A process for treating and dewatering tailings comprising fine clay minerals, fine rock-forming minerals and water is provided, comprising treating the tailings with a sufficient amount of a collector to modify the surface properties of both the fine clays and rock-forming minerals; subjecting the treated tailings to froth flotation to form a fine clays and rock-forming minerals froth layer; and recovering the froth layer and subjecting it to dewatering.

Extraction tailings, such as oil sand extraction tailings, are generated from extraction operations that separate valuable material from the mined ore. In the case of oil sand ore, heavy oil or bitumen is extracted from the ore using water, which is added to the oil sand ore to enable the separation of the valuable hydrocarbon fraction from the oil sand minerals.
Oil sand generally comprises water-wet sand grains held together by a matrix of viscous heavy oil or bitumen. Bitumen is a complex and viscous mixture of large or heavy hydrocarbon molecules which contain a significant amount of sulfur, nitrogen and oxygen. The extraction of bitumen from sand using hot water processes yields large volumes of tailings composed of coarse sand, fine rock-forming minerals (e.g., quartz and feldspar), clays (e.g., kaolinite, illite and smectite), and residual bitumen which have to be contained in a tailings pond. Mineral fractions with a particle diameter equal to or less than 44 microns are collectively referred to as "fines".
Tailings produced during bitumen extraction are typically 50% water and 50% solids by weight. The solids fraction can be further defined as being either fine or coarse solids. Typically, the solid fraction contains 80% coarse and 20% fines by weight. Conventionally, extraction tailings have been transported to a deposition site contained within a dyke structure generally constructed by placing the coarse sand fraction of the tailings on beaches. The process water, unrecovered hydrocarbons, together with sand and fine materials that are not trapped in the dyke structure flow into a pond, where the coarse sand settles quickly to the bottom of the pond while the finer mineral solids such as rock-forming minerals and clays remain in suspension (referred to herein as "thin fine tailings").
The thin fine tailings suspension is typically 85% water and 15% fine particles (solids less than 44 μm) by mass with a sand-to-fines ratio (SFR) of less than 1. The thin fine tailings generally consists of about 76% clay minerals (55% kaolinite, 20% illite, and 1% mixed layers) and 24% rock-forming minerals (19% quartz, 3% siderite, 1% plagioclase, and 1% K-feldspar). Dewatering of thin fine tailings occurs very slowly. After a few years when the thin fine tailings have reached a solids content of about 30-35%, they are often referred to as mature fine tailings (MFT), which tailings behave as a fluid-like colloidal material. The more generic term, fluid fine tailings (FFT), is often used in the industry to define all oil sand tailings fractions which are comprised primarily of fines. FFT is generally defined as a liquid suspension of oil sands fines in water with a solids content greater than 2% and having less than an undrained shear strength of 5 kPa.
The fact that fluid fine tailings behave as a fluid and have very slow consolidation rates significantly limits options to reclaim tailings ponds. It is believed that the presence of large amounts of clay in the fluid fine tailings is the major contributor to its very slow consolidation. Thus, a challenge facing the industry remains the removal of water from the fluid fine tailings to strengthen the deposits so that they can be reclaimed and no longer require containment.
Recently, a method for dewatering oil sands tailings, in particular, fine tailings and fluid fine tailings comprising fine clays, fine rock-forming minerals, and water, has been proposed in Canadian Patent No. 2,912,898, which involves selectively floating the fine clay minerals, thereby rendering the remaining flotation tails comprised of rock-forming minerals more amenable to dewatering and consolidation. In particular, fine tailings or fluid fine tailings are treated with a clay surface reagent, such as a cationic collector, which is selective for clays and renders the clays more hydrophobic, prior to subjecting the tailings to flotation. This results in effective separation of the clay minerals (as clay froth) from the non-clay minerals, i.e., rock-forming minerals such as quartz and feldspar (as flotation tails).
Because the floated clay minerals in the clay froth have been rendered hydrophobic by surface modification by the clay surface reagent, such as a cationic collector, a large portion of water is quickly drained from the clay froth, while the clay froth is rapidly drying in air (naturally desiccating) due to its high porous structure. The clay froth can also be dewatered using filtration, pressure filtration, belt filtration, etc. The flotation tails are easier to process because of the reduced fine clays and may be readily settled.
One drawback of the method in Canadian Patent No. 2,912,898, however, is that there are now two tailings products, i.e., clay froth and flotation tails, to dewater. While both products are readily dewatered, it may be desirable to have a single product that is as readily dewatered as the clay froth or flotation tails.
Another recent method for dewatering oil sands tailings, in particular, fluid fine tailings comprising fine clays, has been proposed in Canadian Patent No. 2,909,338, which involves initially treating the tailings with a flocculant, a coagulant, or both, followed by treatment with a clay surface reagent such as a cationic collector. The treated tailings can then be subjected to liquid solids separation, such as in a gravity thickener, a hydrocyclone, a centrifuge, a vacuum filter or a filter press, rim ditching (accelerated dewatering), self-weight consolidation, etc.


A circuit board mounted electrical connector includes a dielectric housing having a top face, a bottom board-mounting face and a front mating portion extending generally parallel to the circuit board. A set of first terminals are mounted in the housing through the top face thereof. The first terminals have tail portions for connection to appropriate circuit traces on the circuit board. The first terminals have contact portions on a top side of the mating portion of the housing for engaging appropriate contacts of a complementary mating connecting device. A set of second terminals are mounted on the housing through the bottom board-mounting face thereof. The second terminals have tail portions for connection to appropriate circuit traces on the circuit board. The second terminals have contact portions on a bottom side of the mating portion of the housing for engaging appropriate contacts on the mating connecting device.

Generally, an electrical connector includes some form of dielectric or insulative housing which mounts one or more conductive terminals. The housing is conFIG.d for mating with a complementary mating connector or other connecting device which, itself, has one or more conductive terminals. A connector assembly typically includes a pair of mating connectors, such as plug and receptacle connectors sometimes called male and female connectors.
Various types of electrical connectors are designed for mounting on a printed circuit board. The connectors have terminals which include contact portions for engaging the terminals of a complementary mating connector. The terminals of a board-mounted connector have terminating ends for connection to appropriate circuit traces on the circuit board, such as solder tails for solder connection to the circuit traces on a top surface of the circuit board and/or in holes in the board. Some board-mounted connectors have mating portions extending generally parallel to the circuit board for mating with a complementary connector in a direction parallel to the board. Problems often are encountered in mounting terminals in board-mounted connectors and maintaining the tail portions of the terminals generally planar relative to the flat circuit board. The present invention is directed to solving these problems and satisfying a need for providing a very simple board-mounted electrical connector which is easy, simple and inexpensive to manufacture and assemble.


Provided are a data transmission method, a network device and a terminal device. The method comprises: generating first instruction information, the first instruction information being used to instruct a terminal device to simultaneously send multiple pieces of uplink information corresponding to multiple downlinks over multiple uplink channels, or the first instruction information being used to instruct the terminal device to send multiple pieces of uplink information over multiple uplink channels by means of a manner of a time-division multiplexing, or the first instruction information being used to instruct the terminal device to send multiple pieces of uplink information over a first uplink channel among multiple uplink channels; sending the first instruction information to the terminal device.

At present, in a discussion about a New Radio (NR)/5-Generation (5G) mobile communication technology, there are two following types of approaches supported by solutions that multiple Transmission Reception Points (TRPs) or multiple Antenna panels or multiple beams simultaneously provide transmission for a terminal device. Specifically, a first approach is that the terminal device only receives one Physical Downlink Control Channel (PDCCH) indicating relevant indication information about data transmitted through multiple TRPs/beams. A second approach is that the terminal device receives different NR-PDCCHs from different TRPs/beams, and each control channel indicates relevant indication information about one corresponding data transmission.
However, for the second approach, the terminal device needs to simultaneously detect multiple PDCCHs/Physical Downlink Shared Channels (PDSCHs) on the same carrier, and needs to send uplink information on uplinks corresponding to multiple downlinks, causing too high complexity and power consumption of the terminal device.

Data transmission method, network device and terminal device

GUANGDONG OPPO MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATIONS CORP., LTD.


A method and system to manage the operation of multiple item promotions which provide a benefit to a customer who purchases a specified combination of items. The present invention monitors purchases in conjunction with Point Of Sale (POS) processing in a retail store and determines when purchase combination promotions are satisfied by a customer's purchase selections. The present invention stores a description of the items purchased in conjunction with the promotion, stores the cost of the promotion to be charged to each sponsor for each benefit or discount provided, and tracks future redemption of coupons or paperless equivalents that were issued in conjunction with a purchase combination promotion.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention is related to the automated processing of retail sales promotional discounts and, in particular, to the automated tracking, charging and analysis of retail sales promotions offered by a plurality of sponsors.
2. Discussion of the Background
Discount coupons have been a successful marketing promotion technique to improve the sale of items. The majority of coupons given to consumers today give a discount to customers who purchase a specified single item. The redemption procedure at the point of sale for such coupons is relatively straightforward because the retailer has to only identify if that one item has been purchased prior to giving the customer the specified discount. The processing of these coupons by the retailer and sponsor of the promotion, who is usually the manufacturer of the item, is also fairly straightforward since the retailer is only required to return the coupon to the sponsor or the sponsor's agent to receive the cost of the discount that the retailer provided to the customer.
Retail sales promotions are also offered which provide a discount if a customer purchases a specified combination of items. These multiple item promotions give the customer a choice of items which he or she may purchase and receive a benefit. Providing multiple item promotions involving items promoted by different entities has been limited by the mechanism followed by retailers to redeem coupons at the point of sale. Retailer procedures for redeeming coupons are focused upon promotions which only require the purchase of a single item and therefore only one sponsor of the promotion may be charged for the discount provided to the customer. Coupons or other promotions which require a customer to purchase several items from several manufactures or sponsors have not been practical because apportionment of the costs cannot effectively be made given the procedures currently used by retailers to redeem coupons. The cost of existing multiple item promotions are generally divided equally among all of the sponsors participating in the promotion without regard to the number of items sold by each sponsor as a result of the promotion.

Automated method and system for automated tracking, charging and analysis of multiple sponsor discount coupons


The invention relates to a coding element for equipping at least one cam carrier of a rotor of a rotary press with at least one control cam element, wherein at least one coding element is provided, wherein the at least one coding element comprises fastening means by which it can be fastened to the rotor or a component connected thereto, wherein the at least one coding element has coding means by which the position of the at least one control cam element on the cam carrier is clearly specified. In addition, the invention relates to a corresponding method.

The invention relates to a coding element for equipping at least one cam carrier of a rotor of a rotary press with at least one control cam element. The invention also relates to a control cam arrangement and a rotor for a rotary press. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for equipping a cam carrier of a rotor of a rotary press with at least one control cam element.
Rotary presses and rotary tablet presses generally possess a rotor having an upper and lower punch guide and a die plate arranged therebetween. Furthermore, upper and lower control cams are provided that interact with the heads of upper and lower press punches of the rotary press, in particular in order to generate and guide the axial stroke of the upper and lower press punches. The control cams are generally constructed of a plurality of control cam elements that are fastened to a suitable cam carrier. Different control cam elements are assigned to the different stations of the rotary press, for example filling cam elements, dosing cam elements, pressure cam elements and ejection cam elements. It is very important for the cam carriers to be correctly equipped with control cam elements for the intended outfitting of the rotary press with stations. To prevent the cam carriers from being incorrectly equipped with control cam elements, the cam carriers are designed so that only a specific combination of control elements can be affixed thereto.
Different production states are supposed to be feasible with such rotary tablet presses. For example, it should be possible to change between the production of single-layer tablets and multilayer tablets. For such a change, it is generally necessary to also change the control cam elements. A rotary tablet press that is flexible to use therefore needs to permit different control cam combinations. Since the cam carriers are specially designed for just one combination of control cams, different cam carriers are therefore required for different control cam combinations. It is however involved to change a cam carrier. The precise position of the cam carrier is very important for the rotary press to operate. The cam carriers therefore possess elaborate fastening means with a plurality of fastening points. In addition, all the forces acting on the control cams during operation are absorbed by the cam carriers. Due to the high loads that therefore arise during operation, the cam carriers are stably designed and mounted and are very heavy. This design of the cam carriers renders changing them involved.
Based on the explained prior art, the object of the invention is to enable different combinations of control cams to be flexibly exchanged in an easy and reliable manner.

Coding element for equipping at least one cam carrier of a rotor of a rotary press, and method for equipping a cam carrier of a rotor of a rotary press


The disclosure discloses methods and systems for automatically generating multiple scanned files when scanning a document at a multi-function device. The method includes receiving a multi-page document for scanning from a user. A user interface is provided to the user to input one or more keywords and one or more desired resolution values, where the input resolution values are different from a default resolution value set at the multi-function device. A page of the document is scanned to generate a scanned page of a default resolution value. The scanned page is checked if including the one or more input keywords. Accordingly, the default resolution value of the page is converted to the user desired resolution value. The scanning, checking, and converting are repeated till all the pages of the document are scanned. Multiple scanned files of different resolution values are automatically generated from single scan activity.

Modern day multi-function devices (MFDs) provide a wide range of scan resolutions such as 100 DPI (Dots per Inch), 300 DPI, 600 DPI, 800 DPI and so on, allowing users to scan documents at any resolution value. Typically, a document is scanned at a single resolution value such as 600 DPI. For example, when a user submits a document for scanning, a scanned document is generated where all pages of the scanned document have a single resolution value, for example, 600 DPI. However, there can be scenarios where the user wants certain pages of a document to be scanned at a higher resolution and certain pages to be scanned at lower resolution for various reasons. As an example, a user may want certain pages of a document having images or graphs to be scanned at a higher resolution, say 600 DPI, and remaining pages having text at a lower resolution, say 200 DPI.
To cater to such scenarios, the user may either scan all pages of the document at a higher resolution value i.e., 600 DPI but this may increase the size of the output scanned document. As a result, the user may not be able to email the document due to size limitations of sending documents via email. Further, the user may opt to scan all the pages of the document at lower resolution, say 200 DPI, which may reduce the size of the scanned document, however, the resolution/quality of the charts and images becomes poor. One approach can be to reduce the size of the document by scanning pages having regular content, i.e., text etc. at the lower resolution i.e., 200 DPI and scanning the pages having important content, i.e., images, charts, signature at a higher resolution i.e., 600 DPI. This way the overall size of the scanned document can be within required limits and there is no compromise with the quality of the resolution of the important content in the document.
However, in the above scenario, the user has to manually segregate the document into two parts—a first part including pages that are to be scanned at higher resolution and another part having pages to be scanned at lower resolution. Once segregated, the user is required to scan the two parts separately. Also, the user is required to collate the two parts once the scanning is done. This could be very frustrating and time consuming for the user. Moreover, this may require a third-party software that can be used to collate the two scanned documents, which may not be available to the user. In light of this, there is a need for improved methods and systems to efficiently manage scanning of documents.

Methods and systems for generating multiple scanned files of different resolutions when scanning a document


A door lockset 20 includes a front loaded cylinder lock 75 which is assembled with an insert 64 within a knob 62. Cylinder lock 75 includes a locking bar 104 which is biased toward a central opening 83 formed through a body 76 of the lock. A plug 80 is located within opening 83 and is rotatable therein. A removal key 108 is formed with a slot 240 which is alignable with a plug slot 109 when the key is inserted into a key slot 113 of the plug. Plug 80 is thereafter rotated within opening 83 to align locking bar 104 with plug slot 109 and key slot 240 whereby the bar moves into the slots under the biasing action of a spring 106. Cylinder lock 75 can then be removed from the front of insert 64 and knob 62. A reverse process is followed to load cylinder lock 75 into opening 238 and to retain the lock with insert 64.

This invention relates to a front loaded cylinder for a door lockset and particularly relates to a door lockset having a cylinder lock which can be removed from or inserted into the front of the lockset without dismantling the lockset from its assembly with a related door.
Some door locksets include a cylinder lock which is typically located in the door operator, such as a knob, or within a guard collar of a deadlock. Such a cylinder lock includes a cylinder body which is formed with a cylindrical opening for receipt of a cylindrically shaped plug for rotation therein. The cylinder body and plug are each formed with a plurality of aligned holes which receive and support sets of spring-biased tumbler pins. Normally, various pins overlap a juncture line between adjacent facing surfaces of the cylinder body and the plug to prevent the plug from rotating relative to the cylinder body. This juncture line is referred to as "the shear line."
The plug is formed with a key slot which communicates with the holes of the plug so that portions of the pins extend into the key slot. When an appropriate key is inserted into the slot, bits on the key adjust the position of the pins so that the shear line is clear and the plug can be rotated within the opening of the cylindrical body.
In some locksets, the cylinder lock is assembled from the rear of the lock set. If a need arises to extract the cylinder lock, the lockset must be dismantled from the door and then disassembled to the extent that the cylinder lock can be removed from the rear of the operator. If it is desired to install a replacement cylinder lock, the same time consuming and tedious process is required.
Other types of locksets use cylinder locks which can be inserted from the front of the operator or deadlock guard collar. Such locksets have alleviated some of the difficulties encountered with the rear loaded cylinder locks. Locksets of this type are useful, for example, where it is necessary or desirable to change the lock combination on a frequent basis. For example, where tenants move and keep the key to the existing lockset, the landlord can simply replace the cylinder lock with one of a different combination by the front loading technique.
While the front-loading technique has simplified the process of replacing a cylinder lock, the available front loaded cylinder locks present complex internal mechanisms, the assembly of which is tedious and time consuming. As a consequence, the cost of such locks is relatively high. Any effort to reduce the cost has been at the expense of the level of security provided by such cylinder lock.
Thus, there is a need for a front loaded cylinder lock which maintains a high level of security for the lockset and which is available at a reasonable cost.


GaAs base optical waveguide-based structure for a neural network is discld which may form the basic functional building block of a neural architecture in which the waveguide architecture contains at least three electrically active components which are electrically isolated from each other. The waveguide parameters are such that the laser light propagating through the waveguide is a single-mode in both transverse and lateral directions. A superlattice structure is incorporated in the waveguide core and results in electroabsorption of the input laser light. An electric field is supplied to the active components in order to change the transmission properties of the core material, thus modulating the light passing through the core material.

The present invention relates generally to an optical implementation of a neural network for optical processing data. More particularly, the present invention relates to an optoelectronic neural network device which is compact and monolithic and which can provide flexible processing of data in optical form.
It is often desirable to be able to readily recognize patterns. Pattern recognition is a function which is important in both military and commercial applications, such as aided target recognition, speech recognition, machine recognition of handwriting, robotic vision, communications systems, automated control, design and manufacturing, radar data analysis, and other areas. At the present time, the most outstanding system for performing pattern recognition is the human brain which can recognize a pattern, even with partial or incomplete information and even in relatively ill-defined situations. Digital computers, which are capable of very fast number manipulation and other serial operations, are very inefficient in performing pattern-recognition tasks. In order to use a digital computer for performing pattern-recognition tasks, an enormous memory would be required, as well as a very large knowledge base and a rule-based expert system. Even so configured, such an electronic computer would only be able to perform relatively simple pattern-recognition tasks.
Current investigation of brain functions has contributed to artificial neural networks technology which is based upon the knowledge of how a biological brain functions as a parallel processor. A biological brain uses a large number of relatively simple but slow (millisecond range) processing elements or neurons which work in concert with each other with a massive number of interconnections. Such neural networks can be used to perform processing at several levels of pattern-recognition problems, including input data preprocessing, such as data recovery, noise removal, signal-to-noise-ratio (SNR) enhancement, signal and/or image segmentation through final target identification. Both electronic and optical approaches to hardware implementations of neural networks have been proposed.
Most of the optical implementations of neural networks have been based upon the use of a vector-matrix multiplication technique to simulate neural functioning. Most of those implementations utilize a free-space architecture and require many optical components which cannot be monolithically integrated. The present invention, on the other hand, implements optical neural architecture in GaAs materials which is very compact and monolithic and is inspired by the natural fiber-like structures common in all biological neurons. Utilizing the technology of semiconductor quantum wells and superlattices, which may also be used for optical modulators and switches, the present invention emulates the basic neural decision-making process of the human brain. Multiple inputs are accepted, different adjustable weights are applied to those inputs, the weighted inputs are summed, and then an optoelectronic thresholding switch is used to make a binary decision.
Biological brain systems appear to be successful due to their complex and massively parallel architectures. For example, a 3 pound human brain consists of over 10 billion neuron cells communicating among themselves through networks of over 100 trillion synaptic interconnections. Each neuron has a relatively simple structure and functioning method. Typically, a neuron consists of a cell body, ranging from about 5 to 100 microns in diameter, from which one major fiber, the axon, and a number of fibrous branches, the dendrites, emanate. The axon carries the outgoing signal from the neuron, and, near its end, it usually branches out extensively.
The dendrites receive the input signals from other neurons, where they form a contact, called a synapse. A weight is applied to each signal, and the cell body sums those weighted signals and then performs a simple thresholding operation based on that sum to determine whether to send a signal on to its axon or not. Generally speaking, a single neuron receives input from thousands of other neurons through its dendrites and similarly feeds its output to thousands of other neurons through its branching axon. The time scale involved, however, is relatively slow, being in the range of milliseconds.
An artificial neuron network consists of a massively interconnected network of processing elements. For purposes of mathematical simplification, such a network is divided into a number of layers; each layer is made up of a number of neurons or nodes. Every neuron in each of those layers is connected to every neuron in the next layer for a network that is fully connected. Alternatively, the number of connections could be less, depending upon the application. Every neural network, however, has an input and an output neural layer. There can also be some additional layers in between those two, which are known as hidden layers.
The operating principle of a neural network can be mathematically represented by a nonlinear function f, as set forth by R. P. Lippmann in "An introduction to computing with neural nets", IEEE ASSP Magazine, vol. 4 (April 1987).
While both electronic and optical approaches to the hardware implementation of neural networks are being used, optical implementations appear to have a very promising future because of the inherent parallelism of light. Most of the architecture suggested in the art by, for example, N. H. Farhat, "Optoelectronic neural networks and learning machine", IEEE Circuits and Devices Magazine, vol. 32 (September 1989); D. Psaltis, D. Brady, X. Gu, and K. Hsu, "Optical implementation of neural computers", Optical Processing and Computing, H. A. Arsenault, editor, chapter 8 (1989); Y. Nitta, J. Ohita, M. Takahashi, S. Tai, and K. Kyuma, "Optical neurochip with learning capability", Photonics Tech. Lett., vol. 4, No. 3, page 247 (1992), contain at least three planes. The first plane, corresponding to the input neurons, contains an array of discrete sources of light (either one- or two-dimensional), for example, spatial light modulators (SLM's) or light-emitting diodes.
The second layer contains a two-dimensional array of interconnection elements representing the weight matrix, for example, an SLM (either fixed or programmable) or a hologram (two-dimensional or volume). The third layer corresponds to the output neurons and contains an array of discrete photodetectors for summing the weighted inputs with a built-in quadratic nonlinearity. Sometimes an additional thresholding is provided at this stage using electronics or some other scheme. Some approaches also include the use of hidden layers. While most of those implementations are of the tabletop-type size, this type of architecture has recently been implemented in GaAs by Y. Nitta et al.
The present invention, in contrast, is an optical implementation of a feed-forward neural network architecture which is implemented in a monolithic GaAs/AlGaAs waveguide structure, in which both the weighting and thresholding are provided by the room-temperature macroscopic nonlinear behavior of an embedded superlattice by the application of small electric voltages.

Optoelectronic waveguide neural architecture

The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army


A docking device for use with a wheeled mobility device having a device interface on a rear thereof includes a securing mechanism to dock with the device interface. The securing mechanism is adapted to dock with the device interface upon rearward motion of the wheeled mobility device relative to the docking device regardless of the horizontal position of the mobility device over a range of horizontal positions of the mobility device. The securing device can also be adapted to dock with the device interface regardless of the angle of the device interface relative to the docking device over a range of angles of the device interface. Further, the securing device can be adapted to dock with the device interface regardless of the vertical position of the device interface relative to the docking device over a range of vertical positions of the device interface.

The present invention relates to docking or securement devices, systems and methods for securing wheeled mobility devices (WMDs) used by persons with physical disabilities in both public and private transport vehicles.
The following information is provided to assist the reader to understand the invention disclosed below and the environment in which it will typically be used. The terms used herein are not intended to be limited to any particular narrow interpretation unless clearly stated otherwise in this document. References set forth herein may facilitate understanding of the present invention or the background of the present invention. The disclosure of all references cited herein are incorporated by reference.
An increasing number of people with disabilities use wheeled mobility devices (WMD) (e.g., traditional manual and powered wheelchairs, powered bases, scooters, strollers) as a means of accessing public and private motor vehicles. For many, the ability to remain seated in their WMD while riding in a transport vehicle is the only feasible means of gaining access to education, work or recreational activities. The vast majority of WMDs, both traditional and contemporary, are not designed to be used as seats in a transport/transit vehicle. The wheels, seat and frame structures and battery containers were not engineered to withstand the potentially high "g" forces of a crash. Furthermore, most WMDs do not have designated attachment points for securement to the vehicle and, therefore, securement, both in terms of strength and location on the frame, can often be haphazard and uncertain from a safety viewpoint. Therefore, most secured WMDs do not provide the WMD-seated occupant with an equivalent level of travel safety as that provided the non-disabled rider by a car, van, or transport vehicle seat.
It is generally recognized that both the occupant restraint and the WMD securement device must act together as an integral crash protection system. There are essentially two basic approaches to the securement of WMDs that are in common use today, attendant-operated securement systems and auto-engaging docking devices. The attendant-operated type is dominated largely by three or four-point strap-type devices that hook to various parts of the WMD frame. Problems quickly arise when there are no appropriate locations to attach the securement belts to the WMD. An example of this situation is encountered with scooter and power bases where molded plastic housings enclose the structural frame. Also, the requirement that an attendant or vehicle operator always be present and time required to secure the WMDs creates logistical problems for the transporter. Hunter-Zaworski K M, Ullman D G, Herlineg, D E. Application of the Quality Functional Deployment Method in Mobility aid Securement System Design: Volume 1. Transportation Research Institute, Oregon State University. Final Report-December 1992. NTIS Number: FTA-OR-11-0006-92-1. Additionally, test results have indicated that existing strap tiedown systems are at the upper limits of their capacity when tested at 30 mph/20 g loading. Fisher W E, Seeger B R, Svensson N L. Development of an Australian Standard for wheelchair occupant restraint assemblies for motor vehicles. Journal of Rehab Research and Development 1987; 24(3): 23-24. This implies that many heavier models of powered WMDs may not be secure at nominal crash load levels. Also, users of transport vehicles have expressed dissatisfaction with operators having to fumble around their legs and upper body while fastening or disengaging the strap devices. Because of the difficulty and inconvenience of using strap systems they are often simply not used at all, or are not fastened in a way that will provide adequate crash protection. Moreover, strap-type securement devices are inconsistent with the intent of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which is to provide persons with disabilities increased access to community resources through improved independent use of public transportation systems.
Several docking-type securement devices are commercially available but use is limited largely to private vehicles. These devices have matching components, one attached to the WMD frame and the other (docking securement device) to the vehicle. Hunter-Zaworski K M, Ullman D G, Herlineg, D E. Application of the Quality Functional Deployment Method in Mobility aid Securement System Design: Volume 1. Transportation Research Institute, Oregon State University. Final Report-December 1992. NTIS Number: FTA-OR-11-0006-92-1. They offer increased user independence, but rely on having a location on the WMD to which one component (WMD adapter) of the securement system can be attached. As mentioned above, most WMDs do not have appropriate securement attachment locations. Also, since there is such a variety of WMDs, a large number of WMD adapter configurations must be provided by a third party manufacturer, each of which needs to be safety tested. To date, WMD manufacturers have not provided adapters for their products, mainly as a result increased liability and cost of producing and testing a different adapter for each model of WMD product.
Docking devices have been shown to work reasonably well for private vehicles in which the matching components can be individually configured. However, public vehicles must be able to accept any WMD to be universally applicable. Early docking devices represent a departure from the four-strap tiedown approach, and are the first step towards a more universal and user-independent solution. However, the existing docking designs do not provide a universal solution to the public transit problem, where the majority of WMDs are used
Efforts to foster the development of a universal industry design standard for the interface hardware between WMDs and docking-type securement devices by the Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center (RERC) on Wheeled Mobility at the University of Pittsburgh have led to development and publishing in 2005 of a voluntary international standard (ISO 10542-3) for wheelchair docking securement devices by the International Standards Organization (ISO), the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
However, the transportation of WMD users in North America remains in a state of chaos. The manifestations are that users are inconvenienced, transportation time and costs are unnecessarily high, legal liabilities are pervasive, and most importantly, user safety in many cases is seriously compromised. The ADA mandate of accessibility and safety, although laudatory in its intent, is technically not achievable with existing restraint and strap-type securement technology.
It is therefore desirable to develop improved devices, systems and methods for securing (and preferably auto-docking) WMD device within vehicles. Preferably, such devices, systems and method are compatible with the ISO 10542-3 industry standard.

Docking and securement system for wheeled mobility devices

University of Pittsburgh–of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education


A communication device has an information transmission setting process that obtains state information indicative of a self-vehicle state, and determines whether the state information satisfies a transmission stop condition for stopping a transmission of position information. Further, based on the obtained state information, the process determines whether the self-vehicle is in an abnormal state indicative of an abnormality of the self-vehicle. Then, if the preset transmission stop condition is satisfied and the abnormal state is not detected, the process stops the transmission of the position information. If the preset transmission stop condition is satisfied and the abnormal state is already detected, the process allows a periodic transmission of the position information.

Conventionally, a communication apparatus may notify the position of a self-vehicle to other communication devices outside of the self-vehicle. The communication apparatus may periodically transmit at preset intervals the position information such as the current position of a self-vehicle, for example, as described in a patent document 1 (i.e., Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. JP-A-2006-23909).
Such a communication device may be configured to continue such a periodic transmission of the position information at the preset intervals to the other communication device after the stopping of the internal-combustion engine in the self-vehicle.
However, when the internal-combustion engine is stopped as mentioned above, the communication device will usually operate on electric power stored in the in-vehicle battery.
For this reason, when the communication device repeatedly transmits the position information even after the stopping of the internal-combustion engine, the consumption of electric power stored in the in-vehicle battery increases, which is undesirable. That is, for an in-vehicle communication device that is configured to transmit information after the stopping of the internal-combustion engine, it is necessary to control the consumption of electric power in the in-vehicle battery.


Using, as a detector, a CCD detector having a CCD element to which a scintillator is closely fixed, a backscattered or scanning transmission image is obtained by the following method. The detector is disposed directly under an objective lens to obtain the backscattered electron image. When one point of a specimen is irradiated with an electron beam, backscattered or transmission electrons generated from the specimen collide with the scintillator to form a luminescent pattern. This pattern is detected by the CCD detector, and stored in a memory. This processing is sequentially repeated for each irradiation position to obtain all the patterns in an electron beam scanning range. Arithmetic processing is performed on each pattern to convert it into an image. Usually, image data for one pixel is calculated from one pattern. By sequentially repeating this, a backscattered or transmission electron image in the electronic beam scanning range can be obtained.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an electron microscopy employing a CCD detector in order to acquire a backscattered electron image, a transmission electron image, or a scanning transmission electron image.
2. Description of the Related Art
When an electron beam enters a specimen in an electron microscopy, a part of the electron beam is scattered at a large angle by an atom in the specimen. Then, the scattered electron beam discharges electrons (backscattered electrons) from the surface of the specimen while losing little energy. Another part of the electron beam discharges electrons (transmission electrons) behind the specimen, without being absorbed in the specimen.
The backscattered electrons can be mainly classified into two types: high angle backscattered electrons scattered at high angles from the surface of the specimen and low angle backscattered electrons scattered at low angles from the surface of the specimen. The high angle backscattered electrons mainly have information on composition distribution, while the low angle backscattered electrons mainly have information on depression and projection. By discriminating these two types of backscattered electrons from each other, higher composition contrast and higher depression and projection contrast can be obtained.
For example, elastically scattered electrons having energy equal to that of the incident electron beam are mainly scattered at high angles, have information on the vicinity of the surface of the specimen, and include little information on the inside of the specimen. Therefore, a surface composition image of comparatively high resolution can be obtained by discriminating and detecting only the electrons scattering at high angles.
Various methods are used as the method for such discrimination, including: a method of colliding backscattered electrons with an electrode for low angle and an electrode for high angle, respectively, converting the backscattered electrons into secondary electrons, and detecting the secondary electrons; a method of selectively detecting high angle backscattered electrons and low angle backscattered electrons by use of an aperture; and a method of emphasizing stereoscopic effects by dividing a detecting face of a backscattered electron detector into two to five, and calculating a signal between each of the divided detecting faces.
On the other hand, the information on the inside of the specimen is reflected in a scanning transmission electron image (STEM image). The information in the STEM image is classified into a bright field image and a dark field image in accordance with a scattering angle of the transmission electron. A bright field image signal includes information on density of the specimen and information on electron diffraction. In the case of the dark field image, different information is visualized depending on a detected angle. Since a heavier element causes the transmission electrons to scatter at larger scattering angles, a difference of the atomic number of the specimen can be visualized. For this, discrimination of the bright field from the dark field is important. Discrimination of the bright field from the dark field has been conventionally performed using a selected area aperture.
For example, WO2000/19482 has disclosed a method of converting low angle backscattered electrons into secondary electrons, and detecting the secondary electrons while attaining a short working distance. Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2002-110079 has disclosed a method of adding low angle backscattered electrons, high angle backscattered electrons, which are discriminated from each other and detected, and the secondary electrons at any selected ratio. Japanese Patent Application Publication No. Hei 11-273608 has disclosed a method of selectively detecting high angle backscattered electrons and low angle backscattered electrons using an aperture. Additionally, Japanese Patent No. 3776887 has disclosed a method of changing a range of the scattering angles of the transmission electrons to be detected, by making a position of a transmission electron detector variable.


There is provided a method of establishing a logical state of an instance of a program. The method includes executing a first session. The program includes multiple sequences. Each sequence includes alternating deterministic operations and requests for non-deterministic operation results. A non-deterministic operation result is derived from a non-deterministic operation. The execution of the first session includes yielding a request for a non-deterministic operation result for one of the sequences. The request is generated by a first deterministic operation. The method includes terminating the first session at a first logical state prior to executing a second deterministic operation. The method includes executing upon the request. The method includes executing a second session using a log to establish a logical state of the instance. The method includes storing the non-deterministic operation result to the log. The method includes executing a continuation of the given sequence using the non-deterministic operation result.

1. Technical Field
The present invention relates generally to computer software processing, and more particularly, to methods and systems of establishing a logical state of an instance using non-deterministic operation results stored in a result log.
2. Related Art
There are many software programs known as workflow programs which automate some or all of the otherwise manual steps required in real-world business processes. These kinds of programs can be understood as a mix of human (or external) inputs and rule-based transformations of those inputs.
For example, the business procedure for a company employee to officially request vacation time may instruct that the employee complete a provided form, obtain management-level written approval, and deliver the approved request form to the payroll department. Finally, the payroll department adjusts the records accordingly and notifies all interested parties. Some parts of this procedure such as the choice of the vacation days, the decision of the manager, and the adjustment of the payroll data may not be automatable, while other parts such as the routing of a completed form to a manager, the forwarding of the approved request to payroll, and the notification of the interested parties upon completion may be fully automatable. Such business processes easily take days or weeks to complete; for most of that time between initiation and completion, no computation is being performed and a naïve implementation sits idle while still consuming resources.
Standard operating system processes, which are normally used to model computer programs, are not well suited for these scenarios. Each operating system process maps to a single instance of a program. Each instance of an operating system process reserves fixed operating system resources while running but may use only a small fraction of those resources at its busiest. Even if two operating system processes are running exactly the same code, the code and the supporting libraries are loaded independently for each instance adding significant overhead per instance. Operating system processes are designed to run a set of instructions on a single physical machine from beginning to end and cannot be practically/efficiently suspended, stored, and resumed from storage.
Operating system processes cannot live beyond the uptime of a machine or computer that they are hosted upon. Processes which are unfinished when the machine or computer is rebooted unexpectedly or for maintenance must be started again from the beginning. Normally, if a program is to be resilient to these restarts and resume execution with a logically consistent state as though the restart had not happened, the developer must design custom routines to store and later load the data representing its state.
There are many technologies in the marketplace which in one way or another attempt to provide a runtime environment that is better suited to workflow-type programs. One goal of these technologies is to simplify the development of programs that model real-world processes, allowing the developer to focus on the real-world process rather than limited computer resources and reboots. Such technologies tend to be inspired by complex object-oriented methodologies with objects used to model computation.
Accordingly, there is a need in the art for improved methods and systems for computer processing in comparison to the prior art.

Method of establishing a logical state of an instance using non-deterministic operation results stored in a result log


A signal buffering and retiming (SBR) circuit for a plurality of memory devices. A PLL-based clock generator generates a set of phase-shifted clock signals from a received host clock signal. Each of a plurality of phase selectors independently selects a subset of contiguous clock signals from the set of phase-shifted clock signals. Each subset of contiguous clock signals is applied to a different set of one or more verniers, each vernier independently selecting one of the contiguous clock signals as its retiming clock signal for use in generating either (1) an output clock signal or a retimed bit of address or control data for one or more of the memory devices or (2) a feedback clock signal for the PLL-based clock generator. The SBR circuit can be designed to satisfy relatively stringent signal timing requirements related to skew and delay.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to computer systems, and, in particular, to circuitry for writing data to and reading data from memory devices in computer systems.
2. Description of the Related Art
In a conventional computer system, a host controller provides clock, address, and other control signals for writing data to and reading data from a memory device, such as a random access memory (RAM). Depending on the particular application, there may be relatively stringent requirements related to the timing at which these different signals are applied in parallel to the memory device. For example, system requirements may limit the difference between the earliest and latest arrival times (also referred to as the skew) of these signals to a specified maximum skew value. In addition, there may be a requirement limiting the overall signal propagation delay from the controller to the memory device to a specified maximum delay value.
In the past, a conventional computer system having two or more different memory devices would typically have separate signal buffering and retiming circuitry dedicated to meeting the skew and/or delay requirements for each different memory device.

Signal buffering and retiming circuit for multiple memories


A thermal disconnect assembly for an integrated drive generator includes an input shaft, an output shaft, a eutectic solder, and a disconnect clutch. The input shaft is driven by an external mechanical source. The output shaft is coupled to the input shaft through a disconnect clutch in a coupled state, is driven by the input shaft and rotates with the input shaft in the coupled state. The eutectic solder is configured to hold the output shaft in the coupled state and melt upon reaching a threshold temperature. The disconnect clutch is configured to urge the output shaft toward a decoupled state upon melting of the eutectic solder such that the output shaft does not rotate with the input shaft in the decoupled state.

The present invention relates generally to integrated drive generators, and in particular to a thermal disconnect for an integrated drive generator.
Gas turbine engines, for example, often include generators that provide variable frequency output power. Integrated drive generators (IDGs) have been implemented in addition to the variable frequency generators to provide constant frequency output power. IDGs, which are driven, for example, by an input shaft from the turbine engine, typically include a generator, a differential gear assembly and a hydraulic speed trimming device. The speed trimming device is utilized to control the speed of the generator in relation to the mechanical input to the IDG such that the generator rotates at a constant speed. Failures may occur during operation of the IDG that cause excessive temperatures within the IDG. It is desirable to decouple the IDG from the gas turbine engine upon occurrence of a failure in order to prevent further failures and degradation of the system.

Thermal disconnect assembly with flight control permanent magnet generator for integrated drive generator


In one aspect, an apparatus for aligning tubulars is provided, comprising at least one guide, a tong, and a backup unit, wherein the guide is arranged on or between the tong and the backup unit, and wherein the guide is, in use, movable towards and away from the tubular with respect to the backup unit. In another aspect, an apparatus for aligning tubulars is provided, comprising a tong, a backup unit, at least one torsion post arranged therebetween, and at least one guide, the guide mounted on the torsion post. In another aspect, a method for aligning tubulars using the apparatus of the invention is provided, comprising moving the guide towards and away from the tubular with respect to the backup unit.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to an apparatus and a method for aligning tubulars.
2. Description of the Related Art
During the construction, maintenance and repair of oil and gas wells it is necessary to connect a large number of tubulars, for example lengths of drill pipe or casing. Conventionally the upper end of a tubular is provided with a threaded socket or box whilst the lower end is provided with a threaded pin which is slightly tapered.
In practice it is very easy for the pin of one tubular to be incorrectly inserted into the socket of another tubular with the result that the threads on one or both the pin and the socket can readily be damaged.
Considerable skill is required to correctly align tubulars and historically this task has been undertaken by a highly experienced rig-hand called a "stabber".
In order to facilitate correct alignment a device known as a "stabbing guide" is frequently used. One such stabbing guide comprises a plastic body member which can be mounted on the socket of a pipe held in slips. The plastic body member has a central passageway the upper part of which defines a funnel which leads into a lower passageway which is concentric with the socket. In use, as the upper tubular is lowered, its pin enters the funnel of the stabbing guide and then travels down the lower passageway into the socket. The stabbing guide (which comprises two semi-circular pieces hinged together around the socket) is then removed and the tubulars are screwed together and tightened to the required torque either by a power tong or a tong assembly comprising a power tong and a backup tong.
It has been observed that an accuracy in alignment of approximately 1 mm is required to inhibit problems associated with thread misalignment.
PCT Publication Number WO 98/32948, owned by the applicants for the present application, discloses an apparatus for aligning tubulars which apparatus comprises a guide mounted on one of a power tong and a backup tong.
It has been observed that the prior art apparatus, although reasonably accurate, is not suitable for multiple uses where accuracy is paramount and with little physical input from rig hands.


A side support device in a seat back of an automotive seat, which is mounted at one lateral frame section of a seat back frame within the seat back, is of such a structure that a motor and associated transmissions are disposed adjacently along the inward side of that one lateral frame section of seat back frame, and that a drive mechanism is also disposed along the same one lateral frame section of seat back frame for causing a pair of side support frames to be moved inwardly toward and outwardly away from each other. The drive mechanism includes a lead screw and a nut member in threaded engagement therewith, such that both of them are disposed vertically relative to the seat back frame. Thus, the motor, drive mechanism and related elements are located in the seat back at a point free from contact with the body of a passenger on the seat.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a side support device in the seat back of an automotive seat.
2. Description of Prior Art
In conventional side support device provided in the seat back of automotive seat, several transmission systems, including a threaded lead screw and threaded nut system, link members and shafts, are arranged in the seat back frame so as to transmit and transform the rotational drive force of an electric motor into the inward and outward swinging motion of both side support frames upon the respective lateral frame sections of seat back frame. Namely, the two side support frames are rotatably supported on those respective lateral frame sections of seat back frame, such that both side support frames are simultaneously rotatable about their respective lateral frame sections of seat back frame in the direction inwardly and outwardly of the seat back frame in order to permit adjustment of side support force to both sides of an occupant sitting on the seat. In this side support framework, some transmission systmes mentioned above and relevant mechanic elements are conventionally disposed in a manner projecting inwardly of those two side support frames. This is known, for example, from the Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open Pubs. Nos. 60-97634 and 2-143061, which show the transmission systems (gears, motor support brackets, shafts, threaded lead screw, threaded nut in mesh with the threaded lead screw, etc.) to be disposed inwardly of the seat back frame in a manner projecting forwardly of same seat back frame. Incidentally, a foam padding, which covers those side support frames, seat back frame and transmission systems, is normally of a thin thickness as compared with the thickness of foam padding used on the seat cushion frame. Such seat back structures with side support device has been found defective in that the tramission systems and associated mechanic elements noted above are felt hard by the back of an occupant sitting on the seat, and thus, the occupant may not enjoy a comfortable support touch on the seat back.

Side support device in seat back of an automotive seat


A musical sound synthesizer generates a predetermined singing sound based on performance data. A compression device determines whether each of a plurality of phonemes forming the predetermined singing sound is a first phoneme to be sounded in accordance with a note-on signal indicative of a note-on of the performance data, and compresses a rise time of the first phoneme when the first phoneme is sounded in accordance with occurrence of the note-on signal of the performance data.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a musical sound synthesizer for synthesizing a musical sound having desired formants and a storage medium storing a program for synthesizing such a musical sound.
2. Prior Art
It is generally known that a sound generated by a natural musical instrument has formants peculiar to its own structure, such as the configuration of a sound-board in the case of a piano. A human voice also has peculiar formants determined by the shapes of related organs of the human body, such as the vocal cord, the vocal tract, and the oral cavity, and the formants characterize a timbre peculiar to the human voice.
To simulate the timbre of a natural musical instrument or a human vocal sound (singing sound) by an electronic musical instrument, a musical sound must be synthesized in accordance with formants peculiar to the timbre. An apparatus for synthesizing a sound having desired formants has been proposed e.g. by Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication (Kokai) No. 3-200300 and Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication (Kokai) No. 4-251297.
FIG. 1 shows an example of the arrangement of a musical sound synthesizer for synthesizing a vocal sound having such desired formants. In the synthesizer, performance information 1311 and lyrics information 1312 are input to a CPU 1301 e.g. as messages in MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) format. The performance information 1311 includes a note-on message and a note-off message each including pitch information. The lyrics information 1312 is a message designating an element of lyrics (phoneme data) of a song which is to be sounded according to a musical note designated by the performance information 1311. The lyrics information 1312 is provided as a system exclusive message in MIDI format. For instance, when elements of lyrics "" (Japanese word meaning "bloomed")which can be expressed by phonemes "saita" are synthesized at pitches of C3, E3, and G3, the performance information 1311 and the lyrics information 1312 are input to a CPU 1301 of the apparatus e.g. in the following sequence (1): EQU s<20>a<0> EQU note-on C3 EQU note-off C3 EQU i<0> EQU note-on E3 EQU note-off E3 EQU t<02>a<00> EQU note-on G3 EQU note-off G3 (1)
It should be noted that according to this method, data of an element of lyrics to be sounded is sent to the CPU 1301 prior to a note-on message according to which the element of lyrics is sounded. In the above sequence of messages, "s","a","i",and "t" represent phonemes, and the numerical value within < > following each of the phonemes represents the duration of the phoneme. <0>, however, designates that the sounding of the phoneme should be maintained until a note-on message for the following phoneme is received.
As the CPU 1301 receives the above sequence (1) of MIDI messages, it operates in the following manner: First, when data of an element of lyrics to be sounded "s<20>a<0>" is received, the data is stored in a lyrics information buffer 1305. Then, when a message "note-on C3" is received, the CPU 1301 obtains information of the lyrics element "s<20>a<0>" from the lyrics information buffer 1305, calculates formant parameters for generating a sound of the lyrics element at the designated pitch C3 and supplies the same to a (voiced sound/unvoiced sound) formant-synthesizing tone generator 1302. The CPU 1301 subsequently receives a message "note-off C3",but in the present case, "a<0>" has already been designated, and therefore, the CPU ignores the received message "note-on C3" to maintain the sounding of the phoneme "a" until the following note-on message is received. It should be noted, however, when the phonemes "sa" and the phoneme "i" are to be sounded separately, the CPU 1301 delivers data "note-off C3" to the formant-synthesizing tone generator 1302 to stop sounding of the phonemes "sa" at the pitch C3. Then, when data of an lyrics element "i<0>" to be sounded is received, the data (lyrics data) is stored in the lyrics information buffer 1305, and when a message "note-on E3" is received, the CPU 1301 obtains information of the lyrics element "i<0>" to be sounded from the lyrics information buffer 1305, and calculates formant parameters for generating a vocal sound of the lyrics element at the designated pitch "E3" to send the calculated formant parameters to the formant-synthesizing tone generator 1302. Thereafter, musical sounds of phonemes "ta" are generated in the same manner.
The formant parameters are time sequence data, and transferred from the CPU 1301 to the formant-synthesizing tone generator 1302 at predetermined time intervals. The predetermined time intervals are generally set to such a low rate of several milliseconds as to generate tones having features of a human voice. By successively changing the formants at the predetermined time intervals, musical sounds having features of a human vocal sound are generated. The formant parameters include a parameter for differentiation between a voiced sound and an unvoiced sound, a formant center frequency, a formant level, a formant bandwidth, etc. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1303 designates a program memory storing control programs executed by the CPU 1301, and 1304 a working memory for temporarily storing various kinds of working data.
To generate performance data for a musical piece provided with lyrics to be played by the musical sound synthesizer constructed as above, it is required to set timing for starting each instrument sound or singing sound, duration of the same, etc. according to a musical note.
However, in general, a human vocal sound is slow to rise in its level compared with an instrument sound, and therefore, there is a discrepancy in timing between a start of generation of a human vocal sound designated by performance data and a start of generation of the same actually sensed by the hearing. For instance, even if an instrument sound and a singing sound are generated simultaneously in response to a note-on signal for the instrument sound, it is sensed by the hearing as if the singing sound started with a slight delay with respect to the instrument sound.
As a specific example, let it be assumed that based on data of a musical piece which is comprised of melody data having a timbre which rises relatively quickly, e.g. a timbre of piano, input by keyboard performance, i.e. playing the piano, and accompaniment part data prepared in a manner corresponding to the melody data, automatic performance is carried out with lyrics assigned to the melody data and a synthesized human voice as a singing part controlled to sound the melody instead of the piano, while sounding the accompaniment part data. Then, one will most probably feel that the singing part (human voice sound) which is slow in rise time and the accompaniment part are conspicuously out of time with each other.
This problem can be overcome by adjusting the timing of performance data of the entire musical piece or each performance part, which is, however, very troublesome.
Further, when the conventional musical sound synthesizer generates a human vocal sound or the like, there is a problem that consecutive phonemes are not sounded in a properly coarticulated manner (particularly in transition from a voiced sound to an unvoiced sound), which results in an unnatural sound.

Musical sound synthesizer and storage medium therefor


A portable video recording system allows an operator to record objects and events while at the same time keeping the person's hands free, and body relatively unencumbered for movement, while performing tasks. The video recording system has separate components that are attached at various locations on the operator to distribute weight of the video recording system over the operator. The video recording system is attached to an operator so that images within the operator's line of sight and within the operator's hearing range are automatically tracked and recorded.

This invention relates generally to audio and video recording equipment and more particularly to a portable video recording system that automatically tracks and records objects and events viewed by an operator.
The size of video recorders have become consistently smaller over the last few years making video recorders easier to carry and handle. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,625,243 to Takubo shows a video recorder small enough to be held and pointed with a single adult hand. While easy to carry, portable video recorders still require the operator to hold the camera with one hand while at the same time looking though a focusing lens or viewfinder to properly aim the camera at an object or event. In addition, video recording systems can only operate for a certain limited amount of time. Therefore, present video recording systems can not operate or maintain a "ready to shoot" state for extended periods without having to continuously replace batteries.
Because it is very difficult to move or perform additional tasks while recording, an operator typically records objects while standing or sitting in a stationary position. However, in many situations it would be preferable for the operator to move freely while operating the video recording system. For example, the operator currently cannot play with a child while at the same time recording the child's actions.
Although video recording systems are also significantly lighter than cameras made several years earlier, it is still difficult to carry the entire video recording system for extended periods time while maintaining the unit in a "ready to shoot" state. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,561,576 to Lowe et al., shows a video equipment bag that is used for carrying video equipment. The video camera is placed in a carrying bag or backpack when not in use. The camera operator, however, is still required to hold and aim the camera in one arm while recording. The operator is, therefore, not capable of extracting the video camera from the bag then activating and focusing the camera in time to record sudden events.
To maintain a "ready to shoot" condition, the video camera in Lowe et al. must be constantly carried in the hand of the operator and usually left in an "on" state. However, after an extended period of time, the operator's hand becomes tired and the video camera must be either transferred to another hand or placed back in the equipment bag. In addition, since the video camera must be held and aimed in one hand, the operator has reduced capacity to perform other tasks. For example, the operator cannot operate machinery or provide services while operating the video camera.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,012,335 to Cohodar shows a method for automatically recording the actions of a police officer. The video recorder system includes a camera located inside a police vehicle that tracks a transmission signal emitted from a police officer. The video recorder system in Cohodar, however, has an obstructed view when the police officer moves to areas not directly viewable from the windows of the police vehicle. In addition, if the police officer travels a substantial distance from the police car, the video camera can no longer record the policeman's activities.
Accordingly, a need remains for a portable video and audio recording system that can effectively record events while at the same keeping the arms and legs of the video camera operator free to perform other tasks and activities.

Portable automatic tracking video recording system


A sheet-feed type scanner including a scanner base defining a scanning plane and having a document feed hole at one end into which document to be scanned is inserted; an image pick-up mechanism fixedly mounted in the scanner base and comprised of a light source, a reflector, a focus lens and an image sensor, and adapted to pick up image of inserted document within the scanning plane and to convert detected image signal into corresponding electrical signal; a document sheathe adapted for holding document for scanning, the document sheathe having a first flat sheet member and a second flat sheet member connected together for holding document in there between in a flat manner for scanning; and a transmission mechanism controlled to move the document sheathe along the scanning plane, for permitting document to be scanned by the image pick-up mechanism; and a document guide adapted for guiding the document sheathe through the scanning plane.

The present invention relates to sheet-feed type scanners, and more particularly to such a sheet-feed type scanner which uses a document sheathe to hold document so that document will not be jammed or damaged when scanning.
In a regular sheet-feed type scanner, the image sensor is immovable, and document is moved by a transmission mechanism over the image sensor. This structure of scanner needs less table space, however it still has numerous drawbacks as outlined hereinafter.
1. Document tends to be damaged. When a document, for example, a picture, is moved over the rollers of the transmission mechanism, its surface tends to be damaged. PA1 2. Document tends to be jammed. Because document touches the rollers of the transmission mechanism during scanning, it tends to be jammed when it is obliquely inserted into the document feed hole. PA1 3. The troubleshooting and maintenance works are complicated. Because the size of this type of scanner is small and its internal mechanical mechanism is complicated, it is difficult to eliminate the trouble when document is jammed. PA1 4. The scanning quality is low. Because document touches the rollers of the driving mechanism, document tends to be stained or rubbed, causing a shadow or black lines to occur in the scanned image. PA1 5. The application range is limited. This structure of scanner is not practical for scanning document of irregular edges or thin document because they tend to deviate from the course during scanning.

Sheet-feed type scanner with document sheathe


A timer circuit for providing output pulses of an adjustable duration based upon stored decode parameters. The circuit has a timer element which generates a periodic timing signal. Preferably the frequency of the periodic timing signal is also adjustable. A frequency divider is clocked by the timing signal and provides a plurality of frequency divided outputs. A decode circuit combines selected ones of the frequency divided outputs based upon decode parameters and generates a timer circuit output pulse having a duration determined by the frequency divided outputs selected by the decode parameters. The decode parameters are stored in a non-volatile data storage unit so that the timer output pulse will remain the same after power interruption.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to timer circuits and, in particular, to timer circuits having programmable decode circuitry capable of providing adjustable duration timing pulses.
2. Background Art
In many integrated circuits, there is a requirement that certain functions be carried for a relatively precise time period. By way of example, in flash memory systems, the memory cells are programmed and erased by application of certain voltages to the flash memory cells for a fixed duration of time. A typical programming pulse may have a duration on the order of one microsecond. A typical erase pulse may have a duration on the order of one to a hundred milliseconds.
In addition, the characteristics of flash memory cells may vary from memory to memory, even for memories having a common design. Much of these variations are due to processing variations and other well known factors which affect the characteristics a memory and which are not readily controllable. Because of these variations in memory characteristics, the voltage pulses used in carrying out the memory functions such as programming are set to a value which will take into account such variations in characteristics. However, the pulse durations are not optimized to take into account the particular characteristics of a given memory. Thus, memory performance is reduced.
The present invention pertains to a timer circuit which, while capable of providing a wide range of pulse durations ranging from the microsecond range to the millisecond range, also provides the capability of generating a large number of different pulses, each having a duration which can be precisely adjusted. This latter feature permits, for example, the pulse widths to be selected after fabrication so that the characteristics of the memory may be taken into account. These and other advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon a reading of the following Detailed Description of the Invention together with the drawings.

Timer circuit with programmable decode circuitry


A method and system for connecting a guest browser with a proxy includes: sending a registration request for a proxy from a peer to a proxy director; selecting a proxy by the proxy director and sending a proxy name to the peer; sending a registration request with a peer name and the proxy name from the peer to a dynamic domain name server (DNS); and registering a dynamic DNS record with a DNS name server by the dynamic DNS to associate the peer name with the proxy name. Thus, the dynamic DNS is used to convert the registration request from the peer to standard DNS. When a guest browser wants to connect to the peer, it performs a standard DNS look-up for the peer name at the DNS name server, which tells it which proxy to connect to. No proprietary locator service is needed to accomplish this connection.

FIG. 1 illustrates a conventional Internet-based client-to-client communication network. The network includes a central server or proxy 102, a client or peer 101, and a guest 103. Any large distributed Internet-based service where there is client-to-client communication, such as instant messaging, uses centralized servers. The client 101 selects a central server 102 from a band of central servers, using some load balancing mechanism, and then registers with that server. When a guest 103 attempts to connect to the client 101 via the central server 102, the guest 103 uses a proprietary tool and a proprietary locator service to find which central server 102 to use to connect to the client 101.
However, because the tools and locator services are proprietary in nature, the guest 103 cannot connect to the client 101 using a standard web browser, as the standard web browser would not know how to communicate with the proprietary tools and services. This limits the ease guest access to shared image files.
Accordingly, there exists a need for an improved method and system for connecting a guest browser with a proxy. The method and system should not use any proprietary tools or services to find and connect to the proxy. The present invention addresses such a need.


A method of determining effectiveness of an aircraft braking system on an aircraft during an aircraft landing including generating a scalar deceleration value when a predefined braking event occurs that corresponds to effectiveness of a braking system associated with an aircraft landing operation during occurrence of a predefined braking event on an aircraft; and disseminating the generated scalar deceleration value to downstream users. A system includes a data collection module adapted to collect data relating to braking data associated with each of an associated plurality of segments of deceleration of the aircraft during a predefined braking event; a calculation module adapted to generate a scalar deceleration value based on data obtained; and a communication module in signal communication with the calculation module and with at least one downstream user of the system adapted to communicate the scalar deceleration value to at least one downstream user.

Current methods of providing runway braking action reports may include large discrepancies from the braking action encountered by actual landing aircraft. In part, these discrepancies may be due to the differing systems and methods of measurement and observation currently in use for determining runway conditions. Runway conditions may be affected by the presence of contaminants such as water, snow, or ice.
Presently, pilots of landing aircraft may make runway observations and relay the observations to other interested parties. The inaccuracies of pilot observations result from pilots inadvertent distribution of subjective data. A pilot having a great deal of experience in landing upon contaminated runways may judge the conditions of a given contaminated runway to be of a lower risk to a landing aircraft than would a pilot unaccustomed to landing an aircraft upon a contaminated runway.
Other systems presently exist for determining runway conditions such as friction testers and Mu meters. These systems may provide some indication of conditions, but oftentimes are used in conjunction with ground-based vehicles. The presence of a ground-based vehicle upon a runway means that the runway must be closed from aircraft traffic.
A further shortfall of ground-based systems is that these systems are generally incapable of replicating the conditions encountered by an aircraft. In particular, ground based systems may not be capable of achieving the high speed of a landing aircraft. Additionally, due to discrepancies in weight and other factors, ground-based systems may not hydroplane upon a contaminated runway, whereas a landing aircraft may.
Ground-based systems may only have the capability to test a localized area of a runway, as is the case with a fixed-position, ground-based system. Mobile ground-based systems may have the capability of testing multiple runways, or portions thereof, but may provide stale data, as the runway cannot be constantly assessed by a mobile ground-based system.
While existing devices suit their intended purposes, what is needed is a method and system of generating and disseminating a digital deceleration value (DDV) by landing aircraft.

Method and system of determining effectiveness of an aircraft braking system on an aircraft during an aircraft landing


The described embodiments contemplate a system, method and computer-readable medium with computer-executable instructions for providing checks to an account owner by comparing a quantity of cleared checks to a quantity of issued checks. The novel method includes receiving a request to register for an automated check reorder service, determining a first quantity of issued checks, determining a second quantity of cleared checks, comparing the second quantity of cleared checks to the first quantity of issued checks, and sending a third quantity of new checks to the account owner. The novel method also may include receiving a request for material to be sent to the account owner, determining the account owner's last known address, notifying the account owner at the account owner's last known address, and sending the material to the account owner.

Checks typically provide a safe and convenient method for an individual to purchase goods and/or services. To use a check, the individual usually must open a checking account, or other similar account, at a financial institution and deposit funds, which are then available for later withdrawal. To pay for goods and/or services with a check, the payor (i.e., the account owner) usually designates a payee (i.e., the merchant or seller) and an amount payable on the check. In addition, the payor often signs the check. Once the check has been signed, it is usually deemed negotiable, meaning the check may be validly transferred to the payee upon delivery. By signing and transferring the check to the payee, the payor authorizes funds to be withdrawn from the payor's account on behalf of the payee in return for the goods and/or services provided by the payee.
Checks have certain advantages over other forms of payment, such as cash. For example, while often considered the most liquid type of asset, cash may also be the least secure. Unlike a check, cash is usually freely transferable and does not have to be endorsed. Thus, the owner and possessor of cash is most often the same individual. Because cash is freely transferable, cash that is lost or stolen typically cannot be recovered. Therefore, the risks associated with cash transactions are often unacceptable, particularly with respect to transactions not conducted in person (e.g., by mail) and/or involving large sums of money. A check, on the other hand, provides a payor with more security because the check usually requires a payor to specify both the person and amount to be paid. Furthermore, as noted above, the check is usually not valid until it is properly signed by the payor. These safeguards help to reduce the risk that money will be lost and/or stolen and ensure that the proper payee receives the proper amount of money.
Cash may have other disadvantageous as well. For example, because cash is freely transferable, there may be little or no verifiable transaction history. It is often desirable for a payor and/or payee to have physical proof that a particular transaction took place. This typically requires that the payor receive a receipt. However, receipts may contain errors and can be easily misplaced. In contrast, a bank processing a check will ordinarily create a transaction history, which may include the identity of the payee, the amount to be paid, the date of the payment, and the signature of the payor. This enables both a payor and payee to independently verify the accuracy of most transactions involving a payment by check.
While checks may provide an account owner a convenient and secure form of payment, obtaining new checks may also put certain burdens on the account owner, such as the time and effort required to monitor check usage. For example, an account owner usually obtains a finite quantity of checks at one time. Thus, the account owner is typically limited to writing a certain number of checks based on the quantity of unused checks on hand. As checks are written and cashed, fewer checks are available and the account owner may be required to reorder more when the supply of unused checks is insufficient. However, the account owner may not realize how many unused checks are available. This frequently occurs because unused checks are often stored out of sight, maybe in a desk drawer or in a file cabinet. Furthermore, an account may have multiple owners, each writing checks from the same account. Thus, each account owner may not know how many checks have been written and/or how many unused checks remain. If an insufficient number of unused checks are available, the account owner typically must manually reorder new checks and wait for them to arrive and/or resort to another form of payment. This can be problematic when paying bills, for example, because bills are often payable by mail and due on a specific date.
In addition to monitoring check usage, an account owner often must manually go through the process of reordering checks, which can be tedious and time consuming. Typically, the reordering process involves calling a customer service representative, mailing in a check reorder form and/or sending a request via a website. Therefore, there is a need for an automated check reorder process that provides new checks to an account owner when new checks are needed.

United Services Automobile Association (USAA)


A magnetic tape drive of the present invention is the drive that has a head unit comprising a servo head for trackings and a recording head group, which comprises a plurality of data signal recording heads, wherein the plurality of the data signal recording heads are formed at a pitch corresponding to that of adjacent data tracks on a magnetic tape, and wherein a plurality of adjacent data tracks are simultaneously formed on the magnetic tape with the plurality of the data signal recording heads.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a magnetic tape drive, and in particular, to the magnetic tape drive that can form data tracks in a lateral direction in a higher density, compared to a conventional magnetic tape drive.
2. Description of the Related Art
These years in a magnetic tape used for a data backup of a computer and the like, an augmentation of a memory capacity progresses and some magnetic tapes have a capacity of not less than 100 GB (gigabyte). When in such the magnetic tapes data tracks are formed along longitudinal directions (travel directions) thereof, a width of each data track itself and a distance between each data track are narrowed and a number of data tracks are increased, thereby a high density of the data tracks being intended.
In order to record/reproduce data signals on such the magnetic tapes, a conventional magnetic tape drive is equipped with a head unit having a plurality of data signal recording heads and data signal reproducing heads, respectively. Since in the head unit a data signal recording head or a data signal reproducing head is in charge of recording/reproducing of adjacent data tracks on a magnetic tape, the data signals are recorded/reproduced with moving the data signal recording head or the data signal reproducing head onto a adjacent data track by moving all of the head unit in a lateral direction of the magnetic tape by a minute amount while reciprocating the magnetic tape for the head unit a plurality of times. Therefore, in the conventional magnetic tape drive is introduced a tracking servo technology for controlling a position of the head unit in the lateral direction of the magnetic tape.
The tracking servo technology is a technology where servo signals written on a magnetic tape in advance are read with a servo write head provided at a head unit, a position of the head unit in a lateral direction of the magnetic tape is controlled by driving an actuator in response to the read servo signals, and the data signal recording head or the data signal reproducing head is made to follow a data track. As this kind of a tracking servo technology, for example, in Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication Hei 8-227511 is disclosed a technology of an amplitude servo system where a plurality of bursts are aligned as servo signals in two lines in longitudinal directions of a magnetic tape. In addition, in Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication Hei 8-30942 is disclosed a technology of a timing based servo system where timing based signals of a predetermined pattern are recorded as servo signals on a servo track.
In the meantime, the conventional magnetic tape drive forms one piece of data track with one data signal recording head, and then, moves a position of the data signal recording head to a prearranged position where a next data track, which is adjacent to the data track formed now, is formed. Therefore, there are some cases where a predetermined width of margin is provided between adjacent data tracks on a magnetic tape so that a newly formed data track does not overlap a precedingly formed data track due to a control amount error in moving the head unit in the lateral direction of the magnetic tape. And the conventional magnetic tape drive intends to narrow the width of the margin in order to form data tracks in a higher density in the lateral direction of the magnetic tape by heightening an accuracy of a tracking servo.
However, since there exists a limitation in heightening the accuracy of the tracking servo, there is a problem that the conventional magnetic tape drive cannot form the data tracks in the higher density in the lateral direction of the magnetic tape.
Consequently, is strongly requested a magnetic tape drive that can form the data tracks in the higher density in the lateral direction of the magnetic tape, compared to the conventional magnetic tape drive.

Magnetic tape drive with recording head group providing high density data signal recording


Systems, methods, and media for setting up a media content streaming device are provided. In some implementations, the systems comprise: a first communication interface that is configured to provide a media output to a media content presentation device; a second communication interface that is configured to transfer data; and a hardware processor that is configured to: retrieve a setup application in response to detecting a connection between the media content streaming device and a user device via the second communication interface; cause the setup application to be launched on the user device; receive, from the user device, information relating to setting up the media content streaming device; set up the media content streaming device based on the received information relating to setting up the media content streaming device; and prompt a user to connect the media content streaming device to the media content presentation device via the second communication interface.

A media content streaming device can be used to discover, receive, process, convert, and/or render suitable media content, such as television programs, movies, cartoons, music sound effects, audio books, streaming live content, pay-per-view programs, on-demand programs (e.g., as provided in video-on-demand (VOD) systems), Internet content (e.g., streaming content, downloadable content, Webcasts, etc.), etc. The media content streaming device can also have multiple communication interfaces through which the media content streaming device can communicate with suitable networks and/or devices (e.g., such as a television device, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, etc.). A user may experience difficulty in setting up a media content streaming device and connecting the media content streaming device to other devices via proper communication interfaces.
Accordingly, new mechanisms for media content streaming device setup are desirable.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Methods, systems, and media for media content streaming device setup