A loose joint assembly for linking two segments of a shaft which are substantially aligned at either end of the joint assembly co-axially about a axis of rotation. The joint assembly includes a male coupling member disposed co-axially within a female coupling member with an intermediate bearing member to align the coupling members. The male coupling member has a plurality of circumferentially spaced flats located within the space enclosed by the female coupling member. A corresponding plurality of openings, preferably in the form of slots extending in the circumferential direction, are located in the female coupling member, each slot being aligned with a corresponding flat. A drive pin is attached to the male coupling member at each flat and extends radially from the flat and at least partially into the corresponding slot in the female coupling member. The dimension of each opening in the direction of the longitudinal axis is selected to be only slightly larger than the dimension of the portion of the drive pin extending through the opening. The dimension of the slot in the circumferential direction is selected to be longer than the diameter of the drive pin extending into the opening. This configuration permits a limited amount of relative angular rotation between the male and female coupling members for limiting angular misalignment between the shaft segments while also permitting the shaft segments to lock in movement together at the extreme of relative angular movement between the shaft segments in either direction. Removing the pins, or disengaging them from the openings, permits the joint assembly to collapse axially.

Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a joint assembly for linking two, substantially end-aligned, shaft segments extending from either end of the joint assembly. More specifically, this invention relates to a loose joint assembly which permits a defined amount of movement between first and second coupling members along a rotational path about the center axis of the joint assembly. Such a joint assembly is useful in linking, and controlling relative movement between, apparatus-supporting components on either side of papermaking machine apparatus, such as a reel.

Joint assembly for linking end-aligned shaft segments


Methods are disclosed for conjugating one moiety to another moiety. In the method the moieties are reacted with one another in a protic solvent. Reaction between the moieties and the protic solvent during the conjugating is negligible or reversible. A stable bond is formed between the moieties to produce a product that is not subject to xcex2-elimination at elevated pH. Usually, one of the moieties comprises an unsaturation between two carbon atoms. One of the carbon atoms is or becomes an electrophile during the conjugating. The other of the moieties comprises a functionality reactive with the electrophile carbon atom to form a product that comprises the unsaturation. Compounds comprising both of the moieties as well as precursor molecules are also disclosed. Methods are also disclosed for determining an analyte in a sample employing compounds as described above.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to the covalent attachment of one moiety to another moiety such as a ligand to a surface or to another ligand, a ligand to a receptor, a receptor to a surface, and the like. The invention also relates to reagents for conducting such covalent attachment and methods for using such reagents.
In the field of diagnostics and therapeutics it is often useful to attach species or to couple different species together so as to alter or improve their properties. For example, although haptens, short peptides and the like function poorly as immunogens, a vigorous immune response may be elicited by coupling these moieties to larger moieties such as a protein carrier. In general, haptens (antigens), biotin, drug derivatives or peptides may be covalently bonded to proteins or natural or synthetic polypeptides for use as immunogens or recognition tags, or to enzymes for use in homogeneous enzyme immunoassays or to other label moieties for use in specific binding assays.
Similarly, antibodies may be coupled to toxins for use as immunotoxins, or to enzymes for use in enzyme immunoassays. The attachment of cytotoxic drugs to tumor-localizing monoclonal antibodies is an approach to chemotherapy that is gaining acceptance. Many reagents for the preparation of such conjugates have been disclosed and studied extensively. The so-called cross-linking reagents that have been developed are typically designed to have specific reactivity with functional groups contained in each reactant. Both homo- and heterobifunctional reagents are known with the latter being most widely used.
Active agents that are preferably functional organic material such as proteins have been immobilized in the past on a wide variety of solid supports for various known applications including analysis, separation, synthesis and detection of biological and other materials. Often hydrophilic polymers have been used to immobilize proteins because it is less difficult to attach proteins to polymers than to inorganic materials. However, there is an increasing need to immobilize functional organic material such as proteins on inorganic material such as silica, glass, silicon, metals and the like. In solid phase technology the reagent or reagents used in the procedure are usually immobilized by being coated or bonded either covalently or by adsorption to the solid phase material.
Biologically active polypeptides or proteins that are attached to an insoluble carrier material, such as polymeric particles, have been used in a variety of ways. For example, the diagnosis of pathological or other conditions in human beings and animals is often carried out using immunological principles for the detection of an immunologically reactive species, for example, antibodies or an antigen, in the body fluids of the person or animal. Other proteins and amine-containing compounds, such as enzymes, avidin, biotin or polysaccharides, have been covalently linked to various carrier materials for use in affinity chromatography, enzymatic reactions, specific binding reactions and immunoassays.
In the field of bioscience, arrays of oligonucleotide probes, fabricated or deposited on a surface, are used to identify DNA sequences in cell matter. The arrays may be used for conducting cell study, for diagnosing disease, identifying gene expression, monitoring drug response, determination of viral load, identifying genetic polymorphisms, and the like. Significant morbidity and mortality are associated with infectious diseases and genetically inherited disorders. More rapid and accurate diagnostic methods are required for better monitoring and treatment of these conditions. Molecular methods using DNA probes, nucleic acid hybridization and in vitro amplification techniques are promising methods offering advantages to conventional methods used for patient diagnoses.
A variety of methods have been reported for the covalent attachment of ligands to a surface or for the attachment of small molecule tags on to biomolecules or for the attachment of biomolecules to each other. Typically, these reactions are performed by the reaction of an active functional group on one molecule with an activated functional group on another. As an example, an amine containing fluorophor can be attached to a carboxylic acid containing surface by forming an activated ester of the carboxylic acid, such as an N-hydroxysuccinimide derivative. The amine readily reacts with this activated ester to form a stable amide bond. This reaction is useful under conditions whereby the reaction with the desired amine is significantly faster than with other nucleophiles in the system.
Methods previously described include the activation of surfaces with cyanogen bromide, N-hydroxysuccinimide esters, carbonyl diimidazole, carbodiimides, azlactones, cyanuric chlorides, organic sulfonyl chlorides, divinyl sulphone, nitrophenyl esters, iodoacetyl, maleimide, epoxy, hydrazide, reductive amination, diazonium salts and Mannich condensations. Ligands that react with the activated surface include amines, alcohols, carboxylic acids, thiols, carbonyls, and compounds containing active hydrogens.
The attachment of two generally polyfunctional molecules at defined reaction loci presents a considerable challenge. The bond that is formed must be stable under the desired conditions of use. Another factor is that the system must not produce side reactions that will destroy the ability of the ligand to react with an activated functionality. When the reaction is performed in aqueous or protic solvent systems, the desired reaction can compete with solvent molecules for product formation. The resulting side products thus significantly lower the yield of the desired reaction. Nearly all of the commonly used methods of surface attachment and bioconjugation are susceptible to these solvolysis problems. For example, in an aqueous solvent system, when coupling an amine to a surface activated with an N-hydroxysuccinimide ester, the hydrolysis reaction of the activated ester can complete with the desired amine coupling. The activated functionality can react with the solvent, usually water, instead of with the desired ligand. In order for the coupling reaction to be successful, the reaction rate of the ligand with the activated functionality must be fast relative to the deactivation of the functional group, or a large enough excess of activated functional group must be present.
2. Description of the Related Art
U.S. Pat. No. 4,623,629 (Kerachensteiner) discloses a solid phase immunoassay support and method of use thereof.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,766,963 (Baldwin, et al.) discusses a combination hydroxypropylamine library.
Conjugated polypeptides and methods for their preparation and use are discussed in PCT application WO 90/05749 (Schultz).
Stereochemistry of nucleophilic displacements by amines on activated vinyl halides is discussed by Truce, et al., J. Org. Chem. (1970) 35(7):2113-2117.
Jones, et al., describe the substitution at an olefinic carbon, the reactions of the ethyl xcex2-chlorocrotonates with nucleophiles (J. Chem. Soc. (1960) 2349-2366).
xcex2-Chlorovinyl ketones are discussed by Pohland, et al., in Chem. Rev. (1966) 66:161-197.
The synthesis and reactions of xcex2-chloroacrylonitrile are disclosed by Scotti, et al., J. Org. Chem. (1964) 29:1800-1808.
Landini, et al., J. Chem. Soc. B (1969) 243-247, describe the nucleophilic substitution and elimination in 2-halogenovinyl ketones.
Farina, et al., Synthesis (1977) 642, describes the synthesis of a xcex2-bromovinyl ester.
Yogo et al. J. Chem. Soc., (1984), 2097, describes the synthesis of a xcex2-bromovinyl imide.
Rao, et al., Synth. Comm. (1989), 19 describe the synthesis of a xcex2-chlorovinyl amide.
Bryant, et al., J. Heterocyclic Chem. (1995), 32: 1473-1476 describes the reaction of an alcohol with a xcex2-chlorovinyl amide.
Ichikawa, et al. Synlett (1966), 243, describe the reaction of a primary amine with a xcex2-fluorovinyl ketone.
Jalander, Acta Chem. Scand. (1995), 49: 894-898, describe the reaction of a thiourea with a xcex2-chlorovinyl ester.
Tominaga, et al., Chem. Pharm. Bull (1984), 32: 2100, describe the reaction of a secondary amine with a xcex2-chlorovinyl amide.
Nishigaki, et al., Chem. Pharm. Bull, (1980), 28: 142 describe the reaction of an aromatic amine with a disubstituted xcex2-chlorovinyl amide derivative.
Winkler et al., Tetrahedron Lett. (1989) 30, describe the reaction of an amine with a xcex2-chlorovinyl ketone.
One aspect of the present invention is a method for conjugating one moiety to another moiety. In the method molecules comprising the moieties are reacted with one another in a protic solvent. Reaction between the moieties and the protic solvent during the conjugating is negligible or reversible. A stable bond is formed between the moieties to produce a product that is not subject to xcex2-elimination at elevated pH.
Another aspect of the present invention is a method for conjugating one moiety to another moiety. A combination comprising the moieties is formed in a reaction medium. One of the moieties comprises an unsaturation between two carbon atoms. One of the carbon atoms is or becomes an electrophile during the conjugating. The other of the moieties comprises a functionality reactive with the electrophile carbon atom to form a product that comprises the unsaturation. The medium is subjected to conditions under which the product is formed.
Another aspect of the present invention is a method for conjugating one moiety to another moiety. A combination is provided in a medium. The combination comprises a first reagent, M1-L1-Z, wherein M1 is a first moiety, L1 is a bond or a linking group and Z is a nucleophile, and a second reagent, Xxe2x80x94C(L2R)xe2x95x90C(L3R1)xe2x80x94Y(L4R2), wherein one of R, R1 or R2 is a second moiety and L2, L3 and L4 are independently a bond or a linking group. X is a leaving group or X and R1 may be taken together to form a bond. Y is a substituent that renders the carbon bearing the L2R group an electrophile. When not a second moiety, R, R1 and R2 may be independently any group, aliphatic or aromatic, which does not interfere with the desired reaction to any significant extent. When R and R1 or R and R2 are not a second moiety, R and R1 or R and R2 may be taken together to form a 5 to 7 membered ring. When R or R1 are not a second moiety, Y may be taken together with R or R1 to form a 5 to 7 membered ring. The combination is incubated under conditions sufficient to permit the formation of a product of the reaction of the first and second reagents wherein M1 becomes conjugated to the second reagent.
Another aspect of the present invention is a method for conjugating one moiety to another moiety. The moieties are independently selected from the group consisting of ligands and surfaces. A combination is provided comprising a first reagent, M1xe2x80x2-L1xe2x80x2-Zxe2x80x2, wherein M1xe2x80x2 is a first moiety, L1xe2x80x2 is a bond or a linking group and Zxe2x80x2 is an amine group and a second reagent, Xxe2x80x2xe2x80x94CHxe2x95x90CHxe2x80x94(Cxe2x95x90O)(L4xe2x80x2M2xe2x80x2), wherein M2xe2x80x2 is a second moiety and L4xe2x80x2 is a bond or a linking group. Xxe2x80x2 is selected from the group consisting of fluoro, bromo, chloro and iodo. The combination is treated under conditions sufficient to permit the formation of a product of the reaction of the first and second reagents wherein Zxe2x80x2 displaces Xxe2x80x2 in the second reagent. M1xe2x80x2 becomes conjugated to the second reagent to form a product of the formula: M1xe2x80x2L1xe2x80x2xe2x80x94NHxe2x80x94CHxe2x95x90CHxe2x80x94(Cxe2x95x90O)(L4xe2x80x2M2xe2x80x2).
Another aspect of the present invention is a conjugate of the formula:
M1-Zxe2x80x94C(L2xe2x80x2R3)xe2x95x90C(L3xe2x80x2R4)xe2x80x94Yxe2x80x94(L4xe2x80x3R5)
wherein M1 is a first moiety and Z is a heteroatom, and
wherein L2xe2x80x2, L3xe2x80x2 and L4xe2x80x3 are independently a bond or a linking group; and
wherein one of R3, R4 or R5 is a second moiety; and
wherein Y is a substituent that comprises a carbon-carbon double bond, a carbon-heteroatom double bond or a carbon-nitrogen triple bond wherein, when Y is a carbon-carbon double bond or a carbon-heteroatom double bond, Y may be taken together with R3 or R4 to form a 5 to 7 membered ring when R3 or R4 are not a second moiety; and
wherein, when not a second moiety, R3, R4 and R5 are independently selected from the group consisting of H, alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, aralkyl, heteroalkyl, heteroalkenyl, heteroalkynyl, heteroaryl, heteroaralkyl, and the like; and
wherein, when R3 and R4 or R3 and R5 are not a second moiety, R3 and R4 or R3 and R5 may be taken together to form a 5 to 7 membered ring.
Another aspect of the present invention is a compound of the formula:
M1-NHxe2x80x94CHxe2x95x90CHxe2x80x94(Cxe2x95x90O)(L4xe2x80x2M2)
wherein M1 is a first moiety and M2 is a second moiety and L4xe2x80x2 is a bond or a linking group.
Another aspect of the present invention is a compound of the formula:
Xxe2x80x2xe2x80x94CHxe2x95x90CHxe2x80x94(Cxe2x95x90O)(L4xe2x80x2M2xe2x80x3)
wherein M2xe2x80x3 is a moiety, L4xe2x80x2 is a bond or a linking group and Xxe2x80x2 is selected from the group consisting of fluoro, bromo, chloro and iodo.
Another aspect of the present invention is a method for determining an analyte in a sample. A combination is provided comprising in a medium the sample and at least one compound mentioned above. The compound forms a complex related to the presence of the analyte in the sample. The presence of the compound in the complex is detected, the presence thereof indicating the presence of the analyte.


This application provides a signal transmission method and system, and relates to the field of communications technologies. The system includes an equalization module, a first decoder, and a feedback module. The equalization module includes at least two multi-symbol detectors. The feedback module is connected to the first decoder and the at least two multi-symbol detectors. The equalization module performs equalization processing on convolutional data flows to obtain an equalized data flow. In this process, each multi-symbol detector performs multi-symbol detection processing on a convolutional data flow input into the multi-symbol detector. The first decoder decodes the equalized data flow to obtain a decoded data flow. The feedback module feeds back a feedback data flow to the at least two multi-symbol detectors. The equalization module performs equalization processing on the convolutional data flows based on the feedback data flow.

As a transmission rate of a high-speed optical fiber transmission system increases, for example, the transmission rate increases from 40 Gb/s (gigabyte per second) to 100 Gb/s, and even to 400 Gb/s, a coherent reception technology is widely applied. A high-speed optical fiber transmission system based on the coherent reception technology may be referred to as a coherent optical transmission system.
At present, the coherent optical transmission system includes: a forward error correction (FEC) encoder, a channel interleaver, a digital-analog converter (DAC), a coherent receiver, an analog-digital converter (ADC), a channel equalizer, a multi-symbol detector, an FEC decoder, and a decision device that are sequentially connected from a transmit end to a receive end. The FEC encoder, the channel interleaver, and the DAC are located at the transmit end. The coherent receiver, the ADC, the channel equalizer, the multi-symbol detector, the FEC decoder, and the decision device are located at the receive end. The DAC is connected to the coherent receiver through an optical fiber. After encoding of the FEC encoder, modulation of the channel interleaver, and digital-analog conversion of the DAC are sequentially performed on a data flow at the transmit end, the data flow is sent to the coherent receiver through the optical fiber. The coherent receiver recovers a baseband signal through the coherent reception technology. The ADC performs analog-digital conversion on the baseband signal. The channel equalizer performs, by using a digital processing algorithm, equalization processing (for example, dispersion compensation, clock recovery, polarization demultiplexing, and carrier phase estimation) on the signal obtained after the analog-digital conversion, and inputs the signal obtained after the equalization processing into the multi-symbol detector. After the multi-symbol detector performs multi-symbol detection processing on the signal obtained after the equalization processing, the FEC decoder decodes the signal obtained after the detection processing. Finally, the decision device decides the decoded signal, to recover the data flow.
In the related art, to implement channel equalization, a plurality of multi-symbol detectors and a plurality of FEC decoders that are in a one-to-one correspondence are usually disposed at a receive end. An input end of each multi-symbol detector is connected to an output end of a channel equalizer. An output end of each multi-symbol detector is connected to an input end of the corresponding FEC decoder. An output end of each FEC decoder is connected to an input end of a decision device and an input end of the corresponding multi-symbol detector. A signal output by the channel equalizer is input into each multi-symbol detector. After the multi-symbol detector performs multi-symbol detection processing on the signal, a plurality of iteration processes are performed. Each iteration process includes: The signal obtained after the detection processing is input into the corresponding FEC decoder for decoding, the FEC decoder feeds back the decoded signal to the corresponding multi-symbol detector, and the multi-symbol detector performs, based on the signal fed back by the FEC decoder, multi-symbol detection on the signal input from the channel equalizer into the multi-symbol detector. In this way, the signal can be iterated between the FEC decoder and the multi-symbol detector.
However, in a coherent optical transmission system in the related art, a plurality of iteration processes need to be performed. Therefore, signal transmission complexity of the coherent optical transmission system is relatively high.


A Hanukkiah (10) for carrying combustible candles (12) includes a sense circuit (16) coupled to an output circuit (18). The output circuit comprising at least one of an electronic playback device (112), an electromechanical device (52), or a light source device (46), or a combination thereof. Sense circuit (16) includes a flame-responsive circuit (16A) adapted and arranged to respond to a portion of energy emitted by a lit shamash (12A) candle of the Hanukkiah, and an RF receiver circuit (16B) adapted and arranged to respond to a portion of predetermined RF signal. A dreidel (200) is further provided comprising a rotation-sensitive RF transmitting circuit (230) for generating predetermined RF signals upon spinning of the dreidel. The flame of shamash (12A) and/or the spinning of dreidel (200) are adapted to activate output circuit (18) of Hanukkiah (10) to provide entertaining audible and/or visual output.

1. Field of Invention
This invention relates to entertaining devices and toys, particularly to interactive devices and toys for automatically supplying entertaining audible and/or visual output in response to a variety of occurrences, such as the spinning of a top and/or lighting of a candle.
2. Description of Prior Art
Hanukkah (also spelled Hanukka, Chanukkah, etc.; plural Hanukkiot) is a yearly Jewish festival started approximately 2000 years ago. The Hanukkah festival lasts eight days, mostly in December. Millions of Jews worldwide celebrate it; Hanukkah is a fun and joyous festival.
A Hanukkiah and a dreidel are two traditional devices used in Hanukkah. This invention is described in terms of such devices to emphasize its uniqueness and significance to its users, and over the prior art. Nevertheless, other embodiments and combinations employing the present invention are possible.
Hanukkiot: The first most visible aspect of the observance of Hanukkah is lighting of the candles of a special Hanukkah Menorah (candelabrum), called a Hanukkiah (also spelled Chanukkiah, Chanukia, or similar). The terms xe2x80x9cMenorahxe2x80x9d and xe2x80x9cHanukkiahxe2x80x9d are often synonymously used, and are to be regarded as such throughout the specification and claims. Further the term xe2x80x9ccandlexe2x80x9d is intended to define a generally conventional, combustible candle, made of wax, tallow, paraffin, or similar slow-burning material, and enclosing a combustible wick, unless the term xe2x80x9celectrical candlexe2x80x9d or xe2x80x9celectric flamexe2x80x9d is used.
Traditionally, the Hanukkiah is a multi-branched candelabrum holding up to nine candles in which one always stands out from the others, usually higher, or off to one side. Other than this there are no restrictions on the shape of a Hanukkiah, so artists can exercise a great deal of creativity in designing them. The candle that stands out is called the shamash (Hebrew: xe2x80x9cservantxe2x80x9d, also spelled shammes, shammash, shammas, etc.). The shamash (also called shamash candle) is used to light the other or xe2x80x9cdayxe2x80x9d candles, which represent the days of Hanukkah. The Hanukkiah includes nine open cups, recesses, or similar receptacles to hold the candles. Most Jewish homes worldwide have at least one Hanukkiah. During Hanukkah, family members light the candles of the Hanukkiah.
Ancient tradition prescribes a certain ceremony when lighting the candles. The ceremony is described here in detail to appreciate the invention fully. The ceremony is commonly conducted as follows: On the first night of Hanukkah, a first and new candle is placed at the far right of the Hanukkiah, in a holder. Next, a new shamash candle, being held by hand, is lit, e.g., by a match, and customary blessings are recited by the celebrants. During the recitation, the shamash is used to light the first candle. Then, the shamash is placed in its designated holder. At that time, it is customary to bless or sing to the words of Hanerot Hallalu (Hebrew), and sing the song Maoz Tzur (Hebrew)-also known as xe2x80x9cRock of Agesxe2x80x9d, to close down the lighting of the Hanukkiah ceremony for that night. The shamash and first candle are allowed to burn down. Thereafter, many Hanukkah songs are usually sung to celebrate the festival.
Similarly, on each night of Hanukkah, the ceremony is repeated. The burned-out candles from the day before are replaced by new ones, with one more day candle added each day, from right to left. The candles are lit and the songs and blessings are recited. The candles are usually lit by the shamash from left to right to honor to the newer candles first. On the eighth night of Hanukkah, all nine candles are lit. That concludes the festival and lighting ceremony. The lit candles are designed to burn a minimum of xc2xd hour and are allowed to burn down on their own.
Hanukkiot are made using a variety of materials, such as: glass, wood, plastics, ceramic, clay, stone, metal alloys, brass, gold, silver, etc. Their outer surface can be smooth, rough, engraved, molded, sculptured, machined, painted, etc., and they may be combined with various figurines.
Common Hanukkah candles are thin and long (tapers), usually 10 cm to 15 cm in length, though other dimensions are possible. The candles may be bought in a box that contain enough candles ( greater than 44) to last the eight nights of Hanukkah, allowing daily replacement. The candles are secured at the lower parts in their receptacles. The receptacles are designed to easily receive the candles so the user will have no difficulty replacing the candles each day without tools.
The most common and dominant Hanukkiot that can be found in the markets are those adapted to hold candles. The Judaica market is full of beautiful Hanukkiot, designed by many artists. Each year new designs appear. With some Hanukkiot, small oil lamps with floating wicks replace the candles.
Some Hanukkiot designs serve no practical function. These include two-dimensional pictorial illustrations of Hanukkiot, appearing mostly on cloth wall hangings, paintings, post cards, greeting cards, drawings, etc. Of course, pictorial Hanukkiot are not designed to hold combustible candles; they serve as passive ornaments.
A few weeks prior to Hanukkah, children are taught all about Hanukkah in every Jewish school around the world. They learn about the history involved, customs, foods, songs, blessings, and traditional stories. One or more Hanukkiah is placed for display in most classrooms. Further, Hanukkiot design exhibitions and competitions are held in schools.
Over the years, there has been little advancement with regard to Hanukkiot, apart from their artistic design. The majority of advancement has been in providing electric Hanukkiot. These include nine electric light bulbs or LEDs serving as electric candles or flames, and operated by an electric switch or switches. Electric Hanukkiot are relatively remote to the Hanukkah tradition.
The following patents relate to electric Hanukkiah (Menorah):
U.S. Pat. No. 6,053,622 to Horowitz et al, Apr. 25, 2000, describes a wand activated electric Menorah.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,881,482 to Goldman, Mar. 16, 1999, describes a display device illustrating only a pictorial representation of a Menorah. It optionally includes an electronic circuit to operate a solenoid for advancing an indexed wheel indicating the day of Hanukkah.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,820,251 to Michael et al, Oct. 13, 1998, describes a two-dimensional, electrically illuminated, ornamental device.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,315,492 to Donald, May 24, 1994, describes an electric Menorah that includes electric flames, and an electronic music sound chip operated by a switch.
U.S. Pat. 4,492,896 to Graham, Jan. 8, 1985, describes an electronic candle system where electric candles (light bulbs) are lighted on a touch of a hand-held wand.
Further, patented prior art that relate to general musical electric candles include:
U.S. Pat. No. 5,582,478 to Donald, Dec. 10, 1996, describes a food covering system that includes electric candles, and/or moving decorations, and/or a music device that are controlled by a switch, a microcontroller, and by a breath sensor.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,455,750 to Lewis et al. Oct. 3, 1995, describes an, artificial tree with scent, sound and electric lights.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,174,645 to Martin, Dec. 29, 1992, describes an electric candle and music that are operated by a sound pick-up and shut by a breath sensor.
Still further, patented prior art that relate to musical, combustible, candles include the following:
A single candle having a light, heat or other sensing means embedded inside it, mostly along its wick, and being coupled to a music-producing circuit is shown in the following patents: U.S. Pat. No. 5,921,767 to Jin, Jul. 13, 1999; U.S. Pat. No. 5,069,617, Dec. 3, 1991 and U.S. Pat. No. 4,983,119, Jan. 8, 1991 to Lin; U.S. Pat. No. 5,807,096 to Shin et al. Sep. 15, 1998; U.S. Pat. No, 5,015,175 to Lee, May 14, 1991; U.S. Pat. No. 4,477,249 to Ruzek et al, Oct. 16, 1984; U.S. Pat. No. 4,804,323 to Kim, Feb. 14, 1989; and U.S. Pat. No. 4,568,269 to Lin, Feb. 4, 1986. All of these relate to unique candles, where a flame sensing mechanism is located inside the candle, or wrapped around it.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,755,135, Jul. 5, 1988, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,057,005, Oct. 15, 1991 to Kwok both show a musical candle device where a candle (except for its wick) is fully enclosed in a matching container. Music switching mechanism includes a thermal-conducting wire, an optical guide, or a photosensitive resistor being external to the candle to detect a flame. No provision is described for detecting the flame of an easily replaceable, non-confined, lit candle, as used with a Hanukkiah. The candle shown is replaced by opening a lid in the container. The candle and container have to match in their dimensions, and are shown in an awkward combination comprising many parts. Lastly, the flame detection arrangement described cannot identify when, say, the candle is just half-way or nearly all consumedxe2x80x94to switch-on the music circuit; therefore, the disclosed flame detection arrangement is limited in its application. Further, no provision is there for operating other electronic circuits by the flame.
A simple On/Off switch-operated musical candle device and holder, is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,673,802 to Valentino, Oct. 7, 1997; U.S. Pat. No. 4,801,478 to Greenblatt,: Jan. 31, 1989; U.S. Pat. No. 5,622,490 to Chak, Apr. 22, 1997; and. U.S. Pat. No. 4,525,821 to Garcia, Jun. 25, 1985.
All of the above secular candles and Hanukkiot are relatively prosaic and do relatively little to stimulate the interest of children and adults.
The only advancement found that relates to candle-carrying Hanukkiot include those comprising a mechanical wind-up melody mechanism-a music box drum. The drum is manually wound for operation, and started by hand-sliding a small lever. It usually plays the tune Maoz Tzur by individual notes. The disadvantage of these Hanukkiot is in the use of the old-fashioned mechanical wind-up mechanism. It is generally unreliable, prone to breakage, and monotonous. Further, it must be manually wound prior to use, and it plays only musical notes. This mechanism has also been incorporated in electric Hanukkiot.
Dreidels: Another important visible aspect of Hanukkah is the playful use of a dreidel (also spelled Draydel, or similar). Traditionally, a dreidel is a four-sided top with a Hebrew letter on each side (though other embodiments are possible). The dreidel is playfully used in Hanukkah by children and adults alike. It is usually spun by hand on a table or floor, for as long as possible.
Dreidels are made using a variety of materials, such as: glass, wood, plastics, ceramic, clay, stone, metal alloys, brass, gold, silver, etc. Artists exercise a great deal of creativity in designing them. As with Hanukkiot, each year new designs appear.
Over the years, there has been some technological advancement with regard to dreidels. Prior art dreidels and tops include a rotation-sensitive sound and light generating mechanism. More recent ones have a sequence of lighting patterns created by LEDs. There is also a top that records a few seconds of sound and will replay it when spinning, and another one that plays a traditional dreidel song, and says the Hebrew letter when it falls over.
The following patents describe playful devices for electronically emitting an output upon rotation or revolution:
U.S. Pat. No. 4,080,753 to William et al, Mar. 28, 1978, describes a sound generating flying saucer.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,178,714 to John et al, Dec. 18, 1979, describes alighted and sounding toy, yo-yo, actuated by a centrifugal-switch.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,327,518 to Robert, May 4, 1982, describes an inertial device for sight and sound effects in rotating apparatus.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,552,542 to Marjan, Nov. 12, 1985, describes an illuminating spinning disc toy.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,568,303 to Paul, Feb. 4, 1986, describes a toy for electrically playing rhythmical melody upon rotation or revolution thereof.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,867,727 to Lanius, Sep. 19, 1989, describes a toy including centrifugal-switch.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,791,966 to Stephen et al, Aug. 11, 1998, describes a rotating toy, such as a top or yo-yo, with electronic display mechanism that permits the display of letters.
Other playful items of rotation include:
U.S. Pat. No. 4,044,499 to Jacob, Aug. 30, 1977, describes a whirl toy having means for lighting a light when the toy is whirled about in a circular path.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,036,442 to Joseph, Jul. 30, 1991, describes an illuminating wand.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,108,340 to Madelyn, Apr. 28, 1992, describes a: musical and lighted Hula Hoop.
Also, the markets include a large range of responsive devices and toys that respond to external events to perform some entertaining output. These external events include light, sound, and motion, radio-frequency, infra-red, and ultrasonic sound detection, etc.; and complementary entertaining output include light switching, toy movement, sound output etc. To summarize, there exist a variety of candle devices, responsive devices for providing an entertaining output, and spinning or rotating devices for providing an output. However, there exist no operative association of such devices, let alone one that involves a Hanukkiah and a dreidel pair.
Accordingly, several objects and advantages of the invention are to provide:
a new entertaining device and a toy concept, and
a device of the foregoing type which involves an operational association between a responsive entertaining device and a transmitting spinning/rotating device, and
a device of the foregoing type where the concept is embodied in a Hanukkiah and dreidel pair.
Other objects and advantages are:
to provide an active Hanukkiah comprising audible, motional and/or light output, for entertaining users through the sense of sound and sight;
to provide a Hanukkiah for complementing the Hanukkah candle lighting ceremony by automatically supplying the closing song of Maoz Tzur as the shamash is traditionally placed in its holder, and for providing the correct lyrics of Hanukkah songs and assist the gatherings in pacing their singing;
to provide a way to surprise someone who first use such Hanukkiah, and who is unfamiliar with its features;
to provide an improved teaching, motional, and entertainment tool for Hanukkah;
to provide a Hanukkiah being responsive to a predetermined remote occurrence for activating its entertaining outputs;
to provide a transmitting dreidel, complementary to the responsive Hanukkiah, for remotely controlling at least one of the Hanukkiah""s entertaining outputs upon its spinning;
to provide such transmitting spinning device for remotely controlling other responsive devices; and
to provide a plurality of electrical and mechanical building blocks for each of the mentioned devices to provide wide range of combinations, allowing a large market selection.


An image forming apparatus that is wirelessly connectable with an external device receives a processing request from the external device via wireless communication, and performs processing corresponding to the processing request. A determination is made whether security settings used in the wireless communication satisfy a predetermined condition, and if the security settings do not satisfy the condition, a security level in the image forming apparatus is set to a predetermined level.

Field of the Disclosure
Aspects of the present invention generally relate to an information processing apparatus having a wireless communication function such as a wireless local area network (LAN) function, and a method of controlling the apparatus. More particularly, the aspects of the present invention relate to a method of preventing information leakage in the information processing apparatus.
Description of the Related Art
Information processing apparatuses include, for example, image forming apparatuses such as copying machines, printers, and facsimile apparatuses. In recent years, some of the image forming apparatuses are provided with a wireless communication function such as a wireless LAN function. The use of a wireless LAN can eliminate wiring of cables, and the like. This enables, for example, a user to use the image forming apparatus via an external device such as a personal computer (PC) provided outside a building where the user stays. Further, data in the image forming apparatus can be read or written from the external device.
As described above, the use of the wireless LAN enables the user to access the image forming apparatus from the external device without installing wiring. Unfortunately, this also enables a user not expected by an administrator to access the image forming apparatus. To prevent the unexpected access, for example, when the user tries to access the image forming apparatus using the wireless LAN, authentication with a Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) key or a Wi-Fi Protected Access (WPA) key is performed.
Meanwhile, a connection by a wireless LAN without such authentication is provided (hereinafter, referred to as an authentication free wireless connection). The use of the authentication free wireless connection might cause improper use of the image forming apparatus from an unspecified number of external devices (for example, a PC), and then, a print job, or the like can be improperly executed.
Especially, if data in the image forming apparatus is accessed using a browser of the external device, even if the user does not stay at an installation site of the image forming apparatus, the user can view an address book recorded in the image forming apparatus and further edit the address book.
In the authentication free wireless connection state, external devices within the area where a wireless connection to the image forming apparatus can be allowed can access the image forming apparatus. As a result, the private information such as the address book recorded in the image forming apparatus can be stolen by the unspecified number of external devices.
Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-85090 discusses a method of restricting remote access to an information processing apparatus such as an image forming apparatus. In the method, in the first access, authentication is performed using user setting information set by an administrator.
In this method, after the authentication for the first access becomes successful, the image forming apparatus acquires device identification information that is specific to the external device, and registers the information in a memory, or the like. In the subsequent accesses, the image forming apparatus determines whether an access right is given to the external device using a combination of the user setting information and the device identification information. The external device determined to have the access right can issue various types of processing requests to the image forming apparatus via the wireless LAN.
In Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-85090, for the user setting information, a user name and a user ID, a password, or the like are used, and for the device identification information, a Media Access Control (MAC) address and an Internet Protocol (IP) address, or the like are used.
In such a system configuration, if the device identification information (device-specific information) of the external device is changed, the device identification information needs to be registered again. Further, even if the external device is connected by a wire such as a wired LAN, and even if it is clear that the device is a highly reliable external device placed near the image forming apparatus, the device identification information needs to be registered. Consequently, the image forming apparatus is not so much user-friendly.

Information processing apparatus having wireless communication function and method of controlling the apparatus


An airstream conditioning apparatus for a data storage device. The data storage device has an enclosure supporting a spinning data disc and an actuator operably interfacing with the data disc in a data transfer relationship. The apparatus comprises a shroud supportable in the enclosure only downstream of the actuator with respect to air currents generated by the spinning disc. The shroud furthermore comprises a fin extending from the shroud in planar alignment with the disc.

This invention relates generally to the field of data storage devices, and more particularly but not by way of limitation to controlling the aerodynamic excitation imparted to operatively interfacing read/write components by air currents generated by the spinning discs in the disc drive.
Modem disc drives are commonly used in a multitude of computer environments to store large amounts of data in a form that is readily available to a user. Generally, a disc drive has a magnetic disc, or two or more stacked magnetic discs, that are rotated by a motor at high speeds. Each disc has a data storage surface divided into a series of generally concentric data tracks where data is stored in the form of magnetic flux transitions.
A data transfer member such as a magnetic transducer is moved by an actuator to operatively interfacing positions adjacent the data storage surface to sense the magnetic flux transitions in reading data from the disc, and to transmit electrical signals to induce the magnetic flux transitions in writing data to the disc. The active elements of the data transfer member are supported by suspension structures extending from the actuator. The active elements are maintained a small distance above the data storage surface upon an air bearing generated by air currents caused by the spinning discs.
A continuing trend in the industry is toward ever-increasing data storage capacity and processing speed while maintaining or reducing the physical size of the disc drive. Consequently, the data transfer member and supporting structures are continually being miniaturized, and data storage densities are continually being increased. The result is an overall increased sensitivity to vibration, as a percentage of track width. These vibrations can have an adverse effect on the positioning control systems moving the actuator relative to the spinning discs.
One source of excitation that can no longer be disregarded comes from the air currents moving within the disc stack and impinging on disc drive components. The air current velocity, and hence the associated forces, increase in relation to the radial distance from the axis of rotation. Thus, the air currents move faster and are more likely turbulent at outer portions of the discs. Turbulence can impart adverse vibrations, or aerodynamic excitation, to the discs (flutter) and/or to the actuator, particularly to the suspension members (buffeting). Turbulence can also be created by shedding vortices formed from the actuator wake as the airstream flows past the actuator, and also acting on the disc edges as the air currents are expelled from the disc stack. Further, wake excitation from the actuator increases disc vibration.
It has been determined that airstream excitation can be reduced by an airstream conditioning apparatus comprising a finned shroud downstream of the actuator, effecting the three dimensional wake particularly in the region of the actuator and disc read/write interface. It is to this improvement that embodiments of the present invention are directed.
Embodiments of the present invention are directed to an airstream conditioning apparatus for a data storage device. The data storage device has an enclosure supporting a spinning data disc and an actuator operably interfacing with the data disc in a data transfer relationship. The apparatus comprises a shroud supportable in the enclosure downstream of the actuator with respect to air currents generated by the spinning disc, laminarizing the flow and reducing three dimensional effects of the wake in the enclosure at the disc and actuator interface. The shroud furthermore comprises a fin extending from the shroud and terminating in a closely fitting relationship with the disc edge preventing coupling of air currents in spaces between adjacent discs.

Downstream finned shroud airstream conditioning apparatus for a data storage device


An optoelectronic semiconductor chip includes a semiconductor layer stack including a nitride compound semiconductor material on a carrier substrate, wherein the semiconductor layer stack includes an active layer that emits an electromagnetic radiation, the semiconductor layer stack being arranged between a layer of a first conductivity and a layer of a second conductivity, the layer of the first conductivity is adjacent a front of the semiconductor layer stack, the layer of the first conductivity electrically connects to a first electrical connection layer covering at least a portion of a back of the semiconductor layer stack, and the layer of the second conductivity type electrically connects to a second electrical connection layer arranged at the back.

Compound semiconductor materials are of great importance for the production of, for example, light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Suitable layer sequences are grown on a substrate to produce such LEDs. The performance of such LEDs is influenced, inter alia, by the substrate material used. The substrate material may in particular exhibit significant differences with regard to coefficient of expansion and/or lattice parameters compared with the material of the layer sequence. Sapphire or silicon carbide is therefore conventionally used as the substrate material for epitaxial growth since this material has a lattice structure adapted to the lattice structure of the compound semiconductor materials. The disadvantage of these substrate materials is however inter alia their high price.
An example of a favorable substrate material frequently used in semiconductor technology is silicon. When growing in particular nitride compound semiconductor materials on, for example, silicon substrates, however, strains arise due to different lattice parameters of the materials involved which may lead to a reduction in the crystal quality of the layers grown.
It could therefore be helpful to provide a semiconductor chip which can be produced inexpensively and at the same time exhibits reduced strain within the different materials of the semiconductor chip. It could also be helpful to provide an inexpensive production method for such a semiconductor chip.


Potential client/small business data and specialist profile data for multiple, and in various embodiments, hundreds, thousands, tens of thousands, hundreds of thousands, millions, tens of millions, or even hundreds of millions or more, potential clients/small businesses and specialists are used to train one or more matching models in an offline training environment using machine learning techniques. Once the one or more matching models are trained, the one or more matching models are used in an execution environment to process a given user's data and available specialist data to identify one or more available specialists determined to be a good match for the user. The user is then provided specialist recommendation data listing the matched available specialists and, in some cases, the user is provided one or more communication mechanisms for connecting with matched available specialists selected by the user.

Finding the right specialists, such as bookkeepers, accountants, payroll experts, docketing specialists, paralegals, and the like can be a daunting task for many potential clients of these specialists. This situation has become even more problematic with the emergence of the Internet, service and specialist listings, review sites, and malicious or false reviews and ratings abundantly available through the Internet.
In an effort to get some assistance in finding a good specialist, many people turn to friends and colleagues for referrals. However, these referrals/recommendations are often based on the needs of, and services provided to, the referrer rather than the specific needs of the requesting party. In some cases, potential clients may search an online directory of specialists and/or ratings systems. However, while of some use, specialist directories and ratings systems are often limited to only those specialists that pay to be listed, or that are chosen based on criteria that may, or may not, be relevant. In addition, specialist directories and rating systems are typically of little or no use in helping the potential client identify what specialty is required and what qualifications within a specialty are needed, not to mention a complete lack of any indication of a professional or personal connection. Finally, as also noted above, thanks largely to the emergence of the Internet as the preferred platform for these specialist directories and rating systems, specialist directories and rating systems are often very susceptible to malicious or false reviews and ratings data, along with other forms of fraud.
However, as difficult as it can be to wade through the mass of information, and often misinformation, available through the Internet, finding the "right" specialist is often a critically important task. This is because finding the wrong specialist, or not using a specialist when one is needed, can result in bad decisions, violations of regulations and laws, and even civil and criminal liability. Consequently, despite the fact that currently finding the right specialist is a complicated and often painful and expensive task, it is a task that for most people must be addressed.
One specific illustrative example of an instance where it is particularly critical to find the right specialist is when the potential client is a small business or small business owner. It is particularly important that a small business owner find the right specialists due to the nature of running a business and the liabilities and responsibilities associated with conducting business. However, it can be very difficult for a small business owner to find the right specialist because, almost by definition, the small business owner is busy running the business and typically does not have large amounts of time to devote to the process. In addition, the small business owner may not know what "type" of specialist they need, e.g., a bookkeeper, a certified accountant, or a tax attorney, or even that they need a specialist at all. Further, even when the type of specialist needed is known, the small business owner may not know what sub-specialties and/or qualifications of the specialists will be of most use, e.g., a tax attorney specializing in state, local, sales, or federal tax. Finally, the small business owner must also find a specialist with whom the small business owner is likely to connect, at least on a professional level, if not on a personal level.
Given that, by definition, most small business owners have little or no knowledge of the specialty for which they are seeking the specialist, and even less knowledge of the various nuances of the specialists and their qualifications, small business owners are often left with, at best, guess work and word-of-mouth mechanisms for finding the "right" specialist. Given the lack of precision and limited range of these methods for choosing specialists, it is not surprising that many small business owners often settle for less than ideal specialists, or in some cases do not even know they have settled for less than ideal specialists. As a result, all too often, the small business owners end up wasting significant amounts of time trying out, and letting go of, multiple specialists. This, in turn, makes the small business less efficient and less competitive.
In addition, various aspects of operating a small business introduce additional complexity and issues that are often not related to the small business owner's core competency, or even well understood by the small business owner. For instance, government regulation often introduces complexity that can cause a corresponding increase on the operational demands and financial structures of businesses subject to such regulations. Small businesses in particular are often burdened by complex regulations that are designed to regulate large organizations. However, unlike the large organizations, the small businesses often lack the substantial employee staff required to implement regulatory compliance measures. As a result, businesses, and small businesses in particular, often need part time assistance from one or more specialist service providers, such as accountants, lawyers, bookkeepers, and human resources specialists that can take over these specialized tasks and thereby allow the small business owner to focus on the business of the business.
In addition, finding the right specialists is often critical to a small business owner because non-compliance with business related regulations, such as tax and public safety regulations, can result in significant fines or other penalties, including criminal charges. The cost of compliance with business related regulations typically represents a more significant burden to smaller organizations than to larger ones. In addition, the threat of financial, civil, and criminal penalties is often far more personal for the small business owner. However, by enlisting the services of the right specialist, typically on a part-time or contractor basis, a small business owner can reduce these fixed costs.
For these and many other reasons, it is critical for many people, i.e., potential clients, and particularly for small businesses, to connect with one or more specialists that are well matched to the person's/small business's needs, and with whom the person/small business owner is likely to connect.
Consequently, there is currently a significant need in the potential client and specialist community for a technical solution to the technical problem of identifying the specialist needs of a given potential client or small business and then connecting the potential client or small business with the right specialist for that potential client or small business in an efficient and effective way. In addition, as noted above, this technical problem has become even more problematic and urgent in light of the emergence of the Internet, service and specialist listings, review sites, and malicious or false reviews and ratings data readily and abundantly available through the Internet.

System and method for matching specialists and potential clients


Systems and methods are presented for assessing whether a print job is likely to result in print system clutching by actual or modeled processing of a portion of the print job according to assessed processing rate information and to the print rate of a print engine, and selectively refraining from printing the job based on the comparison of the processing rate information and the print rate.

Commercial printing systems generally include a digital front end (DFE) that processes incoming print jobs in the form of page description language (PDL) files to create the print-ready images, as well as a print engine that receives the images and prints the images onto paper or other printable media. Clutching can occur when print-ready images are not generated as fast as a print engine prints the images. In certain types of printing systems, such as web-fed printing systems in which a continuous spool of printable paper is fed into the print engine, clutching is undesirable, particularly for variable data or indefinite length transactional jobs, wherein unfused images can be placed on the paper web and recovery of a job may involve complicated steps of cutting out the defective printed area from the paper web. Clutching can be partially mitigated by buffering a fixed number of print-ready images prior to starting the print engine. However, this approach does not avoid clutching for indefinite length jobs, since the buffer can exhaust if the DFE processes the remaining images at a slower rate than the print rate. Alternatively, the entire incoming PDL job file can be processed and buffered prior to providing any images to the print engine, but this would require huge amounts of buffer memory for indefinite length jobs, such as printing hundreds of thousands of credit card statements, phone bills, etc. This approach also suffers from an indefinitely long time between provision of the PDL print job to the DFE and the time when the first image is actually printed. Thus, there remains a need for improved printing systems and methods by which the adverse effects of printing system clutching can be avoided or mitigated.

System and method for mitigating printer clutching


The method, which operates in a code division multiple access wireless communication system including a base site having a first and second antenna for receiving communication signals from a mobile unit and a base site receiver for demodulating the communications, includes receiving at a first antenna a first set of signals of the communication signals; processing, by a searcher, the first set of signals to produce an output indicative of a winning correlation energy and an associated pn-offset for at least one of the first set of signals; receiving at a second antenna a second set of signals of the communication signals; and using the output to coordinate demodulation of the at least one of the first set of signals of the communication signals, as a function of its pn-offset, while simultaneously processing, by the searcher, the second set of signals.

Communication systems that utilize coded communication signals are known in the art. One such system is a direct sequence code division multiple access (DS-CDMA) cellular communication system, such as set forth in the Telecommunications Industry Association Interim Standard 95A (TIA/EIA IS-95A) herein after referred to as IS-95A and incorporated herein by reference. In accordance with IS-95A, the coded communication signals used in the DS-CDMA system comprise signals that are transmitted in a common 1.25 MHz bandwidth to base sites of the system from communication units, such as mobile or portable radiotelephones, that are communicating in the coverage areas of the base sites. Each DS-CDMA signal includes, inter alia, a pseudorandom noise (PN) binary code associated with a particular base site and a PN sequence associated with a particular communication unit.
During a typical communication, a communication unit often travels within a coverage area of a base site that is supporting the communication. Such movement typically results in fading of the communication signal transmitted from the communication unit, henceforth referred to as a mobile unit, to the base site due to multipath propagation of the transmitted signal. As is known, multipath propagation results from the reflections of the transmitted signal off of nearby scatterers, such as buildings. These reflections produce replicas of the originally transmitted signal that arrive at the base site at various times depending on the effective propagation distances traveled by the replicas. The originally transmitted signal and multipath replicas are typically referred to as multipath signals of the originally transmitted signal.
To demodulate the transmissions from a particular mobile unit, a base site receiver must first identify the multipath signals associated with that mobile unit. This identification of a particular mobile unit's multipath signal(s), as well as their locations with reference to an offset in time (referred to as a pn-offset), is known in the art as an antenna, or signal, search.
In a sectorized antenna system, there are N sectors and M antennas for each of the sectors. For a typical demodulation process, the searching process is done within a single sector. The order of searching is typically set such that the antennas within a sector are searched serially. When multiple antennas are specified, the receiver may be directed to demodulate specific multipath signals only after all of the antennas have been searched. After all antennae have been searched, an interrupt, such as a sort.sub.-- done interrupt, may be generated and an array of eight data points, referred to as winning correlation energies, may be produced. It is these data points which are used to direct the receiver to demodulate specific multipath signals at specific pn-offset locations.
If a mobile unit is in a softer hand-off or sector-to-sector hand-off, N sectors may be involved, and a total of N.times.M antennas may be searched one after another during a complete searching process before the receiver begins the demodulation process. For example, if N=1, and M=2, then the normal traffic channel demodulation process has two antennas to be searched within one sector before a sort.sub.-- done interrupt is generated. In a two-way softer hand-off, the multipath demodulation process will have four antennas to be searched, two for each of the two sectors, prior to generating a sort.sub.-- done interrupt. Hence, receiver demodulation at the newly found signal path pn-offset, will typically not occur until sufficient time has elapsed to complete the serial search of all specified antennas.
Therefore, a need exists for a method for performing a signal search in a wireless communication system which significantly reduces the time interval from, receiving the communication signals at base site antennae, to demodulating the communication signals at the base site receiver.

Method for performing a signal search in a wireless communication system


A vehicle roof having at least one transparent section, a roof-attached support section and a roller blind assembly for selectively shading the transparent roof section at least partially. The blind assembly including at least one roller blind unit having a web to be wound up to form a reel and one lateral bearing unit on either side of a vertical longitudinal roof center plane. The reel disposed between two lateral bearing units and the roller blind assembly having a bearing shell on top of which the at least one roller blind unit is fastened via the lateral bearing units which is fixed to the at least one support section from below. Each bearing units has a bearing pedestal fixed to the bearing shell and a roller blind guide element displaceable as against the bearing pedestal in a pre-installation position and fixed to the roof-attached support section in an installation position.

A vehicle roof of this kind is known from document DE 10 2014 005 476 A1. Said vehicle roof comprises a roller blind assembly for shading a transparent roof section, said roller blind assembly including a bearing unit on each of its two sides, said bearing units being fixed to a roof frame from above which forms a bearing shell for the roller blind unit. The roof frame, in turn, is fixed to a roof-attached support section of the vehicle in question. The roof frame is installed at the vehicle in question or at the vehicle roof in question together with the roller blind assembly. The roller blind assembly thus has to be pre-installed in its entirety before the roof frame is connected to a body shell of a vehicle. Since the installation space would then no longer be accessible, the roller blind assembly cannot be mounted after installation of the roof on the body shell.

Vehicle roof, comprising a roller blind assembly having bearing units for a roller blind web


Electrical device designed to operate in an alternative operating mode in which the electrical device accesses a mobile telephony network (2), the electrical device having a central processing component (3) designed to manage the operation of the electrical device, a reception device (15) for receiving a SIM card (16), a presence detector (17) for detecting the presence of the SIM card, and a communication module (6) dedicated to communications with the mobile telephony network and linked to the reception device (15), the electrical device being characterized in that the central processing component (3) comprises a detection input (22) linked to the presence detector (17), such that the central processing component (3) is designed to determine whether or not the SIM card (16) is positioned in the reception device (15) without activating the communication module (6).

A mobile telephone very conventionally receives a SIM (for Subscriber Identity Module) card intended to identify the user of the mobile telephone in a mobile telephony network. The mobile telephone thus adapts its usage to the conditions to which the user subscribes with the operator in charge of the mobile telephony network. The mobile telephone is intended to access the mobile telephony network when it is in a nominal operating mode.
Some electrical devices are intended to access a mobile telephony network not when they are operating in a nominal operating mode but only when they are operating in an alternative operating mode that is different from the nominal operating mode.
Home gateways that are equipped with a dual WAN/xDSL (WAN for worldwide area network and DSL for digital subscriber line) and 4G communication interface are thus known. In some of these home gateways, the communication functionality with the 4G mobile telephony network is used intermittently and temporarily to compensate for a failure of the xDSL network. The mobile telephony network is then used so as to allow the home gateway to access the Internet through the data link supported by the mobile telephony network.
Such a home gateway therefore operates in a nominal operating mode in which the home gateway accesses the xDSL network and does not access the mobile telephony network, and in an alternative or backup operating mode in which the home gateway accesses the mobile telephony network.
This home gateway conventionally has a central processor that manages the operation of the home gateway, a communication module dedicated to communications with the mobile telephony network and, of course, a reception device for receiving a SIM card and a presence detector for detecting the presence of the SIM card in the reception device. The central processor in particular activates and deactivates the communication module when necessary.

Electrical device that accesses a mobile telephony network in an alternative operating mode


A current and voltage detector for a distribution system is provided with a lower section, an upper section and a fastener for combining the lower and upper sections into one body. The lower section comprises: a first groove for receiving an electric wire of the distribution system; an optical type current sensor; an optical type voltage sensor; and a potential divider for supplying a voltage to the voltage sensor. The upper section comprises: a second groove for receiving the electric wire; and a U-shaped magnetic core for applying a magnetic field to the current sensor.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a current and/or voltage detector for a distribution system, and, more particularly to a current and/or voltage detector for an aerial distribution line.
2. Description of the Prior Art
In the modern world where even an instantaneous power failure is not allowed, it is required to always monitor the conditions of power transmission and distribution lines. It is well known in the art that the detection of various currents such as a zero-sequence current flowing through a transmission or distribution line is very useful in monitoring the condition of the line. Also, voltages of various parts of the line are beneficial in the monitoring. In order to detect such a current and/or voltage, a distribution line is provided with many detectors. An example of such detectors is a zero-sequence current transformer (hereinafter, referred to as "ZCT") which is installed in a aerial distribution line.
A ZCT used in a three-phase transmission line comprises a ring type core through which all the three wires pass. When a ZCT is installed in an aerial three-phase distribution line, the ZCT is generally disposed in a pole line switch having a relay so that an unbalance in the currents or voltages of each phases can be detected. A conventional line switch is shown in FIG. 7, wherein a three-phase line 71a is connected through a line switch 72 and tension insulators 73 mounted on a pole 74 to another three-phase line 71b. A ZCT and relay (which are not shown) are incorporated in the line switch 72. If a fault occurs in the line 71a or 71b, the ZCT detects the zero-sequence current to actuate the relay, thereby actuating the switch 72 to interrupt the connection between the lines 71a and 71b.
In this configuration of the ZCT, however, the three wires to which the phase voltage is applied are gathered in the window of the ZCT, resulting in that it is very difficult to insulate the wires from each other. Further, the insulation between the three wires deteriorates in the course of service or depending upon the degree of air tightness of the line switch 72, causing an inferior reliability of the ZCT or a serious fault such as a shortcircuit between the lines. This may be supported by the fact that a relatively large number of accidents have been caused in the vicinity of a ZCT. In order to prevent a fault of this kind from arising, it is required to periodically replace the wires in a line switch with new ones.

Current and/or voltage detector for a distribution system

Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.


Systems and methods are described for reducing latency and improving beacon reception by a device capable of providing multiple wireless interfaces via a single radio (a “multi-interface device”). The multi-interface device utilizes the single radio to communicate with a first device over a first wireless channel and to communicate with a second device over a second wireless channel. The multi-interface device determines that a difference in time between a transmission of a first beacon by the first device over the first wireless channel and a transmission of a second beacon by the second device over the second wireless channel is less than a predetermined amount of time. In response to determining that the difference in time is less than the predetermined amount of time, the multi-interface device sends a request to either the first or the second device to shift the transmission of future beacons by a requested offset time.

1. Technical Field
The present invention generally relates to wireless communication between devices. In particular, the present invention relates to techniques for reducing latency and improving beacon reception in devices, such as wireless local area network (WLAN) devices, that are capable of providing multiple wireless interfaces via a single radio.
2. Background Art
Wireless communication is increasingly becoming the dominant method of interconnecting devices at home, in work environments, and elsewhere. In accordance with a traditional Wi-Fi (i.e., 802.11b/g/n/e/ac standard) WLAN architecture, at least one access point (AP) acts as a central hub that connects Internet service providers and local devices such as laptop computers, tablets, phones, printers, music devices, and televisions. In a traditional WLAN architecture, each local device wirelessly communicates with only one AP at a given time, and each AP may wirelessly communicate with several local devices in turn.
As the popularity of including Wi-Fi interfaces in consumer electronic devices has increased, newer WLAN architectures have emerged that enable local devices to stream media directly to other local devices in a peer-to-peer (P2P) fashion. Communicating in a P2P manner can enable, for example, a consumer to stream audio content being downloaded from an Internet music service onto his handheld device (e.g., a mobile phone or tablet) to a speaker in his home. As another example, communicating in a P2P manner can enable a consumer to stream a movie being downloaded from an Internet movie service onto his handheld device to a television in his home. Examples of P2P Wi-Fi communication are described in the Wi-Fi Direct P2P and Miracast protocol standards.
A P2P WLAN may include an AP, a device having multiple wireless interfaces (a "multi-interface device"), and a P2P device. The multi-interface device concurrently communicates with the AP via a first wireless interface and with the P2P device via a second wireless interface. In accordance with the example use cases discussed above, the multi-interface device may comprise a handheld device such as a mobile phone or tablet and the P2P device may comprise a speaker or television, although these examples are not intended to be limiting. Because many wireless devices, especially handheld devices, are power constrained, it is often impractical for them to include more than one radio to communicate with other wireless devices. To address this issue, some multi-interface devices utilize software intelligence to implement two wireless interfaces simultaneously using a single radio. This mode of operation is sometimes referred to as a concurrent mode of operation. In this mode of operation, the two wireless interfaces can operate on the same channel or a different channel. If the interfaces are operating on the same channel, this may be referred to as concurrent same channel operation. If the interfaces are operating on different channels, this may be referred to as VSDB (Virtual Simultaneous Dual Band) or VSDC (Virtual Simultaneous Dual Channel) operation.
In accordance with VSDB or VSDC operation, software intelligence in the multi-interface device utilizes time division multiplexing (TDM) to periodically switch between the two wireless interfaces so as to effectively receive beacon frames (or simply "beacons") that are periodically sent from two different wireless devices (e.g., an AP and a P2P device). However, there is an overhead associated with switching between channels/bands in this manner. This overhead includes, for example, the time associated with resetting the radio for a particular wireless interface. Consequently, if the beacons being transmitted by the two different wireless devices are too close together in time, it becomes practically impossible to switch from one wireless interface to the other in time quickly enough to avoid missing beacons.
Some software mechanisms exist that address this problem by alternating between the two wireless interfaces such that during a first time period, beacons will be received by the first wireless interface while beacons are missed by the second wireless interface, and then during a second time period, beacons will be received by the second wireless interface while beacons are missed by the first wireless interface. However, this approach introduces latencies which are unacceptable for applications such as screen sharing and Wi-Fi display.

Systems and methods for reduced latency and improved beacon reception in devices capable of providing multiple wireless interfaces via a single radio


A system for controlling a branch history table in a data processing apparatus which has a memory for storing a branch instruction address and a branch destination address corresponding to the branch instruction in a one-to-one correspondence as the branch history table and which employs a virtual storage scheme includes a first register, a second register, a comparator, and a controller. The first register stores the branch instruction address including a virtual space number. The second register stores the branch destination address including the branch virtual space number. The comparator compares the virtual space numbers stored in the first and second registers. The controller enables storage of the branch history table in the memory when a coincidence is established as a result of comparison.

The present invention relates to a system having a branch history table to control a storage state of a branch history table in a data processing apparatus having a virtual storage scheme.
A conventional data processing apparatus using a branch history table is disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 50-22384. Various types of existing data processing apparatuses employ branch history tables.
Some conventional data processing apparatuses employing a virtual storage scheme and a virtual address 3, as shown in FIG. 2, consist of a virtual space number 1 and a relative virtual address 2. Upper bits of the virtual address 3 are assigned to the virtual space number 1, and lower bits are assigned to the relative virtual address 2. An address of a branch instruction corresponding to the virtual address 3 and a branch destination address corresponding to the branch instruction address are stored in a branch history table.
If virtual space numbers included in the branch instruction address and the branch destination address are different from each other, the corresponding address virtual spaces are different from each other. When a virtual space previously present during OS processing disappears, the branch instruction cannot be executed due to the absence of the address virtual spaces even if the address present in the branch history table is operated, thus causing an overhead problem.

System for controlling branch history table


A table may include a table top, a frame and one or more legs that may be movable between extended and collapsed positions relative to the table top. Advantageously, the table top may include a generally planar upper surface and a generally planar lower surface. The lower surface of the table top, however, may include a first lip disposed proximate a first end of the table top and a second lip disposed proximate a second end of the table top. The lower surface may also include mounting members that are sized and configured to allow a frame to be connected to the table top. Desirably, the mounting members allow side rails of a frame to be attached to the table top and at least a portion of the side rails are disposed between the first and second lips. This may allow at least a portion of the frame to be exposed and visible when the table is being used.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention generally relates to furniture and, in particular, to tables.
2. Description of Related Art
Conventional tables are used for a variety of purposes and come in a wide array of designs. Conventional tables often include table tops that are constructed from materials such as wood, particle board or metal. Table tops constructed from wood, particle board or metal, however, are often relatively heavy and this may make the table awkward or difficult to move. Table tops constructed from wood or metal are also relatively expensive and these types of table tops must generally be treated or finished before use. For example, table tops constructed from wood must generally be sanded and painted, and metal table tops must be formed into the desired shape and painted. In addition, these relatively heavy table tops may increase the cost of shipping, transportation and/or storage of the tables.
In order to decrease the weight of conventional tables, it is known that table tops can be constructed from relatively light-weight materials such as plastic. Disadvantageously, these light-weight table tops frequently require reinforcing members or other structural parts such as braces, brackets, support members and the like to strengthen the table top. While these additional parts may increase the strength of the table top, the additional parts may also increase the weight of the table. In addition, these additional parts may increase manufacturing costs and require additional time to assemble the table. For example, additional fasteners may be required to connect these additional parts to the table, which may require extra time and labor during the manufacturing process. The additional parts and fasteners may also increase the cost of the table and make the table more difficult to manufacture. Furthermore, these additional parts may have sharp edges that can injure the user's legs, arms or other body parts.
Conventional tables often include legs that are sized and configured to support the table top about a surface, such as the floor or ground, and a frame that is connected to the table top. The frame may include a pair of side rails that are connected to the sides of the table top using fasteners. It is also known to connect the side rails of the frame to an outer peripheral lip of the table top. In particular, it is known to use fasteners to attach the frame to the lip by inserting fasteners through the side rails and into the lip.
Unfortunately, when excessive forces or loads are applied to such tables, the fasteners may allow the frame to detach or separate from the table top. In addition, if the table top is constructed from plastic, the fasteners can damage and even tear through the table top if the load or force exceeds a certain amount. Moreover, the side rails and frames of some conventional tables may have lower strength and/or structural integrity, which may allow the table to undesirably break or collapse.


A method is provided of processing multi-component seismic data acquired by emitting multi-component seismic energy at a source location and acquiring seismic data at a multi-component seismic receiver located at a greater depth than the source location. The seismic data are decomposed into up-going constituents and down-going constituents. A de-signature and de-multiple operator is calculated from the down-going constituents of the seismic data and from properties of the medium surrounding the receiver.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a method of processing seismic data, in particular multicomponent seismic data, to remove unwanted events from the acquired data. It also relates to an apparatus for processing seismic data. It also relates to a method of and an apparatus for calculating a de-signature and de-multiple operator or a de-signature operator.
2. The Related Art
FIG. 1(a) is a schematic illustration of the principles of a seismic survey. This seismic survey is intended to provide information about a target geological reflector 3 disposed within the earth's interior.
The seismic survey shown in FIG. 1 includes a seismic source 4 disposed on the earth's surface 1. A seismic sensor 5, referred to hereinafter as a "receiver", is also disposed on the earth's surface, at a distance from the seismic source 4. In use, the seismic source 4 is caused to actuate a pulse of seismic energy, and emitted seismic energy is detected by the receiver 5.
FIG. 1(a) illustrates a land-based seismic survey. However, seismic surveying of this general type is not restricted to land, and may be carried out in a marine environment or in the land-sea transition zone. For example, marine seismic surveying arrangements are known in which one or more seismic sources are towed by a survey vessel; in such an arrangement, the receivers may be disposed on the sea-bed (a so-called "ocean bottom cable" survey or OBC survey), or the receivers may also be towed by a survey vessel. Furthermore, a land-based seismic survey is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 1(a), and it is possible for the seismic source or the seismic receiver to be disposed within the earth's surface. For example, in a vertical seismic profile (VSP) seismic survey a seismic source is placed on the earth's surface and a receiver is disposed within the earth's interior in a bore hole. In a reverse VSP survey a seismic source is disposed within a bore hole, and a receiver is disposed on the earth's surface.
Only one seismic source 4 and one seismic receiver 5 are shown in FIG. 1(a) for ease of explanation but, in general, a practical seismic survey will contain an array of sources and an array of receivers.
One problem that arises in seismic surveying is that seismic energy may travel from the source to the receiver along many paths. One reason for this is that many other reflectors exist within the earth in addition to the target reflector. In FIG. 1(a) this is illustrated schematically by a reflector 2 that overlies the target reflector 3. These additional reflectors generate paths of seismic energy from the source to the receiver that involve a reflection at a reflector other than the target reflector. Another reason for the existence of multiple paths of seismic energy is that seismic energy that is propagating upwardly within the earth will undergo reflection at the earth's surface 1, owing to the different seismic properties of the earth and the air. This leads to the existence of paths of seismic energy from the source to the receiver that involve more than a single reflection at the target reflector. These paths give rise to unwanted events in seismic data acquired at the receiver. An event in acquired seismic data that relates to seismic energy that has undergone multiple reflections will hereinafter be referred to a "multiple event".
FIG. 1(a) illustrates the primary path of seismic energy for this surveying arrangement, in which the path of seismic energy from the source 4 to the receiver 5 involves only a single reflection, at the target reflector 3. (Refraction at the overlying reflector 2 has been omitted from FIG. 1(a) for clarity.) Although seismic energy propagating along the primary path passes through the overlying reflector 2 on its downwards path from the source 4 to the target reflector 3, and again on its upwards path from the target reflector 3 to the receiver 5, the primary path does not involve reflection at the overlying reflector 2. In an ideal seismic survey, only seismic energy that travelled along the primary path would be detected by the receiver 5.
In a practical seismic survey, the receiver 5 will detect seismic energy that has travelled from the source 4 along many paths other than the primary path. Examples of these other paths of seismic energy are shown in FIG. 1(b) to 1(d). FIGS. 1(b) to 1(d) illustrate paths of seismic energy that involve more than one reflection, and these are known as "multiple events". In FIG. 1(b) downwardly propagating seismic energy from the source 4 is reflected by the overlying reflector 2 so that it travels upwards to the earth's surface 1. The seismic energy is further reflected downwards at the earth's surface, and is then incident on the target reflector. An event of this general type is known as a "source-leg multiple", since the additional reflections occur in the path of seismic energy from the source to the target reflector.
FIG. 1(c) illustrates a seismic energy path in which the seismic energy travels direct from the source to the target reflector 3, and is reflected upwards at the target reflector 3. However, the reflected seismic energy is not incident direct on the receiver, but is reflected downwards at the earth's surface, and is then reflected upwards at the overlying reflector 2 before reaching the receiver. A seismic path of this type is known as a "receiver-leg multiple", since the additional reflections occur on the path of seismic energy from the target reflector to the receiver.
FIG. 1(d) illustrates a seismic path in which seismic energy from the source is incident on the target reflector 3, is reflected upwards to the earth's surface, is reflected downwardly and undergoes a further reflection at the target reflector 3 before reaching the receiver. In this seismic energy path, the additional paths occur between the path of seismic energy from the source to the target reflector and the path of energy from the target reflector to the receiver.
The seismic energy acquired at the receiver in a practical seismic survey will include events corresponding to the desired primary path 1(a), but will also contain events relating to unwanted multiple paths such as the paths shown in FIGS. 1(b) to 1(d). In order to provide accurate information about the target reflector it is desirable to be able to identify and remove multiple events from the seismic energy acquired at the receiver.
The seismic sources used in a land-based survey are normally vibrated or explosive sources. If vibrators are used it is possible to perform a multi-component survey, using a multi-component vibrator that produces three orthogonal source motions (two in orthogonal horizontal directions and one in the vertical direction). If a seismic receiver is used that can record particle motion in three orthogonal directions, then it is possible to perform a 3C×3C (or 9C) seismic survey. A suitable receiver for this is one that can measure three orthogonal components of the particle motion at the receiver, for example a receiver that contains three orthogonal geophones—two geophones for measuring two orthogonal horizontal components of the particle motion at the receiver, and a third geophone for measuring the vertical component of the particle motion at the receiver.
A further problem in analysing the results of a seismic survey is that multi-component vibrators, which operate by imposing tractions on the earth's surface, emit three distinct wave types, known as P-, Sv- and Sh-waves (P-waves are pressure waves, and Sv and Sh waves are shear waves). The relative amplitudes of these different wave-types in seismic energy emitted by a multi-component vibrator vary depending on the direction of propagation of the seismic energy. A multi-component receiver records the three wave types, with a sensitivity that depends on the angle of incidence of the received seismic energy. When a geophone measures a component of the wavefield at the earth's surface, both P-waves and the two-types of S-waves are recorded without distinction.
This is illustrated schematically in FIG. 4(a). FIG. 4(a) shows a land-based seismic survey in which a three-component seismic source 4—in this case a multi-component vibrator—and a three-component seismic receiver 5 are disposed on the earth's surface. As indicated in FIG. 4(a), the seismic source 4 emits both P waves and S waves (only one S-wave type is shown for clarity), and the receiver 5 detects both P-waves and S-waves. The four views in FIG. 4(a) show, from left to right:                (i) Seismic energy generated by a horizontal source motion at the vibrator 4, and being received by a horizontally-oriented geophone at the receiver 5;        (ii) Seismic energy being generated by a horizontal source motion at the vibrator 4, and being detected by a vertically-oriented geophone at the receiver 5;        (iii) Seismic energy being generated by a vertical source motion at the vibrator 4 and being detected by a horizontally-oriented geophone at the receiver 5; and        (iv) Seismic energy being generated by a vertical source motion at the vibrator 4 and being detected by a vertically-oriented geophone at the receiver 5.
FIG. 4(a) illustrates only one horizontal component and one vertical component of the source motion at the vibrator 4 and one horizontal geophone component and one vertical geophone component at the receiver 5. As noted above, in a full multi-component survey the vibrator 4 will further generate seismic energy by a source motion out of the plane of the paper, and the receiver will further comprise a third geophone that detects the particle motion along a line out of the plane of the paper. In total, thus, there are 9 combinations produced by the three orthogonal source motions generated at the source and the three orthogonal geophones at the receiver.
As noted above, many seismic receivers record P- and S-waves without distinction, so that a seismic trace acquired at the receiver will includes events due to received P-waves and events due to received S-waves. In many cases it is desirable to separate the P-events in a seismic trace from the S-events, since this provides additional information about the earth's interior. In many cases, a geological structure will have a different effect on P-waves than on S-waves. The process of separating the P-events in a seismic trace from the S-events is generally referred to as decomposing the seismic trace into its P- and S-components.
There are a number of prior art approaches to decomposing seismic energy acquired at a receiver into P-components and S-components. There are also a number of prior approaches to eliminating the effect of multiple reflections from the acquired seismic data.
For land-seismic data, C. P. A. Wapenaar et al, in "Decomposition of multicomponent seismic data into primary P- and S-wave responses", Geophys. Prosp. Vol. 38, pp 633-661 (1990) and P. Herrmann, in "Decomposition of multicomponent measurements into P- and S-waves", Ph.D. thesis, Delft University of Technology (1992) have given an elastic decomposition scheme which decomposes data both at the receiver side (common shot gather) and at the source side (common receiver gather). The wave field decomposition applied to a common source gather along the receiver line replaces the original particle velocity detectors by pure P- and S- wave detectors. The wave field decomposition applied to a common receiver gather similarly replaces the original vibrator sources by pure P- and S-wave sources. Thus, the total decomposition scheme provides 9 different data sets: P, Sv and Sh processed gathers from simulated P, Sv and Sh sources.
After the wave field decomposition, Wapenaar et al (1990, supra) apply an inverse scheme that eliminates the response of the earth's surface from the decomposed results. In this technique, the earth's surface is assumed to be an interface between a solid and a vacuum. Eliminating the response of the earth's surface eliminates all multiple paths that involve reflection at the earth's surface from the decomposed data, so giving the primary P- and S-wave responses of the earth's interior.
This prior technique requires that the seismic sources are point sources and have a known wavelet or have a wavelet that can be estimated from the acquired data. The above prior art technique has been generalised by E. Holvik and L. Amundsen, in "decomposition of multi component sea floor data into primary PP, PS, SP, and SS wave responses", Expanded Abstracts of 68th Annual Int Mtg of Society of Exploration Geophysicists, pp 2040-2043 (1998), to the case of a marine seismic survey in which ideal vibrators (traction sources) and geophones are deployed at the sea floor. This technique relates to decomposing the acquired data, and removing events arising to reflections within the water layer.
A further prior art technique has been developed by K. Matson and A. Weglein, in "Removing of elastic interface multiples from land and ocean bottom seismic data using inverse scattering" in Expanded Abstracts of 66th Annual Int Mtg of Society of Acceleration of Geophysicists, pp 1526-1529 (1996), and by K. Matson in "An inverse scattering series method for attenuating elastic multiples from multicomponent land and ocean bottom seismic data", Ph.D. thesis, University of British Columbia (1997). In this technique, inverse scattering series are used to develop elastic schemes that attenuate multiple reflections from multi-component land or ocean bottom seismic data.
The techniques developed by Holvik and Amundsen and by Matson and Weglein again require that the seismic sources must be point sources with a wavelet that is known or that can be estimated from the acquired data.
L. Amundsen has proposed, in "Geophysics" Vol 66 pp 327-341 (2001), a method of eliminating free-surface multiples from marine seismic data acquired using a multicomponent seismic receiver disposed in the water column or on the sea-bed. However, this method does not remove the effects of multiple reflections associated with the sea-bed.

Method of and an apparatus for processing seismic data