first axis. A spring component is coupled between the first and second hub components, biases the second hub component toward the biased position, and provides a variable spring force that increases as the second hub component is moved toward the translated intermediate stop position.

Gear trains may include a plurality of gears, such as a driving gear, idler gears, and driven gears, used for transferring torque and speed. Gear trains are used in engine applications and, according to a particular engine application, may include a crank gear drivingly coupled with a cam gear through one or more idler gears. The torque and speed transferred from the crank gear to the cam gear may be used for valve opening and closing and for fuel injection. As such, a relatively stiff gear train may be required to maintain proper timing of the cam gear actuated events relative to the engine crank angle. However, dynamic activity of the crank and cam gears during operation of the engine can be substantial and, as a result, may impart significant impulsive torques through the gear train. These impulsive torques may cause gear teeth of adjacent gears to come out of mesh and be rapidly forced back into mesh or cause a backside tooth impact, which can result in excessive noise and can cause premature wear of the gear train components.
Some engineers have sought to address such problems by incorporating dampers, such as pendulum dampers and viscous dampers, into the gear trains. Another approach has been to introduce compliance into the gear train. In general terms, compliant gears provide reduced stiffness, or slack, in the gear train, allowing one or more of the gears to attenuate its response to impulsive loads. Where a particular gear might otherwise be sharply accelerated or decelerated due to a torque impulse, compliance will allow the gear to more gradually adjust its rotation to accommodate the impulsive load. Compliant gears can thus attenuate the impulsive loads, reducing undue wear, mechanical strain, and audible noise.
U.S. Pat. No. 2,992,532 to Miller teaches a control system that uses hydraulic force to actively adjust an idler gear ring axis of rotation. In particular, Miller proposes using a hydraulic system that experiences pressure changes in response to torque fluctuations. As the control system pressure changes, the gear ring axis of rotation is actively shifted. For example, as a result of decreased torque fluctuations over time, the control system pressure decreases to urge the idler gear teeth closer in mesh with the driving gear teeth to reduce occurrences of teeth separation. Thus, Miller teaches a control system for actively shifting a gear ring axis of rotation, rather than a compliant gear system that passively responds to torques exceeding a predetermined threshold. Although various alternatives exist for addressing the negative impacts of dynamic gear train activity, there remains a continuing need for solutions, particularly when previously unrecognized problems are identified.
The present disclosure is directed to one or more of the problems or issues set forth above.

Compliant gear assembly having variable spring force


In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a method may include generating a random number to be associated with an information handling resource. The method may also include generating a challenge string based at least on the random number. The method may additionally include encrypting the challenge string using a first shared secret. The method may further include receiving a one-time password generated by a vendor associated with the information handling resource, the one-time password generated by decrypting the challenge string using the first shared secret, parsing the random number from the decrypted challenge string, and digitally signing the decrypted challenge string with a digital signature using a second shared secret. The method may also include granting user access to the information handling resource in response to verifying, using the second shared secret, that the digital signature matches the random number.

As the value and use of information continues to increase, individuals and businesses seek additional ways to process and store information. One option available to users is information handling systems. An information handling system generally processes, compiles, stores, and/or communicates information or data for business, personal, or other purposes thereby allowing users to take advantage of the value of the information. Because technology and information handling needs and requirements vary between different users or applications, information handling systems may also vary regarding what information is handled, how the information is handled, how much information is processed, stored, or communicated, and how quickly and efficiently the information may be processed, stored, or communicated. The variations in information handling systems allow for information handling systems to be general or configured for a specific user or specific use such as financial transaction processing, airline reservations, enterprise data storage, or global communications. In addition, information handling systems may include a variety of hardware and software components that may be configured to process, store, and communicate information and may include one or more computer systems, data storage systems, and networking systems.
A key component of almost every information handling system is the basic input/output system (BIOS). A BIOS may be a system, device, or apparatus configured to identify, test, and/or initialize one or more information handling resources of an information handling system, typically during boot up or power on of an information handling system. A BIOS may include boot firmware configured to be the first code executed by a processor of an information handling system when then information handling system is booted and/or powered on. As part of its initialization functionality, BIOS code may be configured to set components of the information handling system into a known state, so that one or more applications (e.g., an operating system or other application programs) stored on compatible media may be executed by a processor and given control of the information handling system and its various components.
Oftentimes, various settings and parameters associated with a BIOS may be user-configurable, such that a user of an information handling system can configure or customize behavior of the BIOS and/or information handling resources of the information handling system. Because of its important role in the initialization of an information handling system, users often prefer to password protect the BIOS to prevent unauthorized access to the various settings and parameters associated with a BIOS. Similarly, other information handling resources of an information handling system (e.g., storage media such as a hard disk drive) may also be password-protected in order to provide security to prevent unauthorized access to the information handling system, its various components, and/or data stored thereon.
However, because a person may forget a password established for a BIOS or other information handling resource, a password unlock mechanism may exist in order to allow a user to gain access to the information handling resource when authentication credentials are forgotten.
Presently, one approach to unlocking a password for an information handling resource is based upon a master password that is generated from a unique identifier "challenge" associated with the information handling resource (e.g., a serial number or service tag number of the information handling resource or the information handling system in which the information handling resource is disposed). In such approach, a user may communicate the unique identifier to a vendor of the information handling resource (e.g., via telephone, e-mail, World Wide Web form submission, and/or other electronic method) along with information verifying the user's ownership of or authorization to use the information handling system and unlock the password (e.g., social security number, passphrase, birthdate, answer to challenge question, credit card number, or other personal data). Once user ownership or authorization is verified, the vendor may accept the unique identifier, apply a password-generation tool to the unique identifier to generate the master password for the information handling resource, and then communicate such master password to the user, who may input the master password in order to access the information handling resource.
The master password generation implementation may be based on an algorithm based on a shared secret shared between the information handling resource and the vendor's master password generation tool. Such algorithm may be used throughout many generations of information handling resources until it becomes compromised. Such implementation suffers from at least two disadvantages.
First, the input into the algorithm of the master password generation tool is always the same. For example, a particular information handling system with a particular unique identifier (e.g., service tag) will always have the same BIOS master password. Once a user has requested and received the master password from a vendor, that same master password will always unlock the specific information handling resource. This deficiency allows attackers to create lists of master passwords based on unique identifiers (e.g., "rainbow tables") in order to initiate attacks on information handling systems.
Second, the security of the master password hinges on the obscurity of the shared secret algorithm in the information handling resource. For example, because the BIOS exists on the motherboard and the algorithm must run at boot time to compute the master password for verification purposes, an attacker with access to an in-circuit emulator may snoop the processor and determine the algorithm. This deficiency allows a sufficiently skilled attacker to identify the algorithm and publish his or her findings publicly.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

System and method for generating one-time password for information handling resource


Edge-emitting laser diodes having mirror facets include passivation coatings that are conditioned using an ex-situ process to condition the insulating material used to form the passivation layer. An external energy source (laser, flash lamp, e-beam) is utilized to irradiate the material at a given dosage and for a period of time sufficient to condition the complete thickness of passivation layer. This ex-situ laser treatment is applied to the layers covering both facets of the laser diode (which may comprise both the passivation layers and the coating layers) to stabilize the entire facet overlay. Importantly, the ex-situ process can be performed while the devices are still in bar form.

High power semiconductor laser diodes have become important components in the technology of optical communication, particularly because such laser diodes can be used for fiber pumping (amplification of optical signals) and other high power applications. In most cases features such as long lifetime, reliable and stable output, high output power, high electro-optic efficiency, and high beam quality are generally desirable. One key for the long-term reliability of modern high-power laser diodes depends on the stability of the laser facets cleaved to form the opposing mirrors of the laser cavity.
The physical degradation of laser facets is a complex reaction that can be driven by light, current, and heat, resulting in power degradation and, in severe cases, to catastrophic optical damage (COD) of the mirror surfaces themselves. A process developed by IBM and referred to as "E2 passivation" has been used to address these concerns and minimize the possibility of COD. As described in IBM's U.S. Pat. No. 5,063,173 entitled "Method for Mirror Passivation of Semiconductor Laser Diodes" issued to M. Gasser et al., the E2 process involves the deposition of a layer of silicon (or perhaps germanium or antimony) as a coating over the bare facet (mirror) surfaces. The presence of the coating functions as a passivation layer, preventing the diffusion of impurities capable of reacting with the mirror facet interface.
Today's laser diodes are operated at relatively high powers and these prior art passivation layers, as deposited, have been found to break down and allow for damage of the mirror surfaces to occur. Therefore, in order to obtain stable mirrors for infrared high power laser diodes, it has now become a standard practice to "condition" the passivation layer. As performed today, conditioning is an extremely time-consuming process that requires operating the laser diode at a reduced current level for a prolonged period of time (e.g., tens to hundreds of hours) so as to form a crystalline structure inside the as-deposited amorphous passivation layer, forming a stable interface between the passivation layer and the mirror facet. Besides the time period required for this conditioning process, it is necessarily performed on a device-by-device basis, further extending the time and expense of the fabrication process.

Ex-situ conditioning of laser facets and passivated devices formed using the same


Rich structured data for items in a file system that allows different kinds of data to be identified by metadata is mapped into a set of search properties for a desktop search service, which is a flat list. This is applicable to any rich structured data that should be mapped into search properties for a desktop search service. Included is an installation mechanism to install these mappings and an execution infrastructure for utilizing the generated SQL from the mappings to extract search properties from items.

Storage systems such as WinFS (Microsoft Windows® Future Storage or Microsoft Windows® File System), for example, allow different kinds of data to be identified by metadata and uses it to set up relationships among data, thereby giving a semantic structure to the data. These relationships can then be used by a relational database to enable searching and dynamic aggregation of the data, allowing the data to be presented in a variety of ways. WinFS includes a relational database engine, derived from the Microsoft® SQL Server 2005 (SQL) database platform, to facilitate this.
However, to allow applications to search and categorize data in such storage systems without knowledge of the structure of the defined types of the different kinds of data in the system, there is a need for a system that provides applications the ability to just operate on a single set of search properties rather than operating on the individual types. Also, there is a need for independent software vendors (ISVs) for such file systems to be able to pick the metadata/search properties for their types without compromising their item schema design.
Thus, needed are processes and a system that addresses the shortcomings of the prior art.

Defining and extracting a flat list of search properties from a rich structured type


A printing control apparatus having a semiconductor storage device of a reduced capacity allows an inexpensive printer to provide large-sized, high-resolution and high-quality printout. The apparatus comprises a band buffer and a page buffer. The band buffer formed in a semiconductor storage device develops therein part of print bit image data. The page memory formed in an external storage device stores one page of print bit image data. With incoming print bit image data developed in the band buffer, the developed print bit image data are transferred from the band buffer to the page memory for printout.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a printing control apparatus and, more particularly, to an improved printing control apparatus that allows a printer to develop data prepared by a computer or like equipment as bit image data.
2. Description of Related Art
Some printers conventionally utilize a page memory allocated in a semiconductor storage device of the printing control apparatus attached thereto, the page memory having a capacity of one-page bit image data to be printed. Print command data such as bit image data, character codes and other data sent from an external computer or the like are developed as print bit image data in the page memory. After such data development, the print station of the printer is started. The developed print bit image data are then output to the print station for one-page printing.
However, recent improvements in the resolution and image quality of printers have tremendously boosted the amount of print bit image data to be printed per page. This trend has not only increased the prices of the printers because of their more expensive semiconductor storage devices incorporated, it has also produced a number of problems including higher power dissipation, higher electric capacity required to drive the semiconductor device and a limit to the amount of data handled by a CPU. These constraints have become so restrictive that some printers of high performance specifications are almost impossible to build at a reasonable cost. In any case, semiconductor storage devices are required to be larger than ever in capacity to execute large amounts of print output.
For example, A4-size printout by conventional monochromatic laser printers generally requires one-bit data per pixel. When their resolution is about 12 pixel/mm, such laser printers need to have a semiconductor storage device with a capacity of about one megabyte in order to retain one A4 page of bit image data. Where printing requirements are dramatically raised, e.g., where the output size is A0 and the resolution is 12 pixel/mm, with 16.70 million colors (24 bits/pixel: yellow 8 bits, magenta 8 bits, cyan 8 bits; or 36 bits/pixel: yellow 8 bits, magenta 8 bits, cyan 8 bits, black 8 bits) assigned per pixel, a memory capacity of at least 500 megabytes is required to accommodate just one page of print bit image data. The memory requirement has led to a drastic hike in equipment cost, making it virtually impossible to build economically feasible printers.


Methods for screening molecules that modulate the activity of Retinol Binding Protein 4 (RBP4) and their use in treatment of insulin resistance are described. Also described are methods of diagnosing insulin resistance and related conditions by detecting modulation of RBP4 activity.

Insulin resistance in the peripheral tissues such as muscle and fat is associated with increased secretion of insulin by pancreatic β-cells. The secreted insulin promotes glucose utilization and inhibits production of glucose by the liver. However, the pancreatic β-cells often cannot sustain the increased production of insulin resulting in the eventual decrease of insulin production and glucose intolerance.
Insulin resistance is characterized, for example, by increased glucose concentration in the blood, increased insulin concentration in the blood, decreased ability to metabolize glucose in response to insulin, or a combination of any of the above. Insulin resistance is thought to predict possible later development of diabetic disease, such as Type 2 Diabetes. However, even in the absence of diabetes, insulin resistance is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (Despres, et al., N. Engl. J. Med 334:952-957 (1996)). The loss of insulin production in insulin resistance and diabetes results in increased blood glucose or hyperglycemia. Hyperglycemia in turn can contribute to long term illness such as nephropathy, neuropathy, and retinopathy.
Insulin resistance is also associated with abnormalities in glucose and lipid metabolism, obesity, kidney disease, high blood pressure and increased risk for cardiovascular disease. The association of insulin resistance with these other abnormalities is referred to as "Insulin Resistance Syndrome" or "Metabolic Syndrome" or "Syndrome X". In particular, Metabolic Syndrome has been characterized as the co-occurrence of obesity (especially central obesity), dyslipidemia (especially high levels of triglycerides and low levels of high density lipoprotein cholesterol), hyperglycemia and hypertension. People with Metabolic Syndrome are at increased risk for diabetes or cardiovascular disease relative to people without the syndrome (Meigs, J. B., BMJ: 327, 61-62, (2003)).
Decreased expression of the insulin responsive glucose transporter, GLUT4, is seen in adipocytes in nearly all insulin resistant states in humans and rodents (Shepherd, P. R. and Cohn, B. B., N Engl. J. Med. 341:248-257 (1999)). However, the mechanism by which decreased expression of GLUT4 contributes to systemic insulin resistance has not been clear because adipose tissue contributes very little to total body glucose disposal.
Due to the association of insulin resistance with later development of diabetes and cardiovascular disease, and the prevalence of insulin resistance worldwide, the need exists for additional metabolic or endocrine targets for the development of treatments that alleviate or mitigate diseases associated with insulin resistance. A need also exists for additional detection/diagnostic methods of insulin resistance, Metabolic Syndrome and Type II diabetes to allow for the earliest possible intervention through life-style changes and/or medication.

RBP4 in insulin sensitivity/resistance, diabetes, and obesity

Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Inc.


A semiconductor device package (10) comprises plastic encapsulation (20) around a die pad (14) and a semiconductor chip (12). The semiconductor chip (12) is electrically interconnected to lead fingers (18) by conductive wires (16). The die pad (14) has at least one ear or tab (26) extending outward from die pad (14). In one embodiment of the invention, at least one hole (34) is formed through each ear or tab (26). In another embodiment of the invention, each ear or tab (26) is bent or curved away from the horizontal plane of the die pad. In yet another embodiment of the invention, at least one hole (34) is formed through each ear or tab (26) and ear or tab (26) is bent or curved away from the horizontal plane of the die pad (14). Ear or tab (26), having at least one hole (34), bent or curved away from the horizontal plane of the die pad (14), or having at least one hole (34) and bent or curved away from the horizontal plane of the die pad (14) helps prevent cracks from occurring in the plastic encapsulation (20) due to differences in the thermal expansion rates of the die pad (14) and the plastic encapsulation (20).

Conventional surface mounted semiconductor chip packages are manufactured for assembly on printed wiring boards which are installed into electronic controllers such as computers. Such packages comprise a semiconductor chip mounted on a die pad, wired to lead fingers and encapsulated in plastic. These packages are then soldered or otherwise connected into the printed wiring board in predetermined configurations.
The presence of cracks in an integrated circuit IC package substantially increases the probability that moisture or other contaminants will penetrate the package, reach the surface of the semiconductor die and eventually cause the device to fail. The major cause of IC package cracking is moisture related stress that causes a thermal mismatch between the silicon Si of the semiconductor device, the die pad, or lead frame adjacent the silicon device and the encapsulating plastic mold compound.
Thermal stresses tend to induce delamination of, or cracks in, the plastic encapsulation due to differences in the thermal expansion rates of the plastic encapsulation material and the material from which the die pad is made. A die pad typically expands in all directions slower than the plastic encapsulation and thus tends to pull the plastic encapsulation apart at the weakest points, i.e., the small peripheral edge around the die pad.
Thermal mismatch stress is at its lowest point during package molding where temperatures in the range of 185.degree. C. are encountered. After molding, the package is cooled to room temperature. The plastic will contract more than the silicon chip and lead frame which are stacked together before molding. This difference in contraction puts the interface between the pad and plastic under high stress, resulting in separation and delamination. When there is separation between plastic and mount pad, moisture from the atmosphere eventually fills the space created by the separation. During vapor phase reflow the packages are placed into position on the board which is then subjected to heat from a chemical vapor which reflows all the solder thereon at 215.degree. and above. This high temperature causes the moisture to turn into vapor which exerts a huge pressure inside the package, which can cause the package to blow up.
The packages are also subjected to internal and external thermal stresses throughout their normal operating life which may increase the percentage of delamination of, or cracks in, the plastic encapsulation. Internal thermal stresses are caused by the heat generated internally by the packaged semiconductor device when it is operating. This problem is destined to become more acute as advances in large scale integration produce integrated circuits with ever diminishing geometries, increasing densities and a resulting increase in the amount of heat generated by the semiconductor die per square unit of area. External thermal stresses are caused by the heat generated by operation of the electronic system in which the packages are installed.
One technique to prevent cracks involves incorporating mechanical locks into molded plastic packaged devices to help secure a die pad to the plastic mold compound. Such mechanical locks typically include a continuous rib formed around the periphery of the die pad that extends into the surrounding plastic mold compound. Unfortunately, it has been discovered that as the industry moves toward very thin packaged devices, conventional techniques for mechanically interlocking a die pad and plastic mold compound are insufficient to prevent cracking or chipping of the plastic around the periphery of the die pad.
Other techniques involve roughening up the backside of the die pad or use of a coating on the die pad to increase the adhesion between the mold compound and the mount pad or heat spreader.
Yet another technique utilizes pockets or concave dimples on the bottom of the die pad opposite the semiconductor chip in an attempt to increase the contact area between the plastic encapsulation material and the die pad material. It is more expensive to etch dimples than to use a cost efficient die pad manufacturing technique such as stamping, and while somewhat effective, dimples do not resolve the cracking problem. The dimples provide a greater area for contact between the bottom of the die pad and the plastic encapsulation which only helps keep the bottom of the die pad in position relative to the encapsulation in contact therewith. Unfortunately, the position of the bottom of the die pad relative to the encapsulation in contact therewith has a minimal effect on cracks or delamination caused by differences in thermal expansion rates which tend to force the encapsulation apart, and therefore, cracks still occur.
Still yet another technique involves forming holes in a die pad directly under the semiconductor die. Since the holes are only under the semiconductor die, the net result is the same as the pockets or dimples as previously discussed.

Semiconductor device having die pad locking to substantially reduce package cracking


A device for detecting the position of movable operating table components that has a multilayer sensor film that is attached to a first operating table component; a slider that is mounted on a second operating table component which is movable relative to the first operating table component, the slider being equipped with a pressure piece that elastically compresses the multilayer sensor film; and -n electrical circuit, which generates a signal in accordance with the position of the pressure piece on the sensor film.

The patient bearing surface of an operating table may be changed in its shape and position by actuating various actuators to set an optimal supporting position for a specific operation or treatment of the patient. In the case of operating tables having multiple joints, the risk of collisions of individual operating table components with one another increases with each adjustment element. Above all, the components leg plate, back plate, table column, or table base are at risk. The user may damage table parts and at the same time also injure the supported patient due to inattention or due to incorrect operation.
To reduce the risk of collisions, sensors can be installed in the operating table to detect the adjustment movements of the table components and relay them to an electronic controller. This controller computes a possible imminent collision or an incorrect setting from the sensor values and stops the adjustment movement if there is a risk of collision, in order to avoid damage to the table or patient.
For certain positions, complete profiles can be preprogrammed or prepared by the user himself, and then retrieved using a single button press. Therefore, personnel time and device setup times may be saved to a substantial extent. In prior art, cable pull potentiometers are used for this purpose, for example, allowing for the detection of the positions of the individual adjustable elements. In general, cable pull potentiometers are used for measuring the vertical and horizontal table positions. However, cable pull sensors are sometimes also used for (indirect) angle detection, since angle sensors often cannot be attached to the rotational axes for reasons of space. The customary cable pull sensors are susceptible to error, however, since the cable, which usually extends in the open and may be readily accessible and exposed to the certain environmental elements, may in the hospital setting become soiled, and is unprotected from mechanical influences, for example, jamming, hooking, or warping.

Device for detecting the position of movable operating table components


A breakaway clutch for robot end-of-arm tooling includes a housing and movable member constrained within the housing for movement along a central axis. A tool connecting member is linked to the movable member by way of a capsule-shaped link. The tool connecting member is located such that a movable member is in the normal position and the tool connecting member is movable in all directions except in the direction of a front housing wall. The movable member is biased toward the normal position, with the biasing being adjustable to vary the bias and thereby vary the sensitivity of the clutch to forces applied to the movable member by way of the tool connecting member. Movement of the movable member away from the normal position is sensed to send an alarm signal to the robot controller.

A problem in the use of robots in tooling operations is the problem of overload on the robot arm. This may occur if the robot arm or tool collides with something or if the tool gets stuck in the workpiece.
Several devices have been proposed and are in use that detect stresses and overloads on the robot arm and immediately shut down the robot when overload is detected in order to avoid damage to the robot or to the workpiece. These devices include expandable breakaway joints and connectors that break away when the robot arm experiences an overload.
For example, the devices shown in our U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,717,003 and 4,848,546 are expandable clutches useful in most robotic tooling situations. It has been found, however, that a collapsible clutch is preferable for use when the tool is an arc welding electrode, as collisions with the work piece are a more common occurrence. An expandable clutch as shown in our previous patents may not trip at a low enough threshold to protect the welding torch from damage if a collision puts the clutch into a compression failure mode. It has also been found that the ball and socket type of connection utilized in our expandable clutches is inappropriate for use in a collapsible clutch due to excessive friction between the parts, causing nonrepeatability.

Programmable breakaway clutch system with collapsible failure mode


The invention relates to a method, a processing unit and a system for determining the correlation between samples of a received code modulated signal and samples of replica code sequences. In order to simplify and accelerate the process, it is proposed that the received samples and the replica samples are aligned to each other and that the positions of the samples in the received signal and in the replica code sequences are grouped, each group comprising all positions at which the composition of the values of the samples of all of the replica code sequences is similar. The values of the received samples which are associated to a respective group are combined separately for each group to obtain a respective preliminary result. Then, a correlation value is determined for each replica code sequence by combining the preliminary results obtained for all groups separately for each replica code sequence, taking into account the values of the samples of the replica sequences in the respective group.

The correlation between a code modulated signal received at a receiver and an available replica code sequence has to be determined for example in CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) spread spectrum communications.
For a spread spectrum communication in its basic form, a data sequence is used by a transmitting unit to modulate a sinusoidal carrier and then the bandwidth of the resulting signal is spread to a much larger value. For spreading the bandwidth, the single-frequency carrier can be multiplied for example by a high-rate binary pseudo-random noise (PRN) code sequence comprising values of −1 and 1, which code sequence is known to a receiver. Thus, the signal that is transmitted includes a data component, a PRN component, and a sinusoidal carrier component. A PRN code period comprises typically 1023 chips, the term chips being used to designate the bits of the code conveyed by the transmitted signal, as opposed to the bits of the data sequence.
A well known system which is based on the evaluation of such code modulated signals is GPS (Global Positioning System). In GPS, code modulated signals are transmitted by several satellites that orbit the earth and received by GPS receivers of which the current position is to be determined. Each of the satellites transmits two microwave carrier signals. One of these carrier signals L1 is employed for carrying a navigation message and code signals of a standard positioning service (SPS). The L1 carrier signal is modulated by each satellite with a different C/A (Coarse Acquisition) Code known at the receivers. Thus, different channels are obtained for the transmission by the different satellites. The C/A code, which is spreading the spectrum over a 1 MHz bandwidth, is repeated every 1023 chips, the epoch of the code being 1 ms. The carrier frequency of the L1 signal is further modulated with the navigation information at a bit rate of 50 bit/s. The navigation information, which constitutes a data sequence, can be evaluated for example for determining the position of the respective receiver.
A receiver receiving a code modulated signal has to have access to a synchronized replica of the employed modulation code, in order to be able to de-spread the data sequence of the signal. To this end, a synchronization has to be performed between the received code modulated signal and an available replica code sequence. Usually, an initial synchronization called acquisition is followed by a fine synchronization called tracking. In both synchronization scenarios, a correlator is used to find the best match between the replica code sequence and the received signal and thus to find their relative shift called code phase. The search can be performed with different assumptions on an additional frequency modulation of the received signal. Such an additional modulation may occur for example due to a Doppler effect and/or a receiver clock inaccuracy and be as large as +/−6 kHz. The phase of the received signal relative to the available replica sequence can have any possible value due to uncertainties in the position of the satellite and the time of transmission of the received signal.
A correlator aligns an incoming signal with a replica code sequence with different assumptions on the code-phase. The correlator then multiplies the elements element wise and integrates the resulting products to obtain a correlation value for each code-phase. If the alignment is correct, the correlation will be higher than in the case of a misalignment. Thus, the correlation peak is an indication of the correct code-phase.
Two main types of correlators have been suggested so far.
A first type of correlator performs a direct correlation of a replica sequence and the received signal in the time domain. This implies that a dedicated processing step is carried out for each possible correlation phase. In case there is a large number of correlation phases to check, the computational burden is significant, which is critical especially for software based receivers. It has been proposed to reduce the amount of calculations by combining the available replica code sequences and by searching the several satellites at the same time based on this combined replica code sequence. It is a disadvantage of this approach, however, that it reduces the sensitivity of the correlator.
There exist different implementation approaches for the first type of correlator. They may be formed in particular with matched filters or ordinary correlators. The matched filter, for instance, is based on a sliding approach. For each code-phase, a new fragment of an incoming signal, which is shifted versus a previous fragment, is correlated with available replica code sequences. Due to the computationally heavy operation, the first type of filters is often implemented in hardware.
A second type of correlator relies on frequency domain techniques employing Discrete Fourier Transforms (DFT), which enable a parallel processing for all possible correlation phases. Thus, the DFT based correlators enable a reduction of the computational burden, in particular if the DFTs are realized as Fast Fourier Transforms (FFT).
Nevertheless, the first type of correlator is still widely used. One reason for this is the simplicity of the implementation. While the FFT might be suited to reduce the complexity of the correlator, the use of FFT requires complicated algorithms. Moreover, the FFT approximates calculations due to the quantization of the transform coefficients. Another reason for further performing calculations in the time domain is that while in principle, the phase of the received signal relative to the available replica sequence can have any possible value, in some situations, the range of the possible correlation phases can be reduced based on some a-priori knowledge. Currently, however, a limited search of correlation phases can only be realized with correlators performing a correlation in the time domain. Known DFT based methods inherently perform the search of all possible correlation phases in parallel. Therefore, their usage is not feasible in situations in which the search is to be carried out only over a limited number of all possible correlation phases.

Determining the correlation between received samples and available replica samples


Handle arrangements having an integrated heat pipe for use with a portable electronic device are presented including: a heat pipe, the heat pipe configured with a heat receiving portion, a heat conducting portion, and a heat dissipating portion; a handle disposed along an edge of the portable electronic device, the handle including a handle surface configured to enclose at least the heat dissipating portion, wherein the handle surface is vented to allow air flow across at least the heat dissipating portion; an attachment housing for attaching the handle with the portable electronic device, the attachment housing configured to enclose the heat conducting portion; and a processing unit having a contact surface, the contact surface in thermal communication with the heat receiving portion wherein the portable electronic device is configured to enclose the heat receiving portion.

As portable electronic device designs become more compact, managing thermal loads in integrated circuits (e.g. processing units) becomes more challenging. One reason for this challenge is that high powered portable devices can generate significant amounts of waste heat energy over a relatively compact area. As such, damage due to heat cycling may cause collateral damage to components in close proximity to heat generators. In conventional solutions, fans may be utilized in coordination with a heat sink to dissipate generated waste heat. In some examples, where fans are utilized to cool components, battery life may be significantly lowered.
In one example, FIG. 1 is an illustrative representation of a prior art portable computing system 100. Portable computing systems may have any number of components including a screen 104, a removable media drive 108, a fixed media drive 106, a keyboard 112, and a track pad 110. As illustrated, many components may be housed in a base 102. Typically, as the number and type of components increase, power consumption increases. Because power consumption is directly related to an increase in thermal loading, managing thermal loads becomes a more critical in new system designs. Thus, many cooling systems have been developed to manage thermal loads in portable electronic systems.
FIG. 2 is an illustrative representation of a prior art cooling system 200, which may be utilized with a portable computing system 100 (see FIG. 1). As illustrated, any number of processing units 202, 204, and 206 mounted on board 216 may generate waste heat. As noted above, integrated circuits (e.g. processing units 202, 204, and 206) may generate significant waste heat energy. In this example, a heat pipe 208 may be configured to receive waste heat from processing units 202, 204, and 206. As may be appreciated, heat pipes may be utilized for a wide variety of applications covering the complete spectrum of heat transfer applications. Heat pipes are ideal for applications where heat must be transferred with a minimum thermal gradient to relocate a sink to a remote location. A heat pipe is an evacuated vessel, typically circular in cross-section, which may be filled with a quantity of a working fluid such as water or methanol. Heat pipes are passive and may be used to transfer heat from a heat source to a heat sink with minimal temperature gradients. In this example, heat pipe 208 is configured to transfer heat from heat receiving portion 218 to heat dissipating portion 210. A fan 212 may then be employed to force air across heat dissipation portion 210 as illustrated by lines 214. In this manner heat may be transferred from processing units 202, 204, and 206 to the environment.
Although conventional methods as illustrated may be effective, as noted above, power requirements for fan usage may, in some instances significantly reduce battery life making such a solution somewhat undesirable. Furthermore, use of a fan may, in some examples, contribute to an undesirable increase in noise level. Therefore, handle arrangements with an integrated heat pipe are presented herein.

Handle arrangement with integrated heat pipe


According to an aspect, a mobile electronic device 1 includes a projector for projecting an image, a display unit for displaying an image, a detector for detecting an operation, and a processing unit. The processing unit causes the projector to project a first image and causes the display unit to display a second image associated with the first image. While allowing either one of the projector and the display unit to perform the projecting or the displaying, the processing unit causes the other one of them to perform projection or display according to detection of a predetermined operation by the detector.

Conventionally, a device for projecting an image to a wall surface or a screen includes a so-called projector. A mainstream of the projector is a so-called stationary type device which is supplied with power from a commercial power supply and is used in a state of being fixed at a predetermined position. The stationary type projector projects an image to a given portion of the wall surface or to the screen in its fixed state.
Recently, on the other hand, a mobile projector compact in size and easy to carry is proposed as the projector. For example, Patent Literature 1 describes a mobile terminal with a projector function that includes an upper cabinet, a lower cabinet, and a hinge for mutually pivotally connecting the upper cabinet and the lower cabinet, and also includes a projector having a lens and a light source.

Mobile electronic device for projecting an image


An assembly includes multiple adjoined rotor sections each having multiple poles and multiple void rows therethrough that are radially distributed in each of the poles. The rotor sections are skewed in a circumferential direction. The assembly also has multiple conductive rings that substantially surround one of the void rows. A method of assembly and electric machines and vehicles using the assembly are also disclosed. Aspects reduce torque ripple in electric machines and allow for encoderless/sensorless operation in an electric machine using the rotor assembly. The present invention has been described in terms of specific embodiment(s), and it is recognized that equivalents, alternatives, and modifications, aside from those expressly stated, are possible and within the scope of the appending claims.

The present invention relates generally to electric machines and, more particularly, to implementations for sensorless electric machines that have skewed rotor sections.
One general application for electric machines, and interior permanent magnet (IPM) machines, in particular, is for use in underground mining vehicles, wherein typically electric wheel motors (e.g., IPM) are connected to the wheels via a gearbox. This application typically requires very high torque at low speeds and yet maintenance of the rated power over a very wide speed range (e.g., on the order of 15:1).
IPM machines unfortunately suffer from both a manufacturing and a technical (i.e., electro-mechanical) shortcoming. With IPM machines, permanent magnets typically are inserted into slots in the rotor structure and pushed entirely through the entire slot depth in order to fill the entire stack length. Due to small clearances between the magnets and the slots in the laminations, and the unevenness of such slots along the entire length, the magnets and/or laminations may be damaged during this insertion process.
Further, depending on their magnitude, torque "ripple", or torque oscillations, of the IPM or with Synchronous Reluctance machines, may result in damage to the rotor, the gearbox, and/or the mechanical system(s) connected to the electric machines (due to fatigue or excessive torque). Additionally, the frequency of the torque ripple might excite resonant modes of the mechanical system(s), further posing an additional threat to the electric machines and/or surrounding systems.
Various attempts at reducing torque ripple have included modifying the stator, via stator skewing with a continuous skewing arrangement. This methodology suffers from an undesirable increase in manufacturing cost and complexity. For example, this can cause an additional complexity with the inserting of coils into the slots. Another countervailing trend in reducing torque ripple is using an odd number of stator slots per pole pair. While this method has proven effective in helping reduce torque ripple, it suffers from the undesirable tradeoff of increasing core losses, which, in turn, may harm efficiency.
Further with an electric machine, be it at the IPM machine, permanent magnet (PM) assisted synchronous reluctance machine, or the synchronous reluctance machine, position is a critical informational element for torque control. Typically, an encoder, tachometer, or resolver is used with electric machines as the position sensor.
However, the position sensor (e.g., encoder) along with its cabling and interface electronics contributes a significant portion of the motor drive system cost and overall complexity and is often a major reliability concern. Since the advent of the high frequency injection method for zero frequency encoderless control, encoderless controls have seen great improvements but none have found success in recovering the full, or near full, torque capability of the machine. This is due to loss of small signal saliency at high-load levels for the machine.
Accordingly, there is an ongoing need for improving on current electric machine technologies and/or manufacturing thereof that address at least one of complexity, cost, efficiency, and/or performance without some of the current tradeoffs encountered with current methodologies.

D-ring implementation in skewed rotor assembly


A clutch unit with a clutch hub mounted non-rotatably on a shaft. The clutch unit includes at least two clutch elements that can be brought into frictional engagement with one another for torque transmission when the clutch unit is actuated by a mechanical actuation device with the help of cable-pull. The mechanical actuation device is attached to and held on the clutch unit.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a clutch unit with a clutch hub mounted non-rotatably on a shaft, and has at least two clutch elements that can be brought into frictional engagement with one another for torque transmission, when the clutch unit is actuated by a mechanical actuation device with the help of cable-pull.
2. Description of the Related Art
From the German published application document DE 28 45 875 A1 a device for rotary-locked connection and separation of a driving force with a driven element is known, which is actuated with the help of a Bowden cable-pull. The release unit of the clutch unit includes a lever shoulder on which, on the one hand, the core of the Bowden cable-pull acts and on the other hand a spring. The release unit includes a sleeve with a steep-pitch thread in which balls are disposed. The counterpart to the steep-pitch thread is provided on a pot-shaped entity in form of bulges. The core of the Bowden cable-pull twists the sleeve relative to a rigidly connected component that is stationary with the engine. By being linked with the component connected firmly and in a stationary manner with the engine, oscillations and vibrations can be transmitted during operation, which can lead to undesired development of noise. Further clutch units in which undesired noise development can occur, are disclosed in these U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,549,976; 3,374,628; 4,310,083; 5,713,446 and 5,947,857.
An object of the present invention is to provide a clutch unit that is simple in design and that can be produced cheaply. Thus, in particular, undesired noise development during the operation of an internal combustion engine, which is equipped with the clutch unit, should be reduced substantially.


A pull test apparatus includes a base, a tension meter and a linkage assembly. An object is adapted to be fixed at the base. The tension meter is movably disposed at the base and adapted to connect a handle of the object. The linkage assembly includes an elastic element and a positioning element. The elastic element is connected between the base and the tension meter. When the tension meter resists the elastic force of the elastic element to move to a first position, the positioning element positions the tension meter. When the positioning element releases the tension meter, the tension meter moves toward a second position by means of the elastic force of the elastic element so as to drive the handle closed at a main body of the object to be unfolded from the main body, wherein the first position is between the object and the second position.

1. Field of the Disclosure
The disclosure generally relates to a test apparatus, and more particularly, to a pull test apparatus.
2. Description of Related Art
Benefited from the progress of the semiconductor devices and the display technology, electronic devices continue developing toward direction of small size, versatile functions and easy carrying. The common portable electronic device includes tablet computer and notebook computer. In general, the above-mentioned electronic device has a hard disk therein for users to store data. Taking a notebook computer as an example, in some of the design, a hard disk is disposed at a hard disk fixing structure in a notebook computer, and a handle is disposed on the hard disk fixing structure. The user can make the handle closed at the hard disk fixing structure to fix the hard disk in the notebook computer or make the handle unfolded from the hard disk fixing structure so as to detach and assemble the hard disk conveniently.
In order to firmly close the handle to the hard disk fixing structure and allow the user smoothly pulling the handle, a pull testing is performed on the handle so that the force for unfolding the handle is controlled within a proper range. A conventional pull testing way is make a pull wire (for example, a rope) is used to connect a tension meter to the handle of the hard disk fixing structure, and the tester unarmed applies a force to the tension meter so that the handle under the force is unfolded from the hard disk fixing structure and meanwhile, a displayed reading on the tension meter during unfolding the handle is got. Since such testing way is by means of an unarmed pulling the tension meter by the user, it is hard to keep the force-applying direction, the force amount and the speed of each time close to each other, which affects the accuracy of the testing result.


A semiconductor device includes a power supply voltage level/slope detection unit configured to detect a level of a power supply voltage and a slope of a power supply voltage curve, and output a power supply voltage level/slope detection signal, a pumping voltage detection unit configured to detect a level of a pumping voltage based on a reference pumping level to output a pumping detection signal, an oscillation signal generation unit configured to generate an oscillation signal in response to the pumping detection signal and the power supply voltage level/slope detection signal, and a pumping unit configured to generate the pumping voltage by performing a charge pumping operation in response to the oscillation signal.

1. Field
Exemplary embodiments of the present invention relate to a semiconductor design technology, and more particularly, to an internal voltage generation circuit of a semiconductor device and a method for operating the same.
2. Description of the Related Art
Most semiconductor devices including DRAM use plural internal voltages having a different level, which are generated from external voltages VDD and VSS, in addition to the external voltages. Typically, the semiconductor devices generate the internal voltages through a charge pumping method or voltage down converting method, using a reference voltage corresponding to a target level, an external power supply voltage VDD, and an external ground voltage VSS.
In the case of DRAM, the internal voltages generated by the charge pumping method may include a boost voltage VPP, a back bias voltage VBB, and the like. Furthermore, the internal voltages generated by the voltage down converting method may include a core voltage VCORE, a bit line precharge voltage VBLP, and the like.
The boost voltage VPP has a voltage level greater than the external power supply voltage VDD, and is mainly used for activating word lines.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an internal voltage generation circuit of a conventional semiconductor device.
Referring to FIG. 1, the internal voltage generation circuit includes a pumping voltage detection unit 10, an oscillation signal generation unit 20, and a pumping unit 30. The pumping voltage detection unit 10 detects a level of a pumping voltage VPUMP based on a reference pumping level PUMP_VREF to output a pumping detection signal PUMP_DET. The oscillation signal generation unit 20 generates an oscillation signal OSC which oscillates at predetermined frequencies in response to the pumping detection signal PUMP_DET. The pumping unit 30 increases the level of the pumping voltage VPUMP by performing a charge pumping operation when the oscillation signal OSC oscillates.
The pumping voltage detection unit 10 activates the pumping detection signal PUMP_DET when the level of the pumping voltage VPUMP is lower than the reference pumping level PUMP_VREF. On the other hand, the pumping voltage detection unit 10 deactivates the pumping detection signal PUMP_DET when the level of the pumping voltage VPUMP is the same or greater than the reference pumping level PUMP_VREF.
The oscillation signal generation unit 20 generates the oscillation signal OSC, which oscillates at a predetermined first frequency, in response to the activation of the pumping detection signal PUMP_DET. On the other hand, the oscillation signal generation unit 20 generates the oscillation signal OSC, which oscillates at a predetermined second frequency, which is lower than the first frequency, in response to the deactivation of the pumping detection signal PUMP_DET.
The charge pumping operation of the pumping unit 30 is controlled by the oscillation signal OSC. That is, when the oscillation signal OSC oscillates at the first frequency, which is a relatively high frequency, the pumping unit 30 performs a charge pumping operation to generate the pumping voltage VPUMP based on the oscillation signal OSC. On the other hand, when the oscillation signal OSC oscillates at the second frequency, which is a relatively low frequency, the pumping unit 30 infrequently performs or does not perform a charge pumping operation to generate the pumping voltage VPUMP based on the oscillation signal OSC.
FIGS. 2A to 2C illustrates timing diagrams for explaining an operation of the internal voltage generation circuit shown in FIG. 1.
Referring to FIG. 2A, it may be seen that the internal voltage generation circuit of the conventional semiconductor device generates the pumping voltage VPUMP whose level differs depending on a level of the power supply voltage VDD.
Specifically, during a period A where the power supply voltage VDD starts to be supplied to the semiconductor device so that the power supply voltage VDD steadily increases, the level of the power supply voltage VDD may not be sufficiently increased. Therefore, the level of the pumping voltage VPUMP may not be sufficiently increased, either. That is, although not illustrated in the drawing, the level of the pumping voltage VPUMP is lower than the reference pumping level PUMP_VREF. Accordingly, the oscillation signal OSC oscillates at the first frequency, and the level of the pumping voltage VPUMP increases at a relatively high speed through relatively frequent charge pumping operations.
Then, during a period B where the level of the power supply voltage VDD stays the same after a sufficient time elapsed from when the power supply voltage VDD is supplied to the semiconductor device, the operation of the internal voltage generation circuit may significantly differ depending on the level the power supply voltage VDD.
For example, it is assumed that the internal voltage generation circuit generates the pumping voltage VPUMP by pumping the power supply voltage VDD to a three times greater value, and the reference pumping level PUMP_VREF is 3.0V. Referring to FIG. 2B, when the level of the power supply voltage VDD is greater than 1V, that is, the level of the power supply voltage VDD corresponds to 1.0V or 1.1V in FIG. 2A, the level of the pumping voltage VPUMP easily exceeds the reference pumping level PUMP_VREF by the charge pumping operation. Therefore, the oscillation signal OSC oscillates at the second frequency, and the charge pumping operation is performed relatively infrequently. That is, the internal voltage generation circuit operates in a state in which the current consumption caused by the charge pumping operation is minimized.
On the other hand, referring FIG. 2C, when the level of the power supply voltage VDD is lower than 1V, that is, the level of the power supply voltage VDD corresponds to 0.8V or 0.9V in FIG. 2A, the level of the pumping voltage VPUMP is inevitably lower than the reference pumping level PUMP_VREF even though the power supply voltage VDD is continuously pumped. Therefore, the oscillation signal OSC continuously oscillates at the first frequency, and thus, the charge pumping operation is performed relative to the predetermined frequency.
As such, the charge pumping operation may be frequently performed when the level of the power supply voltage VDD is not sufficiently high, even though the level of the pumping voltage VPUMP does not sufficiently increase. In this case, the current may be consumed unnecessarily.

Internal voltage generation circuit of semiconductor device and method for operating the same


Variable angle holes in bone plates that are structured to facilitate the formation of axial compression or tension of a bone, or which can assist in bone distraction. The variable angle hole can extend about a central axis and includes an inwardly extending wedge wall. The variable angle hole can be sized to receive insertion of a fixation element at a location at which a central longitudinal axis of the fixation element is axially offset from the central axis of the variable angle hole by an offset distance at least when the fixation element is initially driven into bone at least in a transverse direction. The wedge wall can be configured to be engaged by a portion of the fixation element in a manner that axially displaces at least one of the bone plate, the fixation element, and/or bone(s) in a direction that can generally reduce or increase the offset distance.

Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to variable angle holes in bone plates. More particularly, but not exclusively, embodiments of the present invention relate to variable angle holes in bone plates that are structured to facilitate the formation of axial compression or tension in a bone.
The treatment of at least certain types of bone fractures often includes securing a bone plate against the bone and across at least a portion of the fracture. Such bone plates, which can at least improve fracture stability, can be transversally compressed against the bone through the use of one or more fixation elements such as, for example, screws, that enter into the bone at relatively precise locations along the bone plate. Yet, axial compression or distraction of bones typically requires an additional, separate plate that is also attached to the bone by fixation elements. However, such an additional, separate plate is often generally bulky in size and occupies additional space in the surgical tray. Further, the apertures in such additional plates are often sized or structured in a manner that can compromise the strength of the bone plate.


A smart magazine adapted to be releasably engaged with a simulated weapon is provided, the magazine comprising a housing, a valving mechanism disposed within the housing and a data module including an electronic storage medium for storing information concerning an amount of simulated ammunition “shots” present in the magazine, and a connection member operably connected to the data module and adapted to be operably connected to a control module in the weapon to transmit and receive signals in response to the firing of the weapon to adjust the number of “shots” stored in the storage medium. The magazine utilizes a compressed gas cartridge that releases gas to produce an audible “pop” when the weapon is fired and to reset the “shot” count for the magazine when the canister is replaced.

When military and/or police personnel or other individuals are engaged in tactical training situations, or playing games to simulate these types of situations, they use simulated weapons that are designed to imitate the size and feel of the actual firearms that are used in the field. Such firearms frequently use detachable magazines, which typically require that the operator carry a number of magazines loaded with ammunition so that they can rapidly re-load their weapon as needed.
To provide a realistic experience when individuals use weapon simulator systems incorporating simulated weapons with simulated detachable magazines, weapon simulator systems have been designed so that the trainee or individual is able to carry a number of simulated magazines to be used with the simulated weapon. By using various different magazines, the operator is able to interchange these magazines with the simulated weapon, as required with actual firearms.
Further, the magazine includes a mechanism capable of storing information on the number of "shots" available within the magazine, such as the electronic counter mechanism disclosed in UK Published Patent Application No. GB 2,259,559A, or the wireless module disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,291,014, which are each incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Through various types connections formed between the mechanism in the magazine and the weapon, as the weapon tracks the number of shots fired from the weapon, the weapon can supply this information to the magazine to correspondingly adjust the available number of "shots" in the magazine until the available number of "shots" reaches zero. At that point the magazine becomes empty or depleted and the mechanism in the magazine prevents further operation of the weapon. This information can be retained in the mechanism by the magazine, such that the magazine cannot simply be removed and reinserted into the same or another weapon. Once depleted, the magazine must be recharged by connecting the magazine to a suitable charger. Other examples of magazines and weapons of this type are also shown in US Patent Application Publication No. US2008/0127538, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
However, while electronic-only weapon simulator systems of this type force the individual to exchange magazines during a training simulation or game environment based on criteria similar to that present when using real weapons (i.e., the limited number of rounds present in a given magazine), the simulated weapons suffer from certain drawbacks. First, the chargers required to recharge depleted magazines require an individual to remove themselves from the simulation to access a charger, which is necessarily connected to a power source, such as an electric outlet, outside of the simulation environment. Further, the weapons of this type do not provide any feedback to the individual in the manner of real weapons, or other simulated weapons designed to fire paintballs or other similar projectiles. Consequently, when the simulated weapons of the above types are fired, only electronically-generated sounds or movement, i.e., vibration, if any, are generated by the weapon as an indication of the simulated firing of the projectile. As a result of these issues, the realism of using the simulated weapon in these simulations is diminished.
To provide more realistic action to the individual using the simulated weapon, there are a number of prior art simulated weapons that include a supply of compressed gas, air or carbon dioxide (CO2) within the weapon. The compressed gas supply can be externally connected to the simulated weapon, disposed directly within the simulated weapon as a simulated round to be fired, or a container held a compartment in the weapon, or within a magazine designed to be removably engaged with the weapon. In each case, the compressed gas supply is present to provide a recoil effect to the simulated weapon via a recoil mechanism operated by the compressed gas supply in response to the operation of a trigger on the weapon. Examples of weapons of this type include those disclosed in: U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,947,738; 6,146,141; 6,682,350; 6,869,285; and 7,306,462; US Patent Application Publication No. US 2008/0187888 and PCT Published Application No. WO 2010/065124 A1, each of which is incorporated by reference herein.
In U.S. Pat. No. 6,869,285 a retrofit pistol is disclosed in which the compressed gas supply is provided by a canister that is positioned directly within the handle for the pistol. The canister is positioned within a housing located in the magazine well in the handle and held therein by a threaded clamp that is turned with respect to the handle to secure or disengage the canister from the recoil mechanism.
In each of U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,146,141 and 6,682,350, weapons are disclosed in which the supply of compressed gas is held within a magazine engaged with the weapon. However, in each of these references the canister is omitted and the compressed gas is stored directly within a compartment of the magazine. When depleted, the magazine is removed from the weapon and connected to a separate gas supply in order to recharge the canister with the compressed gas used to operate the recoil mechanism.
While each of U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,146,141; 6,682,350 and 6,869,285 provides more realistic feedback to the individual as a result of the recoil provided by the compressed gas supply and recoil mechanism, each of these references omits any mechanism where the number of shots fired by the weapon can be recorded and retained in a storage mechanism within the magazine. Further, similar to the electronic-only weapons discussed previously, when the compressed gas supply for each of these references is depleted, the construction of the weapon does not allow for a ready resupply of the compressed gas to the weapon.
In PCT Published Application No. WO 2010/065124, the disclosure shows a simulated weapon with a compressed gas canister positioned within a magazine that is removable from the magazine well. To hold the canister within the magazine, as in U.S. Pat. No. 6,869,285, a cartridge engagement means including a threaded clamp is provided to secure or disengage the canister from a valve mechanism operated when the trigger of the weapon is depressed to supply gas from the canister to the recoil mechanism. Further, the magazine in this reference also includes a mechanism within the magazine that counts the number of "shots" fired by the weapon, and can operate to lock the weapon in an inoperable state when a predetermined number of "shots" has been reached. The magazine must then be removed from the weapon to reset the counting mechanism by depressing a switch on the magazine, such that the magazine can be returned to the weapon for continued use.
However, in this reference, similar to U.S. Pat. No. 6,869,285, the construction of the cartridge engagement means prevents the magazine from being readily recharged with compressed gas. Therefore, with regard to each of prior art simulated weapons discussed here, the individual is limited to the simulated ammunition supply held within the total number of magazines that are carried by the individual.
Therefore, it is desirable to develop a detachable simulated magazine for use in connection with a simulated weapon for use in various combat simulations that provides a realistic look, sound and feel to the operation of the magazine and weapon, as well as providing a more efficient and realistic manner for reloading the simulated magazine with simulated ammunition.


A camera includes a place information generator which receives identification information concerning an identification of a radio base station having a predetermined radio transmission zone, and generates place information concerning a place of picking up an image of an object based on received identification information. Generated place information is recorded on a record medium, or is displayed on a display unit. The camera has smaller size and power consumption and excellent portability in addition to recording of photographing place information.

This invention relates to an image capturing apparatus capable of recording a captured image together with information about an image capturing place and the like.
In recent years, car navigation systems having a built-in GPS (Global Positioning System) have been commercially available.
Also, there have been proposed a variety of public radio communications systems, such as mobile telephone system, personal handyphone system (PHS). These public radio communications systems have different zone areas which respective radio transmission base stations of the systems can cover. For example, the mobile telephone system has a large radio area, such as the size of a city. This system is called a large area radio communication system or LARCS. The personal handyphone system has a small radio area, such as the size of a block of a city. This system is called a small area radio communications system or SARCS.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,296,884 discloses a camera provided with a position detector adopting GPS. This camera has an advantage of specifying a place of photographing by the built-in GPS receiver. However, the camera having the built-in GPS receiver has a larger size and consumes a large amount of power, which necessitates mounting of a heavy battery. This reduces the degree of portability.
Further, there has been proposed a search system adopting the PHS, specifically a wandering aged man search system. According to this search system, an aged man having a wandering habit is equipped with a terminal of the PHS and his position is confirmed by receiving radio signals from a base station of the PHS.
However, these technologies utilizing the GPS and the public radio communications systems, the camera having the built-in GPS receiver and the wandering aged man search system adopting the PHS have not vet fulfilled the strong demand of an image capturing apparatus having small size, small power consumption, excellent portability, and recording of image capture place information.

Image capturing apparatus capable of receiving identification from base stations


A radiographic imaging system is presented. The system includes a system controller and a plurality of sub-system controllers. Each sub-system controller is configured to facilitate generation of a radiation beam through an imaging volume in a desired sequence. In addition, the system includes a first communication link configured to couple the system controller and each of the sub-system controllers, where the first communication link is configured to communicate sequencing commands and imaging protocol data. The system also includes a second communication link configured to couple the system controller and each of the sub-system controllers, where the second communication link is configured to communicate X-ray source event data. The X-ray source event data comprises a plurality of pulses of individually addressable radiation sources. Additionally, the system includes one or more detector sections configured to receive a transmitted radiation beam.

The invention relates generally to the field of computed tomography (CT) imaging systems, and more particularly to geometries and interconnection configurations for the stationary CT systems in which a single detector or multiple detectors and distributed radiation source elements are fixedly positioned in an imaging system scanner.
Many applications exist for computed tomography imaging systems. Developed over recent decades, such imaging systems provide a powerful tool for imaging internal features of subjects of interest, typically presented as slices and volumes. In general, the systems consist of a source that directs X-ray radiation through the subject of interest onto a detector. As will be appreciated, the source of radiation may be any type of radiation that is able to penetrate the subject of interest. The X-ray source and detector, in traditional systems, are mounted on a rotational gantry and spun at a relatively high rotational rate (e.g., two revolutions per second), although faster and slower speeds are also used. Measurements of the incident X-ray intensity on the detectors are acquired at many locations during rotation and are stored for later analysis and processing. The systems then compute useful reconstructed images by processing the acquired intensity measurements, allowing determination of the location of features of interest within the subject, and reconstruction of useful images.
Typically, current techniques employ an X-ray tube and detector electronics rotating in a large gantry. However, they are limited by the need to rotate the source and detector elements about the subject to obtain a 360-degree scan. Increasing interest exists for CT systems that will not require such rotation, and that may be called "stationary CT systems." As will be appreciated, a stationary CT system may be composed of a large number of X-ray sources, such as field emitters, which need to be properly sequenced and precisely timed. Also, the precise on and off timing is typically in the microsecond range. Consequently, interfaces using properly balanced transmission lines need to be implemented in order to accomplish such narrow sequencing and synchronizing pulses. In addition, a large volume of wires is required to interconnect a system controller to the X-ray source drive circuits and the other functional blocks of the stationary CT system. The performance of these systems is disadvantageously sensitive to the lengths of the interconnecting wires. In addition, single ended, high impedance digital interconnections employed by these systems are highly susceptible to common mode noise.
There is a need, therefore, for a robust, high noise-immunity system wiring interconnection scheme that is less sensitive to interconnection lengths. In particular, there is a significant need for a design that can lighten interconnections between the system components and enhance communication between sub-functions of the system by reducing control wiring and enhancing timing and synchronization. There is a particular need for systems that can generate high-quality images while reducing the mechanical and electrical problems associated with interconnecting and controlling the plurality of X-ray sources in a full arc of the stationary system.

Stationary computed tomography system and method


A vertical angle adjustable quick-attaching coupler for attaching an implement to the three point hitch of a vehicle. The coupler comprises a coupler frame, attachment means for pivotally mounting the coupler to the three point hitch of the vehicle, hook members for attaching the coupler to the implement, and angle adjustment means which includes a lever arm and a hydraulic cylinder for adjusting the vertical angle of the plane defined by the three attachment points of the three point hitch relative to the plane defined by the hook members of the coupler.

This invention relates to quick-attaching couplers for three-point hitches on agricultural tractors and more particularly to quick-attaching couplers which include powered adjustment.
A conventional agricultural tractor has a three-point hitch which is designed to connect an implement to the tractor and permit the tractor to raise and lower the implement. With a typical three-point hitch, an implement is supported at three points by a pair of lower links and a central upper link. The lower links are pivotally raised and lowered by lift arms connected to powered shafts at the rear of the tractor. The lower links control the raising and lowering of the implement between its working and transport positions. The central upper link has a forward end which is pivotally connected to the tractor and a rear end which is adapted to be connected to the implement to stabilize the implement in pitch. The central upper link is usually adjustable in length to permit fore and aft pitch adjustment of the attached implement. The central upper link normally includes a turnbuckle to perform manual adjustment of the link.
The length of the upper link is extremely important in certain operations such as cultivating where the cultivator must penetrate the soil at a specified depth in order for the cultivator to perform properly. An operator normally will attach the implement to the three-point hitch and estimate the proper length of the upper arm to obtain effective operation of the implement. The operator then travels across the field a short distance to observe the operation of the implement. If the length of the upper link is incorrect, the operator must stop the tractor, dismount the tractor, manually adjust the length of the upper link, and remount the tractor. This sequence may be repeated several times in order to obtain the correct length for the upper link. Constant dismounting and mounting of the tractor is extremely inconvenient and burdensome. In addition, the soil conditions may vary during the cultivation of a particular field which will affect the performance of the cultivator. Therefore, the operator also may need to adjust the length of the upper link during the cultivating operation.
Quick-attaching couplers have been known to those skilled in the art to eliminate the time consuming process which is required each time the operator wishes to attach a different implement to the tractor. A conventional three-point hitch requires the operator to dismount the tractor and manually attach the two lower links of the three-point hitch to the lower hitch studs of the implement. The operator must also attach the central upper link of the three-point hitch to upper hitch point of the implement by inserting an upper hitch pin. Finally, the operator must insert locking pins into the lower hitch studs and the upper hitch pin. This procedure can be time-consuming and burdensome whenever the operator is attaching an implement.
A quick-attaching coupler can be used to quickly attach implements to the tractor without manual attachment of the lower and upper links of the three-point hitch to the implement. The quick-attaching coupler is essentially a frame which has three hooks extending rearwardly and which is premounted and carried on the outer end of the three-point hitch. The coupler is attached to the three-point hitch in the same manner as an implement would be attached to the three-point hitch. The tractor with the quick-attaching coupler is then connected to the implement. The operator lowers the three-point hitch and positions the hooks on the coupler below the lower hitch studs and the upper hitch pin on the implement. The operator then raises the three-point hitch whereby the hooks on the coupler engage the implement hitching points. Occasionally, the operator must dismount the tractor in order to manually adjust the length of the upper link so that the coupler will engage the upper hitch point.
In order to reduce operator effort and permit adjustment of the hitch during various operations, there have been suggestions to provide a power operated device to adjust the length of the upper link. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,561,789 discloses an adjustable length upper link which may be in the form of a hydraulic cylinder or an electric motor configuration. The hydraulic cylinder or electric motor configuration is substituted for the conventional upper link which contains a turnbuckle. However, these designs require the operator to remove the upper link and install the hydraulic or electric adjustable length upper link. When the operator wishes to use the conventional upper link, the operator must remove the hydraulic or electric adjustable length upper link and install the conventional upper link.
One object of this invention is to provide a quick-attaching coupler which has angle adjustment.
Another object of this invention is to provide a quick-attaching coupler which enables the operator to adjust the angle of the implement hitch connection during the tillage operation so that the implement performs effectively.
Another object of this invention is to provide a quick-attaching coupler which enables the operator to adjust the angle of the coupler so that attachment and removal of the implement is less difficult and does not require dismounting the tractor.
Another object of this invention is to provide a quick-attaching coupler with angle adjustment which does not require the removal or replacement of the upper link of the three-point hitch.
Another object of this invention is to provide a quick-attaching coupler with angle adjustment which is rugged in construction, economical to manufacture and efficient in operation.
Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and appended claims, and upon reference to the accompanying drawings.

Adjustable quick attaching hitch coupler


An example method described herein includes obtaining a private identifier for a private radio access network (RAN). The private identifier may be used by a user equipment (UE) to access the private RAN. The method may include deploying network functions to one or more devices of a private network platform. The network functions may be associated with one or more radio access technologies (RATs). The method may include configuring the private network platform to host the network functions to provide a private multi-access edge computing (MEC) environment. The private MEC environment may be configured to host one or more MEC applications. The method may include configuring a communication interface between the private RAN and the private MEC environment to enable the UE to access, via the private RAN, the private MEC environment and performing an action associated with the private MEC environment.

In a multi-access edge computing (MEC) environment, computing is enabled by a network architecture that provides computing capabilities, to a user device, via computing platforms at or near an edge of a network (e.g., a wireless communication network, such as a cellular network). Because a MEC environment can provide computing at or near the edge of the network, increased performance may be achieved over network architectures that provide computing from the core of the network, which may be located topologically and/or physically further from the user device than a MEC environment. Such increased performance may be achieved in the MEC environment, over other network architectures, due to less traffic and/or congestion between a user device and the computing platform, less latency (due to the closer proximity), increased flexibility (due to a greater amount of computing platforms), and/or the like.
5G/New Radio (NR) is a next generation global wireless standard. NR provides various enhancements to wireless communications, such as flexible bandwidth allocation, improved spectral efficiency, ultra-reliable low-latency communications (URLLC), beamforming, high-frequency communication (e.g., millimeter wave (mmWave)), and/or the like.

Systems and methods for configuring a private multi-access edge computing environment


A bioreactor having improved gas yield is described, wherein the necessary residence time of the biomass in the digestion tank is reduced. During the fermentation of dry, i.e. non-pumpable biomass, percolating juices, so-called percolate, is generated as a result of the moisture contained in the biomass, which percolate is withdrawn via a drainage system and, if necessary, recirculated from the top onto the biomass to be fermented. It has now been found that the biomass yield is significantly increased—in the region of between 10% and 40%—when the resultant percolate is not immediately withdrawn by way of the drainage system, but is accumulated in the digestion tank up to a specific level. This is achieved by a technical device wherein the digestion tank is liquid-tight, i.e. also the flap for loading and unloading the digestion tank must be liquid-tight and also be designed in a correspondingly solid manner in order to withstand the resultant liquid pressure. By linking the existing percolate drainage system with a percolate control system it is possible to adjust and control the liquid level of the percolate in the fermenting biomass in such a way that the biogas generation rate or the biogas yield is maximized.

The term "biomass having a high solids fraction" is to be understood as meaning the opposite of liquid, pumpable biomass, such as is used in wet fermentation processes. "Biomass having a high solids fraction" is therefore to be understood as non-pumpable biomass.
A bioreactor is known from patent document EP 1 301 583 B1, the entire disclosed content of which is referred to herein in order to avoid unnecessary repetition and the disclosed content of which is expressly incorporated into the present application.
This well-known bioreactor comprises a digestion tank in the like of a prefabricated garage, which is sealed in a gas-tight manner by means of a flap. The loading with unfermented biomass and the unloading of the fermented residual biomass can take place by means of a wheel loader. Because the biomass settles during the fermentation process, the biomass presses against the flap. The flap must therefore be built in a correspondingly solid manner and must otherwise also close in a precise manner in order to sufficiently seal off the digestion tank. Such a flap that is solidly built and, at the same time, capable of moving with precision is expensive. In addition, there is a risk of the flap no longer sealing and closing with precision in the case of high loading with biomass. In order to solve this problem, patent document DE 202005014176.3 proposes a retaining system behind the flap, which prevents the settling biomass from pressing against the flap.
In patent document DE 102 57 849 A1, there is described a garage fermenter, wherein the biomass is aerated with biogas from the bottom through a screen base. This screen base accordingly also acts as draining system for the percolate, which, as in our case, is also circulated by means of a pump. A control of the fill level is, however, not mentioned.
Patent document DE 101 29 718 A1 describes a vertical fermenter for methanizing domestic biowaste using continuous charging and withdrawal through separate openings by means of a screw conveyor. The percolate is separated off using a screen base and circulated by means of a pump, but with the fill level of the percolate not being controlled.
Patent document DE 44 44 462 A1 also relates to a vertical fermenter, wherein the biomass is filled in at the top in a discontinuous and gas-tight manner, sinks down during the fermentation and is withdrawn at that location in a discontinuous and gas-tight manner. A controlled seepage water recirculation is used in order to transport the organic acids formed at the top to the lower region of the reactor, where the fermentation takes place. The solid fraction of the biogenic material is stated to be 30% to 55%.
In patent document DE 201 21 701 U1, there is described a two-step system comprising two reactors. In the first reactor, in a wet process the biomass is held swimming in a processing liquid containing anaerobic bacteria and thereby transported from one feed opening to a withdrawal opening. The processing liquid is sprinkled onto the biomass by way of recirculation. The processing liquid is transferred into a second reactor and fermented therein. However, biogas is generated in both reactors. As an alternative to the wet process, it is also possible to process biomass having a high solids fraction in the first reactor. In this case, biogas is mainly generated in the second reactor. A control of the fill level for the processing liquid is not mentioned.
Patent document EP 0 803 568 A1 describes a biogas plant for fermenting biomass having a solids fraction of approximately 25% dry matter. The plant comprises a plurality of reactors which are connected among each other in such a way that material withdrawn from the reactors can be supplied in a targeted manner to other reactors in order to attain an individual and optimal process control in each reactor.
Patent document DE 37 19 564 A1 discloses a bioreactor according to the preamble of claim 1.
Although the gas yield from the biomass and the necessary residence time of the biomass is sufficient in many cases, a higher gas yield and/or a reduced residence time of the biomass in the digestion tank would be desirable.

Bioreactor for methanization of biomass having a high solids fraction

Bekon Energy Technologies GmbH & Co., KG


Light emitter packages and devices having improved wire bonding and related methods are disclosed. In one embodiment a light emitter package can include at least one light emitting diode (LED) chip electrically connected to an electrical element via a wire bond. The wire bond can be provided at improved wire bonding parameters such as a temperature of approximately 150° C. or less, a bonding time of approximately 100 ms or less, a power of approximately 1700 mW or less, and a force of approximately 100 grams force (gf) or less, or combinations thereof.

Light emitting devices, such as light emitting diodes (LEDs or LED chips), are currently used in many different general lighting applications and systems, for example, in products targeting replacement of incandescent, fluorescent, and metal halide high-intensity discharge (HID) products. Thermal management and heat dissipation within LED packages is one area of concern to LED chip and/or LED package manufacturers, as poor thermal management can degrade the performance of LED chips and result in poor reliability of LED packages or LED products. Currently, one or more LED chips can be mounted or die attached to underlying substrates or within packages using an epoxy die attach material. The attached LED chip can then be wire bonded to electrically connect the chip to an electrical element. Wire bonding within conventional packages using conventional methods typically requires heating the LED chip and underlying substrate to an elevated temperature above 150° C. Such elevated temperatures can thermally stress the LED chip and/or create high thermal resistance at the LED chip/substrate junction when epoxy is used, each of which can adversely affect LED chip performance. In one aspect, brightness and forward voltage (Vf) are adversely affected, both of which do not recover. Conventional packages and methods which provide for high temperature, non-improved wire bonding can result in a high thermal resistance of approximately 220° C./W or more. Thus, minimizing thermal resistance within LED chips and/or LED packages is both needed and desired for establishing a good bond between the LED chip and underlying substrate and to obtain desired optical performance from the LED chip and/or LED package.
Accordingly, a need remains for light emitter packages and devices having improved wire bonding and related methods, for example, by providing an improved wire bond via controlling various wire bonding parameters. Packages, devices, and methods having improved wire bonds can improve the integrity of the bond between the chip and underlying substrate and thus significantly improve the thermal resistance at the LED chip/substrate interface.