A circuit for deterministic unparking of a strand of a microprocessor having multiple clock domains is described. The circuit includes a first flip-flop and a second flip-flop. Each flip-flop has a data input connected to receive a respective unpark signal, a clock signal at respective clock frequencies, and a respective enable signal. Each enable signal is generated by a respective logic block, each including a counter and each operating at a respective one of the clock frequencies. The second flip-flop has a data input connected to an output of the first flip-flop, and outputs an unpark signal that is used to unpark a strand of the microprocessor in a deterministic manner.

Testing of physical microprocessors generally involves loading a known state into the processor, e.g., through the use of internal scan chains, running the processor for a predetermined number of cycles, and then downloading the state for comparison with a state predicted by software simulation of the processor. If the actual state matches the predicted state, then the microprocessor has passed the particular test.
In modern high performance microprocessors, there is often one clock controlling internal operations and a second clock controlling interface logic with external components such as communications buses. Since two clock sources control each signal, the state of the processor as a whole cannot always be predicted with absolute certainty. This makes it very difficult to accurately determine whether a particular processor chip functions as intended.
A strand is an execution pipeline within a microprocessor core. Some processors have only one strand per core, while others may have multiple strands per core. Having multiple strands per core provides faster context switching and improved performance. When the execution engine switches from one process to another process, it may change contexts from one execution pipeline to another. When a microprocessor boots up, it is necessary that each strand be "unparked" prior to the start of execution. A "strand unpark" signal is therefore sent to the processing core. In certain multi-strand processors, the CPU is booted upon receipt of a signal from an input pin. This resulted in indeterministic behavior due to multiple clocks. For reliable testing, it is important that the strand be unparked in a deterministic manner with respect to multiple clock signals. Some mechanism is therefore needed to resolve the indeterminism in booting and testing a chip having multiple clock domains.


A phase correction apparatus comprising a storing means configured to store a phase correction value associated with each of a plurality of transmission antennas in which the phase correction value is calculated according to an electrical length of a signal path extending from a signal generator generating a transmission signal to the transmission antenna, and correction means configured to correct a phase of the transmission signal to be supplied from the signal generator to each transmission antenna according to the phase correction value for the transmission antenna stored in the storing means.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a phase correction apparatus, a DVOR (Doppler VHF omnidirectional radio range) apparatus, and a phase correction method for radio navigation.
2. Description of the Related Art
An example of a DVOR apparatus for providing aircraft with directional information is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,484,196. The DVOR apparatus of the related art arranges, as shown in FIG. 5, a central carrier antenna A and forty-eight sideband antennas B1 to B48 along a circle having a diameter of about 13.5 m (a radius R of about 6.7 m in FIG. 5) around the carrier antenna A.
The carrier antenna A radiates a reference phase signal in all directions. The reference phase signal is an AM wave formed by amplitude-modulating at 30 Hz a carrier of 108 to 118 MHz. The sideband antennas B1 to B48 arranged along the circle are sequentially activated at regular intervals of, for example, 30 times a second, so that the sideband antennas B1 to B48 successively emit subcarriers whose frequency is higher than that of the carrier by, for example, 9960 Hz. A distance between the sideband antenna emitting a subcarrier and an optional spatial point periodically changes with time, and therefore, the subcarriers received at the optional spatial point periodically change the frequency thereof due to Doppler effect, to form an FM wave of 30 Hz. The phase of this FM wave is dependent on an orientation with respect to a DVOR station where the DVOR apparatus is present. Namely, the sideband antennas B1 to B48 radiate the FM wave superposed by a variable phase signal.
The reference phase signal and variable phase signal are adjusted so that their phases agree with each other on magnetic north, i.e., at zero degrees. An aircraft receives these two signals, detects a phase difference between the AM wave and the FM wave both modulated at the same frequency of 30 Hz, and finds a present orientation of the aircraft.
FIG. 1 shows a sideband transmission system of the DVOR apparatus according to the related art. In FIG. 1, a sideband transmitter 101 generates a half-sine wave signal, supplies the signal to a distributor 3, and controls the switching of the distributor 3 so that the half-sine wave signal is successively supplied to odd-numbered sideband antennas B1, B3, . . . , and B47. A sideband transmitter 102 generates a half-cosine wave signal, supplies the signal to the distributor 3, and controls the switching of the distributor 3 so that the half-cosine wave signal is successively supplied to even-numbered sideband antennas B2, B4, . . . , and B48. The sideband antennas B1 to B48 are connected through antenna cables C1 to C48, respectively, to the distributor 3.
FIG. 2 is a timing chart showing the timing of switching the sideband antennas. As indicated with waveforms (a) to (e) in FIG. 2, each of the 48 sideband antennas receives a signal for 1/720 seconds, i.e., the signals are supplied 30 times a second.
Waveforms (e.g. (a), (c), (e)) provided by the odd-numbered sideband antennas must be continuous between two adjacent ones. Also, waveforms (e.g. (b), (d)) provided by the even-numbered sideband antennas must be continuous between two adjacent ones. If waveforms are discontinuous between adjacent odd- or even-numbered antennas, an aircraft is unable to correctly detect a phase difference between the AM wave from the carrier antenna A and the FM wave from the sideband antennas B1 to B48, and therefore, is unable to find a correct orientation.
To avoid the problem, the DVOR apparatus according to the related art precisely equalizes the lengths of the antenna cables C1 to C48 with one another, to align the phases of radio waves provided by the sideband antennas B1 to B48.
However, to align the phases of radio waves provided by the sideband antennas, the 48 antenna cables C1 to C48 of the DVOR apparatus must precisely be processed into identical electrical lengths. This process needs a long time and skill. Even with the identical electrical lengths, the related art is still vulnerable to phase shifts that may occur due to the aging of the antenna cables after installing the DVOR apparatus at a site.

Phase correction apparatus, DVOR apparatus, and phase correction method


There is provided a technique for improving quality of images obtained with an MRI apparatus by using the geometric structures of the conventional RF transmission coil and RF reception coil and without increasing burden on patients or MRI technicians. A conductor loop of an RF reception coil disposed between a subject and an RF transmission coil is used also as a loop for magnetic field adjustment in order to shield or enhance a rotating magnetic field B1 generated by the RF transmission coil. Further, the conductor loop operated as a conductor loop for magnetic field adjustment among the conductor loops constituting the RF reception coil is driven so that inhomogeneity of the rotating magnetic field B1 is reduced.

MRI apparatuses are medical diagnostic imaging apparatuses that induce a nuclear magnetic resonance phenomenon in atomic nuclei in an arbitrary cross-section of a subject, and obtain a tomographic image of the section from generated magnetic resonance signals. The apparatuses transmit a radio frequency wave (henceforth referred to as radio frequency wave or RF), which is a kind of electromagnetic wave, to a subject to excite nuclear spins in the subject, then receive magnetic resonance signals generated by the nuclear spins, and construct images of the subject. The transmission is performed with an RF transmission coil, and the reception is performed with an RF reception coil.
In recent years, in order to improve SNR (signal to noise ratio) of images, static magnetic field intensity used in MRI apparatuses has tended to increase, and high magnetic field MRI apparatuses using a static magnetic field intensity of about 3 T (tesla) (3T MRI apparatuses) have begun to spread. However, use of higher static magnetic field intensity more easily invites unevenness of obtained images. This is because a higher frequency of RF is used for inducing the magnetic resonance phenomenon with use of higher magnetic field intensity. In 3T MRI apparatuses, RF having a frequency of 128 MHz is used. The wavelength of this RF in living bodies is about 30 cm, which is in substantially the same scale as a section of the abdominal part, and thus phase of RF changes in the living bodies. Therefore, irradiated RF distribution and spatial distribution of a rotating magnetic field (henceforth referred to as B1) that is generated by the RF and induces the magnetic resonance phenomenon become inhomogeneous, and unevenness of the image is generated. Under such a current circumstance, there is desired a technique for reducing inhomogeneity in distribution of the rotating magnetic field B1 at the time of the RF irradiation performed in high magnetic field MRI apparatuses, in order to improve image quality.
As a method for reducing the inhomogeneity of B1 distribution, use of a "dielectric pad" has been proposed (refer to, for example, Non-patent document 1). That is, a pad having a certain dielectric constant is placed on an imaging part, such as the abdominal part, to change the B1 distribution in the abdominal part and thereby attain an effect of shifting position of a part of low B1 intensity.
Research has also been done on putting a coupling coil on the abdominal part (refer to Patent document 1 and Non-patent document 2). That is, by placing a coupling coil near a part of low B1 intensity in a section of the abdominal part, an effect of increasing the B1 intensity is obtained.

RF reception coil and magnetic resonance imaging apparatus using same


An analyte test sensor for use in measuring the concentration of a particular analyte in a test sample includes a non-conductive substrate, a reference electrode deposited on the substrate, a working electrode deposited on the substrate and a compensation electrode deposited on the substrate. The compensation electrode is provided with a resistive ladder and is designed to correct for test result inaccuracies which are the result of variances in the manufacturing of the test sensor. Specifically, in one embodiment, the compensation electrode corrects for test result inaccuracies in an analog manner by shunting a portion of the working current away from working electrode. In another embodiment, the compensation electrode corrects for test result inaccuracies in a digital manner by providing a calibration code which is proportional its resistance value. A batch of analyte test sensors are preferably manufactured in the following manner. An initial batch of the test sensors is constructed. Then, a limited sampling of the sensors is tested for accuracy using a control sample. Based on the test results, the resistance value of the compensation electrode for each remaining sensor in the batch is adjusted accordingly.

The present invention relates generally to test sensors and more particularly to electrochemical test sensors.
There are many medical conditions which require frequent measurement of the concentration of a particular analyte in the blood of a patient. For example, diabetes is a disease which typically requires a patient to routinely measure the concentration of glucose in his/her blood. Based upon the results of each blood glucose measurement, the patient may then require a particular drug treatment (e.g., an injection of insulin) in order to regulate that the blood glucose level of the patient remains within a specified range. Exceeding the upper limit of said range (hyperglycemia) or dropping beneath the lower limit of said range (hypoglycemia) should be avoided with as much diligence as possible to prevent the patient from experiencing serious medical complications which include, inter alia, retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy.
A multi-step process is commonly practiced by diabetes patients to self-monitor the level of glucose present in their blood.
In the first step of said process, a patient is required to provide a blood sample suitable for testing. Blood samples taken from a patient for blood sugar monitoring are typically obtained by piercing the skin of the patient using a lancing device. A lancing device typically includes a body and a lancet. The body is typically adapted to be held by the user, the lancet being coupled to the body and being adapted to penetrate through the epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin) of the patient and into the dermis (the layer of skin directly beneath the epidermis) which is replete with capillary beds. The puncture of one or more capillaries by the lancet generates a sample of blood which exits through the incision in the patient's skin.
In some lancing devices, the lancet extends from the body at all times. In other lancing devices, the lancet is adapted to be moved, when actuated, from a retracted position in which the lancet tip is disposed within the body to an extended position in which the lancet tip extends beyond the body. Typically, the movement of the lancet from its retracted position to its extended position is effected with such force that contact of the moving lancet tip with the skin of a patient results in the piercing of the skin of the patient. In many such lancing devices having a movable lancet, the lancet is automatically drawn back into the body after reaching its extended position (e.g., using a spring) in order to minimize the risk of inadvertent lancet sticks.
In the second step of said process, a blood glucose monitoring system is utilized to measure the concentration of glucose in the blood sample. One type of glucose monitoring system which is well known and widely used in the art includes a blood glucose meter (also commonly referred to a blood glucose monitor) and a plurality of individual, disposable, electrochemical test sensors which can be removably loaded into the meter. Examples of blood glucose monitoring systems of this type are manufactured and sold by Abbott Laboratories of Abbott Park, Ill. under the PRECISION line of blood glucose monitoring systems.
Each individual electrochemical test sensor (also commonly referred to as an electrochemical test strip) typically includes a substrate which is formed as a thin, rectangular strip of non-conductive material, such as plastic. A plurality of carbon-layer electrodes are deposited (e.g., screen printed) on the substrate along a portion of its length in a spaced apart relationship, one electrode serving as the reference electrode for the test sensor and another electrode serving as the working electrode for the test sensor. All of the conductive electrodes terminate at their first ends to form a reaction area for the test sensor. In the reaction area, an enzyme is applied onto the first end of the working electrode. When exposed to the enzyme, glucose present in a blood sample undergoes a chemical reaction which produces a measurable electrical response (i.e., a current). The second ends of the electrodes are disposed to electrically contact associated conductors located in the blood glucose monitor, as will be described further below.
A blood glucose monitor is typically modular and portable in construction to facilitate its frequent handling by the patient. A blood glucose monitor often comprises a multi-function test port which is adapted to receive the test sensor in such a manner so that an electrical communication path is established between the second ends of the test strip electrodes and the electronic circuitry for the blood glucose monitor. Within the housing of the monitor, the test port is electrically connected to a microprocessor which controls the basic operations of the monitor. The microprocessor, in turn, is electrically connected to a memory device which is capable of storing a multiplicity of blood glucose test results.
In use, the blood glucose monitoring system of the type described above can be used in the following manner to measure the glucose level of a blood sample and, in turn, store the result of said measurement into memory as test data. Specifically, a disposable electrochemical test sensor is unwrapped from its packaging and is inserted into the test port of the monitor. With the test sensor properly inserted into the monitor, there is established a direct electrical contact between the second ends of the electrodes of the test sensor and the conductors contained within the test port, thereby establishing an electrical communication path between the test sensor and the monitor. Having properly disposed the test sensor into the test port, the monitor applies a voltage (e.g., 200 mv) across the second ends of the electrodes and automatically provides a "ready" indication on its display.
The user is then required to provide a blood sample using a lancing device. Specifically, a disposable lancet is unwrapped from its protective packaging and is loaded into a corresponding lancing device. The lancing device is then fired into the skin of the patient to provide a blood sample.
After lancing the skin, the patient is required to deposit one or more drops of blood from the patient's wound site onto the reaction area of the test sensor, the blood sample creating a conductive path between the first ends of the working and reference electrodes. When a sufficient quantity of blood is deposited on the reaction area of the test sensor, an electrochemical reaction occurs between glucose in the blood sample and the enzyme deposited on the first end of the working electrode which, in turn, produces an electrical current which decays exponentially over time. It should be noted that the value of this electrical current, which is commonly referred to in the art as the working current, is proportional to the concentration of glucose in the blood sample.
The decaying electrical current created through the chemical reaction between the enzyme and the glucose molecules in the blood sample travels along the working electrode and is measured by a current measuring device located within the monitor. The microprocessor of the monitor, which is connected to the current measuring device, correlates the measured working current into a standard numerical glucose value (e.g., using a scaling factor). The numerical glucose value calculated by the monitor is then shown on the monitor display for the patient to observe. In addition, the data associated with the particular blood glucose measurement is stored into memory.
Electrochemical test strips of the type described above are conventionally manufactured in batches. Due to inevitable inconsistencies in manufacturing, variances often arise between different batches of test strips (e.g., the size of the working and reference electrodes, the amount of enzyme deposited on the working electrode, etc.). These manufacturing variances have been found to directly alter the value of the working current produced when a blood sample is deposited on the test strip. As can be appreciated, any alteration of the value of the measured working current can render the glucose level reading calculated therefrom potentially inaccurate, which is highly undesirable.
Accordingly, there presently exist different methods for adjusting the value of the measured working current to compensate for such variances in manufacturing.
For example, in one well known adjustment method, an independent calibration strip is utilized to provide information relating to a batch of test strips to the blood glucose meter. Specifically, a batch of test strips is manufactured and then, in a subsequent step, a limited sampling of the test strips is tested for accuracy by the manufacturer using a blood sample of a known glucose level. Any deviation in the value of the working current generated from a test strip during this test is used to adjust the results obtained from future tests using the remaining test strips from the same batch. This adjustment is accomplished using an independent calibration strip which contains information relating to the deviation associated with the batch.
In use, a blood glucose meter is provided with a default calibration value. Prior to performing an assay, the separate calibration strip is inserted into the test port of the blood glucose meter. Information provided on the calibration strip is digitally transferred to the microprocessor which, in turn, adjusts the default calibration value for the meter. The adjusted calibration value is then used by the meter to correct future glucose readings which are taken using test strips from the same batch. For example, the calibration strip is often provided with a code which the blood glucose meter then converts to a particular numerical value. This numerical value is then utilized by the microprocessor to convert the working current from its measured (i.e., inaccurate) value to a compensated (i.e., true) value. The compensated value of the working current is then utilized by the meter to calculate an accurate blood glucose concentration reading. It should be noted that the particular code associated with a batch of test strips is often stored in memory on the calibration strip using at least one of the following means: a resistor, read only memory (ROM), a key code or a barcode.
The above-described use of an independent calibration strip to digitally calibrate a blood glucose meter prior to testing introduces some notable drawbacks. First, the use of an independent calibration strip requires a patient to perform the time-consuming and complicated task of digitally calibrating a blood glucose meter prior to performing an assay using a test strip from its associated batch. Second, the use of an independent calibration strip in conjunction with a batch of test strips significantly increases the overall manufacturing costs for said batch, this increase in manufacturing costs being a direct consequence of the costly memory requirement for the calibration strip.
Accordingly, in a second well-known adjustment method, calibration information is provided directly on each test strip in a particular batch (the calibration information, in turn, is used by the meter to digitally adjust the measured working current to its compensated, or actual, value). As an example, one well-known test strip utilizes a plurality of contact pads which can be interconnected in a particular pattern so as to represent a specific calibration code. Specifically, the test strip is manufactured with six isolated test pads which are interconnected through a series of conductive leads. After the batch of test strips has been manufactured, a sampling of the test strips is tested to determine whether manufacturing tolerances have introduced any inaccuracies. Based on the results of the testing, the manufacturer, in a subsequent step, cuts selected leads (e.g., using a laser) on each remaining test strip in the batch so as to interconnect the conductive pads into a particular pattern.
As such, when the user wishes to perform an assay, a reconfigured test strip is inserted into a compatible blood glucose meter. The meter reads the pattern of interconnected pads on the test strip and, in turn, corresponds said pattern into a particular calibration code. The meter then uses the calibration code to digitally convert the working current received during an assay to a compensated (i.e., true) value which can then be used to accurately calculate the blood glucose concentration of the sample.
One drawback associated with the aforementioned test strip is the limited number of calibration codes that it can accommodate. Specifically, the limited number of pads (as well as the limited number of leads) allows for the creation of a minimal number of patterns (typically no more than 10-15 patterns). As a result, only a small number of different calibration codes can be provided for such a test strip. However, it has been found that manufacturing tolerances often require a relatively large number of different calibration codes (e.g., often as many as 50 calibration codes are required). Consequently, the limited number of calibration codes afforded by such a test strip has been found to be inadequate.

Analyte test sensor and method of manufacturing the same


LDPC coding is executed using a check matrix of an LDPC code whose code length is 736 bits and whose code rate is 1/4, and modulation is executed using a repetition unit that has an LDPC code obtained by the LDPC coding, repeatedly arranged therein. The LDPC code includes information bits and parity bits, the check matrix includes an information matrix portion corresponding to the information bits and a parity matrix portion corresponding to the parity bits, the parity matrix portion has a stepwise structure, the information matrix portion is indicated by a check matrix initial value table, and the check matrix initial value table is a predetermined table indicating positions of elements of “1” of the information matrix portion for each eight columns. This technique is applicable to, for example, information transmission using the LDPC code.

An LDPC code has a high error correction ability and has recently been widely employed in transmission schemes for digital broadcasting and the like such as, for example, Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB)-S.2 in Europe and the like, and Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) 3.0 etc. in the U.S. and the like.
Moreover, a mobile communication employing the LDPC code is proposed (see, e.g., PTL 1).
The LDPC code has a nature for the smallest distance to be proportional to the code length, therefore the feature thereof is its excellent block error probability property, and furthermore the advantages thereof include the fact that the what-is-called error floor phenomenon observed in the decoding property for a turbo signal or the like substantially does not occur and the like.

Transmitting apparatus and transmission method, receiving apparatus and reception method, and program

SONY SEMICONDUCTOR SOLUTIONS CORPORATION


A deicing composition with a carboxylate salt as the primary deicer and that has a low corrosivity to galvanized steel is disclosed. The composition includes a soluble silicate as a corrosion inhibitor and a gluconate salt as a silicate stabilizer to maintain adequate solubility of the silicate salt at pH values below about 11.5.

Chloride salts, and particularly sodium chloride, are commonly used deicers for many highway winter maintenance applications due to the low cost of the salts. However, the chloride ion is very corrosive to a variety of metals, especially to mild steel. Thus, in areas that are particularly sensitive to corrosion, it is often desirable to use a non-chloride deicer. Examples of commonly used non-chloride deicers include carboxylate salts such as sodium acetate, sodium formate, calcium magnesium acetate, and potassium acetate. Because these chemicals contain no chloride, they are far less corrosive to the variety of metals and alloys in aircrafts and are therefore the preferred deicers for airport runways, where chlorides cannot be tolerated. Liquid potassium acetate in particular is a very popular runway deicer for airport runways. Potassium acetate has been shown to have acceptably low corrosion towards the metals specified by the SAE Standard AMS 1435A for liquid runway deicers, including aluminum alloys, anodized aluminum alloys, magnesium alloys, titanium alloys, mild steel, and low embrittling cadmium plate.
While potassium acetate is adequately non-corrosive to the metals specified in AMS 1435A, it and the other carboxylate salt deicers are extremely corrosive towards zinc and galvanized steel. This often renders the use of potassium acetate in many areas, including airport runways, undesirable. Airports often have large investments in galvanized steel structures, such as runway lights, for runways. In order to avoid galvanized steel corrosion, airports often use propylene glycol rather than potassium acetate. Propylene glycol is not as corrosive towards galvanized steel but has certain disadvantages compared to carboxylate salt deicers. For example, propylene glycol is less environmentally friendly, having a much higher biological oxygen demand than potassium acetate.
There is therefore a need for an improved salt deicer with reduced corrosiveness towards zinc and galvanized steel than the conventional carboxylate salt deicers.

Deicer compositions including corrosion inhibitors for galvanized metal


A switch housing surrounds a strut and cylinder, with the strut and cylinder being mounted between the rear lift gate window of a vehicle and an interior surface of the vehicle. A switch is disposed in the housing, and when the window is opened or broken, the strut moves relative to the cylinder to actuate the switch and thereby generate a lift gate open alarm signal.

Many vehicles are equipped with steel or glass access doors that are pivotably attached to the vehicle about the upper edge of the door. Such access doors, referred to herein as "rear lift gates", can be opened by raising the lift gate, thereby exposing the passenger compartment. Frequently, torque-assist pneumatic cylinders are connected between a rear lift gate and vehicle body to assist in raising the lift gate, when a person lifts upwardly on the lift gate.
It happens that in many vehicles, rear lift gates (and other doors on the vehicle) cannot properly be opened unless a person first transmits a security signal from a hand-held transmitter to the vehicle. In other words, many vehicles are equipped with electronic security systems which incorporate user-generated authenticating signals to disarm the security system and thereby permit access to the interior of the vehicles.
For example, the Viper.RTM. coupe made by Dodge has only a single lock cylinder, with the lock cylinder being associated with a rear lift gate window, and the doors of the vehicle can be opened only after transmission of the security signal. While effective, it happens that such security systems can be bypassed by, e.g., breaking the rear lift gate window or by opening the lock cylinder with a master key.
Not surprisingly, systems have been provided which incorporate switches for generating electrical signals when a rear lift gate is open. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,003,136 to Valenzona discloses a switch that can be engaged with a rear lift gate assist cylinder to generate a signal when the lift gate is open. Unfortunately, the device disclosed in Valenzona is comparatively complicated, in that it incorporates first and second telescoping sleeves that are spring-loaded in an outer housing, with each sleeve being associated with a respective electrical contact. The sleeves reciprocate relative to each other within the outer housing when the lift gate moves, thereby causing the contacts to touch and generate an electrical signal. Thus, the Valenzona device requires a relatively large number of components and springs which must move relative to each other, in addition to the movement of the torque assist strut within the cylinder. As recognized herein, however, it is possible to provide a simple, inexpensive switch for generating an alarm to indicate unauthorized entry through an access door having a torque-assist cylinder.
Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a method and apparatus for generating an alarm signal to indicate the unauthorized opening of a vehicle access door. Another object of the present invention is to provide a method and apparatus for generating an alarm signal that uses existing torque assist cylinders. Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a method and apparatus for generating an alarm signal when a rear lift gate door is opened without electronic authorization. Still another object of the present invention is to provide a method and apparatus for generating an alarm signal in a vehicle which is easy to use and cost-effective.

Strut-actuated switch for activating rear lift gate open alarm


The present invention provides a heat dissipation module and a fan thereof. The heat dissipation module includes a heatsink and a frameless fan. The fan is disposed in the heatsink. The fan includes a motor base, an impeller, a motor and at least one engaging member. The impeller and the motor are disposed on the motor base. The motor drives the impeller to rotate, and the engaging member is extended radially from the motor base. The fan is directly assembled to the heatsink via the engaging member.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a heat dissipation module and a fan thereof, and in particular to a heat dissipation module with high heat dissipating efficiency which can be quickly assembled without using additional tools and excess components.
2. Description of the Related Art
As technology advances, electronic components such as the central processing unit (CPU) or the graphic processing unit (GPU) within a personal computer or a server is being designed to achieve higher working frequencies, resulting in higher power consumption, and therefore producing larger amounts of heat. If the heat cannot be appropriately dissipated. The working efficiency of such electronic components becomes low, or even causes the entire electronic components to be burn down.
To overcome this problem, the conventional method is to apply heat dissipating fins and heat dissipating fans on the electronic components. However, fixing the fans on the heatsink require additional components, such as a plastic cover or screws. FIGS. 1A and 1B are schematic views showing two connection ways for conventional fans and heatsinks. As shown in FIG. 1A, the fan 12a is firstly fixed on the frame 16 by screws, and the frame 16 is fixed to the heatsink 14a. However, excess components are required during the assembling process, which raises manufacturing costs, assembly time and labor costs and further hinders price competitiveness.
Otherwise, as shown in FIG. 1B, the fan 12b is directly fastened on the heatsink 14b by screws 18. However, hand tools lie screw drivers are required to assemble or disassemble the fan 12b, which increases assembly time and relative costs. In addition, if the fan 12b breaks down, the screws 18 must be unscrewed when changing the fan 12b, which results in inconvenience. Furthermore, during the assembling or disassembling process, the holes on the heatsink 14b may also cause problems due to stripped screws.


Integrated circuit (IC) interconnect lines having improved electromigration resistance. Multi-patterning may be employed to define a first mask pattern. The first mask pattern may be backfilled and further patterned based on a second mask layer through a process-based selective occlusion of openings defined in the second mask layer that are below a threshold minimum lateral width. Portions of material underlying openings defined in the second mask layer that exceed the threshold are removed. First trenches in an underlying dielectric material layer may be etched based on a union of the remainder of the first mask layer and the partially occluded second mask layer. The first trenches may then be backfilled with a first conductive material to form first line segments. Additional trenches in the underlayer may then be etched and backfilled with a second conductive material to form second line segments that are coupled together by the first line segments.

Device density in integrated circuits (ICs) continues to increase. Integrated circuits (e.g., microprocessors, chipset components, graphics chips, memory chips, optical chips, etc.) commonly include electrically conductive traces, separate layers of which are coupled together by vias. To date, conductive traces are typically formed in trenches defined by a lithographic process in which a photoresist layer may be spin-coated over a dielectric layer. The photoresist layer may be exposed to radiation through a patterned mask, and the exposed photoresist developed in order to form an opening. Next, an opening for the trench may be etched in the dielectric layer by using the photoresist layer as an etch mask. This opening is referred to as a trench. Finally, the trench may be back filled with one or more metals or other conductive materials to form a conductive trace embedded within the dielectric layer.
One measure of the size of a trace is the critical dimension (CD). One measure of the spacing of a set of traces is their pitch. In the past, the sizes and the spacing of traces have progressively decreased. However, when patterning extremely small conductive line ends having extremely small pitches with lithographic processes, several challenges present themselves, particularly when the pitches are ˜70 nanometers (nm), or less, and/or when the critical dimensions of the line ends are ˜35 nm, or less. One challenge is that electromigration failures become more likely as the cross-sectional area of interconnect lines decreases. Techniques to improve an interconnect line's resistance to electromigration failure are therefore advantageous.

Integrated circuits (IC's) with electro-migration (EM)—resistant segments in an interconnect level


A slotting tool body includes a disc-like cutter portion and a shank portion projecting rearwardly therefrom. The cutter portion includes a resilient clamping portion having a peripherally disposed insert receiving slot. The shank portion includes a peripherally disposed forward shank recess that is axially adjacent the cutter portion. A radially inward portion of the insert receiving slot merges in the rearward direction with the forward shank recess. A cutting insert is releasably and resiliently clamped in the insert receiving slot to form a rotary slot cutting tool. The cutting insert includes two cutting portions that each include a long and short insert lateral extension, the long insert lateral extension being longer than the short insert lateral extension. The longest insert lateral extensions are orated on opposite sides of the cutting insert.

Rotary slot cutting tools can have a slotting tool body that has a disc-like cutter portion and a shank portion that extends perpendicular to the disc-like cutter portion. The disc-like cutter portion can be provided with a plurality of circumferentially disposed insert, receiving pockets for retaining a cutting insert therein. The cutting insert can be retained in the insert receiving pocket by a retaining screw. Examples of such rotary cutting tools are disclosed in, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,571,451 and 8,834,075.
In other rotary slotting cutting tools, the cutting insert can be retained in the insert receiving pocket by a resilient clamping member. Examples of such rotary cutting tools are disclosed in, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,116,823 and 8,708,610, where the cutting inserts are single ended. Alternatively, the cutting insert can also be double-ended as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,059,068.
In yet other rotary slotting cutting tools, in particular for internal grooving in small holes it can be preferable to use disc shaped solid carbide slotting heads having a plurality of cutting edges. Examples of such rotary cutting tools are disclosed in, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,276,879 and 8,708,611. However, such slotting heads are relatively expensive to manufacture and if one cutting edges is damaged the entire slotting head needs to be replaced.

Slotting tool body having inwardly offset insert receiving slot, rotary slot cutting tool having same and cutting insert


Systems, methods and devices related to detection and transmitting images. Imaging systems and devices, as well as methods of using such that are provided herein include flicker detection and/or correction; and/or built-in self test associated with various analog circuitry in the imaging devices; and/or power reduction ability; and/or pixels with charge evacuation functionality; and/or a parallel to serial conversion unit and associated serial output interface; and/or other advanced functionality.

The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for detecting and/or transmitting images. More particularly, the present invention relates to detecting and transmitting images in relation to a cellular telephone.
Image processors typically detect light reflected off of a subject, and convert the detected light to an electrical image. The electrical image is then sampled at a frequency that is the reciprocal of the integration time. In many cases, such a frequency is different from the frequency of light reflected off the subject. In such cases, a modulation of the displayed image can result. Such modulation appears as a flicker and can be very distracting.
To overcome this problem, some image processors allow for manual selection between different integration times that allow a user to reduce the flicker. For example, where an image processor will be used in a 60 Hz and a 50 Hz lighting environment, a manual selection between an integration time associated with either 60 Hz or 50 Hz can be provided. This alleviates some flicker, but requires adjustment from a user. Furthermore, such an approach is limited to reducing flicker in a limited number of pre-determined environments, and thus may not be able to address various flicker situations. This is particularly problematic for mobile devices that are used in ever changing environments.
Further, a limited reservoir of power typically exists for mobile devices. As such, power consuming imaging applications are often incompatible with mobile devices. Various approaches exist to increase the amount of power available to mobile devices, such that the power requirements of an imaging application are not prohibitive. However, such approaches often are both expensive and can result in increased dimensions of a mobile device.
In some cases, light detected by an image processor is detected by a pixel array and a variety of analog processing circuitry. Output from the pixel array representing the amount of detected light is processed by analog circuitry to produce an image which is subsequently converted from the analog domain to the digital domain. The digital image is subsequently provided to a monitor of some sort for viewing.
Testing such an imaging device can include reflecting light off a known image, and determining if the image was properly acquired and/or processed by the imaging device. This method provides an effective approach for testing such devices, however, the method is subject to a number of variables including lighting and image stability which can effect testing of the imaging device. Providing such a test, and controlling for such variables can be costly and time consuming. Further, such an approach tests the imaging device holistically, and is limited in its ability to identify sub-components of the imaging device which may have failed.
Hence, for at least the aforementioned reasons, there exists a need in the art to provide advanced systems, methods and devices for detecting and/or transmitting images.


Methods and systems for protecting websites from cross-site scripting are disclosed. A request for a web page comprising a web page element is received from a client. It is determined if the web page comprises a data integrity token for the web page element. It is also determined if a value of the data integrity token matches an expected value. If the web page comprises the data integrity token and if the value matches the expected value, the web page comprising the web page element is sent to the client. If the web page does not comprise the data integrity token or if the value does not match the expected value, a protective operation is performed.

Website operators such as online merchants are engaged in an ongoing battle to maintain information security. The complexity of the internet's infrastructure is accompanied by numerous security vulnerabilities. One such vulnerability is known as cross-site scripting. A cross-site scripting exploit may be used by an attacker to breach the security of a web browser or other web-based application. By breaching a browser's security, the attacker may gain access to a user's session at a particular website. For a user engaged in a session at the website of an online merchant, for example, a cross-site scripting exploit may permit an attacker to gain access to private information associated with the user's session, such as financial information, authentication credentials, and/or elements of the user's personal identity (e.g., a real name, an e-mail address, etc.).
In particular, a cross-site scripting flaw may be exploited to enable an attacker to inject a client-side script into a web page. The client-side script may be injected into a web page sent by a server to the client without the knowledge or consent of the server's operators. When processed in the client's browser, the script may access private information stored in one or more cookies (or other storage elements) in the memory of the browser. The script may forward the stolen information to a third-party recipient for potential use in fraudulent or otherwise malicious schemes.
Cross-site scripting exploits are often placed into two categories: non-persistent and persistent. In a non-persistent or reflected exploit, data provided to a server by a client (e.g., the client's browser) may be included in a web page sent back to the client without properly sanitizing the data. The data introducing the exploit is typically provided to the client through a link to the server provided by a third party. The link may contain an injected script or any other content that is interpretable as code by the browser. When the improperly sanitized data is sent (i.e., reflected) from the server back to the client, the injected script may be executed on the client's browser. In a persistent or stored exploit, data introducing the exploit is stored by the web server and provided by the server to each client that requests a particular web page. The data may include a script that is executed on the client side when provided by the server to the client. The script may be introduced into the server's web page through user-supplied content from a malicious third party. Whether the script is sent to the client using the non-persistent or persistent type of exploit, execution of the script on the client side may result in sensitive information being stolen and/or misused.
Accordingly, it is desirable for website operators to have techniques for detecting and/or remediating cross-site scripting exploits.
While embodiments are described herein by way of example for several embodiments and illustrative drawings, those skilled in the art will recognize that embodiments are not limited to the embodiments or drawings described. It should be understood, that the drawings and detailed description thereto are not intended to limit embodiments to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope as defined by the appended claims. The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. As used throughout this application, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning "having the potential to"), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning "must"). Similarly, the words "include," "including," and "includes" mean "including, but not limited to."

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Protecting websites from cross-site scripting


A clip assembly and a windshield for selectively connecting a windshield to a vehicle. The windshield defines at least one windshield aperture and the clip assembly includes a windshield member including a windshield member head larger than a corresponding portion of the at least one windshield aperture, and a windshield member body being sized and shaped for passing through the at least one windshield aperture; a vehicle member including a projection for extending through the frame aperture when the windshield is connected and defining a pivot axis about which the vehicle member pivots with respect to the at least one frame member when transitioning between a latched position and an unlatched position; and a connecting member selectively connected between the windshield member and the vehicle member, the connecting member, the windshield member and the vehicle member forming an overcenter latch.

Off-road side-by-side vehicles typically have a roll cage surrounding the cockpit area of the vehicle. These vehicles are often not provided with a windshield. These vehicles are often provided with half-doors or fabric and/or net doors, or no doors in some cases.
However, some users prefer to have a windshield. Such windshields are often mounted to the frame members of the roll cage. Other users decide to install a windshield or not on the vehicle depending on the expected riding conditions.
Many systems use clamps to mount the windshield to the roll cage. Although these permit the installation and removal of the windshield, they often require the use of tools which can be impractical and time consuming. Additionally, the hardware used with the clamps (i.e. nuts, bolts, washers, etc.) to attach the windshield and the clamps to the roll cage can be dropped and lost by the user during installation and/or removal.
Further, some users prefer to have a full doors which extend up to a top of the roll cage, along with the optionally mounted windshield. However, many clamps for selectively installing a windshield wrap around most or all of the surface of roll cage members. This generally impedes the installation or use of such doors for the vehicle, as the doors cannot close flush against the roll cage members. For example, some such systems include straps or loops for securing the windshield and/or the clamps in place.
There is therefore a desire for a system for securely installing a windshield to a roll cage of a vehicle that does not require the use of tools, and which further does not impede installation of optional doors on the vehicle.

Clip assembly and windshield assembly for selectively connecting a windshield to a vehicle


A centrifugal multiblade fan comprises a plurality of curved blades which are circularly arranged about a common rotation axis at evenly spaced intervals defining a curved air flow passage between every neighboring blades. Each curved blade has concave front and convex rear surfaces which extend longitudinally in parallel with the rotation axis. A lower annular end plate is provided for putting thereon lower ends of the circularly arranged blades. A radially outside part of each curved blade has a radius of curvature which is greater than that of a radially inside part of the blade. A slit extends longitudinally parallel with the rotation axis at a radially inside portion of each blade.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates in general to centrifugal multiblade fans constructed of plastics, and more particularly to centrifugal multiblade fans for an automotive air conditioning device. More specifically, the present invention is concerned with the centrifugal multiblade fans of a type which is installed in an upstream section of an air duct of the automotive air conditioning device to generate, upon rotation of the fan, an air flow in the air duct toward the passenger cabin of the vehicle.
2. Description of the Prior Art
In automotive air conditioning devices, there is usually employed a centrifugal multiblade fan which is installed in an upstream section of an air duct of the air conditioning device. The fan is driven by an electric motor. That is, upon operation of the motor, the fan is rotated to generate an air flow in the air duct from the outdoor or indoor of an associated motor vehicle toward the passenger cabin of the vehicle. During the flow in the duct, the air passes through an evaporator and/or heater core to adjust temperature thereof to a desired degree. The air thus adjusted in temperature is led into the passenger cabin of the vehicle through air blow openings provided at a downstream end of the air duct.
Some of conventional fans of the centrifugal multiblade type are shown in Japanese Patent First Provisional Publications 63-97899 and 60-60299, two of which are schematically shown in FIGS. 33 and 34 of the accompanying drawings, respectively.
As shown, each fan 1a or 1b comprises a plurality of curved blades 2 which are circularly arranged about a common rotation axis at evenly spaced intervals defining an air flow passage 3 between every neighboring curved blades 2. As is seen from FIG. 35, each curved blade 2 of the fan 1a or 1b has a generally semi-cylindrical shape, that is, the shape having an arcuate cross section. That is, each curved blade 2 has concave front (or leading) and convex rear (or trailing) surfaces 4 and 5 which extend longitudinally in parallel with the rotation axis. Accordingly, each air flow passage 3 curves as it extends radially.
The terms "front and rear" are to be understood with respect to the direction ".alpha." in which the fan 1a or 1b rotates under operation of the air conditioning device. When, upon energization of the electric motor, the fan 1a or 1b is rotated in the direction of the arrow ".alpha.", air in each air flow passage 3 is forced to move radially outward due to a centrifugal force generated therein. As a result, air is forced to flow radially outward from the inside of the fan 1a or 1b toward the outside through the air flow passages 3.
As is known, the fans of the above-mentioned centrifugal multiblade type produce less operation noise than axial fans such as propeller fans. However, sometimes, even the centrifugal multiblade fans fail to provide users with full satisfaction. That is, when the air conditioning device is in an inner air circulation mode wherein the air blown to the interior of the vehicle is fed from the interior of the vehicle, the noise caused by the fan becomes noticeable, which makes the passengers uncomfortable.
In addition to the above-mentioned fans, other conventional centrifugal multiblade fans have been proposed, which are shown in Japanese Patent First Provisional Publications 62-291498 and 4-203395, and Japanese Utility Model First Provisional Publications 50-76407, 50-76408, 52-2612, 58-94898 and 5-87295. In the fans of these publications, a slit or small opening is formed in each curved blade to improve the performance of the fans. However, even the fans of these publications have failed to provide users with a satisfaction in noise reduction performance, particularly in the inner air circulation mode of the air conditioning device.


The present disclosure relates to a retraction system for retracting body organs and/or body tissue in a body cavity. The retraction system includes an elongate shaft configured and dimensioned to be inserted into the body cavity, a retractor device operatively associated with the elongate shaft, the retractor device having a first configuration for insertion into the body cavity and at least a second configuration for retraction of the body organ, and at least one anchor member operatively coupled to the retractor device for anchoring the retractor device to a wall of the body cavity.

1. Technical Field
The present disclosure relates to devices, systems and methods used for retracting organs and/or body tissue during surgical procedures and, more particularly, to endoscopic or laparoscopic apparatus, systems and methods for retracting or positioning body tissue and/or body organs during minimally invasive surgery.
2. Background of Related Art
As a result of the recent technological improvements in surgical instruments, surgical procedures, using minimally invasive techniques (e.g., endoscopic, laparoscopic, etc.), are routinely performed, which surgical procedures cause less trauma to the patient.
In endoscopic and laparoscopic surgical procedures, it is often necessary to provide instrumentation to move or manipulate tissue and organs located in the area of operation. Generally, laparoscopic surgical procedures involve the introduction of a gas, such as, carbon dioxide, to insufflate a body cavity, e.g., the abdomen, to provide a working area for the surgeon. After the abdomen is insufflated, a trocar device is utilized to puncture the peritoneum to provide an access port by way of a cannula through the abdominal wall for the introduction of surgical instrumentation. Generally, a trocar/cannula is placed through the abdominal wall for each piece of surgical instrumentation which is necessary to carry out the surgical procedure. In this manner, the surgeon may view the surgical site through an endoscope provided through a first trocar/cannula, and utilize a second trocar/cannula to introduce a surgical instrument such as a grasper, scissor, clip applier, stapler and any other surgical instrument which may be necessary during the particular surgical procedure.
Although the insufflation gas expands the abdomen to permit the surgeon to view the surgical site, it is often necessary to manipulate the internal organs or tissues to provide a clear path to the surgical objective. In the past, grasping tools have been utilized which pull on the organs or tissues to move them out of the way to provide a clear visual path for the surgeon. Endoscopic retractor mechanisms also have been developed which are utilized to push and hold the tissue or organs away from the surgical site. Typically, these devices include paddles and/or fingers which expand after the retractor has been inserted into the abdomen through the trocar cannula. Such devices are disclosed in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,654,028 to Suma, U.S. Pat. No. 4,909,789 to Taguchi et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 5,195,505 to Josefsen. Other retractor devices include collapsible fingers joined by webs of resilient material which expand to form the retractor. These devices are disclosed in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,190,042 to Sinnreich and U.S. Pat. No. 4,744,363 to Hasson. Other devices include retractors having expandable frames for supporting expandable latex sheaths or covers, such as those described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,178,133 to Pena
Current endoscopic retractors are typically based on a 10 mm instrument diameter platform. Accordingly, some minimally invasive surgical procedures have limitations due to the small internal diameter of many commonly used cannulas of trocar systems. However, as with most endoscopic instruments, if possible, a smaller diameter retraction device is preferred in order to reduce the amount of trauma to the patient. For example, many surgical procedures now utilize surgical devices based on a 5 mm instrument diameter platform. However, when using smaller diameter retraction devices, the amount of deflection at the distal end of the smaller diameter retraction device is relatively greater than the amount of deflection at the distal end of a larger diameter retraction device. This increased deflection is undesirable when attempting to retract body organs since the smaller diameter retraction device will have difficulty in clearing the surgical field to provide access for the surgeon to the surgical site.
Accordingly, a need exists for an endoscopic organ retraction system having sufficient strength and durability to retract body organs from the operative site and, more particularly, to an endoscopic organ retraction system which is relatively small and may be utilized with smaller conventional trocar cannulas to provide access to the site during an endoscopic or laparoscopic surgical procedure.
The device disclosed herein overcomes the disadvantages associated with the prior art and provides a light weight endoscopic retractor which allows the surgeon to manipulate body organs and other body tissue.

Endoscopic organ retraction system and method of using the same


A pressurizing apparatus includes a lower frame and an upper frame. A first end of the upper frame may be hinged to the lower frame at a rotation axis, and a second end of the upper frame may be rotated about the rotation axis by an actuator. A pressurizing unit may be combined to the upper frame in such a way that the pressurizing unit is rotatable relative to the upper frame. When the actuator rotates the second end of the upper frame, the pressurizing unit pressurizes an object to be pressurized.

1. Field
One or more embodiments relate to a pressurizing apparatus used in an apparatus for measuring blood pressure.
2. Description of the Related Art
A pressurizing apparatus, which pressurizes a radial artery of a wrist with an air bag, when wrapped around the wrist, is used in an apparatus for measuring blood pressure. The air bag, installed in a frame of such a pressurizing apparatus, is closely adhered to and pressurizes a radial artery area of the wrist by using a motor and a string. Thus, blood pressure is measured by detecting a pressure change inside the air bag due to a pulse wave of the radial artery.
As described above, the pressurizing apparatus includes a frame, an air bag and a motor installed in the frame, a wristband having one end connected to the frame, and a string that connects the motor and the other end of the wristband. The wristband is wrapped around and fixed around a wrist, and the string is pulled by driving the motor. Accordingly, the wristband tightens around the wrist, and the air bag pressurizes a radial artery area of the wrist.
However in the pressurizing apparatus, when the wristband is placed around the wrist, the air bag is pressed by tension of the wristband, and thus, a predetermined pre-pressure is applied to the air bag. Here, the pre-pressure applied to the air bag differs whenever the wristband is placed on the wrist. When the pre-pressure is equal to or above about 50 millimeters of mercury (mmHg), blood pressure during a relaxation period is unable to be measured, or a measured value thereof is unreliable.
Also, in the pressurizing apparatus, the air bag is placed on the radial artery area of the wrist, and then fixed by tightening the wristband. Here, due to the connection of the air bag with the frame, the air bag may be warped since the air bag is easily deformable. When the air bag is pressurized while being warped, the air bag may remarkably slant to one side, and thus, it may be difficult to normally pressurize the wrist and measure blood pressure.
Moreover, in the pressurizing apparatus, a large motor is used to generate suitable pressure, and thus, it is difficult to minimize the pressurizing apparatus.


An apparatus and method for generating pulsating noise in an audio device are provided. The apparatus and method mix audio signals processed by an audio play operation with pulsating noise generated by a pulsating noise generator if a brain wave induction mode is set in an audio device and output a result of the mixing operation through wired or wireless speaker. Therefore, a user can efficiently experience brain wave induction action based on the pulsating noise while he/she hears audio from the speaker.

1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to an apparatus and method for generating pulsating noise in an audio device.
2. Background of the Related Art
Generally, human brain waves are low frequency, around 30 Hz, and can be classified into types based on human mental activity. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, when human mental activity is operating normally, beta waves having a frequency range of about 15˜30 Hz are generated. If a person continuously engages in a mental activity associated with beta waves, he/she is easily exhausted.
Alpha waves having a frequency range of about 8˜14 Hz are generated when a person rests, for example, through meditation and concentrates on something. Theta waves having a frequency range of about 4˜7 Hz are generated when a person displays his/her learning ability or is in light sleep and drowsiness. Delta waves having a frequency range of about 0.5˜3 Hz are generated when a person is in the deepest stage of sleep. Also, gamma waves of more than about 30 Hz are generated when a person is extremely excited or gets angry.
Brain wave induction technology involves artificially synchronizing human brain waves to a desired frequency. Namely, brain wave induction technology employs Frequency Following Effect (FFE) of the human brain, in which, when a person is visually or aurally stimulated at a predetermined frequency, a brain wave corresponding to the predetermined frequency is induced. Accordingly, when a person works under a strain or feels stress due to his/her routine work, he/she can get a refreshment effect as alpha waves having the frequency range of about 8˜14 Hz is induced putting his/her brain in a state similar to when he/she rests and relaxes both mentally and physically.
Optical glasses are used in most brain wave inductors. For example, LEDs with a relatively high light emission are turned on and off ten times per second to induce Alpha wave of about 10 Hz.
Also, technologies inducing brain waves by stimulating auditory senses are classified into, for example, those using a Binaural Beat, those using a Modulated Noise, and those using a Pulsating Noise. Technologies using Binaural Beats are operated such that, when sounds having different frequencies 'f' and 'f+a' in sinusoidal waves are applied to the right and left ears, respectively, brain waves corresponding to a frequency difference 'a' is induced. For example, when sounds at frequencies of 200 Hz and 210 Hz are applied to the right and left eats, respectively, alpha waves of 10 Hz are induced in the brain. However, since sounds having different frequencies in sinusoidal waves should be applied directly to the right and left ears, respectively, users must utilize stereo earphones or a headphone.
Pulsating noise technology operates in such a way that a specific noise or pure sound of a specific frequency is pulsated to provide optical stimulation of a predetermined frequency to users to induce, for example, alpha waves. Therefore, users can use a speaker rather than stereo earphones or a headphone.
Recently, a need to experience brain wave induction phenomenon using pulsating noise has been requested while a user listens to audio through a speaker without wearing earphones or a headphone. However, previously there has been no solution.

Apparatus and method for generating pulsating noise in audio device


A combustionless measurement method and apparatus are described for ascertaining the quality and/or quantity of gaseous fuels fed to gas consumption devices, and particularly natural gas consumption devices. The technique utilizes a novel empirical algorithm for correlating easily measured gas parameters to any one of the: heating value of the fuel gas; density of the fuel gas; and percent concentration of inert gases within the fuel gas. Sensed fuel gas parameters can include any combination of viscosity, thermal conductivity, specific heat, and optical absorption, etc., at more than one temperature if needed for accuracy. Specific structures are set forth for implementing the technique.

1. Technical Field
The present invention relates to methods for the combustionless measurement of the quality of gaseous fuels fed to gas consumption devices, and particularly natural gas consumption devices, as well as apparatus for the carrying out of the different variations of the process.
2. Description of the Prior Art
The heating value of a substance is of significant interest because it forms one basis for determining the commercial value of that substance as a fuel. Methods for measuring the quality of gaseous fuels to ascertain the amount of heat available therefrom are already being used in practice for numerous purposes. Recently, interest in and need for such measurements have increased considerably for various reasons. In industrial heating processes, it is frequently necessary to feed a well defined amount of heat per unit of time to a furnace in order to obtain optimum results. In other cases it is desirable to optimize the consumption of fuel, i.e., to feed only the amount of heat actually required even if supplying a larger amount of heat does not adversely affect the process or product. For accounting purposes, billing on the basis of the amount of heat supplied has also been preferred to billing on a volume basis.
An extensive need has arisen, therefore, for measurements of the quality of a gaseous fuel. Unfortunately, gas quality measurement is complicated by the fact that combustion gases, and particularly natural gases, are typically distributed together notwithstanding separate origin, composition and properties that differ to a greater or lesser extent from each other. Since processes and apparatus have proven themselves for use with such distributed gases of different composition, the on-line measurement of the quality of the gas or the quantity of heat available therefrom has gained increasing importance for the industrial use of gas and for accounting purposes.
Known methods for evaluating gas quality are in most cases not readily adaptable to these uses due to technical reasons or because of cost considerations. For example, one conventional method for measuring heating value known in the art comprises combustion calorimetry. This process involves the burning of a partial stream of the combustible gas with an open flame or with a catalyst and measuring the heat produced. The necessity of burning a measured partial stream of the gas in order to determine its heating value, as known from experience, requires frequent maintenance of the apparatus, since a flame can change due to deposits of combustion residues or because a combustion catalyst gradually declines in effectiveness. The required accuracy of measurements which serve, for example, for billing purposes can only be obtained if these apparatus are operated under well-defined, controlled conditions, preferably in an air-conditioned chamber, which is obviously expensive.
Other known non-combustion methods for continuously analyzing a stream of gas include gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. Gas chromatography and mass spectrometry are techniques for separating and identifying each constituent of the gas and measuring the relative concentration thereof. Knowing the heating value of each constituent of a mixture, the total heating value may then be computed. Unfortunately, these methods require a large expenditure of measurement and control devices to implement.
The same techniques are also currently used to determine other parameters representative of the quality of a distributed fuel gas, such as density and percent concentration of inert gases therein. A principle use for gas density determination is in the operation of an orifice flow meter, while percent concentration of inert gases, for example, nitrogen, N.sub.2, carbon dioxide, CO.sub.2, and oxygen, O.sub.2, is used to determine gas pumping/transportation cost or for subsequent regulation of a combustion process.
To summarize, most, if not all, presently known techniques for determining the quality of a fuel gas, such as heating value, density or percent concentration of inert gases, have one or more drawbacks associated therewith, including: requiring trained personnel to operate, producing time delayed results, lacking repeatability, destroying the sample, being cumbersome or expensive to implement and lacking sufficient accuracy due to an inability to completely distinguish constituents. Therefore, there exists a genuine need in the art for a novel approach to the measurement of the quality of a fuel gas which is accurate, reliable and inexpensive in implementation.

On-line combustionless measurement of gaseous fuels fed to gas consumption devices


The invention relates to an articulated rotor head for gyroplanes comprising a rigid central hub body (1), perpendicularly integrated with a drive shaft (2), each blade (3) being radially fixed to the hub body (1) by means of connecting and articulating components. These components each comprise:. a spherical laminated elastomer stop (4) housed in the central hub body; PA0 a hollow sleeve (5) rigidly locked to the spherical laminated stop (4); PA0 an elastic return and drag damping brace (9) of the blade (3) arranged between the sleeve and the outer part of the rigid hub body (1) on a contiguous sleeve; PA0 a connecting and pitch articulation spindle (6) of the blade (3) connected to the foot of the blade (3) and a pitch lever (8) rigidly locked to the spindle (6) and which swivels about the pitch axis inside the sleeve (5) on two bearings, one of which at least forms a thrust stop (7) to transmit, from the spindle (6) in the sleeve (5), the thrust loads originating from the centrifugal forces on the blade (3).

This invention relates to an articulated rotor head for gyroplanes, comprising a rigid central hub body which is perpendicularly integrated into a drive shaft. Each blade of this rotor head is fixed radially to the hub body by means of connecting and articulating components. In accordance with the invention, the rotor head, articulated in pitch, beating and drag, is intended particularly for an helicopter.
Many articulated rotor heads for gyroplanes are already known, especially those developed by the Applicant and filed under French patents numbers 2 427 251, 2 456 034, 2 516 891, 2 584 995 and 2 584 996. While this type of hub achieved great simplicity of design, especially with respect to its integrated mast-hub shape, it does however include a number of sensitive parts. Indeed, a spherical laminated elastomer stop provides by itself, in the presence of the centrifugal forces generated by the blade and which subject it to compression, the beating, drag and pitch control articulation functions of the blade. Thus the spherical laminated elastomer stop is one of the main elements in the definition of the hub and governs its dimensioning. Another sensitive point concerning this type of rotor head is the presence, for each rotor, of an elastic return brace with incorporated damper which controls the angular movements of the blade within its plane and ensures the stability of the rotor when it encounters phenomena of ground and air resonance. This elastic return brace with incorporated damper follows the beating, drag, and pitch control movements of the coupling sleeve of the corresponding blade. This results in pitch-drag couplings which in particular generate increased forces on the controls. Moreover, this brings about large angular movements on the trunnions on the ends of the elastic return brace with incorporated damper that are detrimental to the long service life of these components, and which also have to withstand heavy static and dynamic radial forces.
For the working conditions of the present generation of helicopters, these problems can be solved relatively easily using these types of rotor which then provide suitable in-service strength. Nevertheless, rotary wing aircraft development over the next few years will certainly result in enhanced in-flight performance, particularly with respect to speed, subjecting rotor hubs to even greater stress and strain. In particular, variations in collective pitch and cyclical pitch will increase significantly, and problems to do with the endurance strength of spherical laminated stop and the trunnions of the elastic return and drag damper braces of the blade will become more acute.
To meet these requirements, solutions have been proposed for articulated rotors based on a combination of several types of thrust stop for each blade, as for example contained in European patent 150 331 791 and in U.S. Pat. No. 4,203,708.
European patent 0 331 791 relates to a structure in which the hub body is connected to the top of the mast by means of a single central spherical laminated trunnion. For each blade, the hub body carries a spindle integrated with the hub body, on which is mounted a connecting sleeve to the blade. This sleeve is mounted on the spindle by means of two bearings and a laminated thrust stop in the shape of a flat crown interposed between the spindle and the sleeve. In this patent, the central spherical laminated trunnion allows limited angular oscillations about the center of this trunnion, thus reducing in this so-called "rigid" type of rotor the anchoring moment of the hub on the mast. This type of single trunnion therefore allows only trimming of the whole rotor, but has the drawback of never permitting individual beating, drag and pitch angular blade movements.
Moreover, this central laminated trunnion is not affected by the centrifugal forces generated by the blades, which balance out from one blade to the others through the outer armature of this central trunnion. In this type of assembly, the pitch control is mounted on the sleeve which is outside the spindle. In this arrangement, the outside sleeve is acted upon by the pitch control, but does not receive any beating and drag movements, which are ensured by the flexibility of the blade neck. The drawbacks mentioned above concerning pitch control via the sleeve are encountered once again. In fact, the main objective of the invention described in this document would appear to be the embodiment of the hub, in which the combination of two laminated stops provides a seal against oil leakage.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,203,708 relates to an articulated rotor head in which each blade is fixed to the hub body by means of two laminated thrust stops: one spherical and one flat. In such embodiment, a connecting sleeve is arranged between the blade and the set of stops, the pitch control being mounted directly on this connecting sleeve. Thus in this type of assembly, the two thrust stops are coupled together and work in series on the same spindle which is arranged at the inner end of the connecting sleeve. For this reason, this structure does not separate the beating and pitch control functions into two different parts and therefore subjects the damper, the inner end of which is connected to the hub body, and outer end to the foot of the blade, to large drag-pitch forces. Indeed, the pitch changes cause the damper coupling point next to the blade to turn in the arc of a circle and consequently lead to variations in the distance between the damper fastening points on the blade and hub sides. This results in dynamic parasitic movements of the damper, as well as large movements of the trunnions located at the fastening points of this damper. In addition, this hub arrangement makes it difficult to provide bottom stops that allow the blade to be maneuvered in pitch over all the permitted range when the rotors are stopped and the blades resting on their stops, in order to test the free movement of flight controls before starting to rotate the rotors, as required by flight safety rules. In this case, in fact, each blade-carrying spindle turns about its longitudinal axis and the bottom stop device must permit this free rotation, while the contact point on them is heavily loaded by the resumption of the momentum of the weight of the blade, whose center of gravity is moved several meters further away. Finally the two laminated thrust stops in this structure are arranged inside the hub body, which means that it is not easy to determine their state for inspections without first dismantling the assembly.

Aerospatiale Societe Nationale Industrielle


Vinylcyclohexene is converted to ethylbenzene by contacting vinylcyclohexene with an alkali metal, liquid ammonia and an initiator. The method of the present invention allows the reaction to be conducted in a single step while selectively producing ethylbenzene with yields exceeding 95 percent by weight

Ethylbenzene is produced on commercial scale by the alkylation of benzene with ethylene. Due to periodic shortages and the hazardous nature of benzene, attempts have been made to produce ethylbenzene by methods other than alkylation of benzene with ethylene.
U.S. Pat. No. 2,745,887 discloses a process for treating with alkali metals cyclic hydrocarbons having 6 carbon atoms in the ring and containing at least two double bonds, at least one of them in the ring. However, this process is not feasible for commercial purposes since induction periods of 12-15 hours occur before the reaction is initiated, unless activators are added such as, for example, o-chlorotoluene, which reduce the induction period to 4-5 hours, or unless the process is carried out in the presence of extremely expensive and dangerous sodium hydride. However, even in these cases, only degrees of conversion of up to 71 percent are attained. Furthermore, it was found that this process does not yield useful results when vinylcyclohexene is used.
Furthermore, it is known from U.S. Pat. No. 3,903,185 that cycloolefins having 8 carbon atoms can be converted over catalysts of Subgroups VI to VIII, including the platinum group, of the Periodic Table of the elements, at temperatures of 350.degree.-450.degree. C., under pressures of 2.5-30 atmospheres absolute and in the presence of 0.2-20 m.sup.3 of hydrogen per kilogram of C.sub.8 -cycloolefin, to obtain ethylbenzene in rather satisfactory yields. However, this process is commercially very expensive, because it must be carried out at high temperatures, under pressure, and in the presence of hydrogen.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,048,243 discloses the dehydrogenation of cycloolefins by passing the cycloolefins over catalysts containing an alkali metal on a aluminum oxide support. The process is conducted at temperatures of about 20.degree.-150.degree. C. and pressure of about 0.8-2 atmospheres. This process requires the manufacture of a heterogeneous supported catalyst in a separate step which requires operation of the catalyst from the product in a later step.
Despite the disclosures of the prior art a need exists for the production of ethylbenzene in a method which produces ethylbenzene in high yields and in a cost-effective manner.

Conversion of vinylcyclohexene to ethylbenzene

Union Carbide Chemicals & Plastics Technology Corporation


A foot and ankle control device including an ankle strap positioned to encircle the leg of a wearer immediately above the ankle. A foot support strap having a medial “D”-ring and a lateral “D”-ring is positioned underneath the wearer's foot adjacent the instep of the foot. A connecting strap is positioned to lie over the arch of the foot and working in cooperation with the foot support strap is used to secure the lateral “D”-ring on the lateral side of the ankle, and the medial “D”-ring on the medial side of the ankle. An elastic lateral control strap is provided for resiliently connecting the lateral “D”-ring to the ankle cuff strap. An elastic medial control strap is also provided for connecting the medial “D”-ring ankle cuff strap.

The present invention relates to an adjustable foot and ankle device which can be used to control the foot to minimize pronation, supination, toe in and toe out. With this device, the neuromuscular patterning can be changed to correct the gait of a user without resorting to orthotics. The present invention is also used to correct the gait of a user when the user is experiencing pain in the knee, hips, foot or ankle.

Adjustable foot and ankle device for gait control


A servo controlled system is provided for electrically coupling the motions and applied forces of pilot and co-pilot control sticks. Servo-coupling between the two control sticks is accomplished by detecting the position of the control sticks of respective controllers and/or detecting torque exerted on the control sticks. The position and torques signals are processed and employed in a feedback loop for each control stick to generate a feedback signal to motors to which the control sticks are mechanically coupled. The motors act on the control stick to simulate the feel of traditional mechanical controllers, and to cause the controllers to track each other's movements.

This invention relates to a control system of the type wherein manual control devices such as a control sticks are provided which have an electro-simulated variable rate feel. In particular, the invention relates to a system having two control sticks such as are employed in aircraft, which are servo coupled in a manner coupling the motions as well as the applied forces of the users of the two control sticks.
Servo control technology is well developed as applied for use in the field of robotics. In particular, electrical motor and servo control systems have been developed and employed in the past in the design of robotic hand controllers which are capable of reflecting forces experienced at the robotic end, back to, for example, a human operator.
One example of the type of controller to which the present invention is directed is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,150,803, which teaches an operator control stick having an electro-simulated Variable rate feel system. The simulated feel system of the device of U.S. Pat. No. 4,150,803 provides the operator with proper force and feel characteristics when used to command a boom employed during refueling operations between aircraft in flight.
The types of controllers to which the invention is directed generally involve the use of a control stick actuatable in at least two mutually perpendicular planes to provide both vertical and lateral control of the device being controlled. This invention could be applied to controllers moveable in three rotational or three translational axes with up to six axes degrees of freedom. A position transducer is associated with the control stick and is used to generate output signals which command a control actuator to effect control of the device being controlled. The output from the transducer is also fed, typically, to at least one servo motor, which is mechanically coupled to an axis of the control stick. The servo motor either applies a resisting force on the control stick or, in response to a signal produced by sensors that detect forces applied to the device or surface being controlled, drives the stick and in turn, drives the device being controlled to alleviate forces generated by the device under control.
These types of controllers are particularly desirable for use in the operation of modern day aircraft, in particular, in the form of the control sticks or yokes. When employed in aircraft for use by pilots, it is desirable to provide two control sticks, one for use by the pilot and the other for use by the co-pilot.
In operation, the devices as used in the cockpit of aircraft are typically designed to exhibit some desired force versus displacement characteristics to the user whereby the magnitude of the control stick displacement is proportional to the force applied. The pilot controller produces as its output an electrical signal corresponding to the control stick position, and the signal is used to control the aircraft, through the action of various motors and mechanical means, in a manner which is well known to those of ordinary skill in the art and is conventional. Thus, with such systems there results and electronically controlled controller having force feel characteristics like those of purely mechanically linked systems. These applications in aircraft are typically referred to as "fly by wire" applications. Examples of presently existing applications of this technology are the systems employed in the Air Bus A320 Transport Aircraft, the General Dynamics F16 Fighter Aircraft and the NASA Space Shuttle.
When employed on aircraft, its is desirable to couple the two control sticks together to insure that they track each other and that only a single set of command signals are provided to the aircraft, for example, to the control surfaces and engines. In the past, aircraft pilot controllers had been coupled between pilot and co-pilot seats by mechanical means such as linkages, shafts, hydraulic devices and other complicated, bulky and weighty mechanisms. Recent efforts to save on the weight of these mechanical coupling systems have provided fly by wire designs which employ no means of coupling the motions of the pilot and co-pilot control sticks. The disadvantage of this approach is that it requires that some means of averaging or arbitrating between differing command signals, in the event that the pilot and co-pilot at the same instant move the controllers in opposite directions. Further, another disadvantage of such a system is that the forces versus displacement characteristics of the controllers are decoupled from the loading on the aircraft control surfaces and from the commands of the auto-pilot.
Accordingly, in the present invention, the disadvantages of having a decoupled pilot and co-pilot control system are avoided without requiring the heavy and bulky mechanical linkages or other such devices employed in the prior art.


An apparatus for measuring volume- or mass-flow of a medium in a pipeline. Included is a measuring tube, through which the medium flows in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the measuring tube; a magnet system, which is embodied in such a manner, that it produces a magnetic field passing through the measuring tube essentially transversely to the longitudinal axis of the measuring tube; at least one measuring electrode coupled with the medium, which is arranged in a bore in the wall of the measuring tube in a region lying essentially perpendicular to the magnetic field. The measuring electrode has an elongated electrode shaft having a first widened end region, which is so dimensioned, that its diameter larger is than the diameter of the bore in the wall of the measuring tube, in which the measuring electrode is placed; and a control/evaluation unit, which, on the basis of a measurement voltage induced in the at least one measuring electrode, delivers information concerning volume- or mass-flow of the medium in the measuring tube. In the opposing, second, end region of the electrode shaft of the measuring electrode, at least one radial recess or at least one radial protrusion is arranged. Furthermore, a binding-element is provided, which is so embodied, that it fixes the measuring electrode in the bore of the measuring tube in the axial direction by engaging with the at least one radial recess or protrusion.

Magneto-inductive flow measuring devices utilize, for volumetric flow measurement, the principle of electrodynamic induction: Charge carriers of the medium moved perpendicularly to a magnetic field induce a measurement voltage in measuring electrodes likewise arranged essentially perpendicularly to the flow direction of the medium and perpendicularly to the direction of the magnetic field. The measurement voltage induced in the measuring electrodes is proportional to the flow velocity of the medium averaged over the cross section of the measuring tube; it is thus proportional to the volume flow rate. If the density of the medium is known, then the mass flow in the pipeline, or in the measuring tube, can be determined. The measurement voltage is usually sensed via a measuring electrode pair, which is arranged, as regards coordinates, along the measuring tube axis in the region of maximum magnetic field strength and where, thus, the maximum measurement voltage is to be expected. The measuring electrodes are usually galvanically coupled with the medium; however, also magneto-inductive flow measuring devices with capacitively coupling measuring electrodes are known. Subsequently herein, exclusively measuring electrodes coupling galvanically with the medium will be discussed.
The measuring tube can be manufactured either of an electrically conductive material, e.g. stainless steel, or it is composed of an electrically insulating material. If the measuring tube is manufactured of an electrically conductive material, then it must be lined with a liner of an electrically insulating material in the region coming in contact with the medium. The liner is composed usually of a thermoplastic- or a thermosetting-plastic or an elastomeric, synthetic material. However, also magneto-inductive flow measuring devices equipped with a ceramic lining are known.
The measuring electrodes are, besides the magnet system, fundamental components of a magneto-inductive flow sensor. In the construction and arrangement of the measuring electrodes, it is to be assured, that they can be assembled in the measuring tube as simply as possible and that, subsequently in measurement operation, no sealing problems occur; moreover, the measuring electrodes should be distinguished by a sensitive and, simultaneously, low-disturbance registering of the measurement signal.
Fundamentally, two types of electrode constructions can be distinguished:                Measuring electrodes, which are inserted and assembled from the outside into the measuring tube; and        measuring electrodes, which are inserted and assembled from the inside into the measuring tube.
In the case of the first type, the structure of the electrode head is limited by the diameter of the bore: Assembly from the outside is only possible, when the diameter of the electrode head is smaller than, or equal to, the diameter of the bore in the wall of the measuring tube, into which the measuring electrode is placed. Preferably, measuring electrodes assembled from outside are rod electrodes, such as are described, for example, in EP 0 892 252 A1. Preferably, rod electrodes are used in the case of magneto-inductive, flow measuring devices of small nominal diameter, thus in cases, where assembly from the inside is difficult or not at all feasible, due to the small dimensions. Furthermore, it is, however, also quite acceptable to use rod electrodes in the case of flow measuring devices of greater nominal diameters, since rod electrodes with a 'Christmas tree' structure in the region of the electrode shaft can be used, such as disclosed in European patent, EP 0 892 252 A1, without great effort, in a measuring tube of synthetic material or in a measuring tube having a liner of plastic, or synthetic material.
In the case of the second type of measuring electrode, the limitation as regards the dimensioning of the electrode head is absent; here, the electrode shaft must only be so embodied, that it can be assembled in the bore. The electrode head can, here, depending on application, vary both in size as well as also in form, within broad limits. Known, internally mountable, measuring electrodes have, usually, e.g. mushroom-, lens- or plate-shaped, electrode heads. Both types of measuring electrodes are used by the assignee in its flow measuring devices.
British Patent, GB 2 298 716 A discloses two different variants of measuring electrode designs. In the case of the first embodiment, the mushroom-shaped measuring electrode is secured in a bore of the measuring tube lined with an electrically insulating material via a spring washer and a screwed connection. In order to avoid, that medium can penetrate into the bore, there is provided, on the inner surface of the mushroom-shaped electrode head, a circumferential edge, which presses into the liner material in the assembled state. In the case of the second variant, the sealing action is achieved through a sharp-edged, frustoconically-shaped thickening in the region of the electrode shaft. Also in the case of this embodiment, the securement of the measuring electrode in the bore occurs via a Belleville spring and a screwed connection.

Apparatus for measuring volume- or mass-flow of a medium in a pipeline