Automated comparison of tool recipes is described. A target recipe is digitally translated from a tool language to a standard language format to produce a translated recipe. The translated recipe is digitally compared to a source recipe that is also in the standard language format.

Semiconductor manufacturing often uses automated control of fabrication facilities (fabs) having multiple tools that perform different stages of the semiconductor manufacturing process. These tools may include deposition tools, etch tools, chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) tools, inspection tools and metrology tools. The sequence and types of processes performed by each tool is often determined by instructions from a fab automation (FA) controller that is coupled to all of the tools. Commands from the FA determine which process a given tool will perform on a wafer or batch of wafers and the overall sequence of processes performed on a wafer by different tools. Each tool typically executes a process in response to instructions from a computerized controller or agent that is either part of the tool or remotely located and coupled to the tool. The instructions for a given processes is sometimes referred to as a recipe. The recipe is typically characterized by a number of parameters that characterize the process. Where there are a large number of recipes, a fab may include a recipe database manager (RDM) server to store and keep track of these recipes and to allow the user to generate new recipes, e.g., from libraries.
A typical tool allows a user to change the parameters of a recipe manually or to optimize certain parameters automatically during operation. Although this provides flexibility of operation it can also lead to problems. The number of different combinations of parameters for a given recipe can be very large. However, only certain combinations of parameters may be suitable for a given desired process. If certain parameters of a recipe are changed to values outside of an acceptable range, the recipe may not run properly. Unfortunately, on many tools the recipe runs automatically once the recipe is set up and the tool receives a command to run the recipe. The user cannot tell if the recipe was valid until after the recipe runs. Running an incorrect recipe can lead to ruined wafers, reduced yield and lost production time.
It is often difficult to validate a recipe before it is run without access to the parameters. Most recipes are computer coded in a language that can be read by the tool on which it is to be run. Some tool manufacturers can provide a recipe in a text format but manual validation of such recipes is time consuming.
Thus, there is a need in the art, for a method for automatically validating recipes for semiconductor processing tools and an apparatus for implementing such a method.


Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on computer storage media for carpool dual-pricing in ridesharing are provided. An exemplary method comprises: obtaining a machine-learning model trained to generate a probability for a carpool request from a rider to convert to a trip based at least on a pair of price adjustment multipliers applied to the carpool request; determining one or more Key Performance Indicator (KPI) models based on the machine-learning model; constructing an optimization model based on the KPI models, the optimization model comprising a plurality of pairs of price adjustment multipliers as decision variables; and determining optimal values of the plurality of pairs of price adjustment multipliers for the plurality of pricing units by solving the optimization model based on a plurality of historical carpool requests.

A ridesharing platform matches drivers of personal cars or taxis with riders to provide on-demand transportation services. When a rider opens the mobile app (or website) associated with the platform and fills information like origin, destination, and departure time (if not departing immediately), the app may show several trip options (e.g., a solo trip or carpool) between the specified origin and destination for the rider to choose. Additionally, price and other information (e.g., estimated travel time and arrival time) may be shown. If a rider chooses one of the options, the platform may try to match the rider's choice with nearby drivers and send the request to the matched driver. If the matched driver accepts the request, the driver may then pick up the rider, take the rider to the destination and drop off the rider.
One of the essential components of a ridesharing platform is pricing. Currently, for both solo trips and carpool trips, the ridesharing platform determines prices as "upfront" prices, which factor in estimated travel time and distance, supply/demand balance (e.g., as surge multipliers) and various surcharges and fees. Because carpools save the cost of paying drivers for moving the same amount of demands/riders, the ridesharing platform usually applies upfront discounts to carpool trips as incentives for the riders to select carpool services. However, the "upfront" pricing strategies become inefficient when a carpool trip fails to get matched, in which case the anticipated savings to the ridesharing platform are not realized and thus the applied discount becomes unnecessary. As a result, a more intelligent pricing method for carpools in ridesharing is proposed.

Method and system for spatial-temporal carpool dual-pricing in ridesharing

Beijing DiDi Infinity Technology and Development Co., Ltd.


This invention is an oligomer-based analog neural network (ANN) comprising weight and saturation oligomers, the concentrations of which are selected such that activation of the ANN by a set of input oligomers generates a set of output oligomers, the sequences and relative concentrations of which are dependent on the sequences and relative concentrations of the input oligomers. The invention further includes methods for using such an ANN for solving any problems amenable to solution by a trained neural network. A preferred embodiment of the claimed invention is a DNA-based ANN that accepts cDNA molecules as inputs and analyzes the gene expression profile of the cells from which the cDNA is derived. The DNA-based ANN is typically trained with a computer to identify the weights giving accurate mapping of the inputs to the outputs; and the concentrations of weight oligomers of the DNA-based ANN are then selected accordingly.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to analog neural networks and DNA.
2. Description of Related Art
An analog neural network (ANN) is a parallel, distributed, information-processing system that responds to input information. An ANN can be "trained" by exposure to training data so that it is able to detect or recognize a pattern in input data. An ANN consists of many processing units that send signals to other processing units in the network. The signals that a particular processing unit receives are weighted to determine the signal that the unit then sends to other processing units to which it is connected. In most neural network models, a saturating function is applied to signal sent by one processing unit to another so that outputs of the unit have a value between zero and one. Processing units that operate in this manner are known as "perceptrons."
Neural networks model tasks such as pattern classification, clustering of data, non-linear input/output mapping, associative memory storage, vision and speech preprocessing, and the solution of combinatorial optimization problems.
The parallel operations and interactions of the processing units of a neural network may give rise to collective properties that include production of a content-addressable or an associative memory.
Single-layer perceptrons (SLPs) and multi-layer perceptrons (MLPs) are "feedforward" neural network models that include one or more layers of processing units, i.e., perceptrons. These models propagate the input signal through the network one layer at a time. An SLP consists of a single perceptron layer, and can classify an input vector into one of two classes. An MLP consists of an "input layer" of sensory units, one or more "hidden layers" of perceptrons, and one "output layer" of processing units. In an MLP, every unit in a layer is connected to every unit in the layer "below." An MLP maps a set of variables in an input vector from a multidimensional input space onto a multidimensional output space of a set of output variables. The structure of the network and the values of the weights determine the result of the input/output mapping. The values of the weights that enable the network to accomplish the mapping are chosen through a training process that identifies those weights that best approximate the desired mapping for every pairing of input data and output data in the training set. The neural network adapts to its function according to the training information presented during training.
Feed-forward MLPs trained by back-propagation of errors are used successfully for non-linear signal processing and speech recognition.
In medicine, such MLPs use medical data relating to diseases to assist in diagnosis and prognosis. In analyzing data related to myocardial infarction, tumor classification, and thyroid function, for example, diagnoses based on analysis of data by a neural network have been more accurate than those based on analyses carried out by other paradigms. ANNs have also been trained to prognostically predict the future re-occurrence of breast cancer in patients, and to analyze the risk of developing diabetes mellitus.
Neural network algorithms have been successfully applied to analyze relationships between structural or physicochemical properties of molecules and their biological or biochemical activities.
ANNs have also been trained to identify sets of genetic marker loci involved in disease etiology; and to identify nucleotide sequences that encode a protein structural motif.
Microarray and cDNA grid hybridization techniques have been developed that simultaneously detect and quantitate the expression of many different genes in a sample of cells in a single experiment. This procedure has come to be referred to as "gene profiling" or "expression profiling." A number of different and effective methods for gene expression profiling have been developed. These methods typically involve isolating cellular RNA, and preparing a set of cDNA or amplified RNA molecules that represent the mRNA molecules present in the cells of interest, labeling these with a detectable label such as a fluorochrome or a radioisotope, hybridizing the labeled polynucleotides to a DNA or oligonucleotide microarray or grid, and identifying sites in the microarray or grid at which the labeled polynucleotides hybridized.
Neural network training algorithms have also been used to organize and analyze gene expression data for hundreds of different genes that have been collected in gene expression profiling experiments.
The above-discussed ANNs are implemented using computers and software that carry out the mathematical functions underlying the operation of the ANNs.


The control device detects a failed node in which a failure has occurred from a plurality of computation nodes included in a plurality of computation units included in the parallel computer. The control device chooses execution nodes for executing the program from the computation nodes of the parallel computer except the detected failed nodes based on the number of computation nodes needed to execute the program. The control device selects a paths to connect the computation nodes from a plurality of links each connecting two computation units adjacent to each other through a plurality of paths configured to connect computation nodes included in two computation units adjacent to each other in a one-to-one manner included in the links connecting two computation units adjacent to each other in the plurality of computation units including the choosed execution nodes except the path connected to the detected failed node.

In the related art, there is a known technology for performing a simulation based on a numerical value computation by a parallel computer which has plural computation nodes. As an example of this technology, a parallel computer system is known which divides a computation space as a simulation object into multiple areas and executes a simulation for each of the divided areas with a different computation node.
The parallel computer system divides the computation space into the plural areas and regularly maps the divided areas to the plural computation nodes, respectively. That is, the parallel computer system maps each of the divided areas to the computation node having the same position relation as the position relation of each area. The parallel computer system causes the respective nodes to execute the simulations for the corresponding areas mapped to the respective nodes, thereby executing the simulation for the entire computation space.
In this case, when each computation node executes the simulation using a difference method, each computation node performs frequent communication with the computation nodes adjacent to itself. When executing a simulation where a correlation between the areas becomes stronger as the distance between the areas decreases, the communication amount increases when the distance between the communicating computation nodes decreases. For this reason, the parallel computer system efficiently executes the simulation using the plural computation nodes connected through a direct interconnection network based on the topology of multi-dimensional orthogonal coordinates.
FIG. 41 is a diagram for describing a network of computation nodes that are connected by a direct interconnection network based on meshed topology. In an example illustrated in FIG. 41, the computation nodes that are adjacent to each other among the plural computation nodes illustrated by circles are connected directly through a link. Since the computation nodes connected in the above-described way can perform communication with the adjacent computation nodes at a high speed, the simulation can be efficiently executed in the case of the execution of the simulation using the difference method or in the case where the areas adjacent to each other are correlated.
FIG. 42 is a diagram illustrating a network of computation nodes that are connected by a direct interconnection network based on torus (annular or toroidal) topology. In an example illustrated in FIG. 42, the computation nodes that are adjacent to each other among the plural computation nodes illustrated by circles are connected directly through a link, and the computation nodes that are positioned at both ends of the network are connected directly by the link. Since the computation nodes connected in the above-described way can perform communication at a higher speed than the computation nodes connected by the direct interconnection network based on the meshed topology even between the computation nodes of both ends, the simulation can be efficiently executed even in the case where a correction exists between both ends of the computation space, like the simulation using periodic boundary conditions. For each computation node, since a communication path between the computation nodes increases, the bisection bandwidth increases. As a result, the traffic between the computation nodes decreases.
However, according to the above technology for connecting the computation nodes by the direct interconnection network based on the topology of the multi-dimensional orthogonal coordinates, when the failed computation nodes are mixed on the network, each area is not mapped to the appropriate computation node.
That is, since the parallel computer system regularly maps each area divided by a program to each computation node, each area is not mapped to the computation node having the same position relation as the position relation of each area when the failed computation nodes are mixed on the network. In this case, each computation node does not efficiently perform communication with the computation nodes to which the areas adjacent to the area mapped to itself are mapped. As a result, since communication efficiency between the computation nodes may be deteriorated, the entire performance of the parallel computer system is deteriorated.
In addition, it is difficult to divide the torus network and to obtain the plural torus networks. For this reason, when the parallel computer system having the torus network executes a multi-job operation, it is difficult to execute each job using the torus network.
A technology that is discussed in the embodiments has been made in view of the above problems and maps each area to the computation node having an appropriate position relation.

Parallel computer system, control device, and controlling method


The present invention provides a motor including a combustion chamber, an oxidizer injector, a vortex generators and a nozzle. The combustion chamber can be used to dispose a solid fuel, and the oxidizer injector is used to control the flow rate of an oxidizer and to inject the oxidizer into the combustion chamber. The vortex generators is disposed on the inner wall of the combustion chamber for generating eddies to enhance the mixing of the fuel and the oxidizer. Additionally, the nozzle is connected with the combustion chamber for exhausting the gas generated by the combustion of the propellants.

The basic structure of the rocket motor includes the combustion chamber and the nozzle. Wherein, fuel can be mixed in the combustion chamber and be combusted to generate high pressure and high temperature gas, and this gas will be ejected from nozzle to generate reacting force to propel the rocket.
Furthermore, the prior rocket motor includes solid rocket motor, liquid rocket motor, gas rocket motor and hybrid rocket motor, etc.
For liquid rocket motor, in addition to the above mentioned combustion chamber and nozzle, it further includes propellant supply system, wherein the propellant supply system is used to transport the liquid propellant stored in the storage device (it usually includes liquid oxidizer and fuel) to combustion chamber for mixing and combustion. The liquid rocket motor has advantages such as high specific impulse, long working time and easy adjustment of propelling force. However, it also has disadvantages such as complicated system, high risk in malfunction rate, not easy of long term storage of liquid propellants and of bulky volume, etc.
The propellant of the solid rocket motor is either double based propellant or composite propellant with premixed solid fuel and oxidizer, which is installed directly in the combustion chamber. As compared to liquid rocket motor, solid rocket motor has advantages such as simple system, easy operation, longer term storage and smaller volume, however, it also has disadvantages such as lower specific impulse, relatively shorter combustion time, high difficulty in the adjustment of the propelling force, require strict operational safety procedures to prevent accidental ignition or explosion, etc.
Therefore, the hybrid rocket motor with simultaneous use of solid fuel and liquid oxidizer is thus developed. In hybrid type rocket motor, liquid oxidizer is injected into combustion chamber loaded with solid fuel to be mixed with the vaporized substance of the fuel and then ignited for combustion, the generated high temperature and high pressure combusted gas will then be ejected through the nozzle to generate the propelling force needed for the flight. Since the hybrid rocket motor is a combination of the characteristics of solid rocket motor and liquid rocket motor, it thus has advantages such as: low cost, simplicity, safety and low impact to the environment as compared to conventional solid rockets, etc.
However, since in hybrid rocket motor, liquid oxidizer follows the surface of solid fuel to be mixed with solid fuel that is heated and decomposed and to supply the continuous growth of the combustion flame, hence, such slow mixing mechanism leads to a very long combustion chamber design of conventional hybrid rocket motor.

Motor with solid fuel installed within combustion chamber and vortex generator installed on inner wall of combustion chamber


A latch mechanism for a door or the like includes first and second rotatable latch operating members which operate a latching bolt or the like. An axially movable square section spindle extends through complementary holes in both members. In an engaged position, the spindle operates both members when rotated. In a disengaged position, a circular section portion of the spindle registers with a hole in one of the members. In the disengaged position the bolt can be operated by the first member even though the second member may be prevented from rotating by means of pins. The spindle can be moved between engaged and disengaged positions by a push-rod extending out of the door. Thus, when the second member is locked it may be overriden by actuation of the rod and the first member.

This invention relates to operating means for a latch, for example, a door latch.
A door latch set as conventionally used comprises an insert fitted into the free edge of the door between its front and back surfaces having a bolt which in its extended position protrudes beyond the edge of the door into a recess in the door frame and in its retracted position is wholly within the door to allow the door to be opened. The bolt is conventionally moved between its retracted and extended positions by rotation of an element of the latch set by rotation of a square section spindle extending through the door. Rotation of the spindle is usually effected by action of a door handle or knob on the spindle. The bolt will usually be biased to its extended position.
The bolt may be lockable in the extended or retracted position by a mechanism which prevents rotation of the handle or knob.
In addition to the type of latch set which uses a rotating handle or knob there is a further type of latch operating means which uses a linear rather than rotary action to move the latch bolt between its retracted and extended positions. Several latch operating means utilising a linear movement towards or away from the door to retract or extend the latch bolt appear in Swedish Patent No. 348700, UK Patent No. 2070128 and UK Patent Applications Nos. 8602700, 8602701 and 8602702.
The present invention is concerned with improvements to latch operating sets comprising first and second latch operating means to be located respectively on opposite sides of a door or the like, each latch operating means being connected through a latch operating member to a latch operating spindle such that operation of the latch operating means causes rotation of the appropriate latch operating member and thereby of the spindle. The spindle may be of the square type such as is defined in British Standard BS No. 5872 (1980) for latching sets, or indeed of any other section of varying radius to provide the necessary camming action. This type of latch operating set will be referred to in this specification as a latch set "of the type specified".


A drive system for a cryogenic pump is provided including a spool housing having a plurality of valves disposed therein about a pump axis and a tappet housing including a plurality of tappet bores, each tappet bore in communication with a respective one of the plurality of valves. A collection cavity collects hydraulic fluid from the tappet bores. A pump flange includes a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. An inlet manifold directs hydraulic fluid received through the fluid inlet to each of the plurality of valves. An outlet manifold directs hydraulic fluid from each of the valves and the collection cavity to the fluid outlet.

Many large mobile machines such as mining trucks, locomotives, marine applications and the like have recently begun using alternative fuels, alone or in conjunction with traditional fuels, to power their engines. For example, large displacement engines may use a gaseous fuel, alone or in combination with a traditional fuel such as diesel, to operate. Because of their relatively low densities, gaseous fuels, for example, natural gas or petroleum gas, are carried onboard vehicles in liquid form. These liquids, the most common including liquefied natural gas (LNG) or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), can be cryogenically stored in insulated tanks on the vehicles, or may alternatively be stored at an elevated pressure, for example, a pressure between 30 and 300 psi in a pressurized vessel. In either case, the stored fuel can be pumped, evaporated, expanded, or otherwise placed in a gaseous form in metered amounts and provided to fuel the engine.
To store and utilize cooled natural gas in compressed or liquefied forms onboard mobile machines, specialized storage tanks and fuel delivery systems may be required. This equipment may include a double-walled cryogenic tank and a pump for delivering the LNG or LPG to the internal combustion engine for combustion. The pumps that are typically used to deliver the LNG to the engine of the machine include pistons, which deliver the LNG to the engine. Such piston pumps, which are sometimes also referred to as cryogenic pumps, will often include a single piston that is reciprocally mounted in a cylinder bore. The piston is moved back and forth in the cylinder to draw in and then compress the gas. Power to move the piston may be provided by different means, the most common being electrical, mechanical or hydraulic power.
One example of a cryogenic pump can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 3,212,280 (the '280 patent), which describes a pumping system for volatile liquids that includes three individual pumping units that are contained within a bell-shaped housing. The individual pumps each include a single piston that may be driven by a mechanical slider crank drive mechanism. The drive mechanism is disposed outside of the tank.

Hydraulic drive system for cryogenic pump


A setting device sets a manipulation device that transmits a wireless signal for controlling an appliance when the manipulation device accepts manipulation from a manipulator. An input unit receives first identification information, second identification information, and registration information. An authentication unit performs an authentication process on the registration information received. An output unit outputs a combination of the first identification information and the second identification information received when the authentication process is successful. The wireless signal transmitted from the manipulation device includes the first identification information, the second identification information, and command information.

When the manipulation unit of a manipulation device is manipulated to control illumination remotely, the manipulation device transmits a wireless signal to the control device connected to the illuminating device. The wireless signal includes transmission source information, transmission destination information, and command information. When the control device receives the wireless signal, the control device controls the state of the illuminating device in accordance with the command information (see, for example, patent document 1).
[Patent Literature 1] JP2016-134792

Setting device, control device, and recording medium used with manipulation device for controlling appliance

Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd.


A device for detecting the removal of a product from a packing system by an electronic unit. The products are arranged in individual bags which are sealed by a sealing film that can be perforated so as to remove a product from a bag. The device has a combination of layers including at least one supporting plate and a coating layer which is applied thereto. The combination of layers is connected to the packing system in such a way that the coating layer faces the sealing film. The coating layer is provided with individual strip conductors, each of which runs across an area that is assigned to a bag and is electrically interrupted when a product is removed from the respective bag. The supporting plate includes openings, each of which is assigned to a bag. A product which is removed from a bag is guided through the respective opening.

1. Field of the Invention
This is a nationalization of PCT/DE03/00180 filed Jan. 23, 2003 and published in German.
The current invention concerns a device for recording the removal of a product from a packaging arrangement by means of an electronic device where the products are arranged in individual packets sealed off by a sealing foil that is perforable for removal of a product.
2. Description of the Related Art
Blister packet arrangements are known in which are arranged, on the surface of the sealing foil, conductive tracks, which run over the pocket zones of the blister packet arrangement and which are interrupted upon removal of a medication from a pocket. The blister packet arrangement is connectable to an electronic unit, which detects such interruptions for recording the removal of the medication and stores them to memory.
One problem consists therein that the blister packets must be imprinted with conductive tracks during their production, thus requiring elaborate and costly processing steps and production systems. For this reason, such blister packet arrangements are not particularly well suited for implementing pilot projects, in which blister packets are produced in only relatively small numbers of units for limited use.

Device for detecting the removal of a product from a packing system by an electronic unit


Disclosed is a delivered article loading apparatus, which is mounted to a lifting wire installed at the drone to be capable of lifting. The delivered article loading apparatus includes a lifting body installed at a lower end of the lifting wire; and a disposable hanging body coupled to be selectively connected to or separated from the lifting body and having a hooking unit at a lower portion thereof, wherein the lifting body and the disposable hanging body are automatically separated by a mechanical or electromagnetic interaction therebetween.

A drone is an unmanned aerial vehicle allowing remote control and automatic flight and basically obtains a lifting force and a propulsive force by rotating at least one rotor. Generally, the drone is classified into a quadcopter having four rotors, a hexacopter having six rotors, an octacopter having eight rotors and the like, and is collectively referred to as a multi-copter.
The drone includes a main body, a plurality of support arms extending radially from the main body, and rotors mounted to an end of the support arms. The drone is applied to various industrial fields by attaching various additional devices such as photographing equipment, control equipment, emergency equipment and loading equipment to a lower portion of the main body.
The drone is expected to be widely used for delivery service to deliver the goods to a destination.
Generally, a delivery drone includes a predetermined gripper attached to the lower portion of the main body or a wire lifting device having a hanging tool of a hook type hanging at a lower end of the main body in order to support a loading and unloading operation of a delivered article.
However, the conventional delivery drone using the wire lifting device is inconvenient because a delivery article should be separated from the hanging tool of the wire manually by a person when the delivered article is unloaded.
In addition, in the conventional delivery drone, a wire may be shaken by the wind of the rotors the delivered article is loaded or unloaded, which may disturb the loading and unloading work and cause an accident. Thus, effective measures to solve these problems are demanded. The problem that the wire is shaken due to the wind of the rotors is particularly severe in the vicinity of the drone.

Home-delivered article loading device for drone


An image forming apparatus includes a latent image forming unit that forms a latent image on an image bearing member, a developing unit that develops the latent image to obtain a developer image, and a transfer unit that transfers the developer image to a recording medium. A first supply unit supplies a voltage to a charging unit and the transfer unit, with the first supply unit including a transformer, and a second supply unit supplies a voltage to the transfer unit, with the second supply unit including a transformer and supplying a voltage supplied opposite in polarity to the voltage supplied from the first supply unit. In addition, a detection unit detects current flowing through the transfer unit, and a control unit is configured to control power supply. When a power is supplied from the first supply unit to the charging unit, the control unit sets a discharge start voltage in which discharging starts between the image bearing member and the charging unit is based on a current detected by the detection unit, and when power is supplied from the second supply unit to the transfer unit, the control unit sets one or more adjusted voltages by calculating one or more voltages to be supplied from the transfer unit so that a current detected by the detection unit is to be a predetermined value. The first supply unit supplies a voltage to the charging unit based on the discharge start voltage and the adjusted voltage set by the control unit.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an electrophotographic image forming apparatus including an electrophotographic copy machine, an electrophotographic printer (for example, LED printer or laser beam printer), and an electrophotographic facsimile apparatus.
2. Description of the Related Art
FIG. 10A illustrates a schematic structure illustrating a charge bias circuit of a conventional image forming apparatus. A charge DC bias circuit part (hereinafter, referred to as charge bias application circuit unit) 1201 includes a voltage set circuit part (unit) 1202, a transformer drive circuit part 1203, a high-voltage transformer part (unit) 1204, and a feedback circuit part (unit) 1205. The voltage set circuit part (unit) 1202 may change a voltage value set based on an input PWM signal. The transformer drive circuit part (unit) 1203 drives the high-voltage transformer part (unit) 1204. The feedback circuit part (unit) 1205 uses a resistor R1201 to detect a voltage value applied to a charge roller 1206 (load) which is a charging member, and transfers the detected voltage value as an analog value to the voltage set circuit part (unit) 1202. The voltage set circuit part (unit) 1202 controls to apply a constant voltage (voltage indicated by PWM signal) to the charge roller 1206 which is the charging member based on a value of the PWM signal and a feedback value. When an applied voltage is controlled using such a structure, a constant voltage value may be applied to the charge roller 1206 (see, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H06-003932).
However, a voltage for starting discharge between the charging member (charge roller) and an image bearing member changes depending on a circumstance temperature and humidity in the image forming apparatus or a film thickness of a photosensitive drum (hereinafter, simply referred to as drum film thickness). Therefore, as illustrated in FIG. 10B, even when control is performed to apply a predetermined voltage (controlled PWM value), a variation in potential on the photosensitive drum is caused by temperature-humidity (such as low temperature and low humidity (L/L) or high temperature and high humidity (H/H)). The variation causes a change in image density. In order to correct the change in image density, it is necessary to provide a density detection sensor for detecting an image density and a temperature-humidity sensor for detecting a temperature and a humidity in the image forming apparatus, and control the image density based on a result obtained by detection by the density detection sensor. When the density detection sensor and the temperature-humidity sensor are provided in the image forming apparatus, an apparatus cost may increase. When the density detection sensor and the temperature-humidity sensor are not provided, it is difficult to adequately correct the change in image density.

Image forming apparatus with power supply control


A blower assembly for advancing the flow of air in an air flow device at a selected one of a plurality of air flow rates. The blower assembly includes a blower housing defining a body thereof and a wall of the blower housing moveably secured to the body, a blower wheel rotatably mounted to the blower housing and a motor for rotating the blower wheel at a selected one of a plurality of rotational speeds. The blower assembly further includes a motion device secured to the body and to the wall. The motion device moves the wall relative to the body to a selected one of a plurality of distinct wall positions. The motor rotates the blower wheel at a selected one of a plurality of rotational speeds. A controller calculates an optimum wall position and rotational speed to provide for minimal energy usage rate.

The embodiments described herein relate generally to fluid moving devices, and more specifically, to a blower for moving air and to a pump for moving water.
Blowers consist of a moving element(s), for example a blade(s) that moves within a confined space, for example a furnace or within an air duct. The size, attitude and shape of the blade(s), as well as, the size and shape of the confined space effects the volume of air that a blower provides. The size, attitude and shape of the blade(s), as well as, the size and shape of the confined space also effects the efficiency of the blower.
For a single speed blower motor the efficiency of the blower may be optimized by providing an optimized fixed position of the blades on the wheel and an optimized fixed size and shape of the confined space. For multiple speed motors, for example for modern electronically commutated motors (ECM), a single configuration of blades or of the confined shape will not be optimum of all of the available speeds and air flows that the blower with the multiple speed motor may provide.
Other fluid moving devices move a liquid, for example water. Such liquid moving devices include pool and spa pumps that include rotating members in the form of impellers that moves within a confined space, for example within the housing of the pump. The size, attitude and shape of the impeller(s), as well as, the size and shape of the confined space of the pump housing effects the volume of water that a pump provides. The size, attitude and shape of the impeller(s), as well as, the size and shape of the confined space also effects the efficiency of the pump.
Fluid moving devices, including for example air moving devices, such as blowers, and liquid moving devices, such as pumps, typically provide fluid flow. Fluid flow is volumetric and includes fluctuations due to density, velocity and pressure.
For a single speed pump motor, the efficiency of the pump may be optimized by providing an optimized fixed position of the impellers on the pump and an optimized fixed size and shape of the pump housing. For multiple speed motors, for example for modern electronically commutated motors (ECM), a single configuration of pump impellers or of the pump housing will not be optimum of all of the available speeds and fluid flows that the pump with the multiple speed motor may provide.
The present invention is directed to alleviate at least some of these problems with the prior art.


A circuit includes a first circuit portion operable as a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) for generating a DAC common mode voltage signal (outp), a second circuit portion having a comparator for comparing the DAC common mode voltage (outp) against a received signal common mode voltage (vsumdc), the comparator providing a single bit output, and a single bit register configured to receive the single bit output of the comparator, the single bit output used to control a feedback circuit, the feedback circuit configured to control the DAC common mode voltage signal.

A modern application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) must meet very stringent design and performance specifications. One example of an ASIC is a circuit element referred to as a serializer/deserializer (SERDES). As its name implies, a SERDES converts a parallel bit stream to a high speed serial bit stream, transmits it across a channel, then the serial bit stream is converted back to a parallel bit stream. A typical SERDES is organized into blocks of transmitters and receivers having digital to analog conversion (DAC) functionality and analog to digital conversion (ADC) functionality. Normally, the receivers and transmitters operate on differential signals. Differential signals are those that are represented by two complementary signals on different conductors, with the term "differential" representing the difference between the two complementary signals. All differential signals also have what is referred to as a "common mode," which represents the average of the two differential signals.
In a SERDES receiver, it is desirable to observe one or more voltages within the receiver architecture. One of the voltages sought to be observed is the receiver's common mode voltage. Unfortunately, observing voltages inside of a SERDES receiver is difficult because of the limited availability of pins through which to observe the desired signals.
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an existing digital to analog converter (DAC) that may be part of a SERDES receiver, configured to perform common mode tracking on a differential input signal. The DAC 1 comprises a first DAC 2 and a second DAC 4. For example purposes only, the first DAC 2 receives digital input signals on connection 6. The digital input signal on connection 6 typically comprises a multi-bit wide (parallel) stream and can be referred to as the positive (p) or true (T), component of a differential input signal. The second DAC 4 receives digital input signals on connection 7. The digital input signal on connection 7 typically comprises a multi-bit wide (parallel) stream and can be referred to as the negative (n) or complement (C) component of a differential input signal. During normal operation, the differential signals are always complementary so that together they output a differential signal, centered around the common mode that the rest of the circuit tracks. The output of the DAC 2 on connection 11 is a single value analog version of the digital input signal on connection 6, and the output of the DAC 4 on connection 12 is a single value analog version of the digital input signal on connection 7.
The signal on connection 11 is provided to a resistor 8 and the signal on connection 12 is provided to a resistor 9. The resistors 8 and 9 respectively illustrate the output impedance of the DAC 2 and the DAC 4. A supply voltage Vcc is provided to resistor 14 to generate the positive output signal "outp" on connection 17. The supply voltage Vcc is provided to resistor 16 to generate the negative output signal "outn" on connection 18. The output signal, outp, on connection 17 is generated by a current 19 flowing through a current source 23 and the output signal, outn, on connection 18 is generated by a current flowing in connection 21 through a current source 24.
A common mode DAC output signal referred to as "Vcm_out" is provided to an operational amplifier 30 on connection 35. A SERDES receiver's filtered common mode signal, referred to as "vsumdc" is provided to the operational amplifier 30 on connection 41. The common mode DAC output signal Vcm_out is generated by taking the outp signal on connection 17 and the outn signal on connection 18 and combining them through respective resistors 32 and 34 to generate the common mode DAC output signal connection 35. Similarly, the receiver's common mode signal, vsumdc, on connection 41 is generated by taking the differential receiver inputs vsum1 (or RXin1) and vsum2 (or RXin2) on connections 36 and 37, and processing them through respective resistors 38 and 39, to develop the receiver's filtered common mode signal on connection 41. The output of the operational amplifier 30 is controlled by the difference between Vcm_out and vsumdc, and tends to drive the nodes outp 17 and outn 18 toward the value of vsumdc. The resistors 8 and 9, the resistors 14 and 16, and the current sources 19 and 21 allow the outp and outn signals to have an adjustable common mode, that can track the vsum1, vsum2 common mode, vsumdc. The resistor network also allows the DAC output to be attenuated, so that it has a range that is closer to the range expected at vsum1 and vsum2
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the DAC of FIG. 1 in additional detail. Elements in FIG. 2 that are identical to corresponding elements in FIG. 1 are identically numbered. The DAC 51 illustrates the operational amplifier 30 of FIG. 1 in additional detail. The operational amplifier 30 comprises a first stage having transistors 52 and 54, a second stage having transistors 61, 62, 66 and 67, and current sources 58 and 59 arranged in what is referred to as a folded cascode architecture.
The Vcm_out signal on connection 35 is provided to the gate of transistor 52 and the vsumdc signal on connection 41 is provided to the gate of transistor 54. When conducting, the transistors 52 and 54 steer a current generated by the current source 55. The drain 56 of the transistor 52 is coupled to the source of transistor 61. The drain 57 of the transistor 54 is coupled to the source of transistor 62. The gates of transistors 61 and 62 are biased by a bias voltage signal Vg on connection 64. The transistor 66 is configured as a diode. Depending on the values of Vcm_out and vsumdc, current flows through the current sources 58 and 59, creating the above-mentioned output on connection 31. The output of the operational amplifier 30 on connection 31 is provided to a resistor 69 and a capacitor 72, which form a high impedance dominant pole at node 71. The resistor 69 and capacitor 72 need not necessarily be separate components in the circuit, and are shown to illustrate that the output of the operational amplifier 30 is at a high impedance, and the gates of the transistors 74 and 75 have a large capacitance. Therefore, the high impedance at node 71 acts like a large resistive/capacitive (RC) circuit, which stabilizes the loop.
The current source shown graphically in FIG. 1 using reference numeral 23 is represented by an n-type metal oxide semiconductor (NMOS) transistor 74. The current source shown graphically in FIG. 1 using reference numeral 24 is represented by an NMOS transistor 75. The positive output outp is shown on connection 17, and the negative output outn is shown on connection 18.
Accordingly, the DAC 51 that exists in a SERDES receiver currently has access to the incoming receiver differential signals. Therefore, what is needed is a way of using the information provided by the operational amplifier 30 to measure the DAC common mode voltage.

Digital-to-analog converter (DAC) with common mode tracking and analog-to-digital converter (ADC) functionality to measure DAC common mode voltage

Avago Technologies General IP (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.


This invention is directed to a high strength, lightweight honeycomb core composite sandwich panel. Typical composite sandwich panels comprise a honeycomb panel disposed between upper and lower composite panels. In this invention, a shim is disposed between the upper and lower composite panels around a portion of the periphery of the composite sandwich. The shim is disposed over an inner layer of foaming adhesive.

Honeycomb core composite sandwich panels are commonly employed in the aerospace industry as they are extremely light weight yet have high strength. Honeycomb core composite sandwich panels are comprised of upper and lower fiber-reinforced composite laminates separated and stabilized by a core of honeycomb. Due to the high bending stiffness and compressive strength properties (e.g., the honeycomb serves as a shear web and separates the upper and lower composite laminates from the bending neutral axis) the panels are particularly useful for aircraft fuselage and cargo door structures.
Typically, the honeycomb core panels are fabricated in an open-faced mold while vacuum bagged and cured under pressure and temperature in an autoclave. Alternatively, these panels are often fabricated in a matched mold and/or press. In either case the lower laminates, honeycomb core and upper laminates are sequentially stacked in the mold. Film and/or paste adhesives are used between the upper and lower laminates and the honeycomb core. The upper and lower laminates may be uncured preimpregnated composite material, precured composite material or sheet metal skins. When laminated in an open-faced mold, the completed laminate is vacuum bagged and autoclave cured. Laminates in matched molds are cured in a press.
Typically, edge closeout laminates are interleaved between layers of the upper and lower laminates. However, this creates problems because the edge closeout does not receive adequate pressure to achieve a sufficient cure of the preimpregnated material. One solution has been to fill the core periphery with a syntactic filler or foaming adhesive which imparts rigidity to the panel edge. However, this solution adds substantial weight. In addition, the foam or filler creates an imperfect edge which subsequently impacts the quality and strength of closeout laminates since the foam or filler material is not machineable. Finally, if the compaction pressure applied to the panel edge during the cure cycle is not uniform, the edge laminates may become resin rich or resin starved.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,335,174 and 4,076,877 disclose two honeycomb core composite sandwich panel edge configurations. U.S. Pat. No. 4,335,174 discloses a foam adhesive in combination with a tape adhesive that is in conformance with the shape of the honeycomb core. The adhesives are disposed external to the upper and lower sandwich composite panels. U.S. Pat. No. 4,076,877 discloses an end closure for a honeycomb panel which is a two-layer or a laminate plastic ribbon. A first uncured layer is disposed adjacent to the honeycomb. A second precured layer is disposed external to the first layer and external to the composite panels that sandwich the honeycomb panel.
Thus, although there have been a variety of configurations for the edge of honeycomb core composite sandwich panels, there is still a continual search for lightweight, high strength, compaction resistant, composite panel edge configurations.

Closeout configuration for honeycomb core composite sandwich panels


A pocket size data storage apparatus with a tablet device for inputting image data, of the present invention, has a display section of a dot matrix type, and a tablet device made of transparent members and mounted on this display section as one unit. Image data is input from the tablet device and displayed on the display section. Character data input by operating the character keys can be displayed together with the image data. Image data and character data are related to each other as a pair of data and are stored.

This invention relates to a pocket size data storage apparatus with a tablet device for inputting image data, which is capable of storing information such as telephone numbers and schedule data including graphic data, and of displaying the information on a display section, if necessary.
There have been known pocket size data storage apparatuses, by which information such as telephone numbers, schedule data and memo data are separately stored based on each item, and if necessary, desired data is visualized on a display section. A typical example is U.S. Pat. No. 4,117,542. In such electronic notebook apparatuses, a keyboard including alphabet keys and numerical keys is provided. For data entry, such keys are operated.
The conventional electronic notebook apparatus can store only a limited number of characters, but cannot store image data such as maps and drawings.

Pocket size data storage apparatus with tablet device for inputting image data


A shear test device for testing the strength of attachment between a bond and an electronic substrate. The device incorporates a clamping mechanism and a shear test tool that are mounted on a baseplate. During a set-up procedure, the shear test tool is movable relative to the baseplate. During a test procedure, the shear test tool is clamped by the clamping mechanism in a fixed position relative to the baseplate. At least one abutment is provided that is fixed in position relative to the baseplate. During the test procedure, a drive mechanism provides relative movement between the shear test tool and the bond to cause the shear test tool to shear the bond off the substrate. The at least one abutment provides an additional clamping force on the test tool while the test tool is shearing the bond off of the substrate.

Semiconductor devices are very small, typically from 5 mm square to 50 mm square, and typically comprise numerous sites for the bonding of electrical conductors to the semiconductor substrate. Each bond consists of a solder or gold ball deposit adhered to the substrate. It is necessary to test the strength of the attachment between the bond and the substrate, known as the bond strength, in order to be confident that the bonding method is adequate and that the bond strength is sufficient. Because of the very small size of the bonds, tools used to test the bond strength must be both very accurately positioned and able to measure very small forces and deflections.
A known test device, as described in WO2007/093799, has a test tool for engagement with a bond. The test tool is used to shear a bond off a semiconductor substrate and the force required to shear the bond is recorded. A force transducer is incorporated into the test tool in order to measure the force.
In order to ensure repeatability, it is essential for the tip of the test tool to engage the side of the bond at a predetermined height above the surface of the substrate. This distance is small but critical, since the bond is usually dome-shaped. A predetermined spacing from the surface eliminates both sliding friction from the test tool on the substrate, and ensures that the shear load is applied at a precise location in relation to the bond interface. Accordingly, in practice, the test tool is first moved into contact with the substrate surface and then withdrawn by a predetermined distance, typically 0.05 mm or less before the shear test is performed.
Several difficulties arise. Friction and stiction in the mechanism of the device itself may cause difficulties in sensing contact with the substrate surface. Imprecise surface sensing will inevitably affect the distance by which the test tool is withdrawn, and thus the height at which the bond is sheared. The distances involved are very small and so care needs to be taken to sense the exact moment of surface contact, without compression of the substrate. Care must also be taken to prevent uncontrolled movement of the test tool at the test height prior to or during the shear test. Such movement may seriously affect the accuracy of the test results and significant movement of the test tool at the test height may damage an adjacent bond or wire.
The twin objectives of both a low contact force when sensing the surface of the substrate and accurate control of the test height are difficult to resolve.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,078,387 discloses a device for sensing contact of a test head of a test tool with the substrate which is adapted to immediately stop downward drive of the test head when contact is sensed. The test tool is supported on the free end of a pair of cantilever arms which are secured at their opposite ends to a baseplate and deflects to allow some vertical movement of the test head with respect to the baseplate. To prevent vertical movement of the test head during the shear tests, test tool is spring biased by the cantilever arms against the baseplate. The test head can be moved away from the baseplate by an air-bearing to allow the test head to move vertically in a substantially frictionless manner for initial contact sensing. Thus, when the test head first touches the substrate surface, it is pushed back by the substrate surface on the cantilever arms. Movement of the test head relative to the baseplate or movement of the cantilever arm can be detected by an optical detector, and the air-bearing is then switched off to ensure that the test head is fixed relative to the baseplate by the spring bias of the cantilever arms against the baseplate. Once the test head is fixed relative to the baseplate, the baseplate is raised by a predetermined amount so as to leave a clearance between the lower end of the test tool and the substrate of the desired "step off distance".
An alternative system is to have the cantilever arms bias the test tool away from the baseplate to allow for substantially friction-free movement of the test head relative to the base plate during initial positioning, but then to press the test tool into contact with the baseplate using a piston driven by compressed air to create a clamping force on the test tool against the baseplate during a test procedure.
Both of these systems are effective for accurately positioning a test head above a substrate whilst providing a relatively low touchdown force in initial positioning of the test tool above the substrate surface. However, they still suffer from some disadvantages.
A first disadvantage is the relatively high cost of these systems. The air-bearing is a relatively expensive component in the overall cost of a shear testing tool.
A second disadvantage is that during a test procedure much of the load has to be supported by the cantilever arms. This means that for tests at higher loads, larger, and consequently more massive, cantilever arms must be used. This in turn leads to a larger touchdown force when initially positioning the sensor, which can lead to damage to the substrate surface. This has also resulted in different cantilever arm assemblies being used for different load tests, further increasing cost.
A third disadvantage is that in both the air-bearing solution and the compressed air activated piston solution, the test head is moved laterally as the cantilever arms are urged or pressed against the baseplate, so that it can be positioned relative to the substrate but prior to the test being performed. The switching off of the air-bearing or the clamping of the test tool against the baseplate inevitably means some vertical movement will occur in addition to the lateral movement of the test head. This movement can reduce the accuracy of the resulting test, especially given the extremely small step off distance involved.
It is therefore an object of the invention to address the abovementioned problems or at least to provide a useful alternative.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Clamping mechanism for shear testing apparatus


A method for producing a field effect transistor including a layer in which a two-dimensional electron gas is formed includes forming source and drain electrodes spaced from each other on a substrate structure including the layer in which a two-dimensional electron gas is formed. First and second resist films are sequentially applied to the structure and a stripe-shaped first opening is formed in the second resist film between the source and drain electrodes and extending in a longitudinal direction, perpendicular to a line connecting the source and drain electrodes. A plurality of second openings narrower than the first opening are formed within the first resist film in the first opening. The second openings are arranged at intervals along the longitudinal direction of the first opening. The second openings may be used as an etching mask to form recesses in the substrate structure not reaching the layer in which the two-dimensional electron gas is formed. A gate electrode is formed by depositing a gate metal on the remaining parts of the first and second resist films and in the second openings followed by lifting off unneeded parts of the gate metal and the first and second resist films.

Various high-speed semiconductor devices, which utilize a two-dimensional electron gas or a two-dimensional hole gas produced at a heterointerface as a channel layer, have been proposed. At a low temperature, the mobility of electrons in the two-dimensional electron gas is far higher than in a three-dimensional electron gas. When such a two-dimensional electron gas is spatially confined to decrease the degree of freedom of the movement of the electron, a quasi one-dimensional electron gas is produced, and semiconductor devices utilizing the quasi one-dimensional electron gas as a channel layer have been developed. In the quasi one-dimensional electron gas, electrons move in one direction and scattering of the electrons (especially, phonon scattering) decreases as compared with the two-dimensional electron gas, so that the mobility further increases, resulting in a semiconductor device operating at higher speed.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view partly in cross section of a prior art high-speed transistor utilizing the quasi one-dimensional electron gas. In FIG. 5, an intrinsic (hereinafter referred to as i type) AlGaAs layer 22 approximately 1000 angstroms thick, an i type GaAs layer approximately 100 angstroms thick, and an n.sup.+ type AlGaAs layer 24 approximately 300 angstroms thick having an impurity concentration of 1.5.times.10.sup.18 cm.sup.-3 are successively disposed on a semi-insulating GaAs substrate 21. Source and drain electrodes 25 comprising, for example, AuGe/Ni/Au are spaced from each other by a prescribed interval on the n.sup.+ type AlGaAs layer 24. Alloy layers 29 beneath the source and drain electrodes 25 reach into the substrate 21 and the source and drain electrodes 25 make ohmic contacts with the semiconductor layers 22 to 24. An interlayer insulating film 26 comprising, for example, hydroxy silicon nitride (SION) is disposed on the n.sup.+ type AlGaAs layer 24 where the source and drain electrodes are absent. An opening 27 penetrates a portion of the insulating layer 26 between the source and drain electrodes 25. A gate electrode 28 comprising aluminum or the like is connected to the substrate 21 and the semiconductor layers 22 to 24 which are exposed in the opening 27.
The i type AlGaAs layer 22, the i type GaAs layer 23, and the n.sup.+ type AlGaAs layer 24, which are exposed in the opening 27, i.e., which are connected to the gate electrode 28, are separated in a plurality of stripes running parallel to a direction connecting the source and drain electrodes 25.
FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b) are sectional views taken along a line VI--VI of FIG. 5. In these figures, the same reference numerals as in FIG. 5 designate the same or corresponding parts. The i type AlGaAs layer, the i type GaAs layer, and the n.sup.+ type AlGaAs layer are separated by notches 30, resulting in a plurality of fine stripes 40 each comprising i type AlGaAs layer 42, i type GaAs layer 43, and n.sup.+ type AlGaAs layer 44. The interval P between the adjacent stripes 40 is about 2000 angstroms. The gate electrode 28 fills up the notches 30 and contacts the side surfaces of each stripe 40.
A description is given of the operation. When no bias voltage is applied to the gate electrode 28, electrons are transferred from the n.sup.+ type AlGaAs layer 44 and stored the i type GaAs layer 43, producing a two-dimensional electron gas 45 as shown In FIG. 6(a). When a negative bias voltage is applied to the gate electrode 28, a depletion layer in the i type GaAs layer 43 expands and the two-dimensional electron gas is concentrated in the center of the i type GaAs layer 43 as shown in FIG. 6(b). That the two-dimensional electron gas loses the degree of freedom in a direction perpendicular to an axis of the stripe, resulting in a quasi one-dimensional electron gas 50. In this state, a current flowing between the source and drain electrodes is carried by the one-dimensional electron gas. Concentration of the quasi one-dimensional electron gas 50 is controlled by the bias voltage applied to the gate electrode 28 to control the current flowing between the source and drain electrodes (I.sub.DS). Since the quasi one-dimensional electron gas serves as a carrier of the current, the mobility of electrons in the quasi electron gas is higher than that in the two-dimensional electron gas, whereby a high-speed FET due to a high mutual conductance (gm) is achieved. In addition, the quasi one-dimensional electron gas has less scattering of electrons than the two-dimensional electron gas, resulting in a low-noise FET.
In the prior art high-speed transistor constituted as described above, since the gate electrode 28 contacts the side surfaces of the stripes 40, gate capacitance increases, limiting the high speed property of the device. In addition, the gate electrode 28 is formed along the stripes 40 each about 2000 angstroms in height. However, precise patterning is difficult on such an uneven surface. Therefore, it is difficult to form a narrow gate electrode.

Method for producing a semiconductor device


The invention discloses a dopamine-based self-polymerization electric storage material and a preparation method thereof and the application thereof in an electric storage device, and the self-polymerization of dopamine is generated by solving the problems of complicated preparation process, poor environment and high temperature stability of the current organic electric storage material. The organic electric storage device prepared by the polymer into a sandwich structure successfully realizes the organic electric storage behavior. In the preparation process, the molecular synthesis and the device preparation are completed simultaneously, the device environment and the high temperature stability are good, and it is of great significance to the research progress of the organic electric storage technology and practical value.

Since the 1960s, it has entered the era of fifth information technology revolution. Its main symbol is the popularity and application of electronic computers. However, after computer technology has been developed for 57 years, it follows that the amount of information that computer has to deal with is increasing rapidly, and the corresponding information storage technology must also meet the needs. Therefore, the research and breakthrough of large-capacity, high-density storage devices is indispensable. In the background that traditional storage technologies cannot meet the demand for a large amount of information storage, organic storage technology has attracted more and more attention. The generation of ternary storage technology has increased the storage capacity of information from 2n to 3n or even 4n. Exponential growth is of great significance for the enhancement of information storage capacity. For organic polymer materials, the main problems currently existed are complex device preparation methods, poor repeatability, and poor high temperature resistance.

Auto-polymerization electric storage material based on dopamine, preparation method thereof and application to electric storage device thereof


The present specification discloses a pool overflow drain heightener that prevents pool water from draining through the pool overflow drain during normal usage, yet permits draining during an emergency overflow event. The pool overflow drain heightener includes a dam basin having an upper rim that defines a mouth configured to be positioned above the desired water level and above the lowest point of the pool overflow drain, such that the water level can temporarily or permanently rise above the lowest point, yet not drain from the pool. Excessive water levels will still be able drain through the mouth, and out the overflow drain, thereby preventing overflow of the pool.

The subject of this patent application relates generally to overflow devices for preventing undesired water entry into swimming pool overflow drains during normal use.
Modernly, in-ground swimming pools comprise both a filtering system and an overflow drainage system. A pool filtering system functions to remove debris which accumulates through use as well as exposure to the environment. During normal operation, water circulates through the filtering system by the action of a pump which pulls water from the pool using one or more main drains at the bottom of the basin and multiple skimmer drains around the top ledge of the basin. Typically located on the lowest point in the pool, the main drain remove most of the dirt and debris that sinks to the pool bottom. The skimmers are designed to draw water from the top surface of the pool in order to remove floating debris like leaves, suntan oil, and hair. Water collected from the main and skimmer drains is pumped through a filter and clean water is returned to the pool using inlet values located around the side of the basin.
Pools are designed with a certain water capacity and typically have a designated fill line. Although many factors are considered when locating the fill line for a particular pool basin, water displacement due to use by individuals while in the water and other normal activities are considerations. A pool overflow drainage system functions to remove water that exceeds this capacity in order to maintain proper pool water levels and prevent flooding of the surrounding deck. A pool overflow drainage system comprises one or more overflow drains around the top ledge of the basin that remove excess water from the pool and carries the excess water to a municipal sewage system or other drainage site. The more common triggers for a pool overfill event include overfilling by the owner of the pool, heavy rainfall, and a malfunctioning or broken pool component that continually fills the pool.
One problem associated with a pool overflow drainage system pertains to the improper placement of the overflow drains. Ideally, overflow drains are positioned just below the coping of the pool, which lies just beneath the deck surface. However, pools are all too commonly constructed with overflow drains positioned in an improperly low location which results in several problems. One problem is that the pool basin cannot be completely filled to its designated water capacity resulting in a greater distance between the water level and the pool deck surface. This low water level makes is more difficult for a user to get out of the pool which minimally causes inconveniences but more seriously could become a safety hazard. Another problem related with improper overflow drain positioning is a loss of water which is unnecessarily drained during normal pool activities. Such water loss adds substantially to the cost of maintaining and using a pool as the pool constantly needs to be refilled for the adequate enjoyment of its users. However, repositioning overflow drains of a pool is impractical, as it would involve partial demolition of the pool wall. Thus, a means for repairing and retrofitting mispositioned overflow drains is needed.
Aspects of the present invention address the needs created by improper pool overflow drain positioning and provide further related advantages as described in the following summary.


In a process for the production of para-xylene, methanol is preheated to a first temperature, an aromatic feedstock comprising toluene and/or benzene is preheated to a second temperature and the preheated methanol and aromatic feedstocks are fed to a reactor at a first methanol to aromatic feedstock molar ratio. The preheated aromatic feedstock is contacted with the preheated methanol under alkylation conditions in the reactor in the presence of a catalyst so that the methanol reacts with the aromatic feedstock to produce an effluent comprising para-xylene. During the reaction, a temperature is measured within the reactor and is compared with a predetermined optimal temperature. The methanol to aromatic feedstock molar ratio is then adjusted in a manner to reduce any difference between the measured and predetermined optimal temperatures in the reactor.

Para-xylene is an important starting material for manufacturing terephthalic acid, which is itself a valuable intermediate in the production of synthetic polyester fibers, films, and resins. These polyester materials have many practical, well known uses, such as in fabrics, carpets, and apparel.
One known route for the manufacture of para-xylene is by the methylation of benzene and/or toluene. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,504,072 discloses a process for the selective production of para-xylene which comprises reacting toluene with methanol under alkylation conditions in the presence of a catalyst comprising a porous crystalline material having a Diffusion Parameter for 2,2 dimethylbutane of about 0.1-15 sec−1 when measured at a temperature of 120° C. and a 2,2 dimethylbutane pressure of 60 torr (8 kPa) wherein said porous crystalline material has undergone prior treatment with steam at a temperature of at least 950° C. to adjust the Diffusion Parameter of said material to about 0.1-15 sec−1. The reaction can be carried out in a fixed, moving, or fluid catalyst bed.
Although the reaction of toluene and methanol, particularly using the highly steamed catalyst described in the '072 patent, is selective to the production of para-xylene, in commercial applications it is critical to maximize product selectivity and feedstock utilization. Thus, competing reactions include reaction of methanol with itself to produce light paraffins and olefins and coke, which reactions involve loss of valuable methanol feed. There is therefore considerable interest in developing methods to further enhance the selectivity of the benzene/toluene methylation process.
For example, U.S. Pat. No 6,642,426 discloses production of xylene by fluidized bed alkylation of toluene with methanol, in which improved conversion and selectivity is realized when the methanol is injected in stages into the fluidized bed at one or more locations downstream from the location of aromatic reactant introduction into the fluidized bed. In addition, the '246 patent teaches that methanol utilization is enhanced by using a molar excess of the aromatic feed as compared to the methanol feed.
Another important parameter in the reaction of benzene and/or toluene with methanol to produce para-xylene is temperature, with relatively high temperatures, typically between 450° C. and 700° C., being required to maximize conversion. As a result, the aromatic and methanol feeds are preheated before being supplied to the alkylation reactor(s), with the exothermic heat generated by the alkylation reaction generally being sufficient to maintain the reaction temperature at the desired value. In practice, however, there are limits on the temperatures to which the different feeds can be preheated. For example, in the case of the benzene/toluene feed, the preheating temperature is limited by the coking rates in the preheater which, depending on factors such as heat flux, stream composition and heat transfer surface metallurgy, will generally be about 550° C. In the case of the methanol feed, decomposition to carbon oxides, hydrogen and methane will generally limit the preheating temperature to about 220° C.
In a conventional reactor system, the feed rates of the methanol and aromatic feeds and the molar ratio of aromatic to methanol are set at the desired values and the reaction temperature is controlled by adjusting the amount of heat supplied to feeds in the preheaters. However, this approach suffers from a problem in that, for a given molar ratio of aromatic to methanol, it may not be possible to achieve the optimal reaction temperature before the maximum feed preheating constraints are reached. This will result in the methylation reaction being operated at a temperature less than that required for maximum selectivity to the desired para-xylene product.
According to the invention, this problem is addressed by maintaining the preheating temperatures of the methanol and aromatic feeds at or near their desired maximum values and then adjusting the molar ratio of the methanol to aromatic feeds to achieve the desired reaction temperature. For example, since the conversion of methanol in the process, whether by alkylation or production of light gases, is exothermic, an increase in the methanol to aromatic molar ratio can be used to increase the supply of heat to the reaction and hence raise the reaction temperature. Alternatively, since conversion of methanol is the rate limiting step, a decrease in the methanol to aromatic molar ratio can be used to decrease the supply of heat to the reaction and hence lower the reaction temperature. Controlling the reaction temperature in this manner guarantees that, for a given desired reaction temperature and maximum value of the feed preheating temperatures, the lowest possible methanol to aromatic molar ratio will be employed. This maintains the methanol concentration in the reactor at its lowest possible value, resulting in the highest possible selectivity to the desired xylene product.

Production of para-xylene by the methylation of benzene and/or toluene


Systems, devices, and methods including a container including: a base portion configured to receive a dampened cosmetic sponge; a cap portion configured to be detachably attached to the base portion; and one or more apertures disposed in the cap portion, where the one or more apertures provide airflow into the container.

Users may desire to take, display, and/or carry their cosmetic sponge with them. However, cosmetic sponges can be delicate and may be damaged during travel, such as by being crushed in a bag or torn by an object with sharp edges. Cosmetic sponges may increase greatly in size when damp and take several hours to dry and to return to their original size. As a result, storage options for dry cosmetic sponges may not accommodate dampened cosmetic sponges.

Container for cosmetic sponge applicator


A method establishes an initial voltage in a ring oscillator and a logic circuit of an integrated circuit device. Following this, the method enables the operating state of the ring oscillator. After enabling the operating state of the ring oscillator, the method steps up to a stressing voltage in the ring oscillator. The initial voltage is approximately one-half the stressing voltage. The stressing voltage creates operating-level stress within the ring oscillator. The method measures the operating-level frequency within the ring oscillator using an oscilloscope (after stepping up to the stressing voltage).

The present disclosure relates to measuring bias temperature instability induced ring oscillator frequency degradation, and more specifically, to methods that, after enabling an operating state of a ring oscillator, steps up from an initial voltage to a stressing voltage in the ring oscillator, where the initial voltage is approximately one-half the stressing voltage.
Both negative and positive transistor bias temperature instability (BTI) is a major reliability concern for advanced complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technologies. Bias temperature instability causes device threshold voltage drift and output current degradation, which degrades circuit performance degradation over time. Bias temperature instability is extremely challenging to measure accurately and conventional methods that characterize the effect of bias temperature instability on circuits have focused on investigating various circuit topologies.

Measuring bias temperature instability induced ring oscillator frequency degradation

International Business Machines Corporation


Recombinant fragments of Factor C are disclosed. These proteins and peptides show great potency in recognizing, binding to, neutralizing and removing endotoxin. These molecules can thus be used for anti-microbial, anti-endotoxin, and anti-sepsis therapy. SSCrFCES is a 38 kDa protein representing the LPS-binding domain of Factor C. The ability of SSCrFCES to bind lipid A was analyzed using an ELISA-based assay as well as surface plasmon resonance. Surface plasmon resonance similarly carried out for SSCrFC-sushi-1,2,3-GFP, SSCrFC-sushi-1GFP, and SSCrFC-sushi-3GFP confirmed their superior affinity for endotoxin. The 50% endotoxin-neutralizing concentration of SSCrFCES against 200 EU of endotoxin is 0.069 μM, suggesting that SSCrFCES is an effective inhibitor of LAL coagulation cascade. Although partially attenuated by human serum, as low as 1 μM of SSCrFCES inhibits the LPS-induced secretion of hTNF-α and hIL-8 by THP-1 and human pheripheral blood mononuclear cells with a potency more superior than polymyxin B. SSCrFCES is non-cytotoxic, with a clearance rate of 4.7 ml/minute. The LD90 of SSCrFCES for LPS lethality in mice is achieved at 2 μM. These results demonstrate the endotoxin-neutralizing capability of SSCrFCES in vitro and in vivo, as well as its potential for use in the treatment of endotoxin-induced septic shock. Also embodied in this application is the use of the sushi peptides and their mutant derivatives as potent antimicrobials. Further embodied in this application is the use of sushi peptides or sushi recombinant proteins to remove endotoxin from liquids.

Endotoxin, also known as lipopolysaccharide (LPS), is an integral component of the gram-negative bacterial cell membrane and is responsible for many, if not all, of the toxic effects that occur during gram-negative bacterial sepsis (1). LPS is a mixture of glycolipids consisting of a variable polysaccharide domain covalently bound to a conserved glucosamine-based phospholipid known as lipid A. LPS directly stimulates host monocytes and macrophages to secrete a wide array of inflammatory cytokines that include tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukins-1 (IL-1), and interleukin-8 (IL-8) (2). Excessive release of these cytokines by host macrophages almost assuredly contributes to organ failure and death that occur after episodes of gram-negative bacterial sepsis (3). The proinflammatory bioactivities exhibited by LPS typically reside in the lipid A moiety (4).
LPS from gram-negative bacteria induces the amoebocytes of horseshoe crabs to aggregate and degranulate. Presumably, the LPS-induced coagulation cascade represents an important defense mechanism used by horseshoe crabs against invasion by gram-negative bacteria (5). The amoebocyte lysate constituted as the Limulus amoebocyte lysate (LAL) test has been used for decades as a tool for detecting trace concentrations of LPS in solution (6,7). The molecular mechanism of coagulation in horseshoe crab has been established and it involves a protease cascade. This cascade is based on 3 kinds of serine protease zymogens, Factor C, Factor B, proclotting enzyme, and one clottable protein, coagulogen (8). Being the initial activator of the clotting cascade, Factor C functions as a biosensor that responds to LPS.
Despite advances in antimicrobial therapy, septic shock and other clinical complications due to Gram-negative bacterial infections continue to pose a major problem. Endotoxin or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) present on the cell wall of Gram-negative bacteria (GNB) plays an important role in the pathophysiology of these infections. It does so by mediating toxicity and also mediating release of factors like tumor necrosis factor and interleukins (40), and also by forming a rigid shield around the bacteria protecting them from the effects of antibiotics. Therefore, the detection and/or removal of LPS from the bloodstream or any parenteral solution may aid in the prevention of the inflammatory and pyrogenic effects of LPS. The lipid A component of LPS plays the most important biological role; lipid A gives rise to all the ill effects elicited by endotoxin.
A number of LPS-binding proteins have been identified. Among them are the LPS binding protein, LBP (41), and bactericidal permeability increasing protein, BPI (18,42). LBP, a 60 kDa mammalian serum protein, has a binding site with a high degree of specificity for lipid A (43). BPI, a 55 kDa protein found in human neutrophils, is capable of binding to the toxic lipid A moiety of LPS resulting in neutralization of the endotoxin (18,42,44,45).
The circulating amoebocytes of the horseshoe crab contain an array of proteins that are capable of binding and neutralizing LPS. The Limulus antilipopolysaccharide factor, LALF, an 11.8 kDa LPS-binding peptide, has been identified in the amebocytes of horseshoe crabs Limulus polyhemus and Tachypleus tridentatus. LALF has subsequently been isolated and characterized (46-49). Purified LALF has been shown to bind LPS and exhibit endotoxin neutralization (50,19,51,52). Two other LPS-binding proteins from horseshoe crab hemocytes are tachyplesin (53,54) and big defensin (55).
Factor C is a serine protease zymogen. It is the key enzyme in the C. rotundicauda amoebocyte lysate (CAL) that is activated by LPS to initiate the coagulation cascade (56-58). Factor C activity is the basis of a very sensitive assay for femtogram levels of endotoxin used in the quality control of pharmaceutical products (59). The importance of Factor C in the detection of endotoxin has thus led to the expression of recombinant Factor C, rFC (12,60,61,73-38), as an alternative source that should alleviate the batch-to-batch and seasonal variation in the sensitivity of detection of endotoxin which is a recognized drawback with conventional amoebocyte lysate (59-61).

Recombinant proteins and peptides for endotoxin biosensors, endotoxin removal, and anti-microbial and anti-endotoxin therapeutics