The instant invention provides cycloaliphatic diamines and a method of making the same. The cycloaliphatic diamines according to the instant invention comprise the reaction product of one or more cycloaliphatic cyanoaldehydes selected from the group consisting of 1,3-cyanocyclohexane carboxaldehyde, 1,4-cyanocyclohexane carboxaldehyde, mixtures thereof, and combinations thereof, hydrogen, and ammonia fed into a continuous reductive amination reactor system; wherein the one or more cycloaliphatic cyanoaldehydes, hydrogen, and ammonia are contacted with each other in the presence of one or more heterogeneous metal based catalyst systems at a temperature in the range of from 80° C. to about 160° C. and a pressure in the range of from 700 to 3500 psig; and wherein one or more cycloaliphatic diamines are formed; and wherein said one or more cycloaliphatic diamines are selected from the group consisting of 1,3-bis(aminomethyl)cyclohexane, 1,4-bis(aminomethyl)cyclohexane, combinations thereof, and mixtures thereof.

Bis(aminomethyl)cyclohexane is a diamine that has applications as a precursor to an aliphatic diisocyanate (bis(isocyanatomethyl)cyclohexane). It is useful as a chain extender in certain polyurethanes systems and can be used as an epoxy curing agent. Bis(aminomethyl)cyclohexane exists as a number of isomers, of which the 1,3- and 1,4-isomers are of primary interest. The 1,3- and 1,4-isomers can also exist in a number of diastereomeric forms, as the aminomethyl groups can each reside above or below the plane of the cyclohexane ring.
1,3- and 1,4-bis(aminomethyl)cyclohexane mixtures can be prepared via a number of synthetic routes. U.S. Pat. No. 3,143,570 describes a two-step process that requires preparation and isolation of the intermediate solid iminomethylcyclohexanecarbonitriles in water.
As another example, a route may start with butadiene and acrolein, forming 1,2,3,6-tetrahydrobenzaldehyde in a Diels-Alder reaction. This intermediate is then hydroformylated to add a second aldehyde group and reductively aminated to form the desired diamine. A mixture of isomeric forms of the diamine is obtained, as for example, described in the U.S. Pat. No. 6,252,121.
The reductive amination of hydroformylated 1,2,3,6-tetrahydrobenzaldehyde using a sponge-metal catalyst or nickel on silica gel/alumina as in U.S. Pat. No. 6,252,121, however, tends to produce diamine products in low yields. A significant portion of the starting material forms unwanted by-products and polymeric species. As a result, raw material costs may be high and purification of the crude product can be difficult and expensive. Polymeric by-products often foul the reactor and downstream purification unit operations.
It is sometimes possible to suppress by-product formation in reductive amination reactions by "protecting" (or "blocking") the aldehyde groups with an alkyl amine as, for example, described in the U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,041,675 and 5,055,618. The blocked groups are more resistant to polymerization and other unwanted side reactions. However, this approach requires the use of additional raw materials and introduces additional chemical species into the reaction, which must later be removed from the crude product and recycled. Process yields are still far short of those that are needed to have a highly economical process.
Additionally, the production of 1,3- and 1,4-bis(aminomethyl)cyclohexane via a dialdehyde intermediate may be difficult due to catalyst deactivation that leads to rapidly declining yields. Although more stable catalysts have been identified, these catalysts provide lower yields from the very beginning of operation. In addition, the dialdehyde intermediate route requires a reliable and sufficient supply of acrolein.
In order to overcome these catalyst performance issues and avoid potential future acrolein supply issues, the instant invention provides reductive amination of 1,3- and 1,4-cyanocyclohexane carboxaldehyde (CCA). This intermediate is based on an acrylonitrile feedstock, which is more accessible than acrolein. Simultaneous reduction of the nitrile group and reductive amination of the aldehyde functionality requires a specialized catalyst. Traditional nitrile reduction conditions and catalysts are more aggressive than aldehyde reductive amination conditions and catalysts. Thus, catalysts and conditions that are effective for complete reduction of the nitrile group may also have a tendency to reduce the aldehyde to the corresponding alcohol, resulting in a yield loss. On the other hand, catalysts and conditions that are typically chosen for reductive amination of an aldehyde are typically ineffective in providing complete reduction of the nitrile group, resulting in yield losses to the intermediate aminonitriles. Additionally, the relatively short lifetime of current catalysts introduces other challenges. Catalysts providing good yields to the diamine product (1,3- and 1,4-bis(aminomethyl)cyclohexanes) consistently lose their activity for the nitrile hydrogenation step within less than 250 hours of time on stream. Economically viable catalysts for this process require a much higher number of hours of lifetime, or, equivalently, pounds of 1,3- and 1,4-bis(aminomethyl)cyclohexanes produced per pound of catalyst.
Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide a method by which cycloaliphatic bis(aminomethyl) compounds can be prepared economically and in high yield.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Cycloaliphatic diamines and method of making the same


A window cleaning squeegee of the type having a handle and a head extending transverse to the handle, with the head having first and second elongated channels formed on opposite sides thereof. The first channel receiving a cleaning assembly comprising a sponge, an enveloping net-like webbing and a stiffener element. The stiffener element has an end which is located outside the first channel and which engages the sponge and the webbing. This end being of essentially triangular cross-section. The second channel further includes an elongated rubber blade slidingly received therein.

The present invention generally relates to window cleaning devices, and more particularly, to the type of cleaning devices generally referred to as squeegees.
Squeegee type window cleaners generally include an elongated handle and an integral, elongated head extending perpendicularly across one end thereof. The head includes an elongated channel extending longitudinally therealong and in which a window cleaning sponge is positioned and secured by a clamping mechanism. Some prior art squeegee heads may further include a second channel, smaller in width than the first, sponge channel, in which a rubber blade is securely positioned. In use, the cleaning fluid soaked sponge is moved back and forth across a window and then the rubber blade is passed across the window to remove the cleaning fluid therefrom.
While the sponge alone serves as an effective cleaner for removing dirt from a window, car windshields often accumulate debris that becomes more strongly adhered to the glass, such as bugs and tar. In order to effectively remove the more strongly adhered debris from windows, prior art squeegees placed a netting in enveloping relation to the sponge, whereby the netting acts as a scraper. This arrangement effectively serves as a windshield cleaner, but with the prior art clamping mechanisms, particularly in cold weather climates where the cleaning fluid freezes and causes the sponge to become heavier, the netting quickly rips (typically beginning at the edges) and pulls the sponge outwardly away from the head.
It is therefore a principal object and advantage of the present invention to provide a squeegee type window cleaning device having an improved mechanism for retaining a sponge within the channel formed in the head.
It is another object and advantage of the present invention to provide a more durable netting arrangement in enveloping relation around the sponge.
It is a further object and advantage of the present invention to provide a squeegee that lasts longer than the prior art devices in cold weather climates.
Other objects and advantages of the present invention will in part be obvious, and in part, appear hereinafter.


A method of killing soil pathogens to improve the agricultural production of a field comprises the steps of moving a plurality of agricultural tools through the soil and during this movement emitting microwave energy into the soil at a frequency within the range of 2GH.sub.z to 12GH.sub.z. The microwave energy heats the soil organisms to levels sufficient to kill the organisms.

In my co-pending application, Ser. No. 08/014,853, entitled "Soil Pathogen Killing Process", filed Feb. 8, 1993, agricultural soil working tools are moved through a field as hot water is discharged from the tools to kill soil borne pathogens and to thereby improve agricultural production of the field. The high temperature of the water is lethal to the soil organisms including pathogens, and this hot water process is effective in killing soil borne pathogens. Although this hot water method is highly efficient in killing soil pathogens, it (method) requires a reservoir of hot water to be transported by or with the agricultural implement to which the tools are attached. Hot water equipment requires a large volumetric space.

Method for killing soil pathogens with micro-wave energy


A multi-functional door for a vehicle includes a door body disposed on one side of the vehicle and configured to be opened or closed. The door body has an inner side surface facing an indoor space of the vehicle and an outer side surface facing the outside of the vehicle. The multi-functional door further includes a door seat that is coupled to the inner side surface of the door body and is configured to be enclosed in or unfolded from the door body.

A tailgate of a vehicle means a rear door of the vehicle, and passengers may open the tailgate to load a luggage or may use the tailgate as a passage to get in or out of the vehicle. The tailgate can be opened in various manners, and usually, a clamshell type tailgate is widely used. In a case of the clamshell type tailgate, such a tailgate door can be opened upward, and thus, it is possible to secure an indoor space of the vehicle and easily load a luggage.
However, a vehicle is not only used for a transportation purpose, but it can also be used for providing a rest area. In addition, a vehicle can be used for various activities such as camping, in a manner of connecting an indoor space of the vehicle and an outdoor space of the vehicle. In this case, the clamshell type tailgate has been generally used in a manner in which a door is opened such that a passenger can sit on a floor of the vehicle.
Accordingly, there is a need to develop a door that not only serves to open and close a passage connected to the outside in a vehicle, but also assists in various activities by being connected to an outdoor space.
The contents described as the related art have been provided only to assist in understanding the background of the present disclosure and should not be considered as corresponding to the related art known to those having ordinary skill in the art.

Multi-functional door and vehicle including the same


An Occupant Retraction System (ORS) retracts a partially exposed occupant into a vehicle. The system responds to a trigger, wherein an occupant support retracts and actively pulls the occupant into the vehicle interior. The triggering event may be initiated by a manual switch, a rollover sensor, a crash sensor, a hostile ordnance sensor, or the like. A belt, harness, or foot strap may be connected to the occupant support to pull the occupant into the vehicle interior. A forcing means may be provided by a spring, hydraulic, pneumatic, or electro-mechanical actuator. The system further includes a damper for limiting acceleration to a safe maximum.

The present invention relates to a system and method for preventing injury of an occupant of a vehicle, and more particularly to preventing injury to an occupant of a vehicle by retracting the occupant into the vehicle during events which may otherwise result in injury to the occupant.
Various special purpose vehicles are used in a multitude of applications which may influence or dictate characteristics of the vehicles. Some applications may dictate a high Center-of-Gravity (CG) design, which high CG may result in a propensity to roll the vehicle. Further, the need for a high CG is generally associated with off-road use of the vehicle, which off-road use often result in the vehicle leaning at large roll or pitch angles (hereafter, "rolling" is intended to refer to motion about either a vehicle roll or pitch axis.)
One particular special purpose vehicle particularly susceptible to rolling is a military vehicle, and particularly an armored military vehicle. Military vehicles are often designed to operate over rough terrain, and to ford bodies of water. Such operation motivates substantial ground clearance, and the positioning of mechanical structure (engine, axles, differentials, etc.) high in the vehicle. Further, military vehicles often require armor on some exterior surfaces, and such surfaces are generally the top and side surfaces, versus the bottom which is not likely to be hit by enemy ordnance. The combination of the requirement for ground clearance and armor further contributes to a high CG, and a greater likelihood of rolling the vehicle
Additionally, military vehicles often come under enemy fire and must react immediately to survive. In such cases, there is little time to evaluate the terrain which the vehicle must navigate to find cover from the enemy fire. As a result, the vehicle may take a path resulting in very large roll or pitch, which combined with a high CG may result in vehicle rollover. Further, the ability to see the situation surrounding the vehicle is critical to survival. While remote viewing means are available to a vehicle commander, for example, television or periscope, there is often a need to directly view the situation to make quick decisions. Such direct viewing requires that the vehicle commander be at least partially outside the vehicle. If vehicle rollover occurs while the commander is thus exposed, it is difficult for the commander to quickly "climb" back into the vehicle interior, and severe injury or death has resulted. In other instances, a vehicle may come under fire and a partially exposed occupant may be at immediate risk. In cases where the occupant has been injured by enemy fire, the injured occupant may be unable to quickly climb back into the vehicle interior.
There is thus a need for a system and method for repositioning (or retracting) a partially exposed vehicle occupant when one of above described events occurs.


Disclosed is a hydrogen-absorbing alloy electrode including a hydrogen-absorbing alloy capable of absorbing and desorbing hydrogen reversibly, the electrode being characterized in that the hydrogen-absorbing alloy forms a multi-phase structure composed of at least these three phases, a main alloy phase, an alloy phase of Ti.sub.2 Ni system cubic-structure and an alloy phase of Ti-Ni system monoclinic-structure, and the main alloy phase has TiMo-based crystalline cubic-structure.

(1) Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a hydrogen-absorbing alloy electrode used as a negative electrode of a metal-hydrogen alkaline storage cell.
(2) Description of the Prior Art
Lead cells and nickel-cadmium cells have long been in wide use as storage cells. In recent years, however, a nickel-hydrogen alkaline storage cell has been drawing attention because it is lighter in weight and has larger capacity than these cells. The nickel-hydrogen alkaline storage cell comprises a negative electrode made from a hydrogen-absorbing alloy capable of reversibly absorbing and desorbing hydrogen, and a positive electrode made from metallic oxide such as nickel hydroxide.
Such a hydrogen-absorbing alloy used for a negative electrode is required to be able to reversibly absorb and desorb hydrogen around room temperature. Developed to meet the requirement are Mm-Ni system alloys (disclosed in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Application No. 60-89066), Ti system alloys (disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 59-50744) and others.
The Mm-Ni system alloys are already put to practical use, but new alloys of Ti system or Zr system are proposed to realize larger capacity, such as ones in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Applications 59-78908, 60-241652, 63-284758, 64-48370 and U.S. Pat. No. 4,923,770. Drawing special attention among them is a Ti-Mo alloy having TiMo-based crystalline cubic-structure, because it has the advantage of reversibly absorbing and desorbing larger amounts of hydrogen in a solid-gas reaction than rate-earth-Ni system alloys.
However, the above-mentioned new alloys of Ti system or Zr system having larger capacity than the Mm-Ni system alloys have a disadvantage of low productivity because it is difficult to crush the alloys due to their hardness and ductility.
Also, cells employing the Ti system alloy have the same disadvantage of low productivity because it takes a long time to carry out an activation treatment.


The invention concerns a procedure and a control apparatus for the control of a drivetrain, which comprises at least one automatic clutch, at least one automatic shifting transmission, one control apparatus for the control of the at least one automatic clutch and of at least one automatic shifting transmission as well as at least two transmission idling positions in the drivetrain. In order to avoid dangerous situations, which could arise from an improper automatic input of a neutral position of a transmission and a thereto connected automatic closure of the clutch. The proposal is, that the control apparatus, by way of the shifting of an automatized shifting transmission into a neutral position, to at least two transmission idling positions, the neutral position is put into action.

Automatically shiftable transmissions have been used for a considerable time in various motor vehicles. Especially in the case of commercial vehicles more of these transmissions are arranged in a drivetrain with a first transmission having a plurality of ratio settings and one or more neutral positions available, and a second transmission enabling exactly two different ratio stages and one neutral position. By way of a combination of both transmissions, the number of possible gear positions is doubled.
Along with the above, many types of transmission assemblies are known in which two or more automatic transmissions are combined into one constructed unit. Such a group transmission can be created from a principal transmission, a so-called "splitter" and a range group. Besides, it is possible that in the drivetrain further shiftable transmissions exist, such as integrated, shiftable distribution transmissions, which likewise enable a neutral position.
Hereinafter, concerning a shiftable gear train, i.e., a shiftable transmission, what is to be understood is an apparatus for the transmission of torques and speeds of rotation, where the selection includes at least two different gear ratios and a neutral position without essential torque transfer, between an input shaft and an output shaft of a transmission. An automatic transmission characterized by a transmissions, by which different speed-ratios may be set up by evaluation of present parameters including gear trains, in the case of which at least a change of the speed-ratios and/or a shift of the transmission into a neutral position without manual intervention of an operator becomes possible. In these arrangements, the control operation can be powered by hydraulic, pneumatic or electric media.
The drivetrain establishes the connection between a source of torque which, in the case of a motor vehicle, is usually a piston driven, internal combustion motor and a drivable torque sink, such as is usual in the practice of motor vehicles, the driven wheels of the vehicle. Where the inventive procedure is concerned, the source of torque can be an electric motor or a combination of various motors. The torque sink can be an additional drive system of the vehicle or may consist of a stationary operating machine.
Especially in the case of vehicles with automatic transmissions, it can be necessary to disconnect the drivetrain, without an explicit command from the driver in the form of a manual shift. In a case when the vehicle is stationary, and/or by using a braking device, a transmission can be switched into the neutral position to be able to again disengage an engaged clutch which is in an unsynchronized condition. As this is being carried out, a release of the brakes for torque transmission from the motor to the driven wheels, accompanied by an undesirable loose rolling of the vehicle, must be avoided.
Accordingly, automatic shifting of a transmission into the neutral position can also be considered in other cases and is of value, for instance when exceeding a predetermined time interval after stopping of the vehicle, caused by the failure of the motor or possibly certain operational mishaps of added equipment. It is certainly desirable to shift into neutral position when the motor hood is opened, a door is opened or a driver's seat is empty, such that an uncontrolled rolling of the vehicle can be prevented.
In accordance with the present state of the technology, however, it is possible that, at the point of time for engaging the previously disengaged clutch, there is a gear ratio still engaged, because the setting of the neutral position could incorrectly be in error, due to failure of a sensor. This can lead to undesirable, as well as dangerous operational conditions, if the vehicle begins moving unexpectedly and undesirably or an additional element starts by itself. Further, engaging the flow of force with only partially engaged gear or generally by a non-defined operational condition, leads to considerable wear or even to immediate failure of the drivetrain.
With this background taken into consideration, from DE 101 52 857 A1, a procedure for shifting a multi-group transmission has been made known. This consists of a pre-shift group, a principal shift group and a range group, where the range group transmission includes a first shift for a slow total transmission ratio, a second shift for a fast total transmission ratio and a third shift to achieve a neutral position. Upon gear changes, which a shifting of the range group transmission entails, the range group transmission and the pre-shift group are brought into the neutral position in order to shorten the shifting times and to decelerate the main transmission as well as to accomplish a noise-free shift of the same.
Shifting actions in which the range group transmission does not take part, that is, in the case of shifting when the shift-position of the range group transmission is the same both before and after the shift when shifting in the conventional manner. DE 101 52 857 A1 concerns itself neither with the problem of an unintended rolling of the vehicle, because the transmission is erroneously shifted into the neutral position, nor can a strategy for the solution to this matter be inferred from the proposal. The focus is that by way of entirely exact shifting procedures, two transmissions are brought into the neutral configuration simultaneously for the reason that these exact shifting procedures could be carried out more rapidly or with less noise.
Correspondingly, DE 199 26 697 A1 discloses a control apparatus for an automatic, multi-gear transmission for a motor vehicle where, if the motor vehicle is not yet in a condition ready to run, essentially the trouble could lie in the fact that a friction clutch is disengaged, a gear engaged and the motor of the vehicle operates, but driving the vehicle with the motor is completely prevented because, by way of the control apparatus, the transmission is shifted into the neutral state The targeted purpose is concerned with the prevention of dangerous situations which, for example, could be created by erroneous or unintended engagement of the clutch by engaged gearing or by the activation of the gas pedal rod by a mechanic in the motor space. The probabilities of error of one of the signals indicating neutral positions of the transmission, that is to say, an unknown questionable construction of an installed shifting signal for the input of a neutral position of a transmission, is not discovered as a source of error and a solution to this problem is not provided in this document. If incorrect data exists in the control apparatus, indicating that the transmission is in a neutral position, the clutch the engages, whereby the vehicle could inadvertently start moving.
Information stating that a transmission is in a neutral position can be explicitly presented in the form of a sensor signal. Such information is implicitly present if, for example, no corresponding sensor is provided and in accordance with the issuance of a command for shifting into "neutral position", a time delay occurs which, in normal operation, would be sufficient for the issuance of a different command.
With consideration given to the above background, the purpose of the invention is to present a control procedure and a corresponding apparatus for the execution thereof by an automatic transmission with which an unwanted rolling start of the vehicle, i.e., inadvertent rolling of an attachment to the vehicle can be prevented, even under circumstances where data declares false information, such as the false reporting that a transmission is shifted into a neutral position.

Procedure and a control apparatus for the safe division of a drivetrain


A tray for inserting a memory card into a portable computer is described. The tray facilitates complete insertion of the memory card into the computer and optimum electrical interconnection between the memory card and the computer interior. The tray is dimensioned such that it creates a tight seal with the computer housing and provides a coplanar fit with the exterior of the computer housing. No portions of the tray or memory card protrude beyond the computer housing, thereby improving the durability, maneuverability, and compactness of the portable computer. A stop mechanism restrains the tray within the housing when the tray is opened. A memory card can easily be placed thereinto or removed therefrom when the tray is opened and yet the tray does not become separated from the computer and lost.

This invention relates to a means for providing memory for a portable computer, in particular memory which uses very low power and occupies very small space.
The most common conventional method for providing memory in a stand-alone computer is using magnetic disk drives. Nonvolatile memory on diskettes and their concurrent disk drives tend to require relatively large computer hardware and significant power. This method of memory storage and access is less desirable in portable computers. Consequently, volatile memory options have been developed which require very low power and can be utilized effectively by leaving the power to the computer continuously on. Volatile and nonvolatile memory in the form of random access memory (RAM), one time programmable read only memory (OTPROM), and read only memory (ROM) cards are now available to meet the demand for low power memory options.
According to a means for inserting a memory card within a computer housing used by Casio in their Pocketword PW-1000 hand held computer, the card itself slides into an opening in the housing usually protected by a cover. The cover is fully removable and must be fully removed to insert the memory card. When the memory card is inserted, the cover can be easily misplaced. Without a cover, dirt and debris can accumulate inside the computer's internal structure and cause malfunctions over time. Furthermore, the memory card does not slide into the opening completely. A portion of the card must protrude out beyond the edge of the computer housing to facilitate removal. This conventional arrangement restrains the maneuverability, decreases the compactness of the portable computer and jeopardizes the proper functioning of the equipment over time. Since the trend in portable computer technology is miniaturization, maneuverability and compactness, this conventional computer design becomes less suitable to that end.


A method for controlling a television device comprises the following steps. A portable device with a wireless power receiver module is provided. A display control module of the television device receives a parental control signal from a remote control module of the portable device. A feedback detector unit of a wireless power transmitter module of the television device detects whether the wireless power receiver module is located within a predetermined range so as to generate a first detection result. The display control module selectively enables a parental control function according to the parental control signal and the first detection result. The feedback detector unit again detects whether the wireless power receiver module is located within the predetermined range so as to generate a second detection result. Finally, the television device is controlled to turn on, turn off or enter into a standby mode based on the second detection result.

Generally speaking, traditional remote controls must be equipped with commercially available batteries for supplying electric power, so they can be used to remotely select channels or set functions of televisions. With popularity of smart televisions, in addition to common channel selection buttons, accessory remote controls have integrated QWERTY keyboards for facilitating users to operate application programs having internet functions. Such remote controls used for the smart televisions transmit signals of key buttons through a Bluetooth interface and therefore consume more electric power than those using an infrared interface. While using ordinary batteries, users need to frequently replace them. In other words, ordinary batteries with limited electric power cause problems of environmental protection and also make users constantly change batteries for assuring normal operation of remote controls.
On the other hand, currently available televisions having parental control functions nearly utilize user-configured passwords to initiate channel blocking functions, making specific channels un-viewable. However, if other persons have known the passwords, they can easily unlock the parental control. Moreover, the current parental control function cannot latch the entire television into a disabled state. For example, children can turn on televisions at any time through remote controls or directly pressing buttons on the televisions. Though children cannot watch TV programs, they still can utilize other functions of televisions (such as playing contents from disk players or video game consoles on TV screens). Therefore, merely blocking channels shall not prevent children from using televisions.

Method for controlling television device and television control system


A method and structure for implementing color image acquisition and processing. Combined and direct interpolation and conversion from a first to a second color space of sensor color data provided to a device capable of receiving and displaying color image data, followed by color correction in the second color space, greatly simplifies acquisition and processing of color image data. Interpolation in the combined interpolation and conversion can optionally be vertex-based interpolation in which color data for virtual pixels for one or more pixels of interest can occur in parallel fashion. Conversion in the combined interpolation and conversion can be performed in accordance with a simplified conversion matrix that does not require the use of multiplier logic to be implemented but that does require compensation during subsequent color correction of the color data, also in the second color space. Vertex-based interpolation may additionally be performed in an image acquisition and processing process that does not combine interpolation with conversion of color image data.

Color sensor data is a measurement of the intensity of light that is absorbed by a pixel of a sensor. Since different colors absorb lights are different rates, the intensity at which light is absorbed by the pixels of the sensor is an indication of the color of light that has been absorbed. Relative absorption levels can thus be represented as digital voltages in digital format to represent objects. Data from single color sensor devices capable of displaying color images, that employ one or more of video frame as well as still image capture must be interpolated from raw sensor image data that has been derived from color filter array (CFA), a physical material placed over sensors to make sure that only the correct color information is provided to the sensors, to a color space to generate a full resolution color image. Such image devices can include, but should not be limited to, digital cameras, video phones, and camcorders.
There are many color spaces that may be used, including the Red Green Blue color space, denoted by RGB, a color space defined by Magenta, Green and Yellow colors or MGY, YUV, YCbCr, wherein the Y luma component denotes the brightness of an image and the two color difference components Cb and Cr denote the chroma information of that image. Color space data may optionally be down-sampled, also referred to as sampling, subsampling or decimating. Common down-sampling indicators include 4:4:4, 4:2:2, 4:1:1, 4:2:0, etc. 4:4:4 RGB denotes a 2×2 array of RGB pixels that occupy a total of 12 bytes, assuming 8 bits per sample. YCbCr components can be formed from the RGB color space; without subsampling from 4:4:4 RGB, this is referred to as 4:4:4 YCbCr. 4:2:2 is a type of sampling used in YCbCr digital video in which chroma (CbCr) components are subsampled by a factor of 2 along the horizontal axis and in which chroma samples are cosited with alternate luma samples. In an 8-bit system using 4:2:2 YCbCr coding, for example, the 2×2 array would occupy 8 bytes and the aggregate data capacity would be 16 bits per pixel. This type of subsampling is often used for studio digital video. In 4:1:1 sampling, used in some digital video systems, chroma components are subsampled by a factor of four horizontally. The uncompressed data capacity is 12 bits per pixel. In 4:2:0 YCbCr sampling, often used in JPEG and MPEG systems, Cb and Cr are each subsampled by a factor of 2 along the horizontal and vertical axes. Chroma samples are interstitially sited, vertically between lines and are horizontally sited halfway between alternate luma samples (unlike the cositing of chroma samples in 4:2:2 sampling). The uncompressed aggregate data capacity of 4:2:0 sampling is 12 bits per pixel.
As can be seen from the traditional image acquisition and processing chain illustrated in FIGS. 2A-3B, there are many steps required to generate usable output data, in a desired color space, from raw sensor data. Many of the functions illustrated in the FIGS. 1A-2B are time-consuming and processor intensive. Referring now to the functional flow 100 of FIG. 1A, raw sensor data 110 is interpolated to one or more color planes in a first color space at 112. For instance, the raw sensor data may be CFA data that is interpolated to the three planes of color in the RGB color space. At 114, color correction of the interpolated color plane data is performed by assistance of a matrix multiply 116. Color correction serves to make the color more saturated so as to be perceived in a more pleasant manner. Color correction at 114, is performed in color space 1. Next, at 118 gamma correction is performed to compensate for the gamma function of the display device upon which the image is to be displayed, such as a monitor's liquid crystal display (LCD). Conversion from the first color space to a second color space takes place, aided by a conversion matrix. The conversion matrix 122 is usually a standard conversion matrix or multiplier that is used to perform the conversion, such as a standard conversion matrix capable of converting RGB color space data to YCbCr color space data. Often the conversion matrix will use conversion values that require the use hardware capable of performing multiplier functionality, in addition to just add and shift functionality, as will be demonstrated in FIGS. 2A and 3A below. At 124, the color space 2 data may optionally be down-sampled to the desired format. The output color space two data 126 is thus generated after the conversion at 120 or the optional subsampling at 124.
FIG. 1B illustrates a color space flow 150 that tracks the effects of functional flow 100 on the color spaces. CFA raw sensor data 150 is interpolated into the first color space, which, in this illustration, comprises three color planes 160, 162, 164. These planes of color space 1 are next converted to planes 170, 172, 174 of the second color space following the color correction and gamma correction detailed at 114 and 118 above in the first color space. Finally, the color space 2 data can be optionally down-sampled, i.e. sampled or decimated, to obtain corresponding planes 180, 182, 184 of down-sampled, converted data in color space 2.
FIGS. 2A-3B illustrate the traditional image acquisition and procession chain for two specific color space examples. Again, interpolation, color correction and gamma correction of the color data is performed in color space 1, while any optional down-sampling is performed in color space 2 after conversion from color space 1 to color space 2 has taken place. In these figures, RGB CFA raw sensor data is provided to the processing chain, but the down-sampling of converted YCbCr data is processed differently.
Referring now to FIGS. 2A-2B, an exemplary example of interpolation, correction and conversion of color data from the RGB color space to the YCbCr color space, followed by decimation to 4:2:2 YCbCr, is demonstrated. As noted above, 4:2:2 sampling, in which chroma components are subsampled by a factor of 2 along the horizontal axis coincident with alternate luma samples, is often used for digital video applications. Functional flow 200 starts when raw sensor data 210 is provided for interpolation to three planes, one each of Red, Green, Blue, in the RGB color space 1 at 212. Color correction 214 of the RGB plane data is performed using matrix multiply 216, followed by gamma correction 218. Next, the RGB color data is converted 220 using the conversion matrix illustrated as 222. The use of the parameter values shown in conversion matrix 222 requires the use of additional conversion hardware, in the form of multipliers, not just adders and shifters.
The color space flow 250 of FIG. 2B reflects changes to the color space caused by the functional flow 200 of FIG. 2A. Raw CFA RGB data 255 is interpolated into the RGB data color planes, one each for Red, Green, and Blue, and shown as 260, 262, 264. Following color correction and gamma correction in the first RGB color space, the data is converted to 4:4:4 YCbCr color data planes 270, 272, 274. This converted color data may optionally be subsampled to 4:2:2 YCbCr color data planes 280, 282, 284, as shown.
Referring now to FIGS. 3A-3B, an exemplary example of interpolation, correction and conversion of color data from the RGB color space to the YCbCr color space, followed by decimation to 4:2:0 YCbCr, will now be discussed. 4:2:0 is often used in JPEG and MPEG applications and the Cb and Cr components are each subsampled by a factor of 2 for both the horizontal and vertical axes chroma or Y samples are sited interstitially in a vertical fashion halfway between the lines and are sited horizontally halfway between alternate luma samples. Functional flow 300 starts when raw CFA sensor data 310 is provided for interpolation to three planes, one each of Red, Green, Blue, in the RGB color space 1 at 312. Color correction 314 of the RGB plane data is performed using matrix multiply 316, followed by gamma correction 318. Next, the RGB color data is converted 320 using the conversion matrix illustrated as 322. The use of the parameter values shown in conversion matrix 322 requires the use of additional conversion hardware, in the form of multipliers, not just adders and shifters.
The color space flow 350 of FIG. 3B reflects changes to the color space caused by the functional flow 300 of FIG. 3A. Raw CFA RGB data 355 is interpolated into the RGB data color planes, one each for Red, Green, and Blue, and shown as RGB color planes 360, 362, 364. Following color correction and gamma correction in the first RGB color space, the data is converted to 4:4:4 YCbCr color data planes 370, 372, 374. This converted color data may optionally be subsampled to 4:2:0 YCbCr color data planes 380, 382, 384, as shown.
As can be seen in FIGS. 1A-3B, a primary concern is the interpolation of color sensor data to the RGB color space. For those cases where YCbCr data is required, the interpolated RGB data is converted to YCbCr data via a matrix multiply and then decimated to generate the desired data, such as the 4:2:2 or 4:2:0 sampling demonstrated in FIGS. 2 and 3. This process is inefficient because the three full planes of color data in the RGB color space must be interpolated and converted, and ultimately some of the calculated data is discarded.
The manner is which interpolation may be performed in the traditional image acquisition and processing approach of FIGS. 1A-3B will now be explored. Interpolation of color data from a single sensor traditionally operates by moving a sliding window over the sensor data and computing a single pixel value for that window. This approach has centered the window used in the interpolation process over a single pixel and then generated a single pixel output value. Most color filter arrays have a 2×2 color filter pattern, such as a Bayer pattern for RGB color data, for example, and consequently four different interpolation algorithms are required depending on which of the four pixels the window centered. Other color data patterns may of course be used, such as a striped pattern. Other color filter patterns, such as Cyan, Yellow, Magenta, could also be used in place of the RGB color filter pattern shown in this example. A 3×3 window is used to compute a single interpolated value for the center pixel of that window. Interpolation by this pixel-by-pixel approach is thus not only very time-consuming; it also represents a major commitment in processing resources.
FIG. 4 illustrates a simplified traditional pixel-centered interpolation using a 3×3 pixel window centered over a 2×2 Bayer color filter pattern, shown as a Green pixel in the upper left position, a Red pixel in the upper right position, a Blue pixel in the lower left position, and a Green pixel in the lower right position. A corresponding YCbCr pattern could be used if working in the YCbCr color space. RGB data from the pixels surrounding the centered pixel are used to interpolate RGB output data for the center pixel. In the figure, the 3×3 pixel window is centered over the center pixel in the window, G5. The single output pixel value for pixel G5, referred to as P5, is given by:P5=f(G1, R2, G3, B4, G5, B6, G7, R8, G9)
This indicates that the Red, Green and Blue components of pixels G5, given as R5, G5, and B5, respectively, might be given as:R5=(R2+R8)/2G5=(G1+G3+G7+G9+G5)/5B5=(B4+B6)/2
It is noted that in addition to the interpolation described above, other interpolation methods may be used, including, but not limited to, nearest neighbor replication, bilinear interpolation, smooth hue transition interpolation, binary interpolation, for example.
This approach will only provide output color data for the pixel centered in the window, G5, so the pixel window has to be moved to a new pixel in order to generate interpolated output color data for that pixel. This is illustrated in FIGS. 5A-5D, in which the pixel window is centered over four different pixels of interest G7, B8, R12, and G13 to interpolate output color data for them. The 2×2 Bayer color filter pattern has been maintained for simplicity and is repeated over 25 pixels as shown. The four interpolated pixels for which color data output values are generated, G7, B8, R12, and G13, require positioning the window four times, with the pixel window being centered over four different patterns. In FIG. 5A, the pixel pattern, starting in the upper left corner of the 3×3 window and reading across rows from left to right, is G R G B G B G R G. In FIG. 5B, the pattern is R G R G B G R G R. In FIG. 5C, the pattern is B G B G R G B G B and in FIG. 5D, the pattern is G B G R G R G B G. Consequently, four different interpolation algorithms are required, depending upon which of the four pixels the pixel window is centered.
The requirement of four different algorithms for interpolation is time-consuming and can represent a major drain on the computation powers required to carry them out. There is also a corresponding increase in the amount of hardware that is required to carry out the instructions of these algorithms. Moreover, the many functions provided in the traditional image acquisition and processing chain, of which interpolation is but one, are each performed in serial fashion. These many steps are time consuming and use up processor resources. It would be advantageous in the art to have a less complex method for image acquisition and processing.

Color data image acquistion and processing


A method and system for the localization and characterization of the generators of human brain electromagnetic physiological activity includes a set of bioelectromagnetic amplifiers, sensorial stimulators, and a computer based system for signal analog to digital conversion and recording. Sufficient statistics, including higher order statistical moments, for event related components are computed from the recorded signals, either in the time, frequency, or time-frequency domain, retaining stationary, non-stationary, linear, and non-linear information. The localizations, orientations, activities, and connectivities of the generators are obtained by solving the inverse problem using sufficient statistics under anatomical and functional constraints. Realistic head geometry and conductivity profiles are used to transform the measurements into infinite homogeneous medium measurements, through use of ananatomical deconvolution operator, thus simplifying optimally inverse solution computations. Goodness of fit tests for the inverse solution are provided. Generator characteristics are visually displayed in the form of three and two dimensional head images, and optionally include probability scaled images obtained by comparing estimated generator characteristics with those of a normal population sampled and stored in a normative data base.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to electronic computerized medical instruments and more particularly to the localization and characterization of the generators of brain and heart electric and magnetic activity by a non-invasive computerized method and system.
2. Description of Related Art
The determination of the three dimensional localization and of the temporal activity of the neuronal generators which give place to waveshapes, in an electroencephalogram (EEG) and an magnetoencephalogram (MEG) related to pathologies of the central nervous system (CNS), constitutes an important medical problem. Such knowledge can be helpful in producing more precise diagnostics in diverse neuropsychiatric pathologies and in determining more efficient treatments. A typical example is the study of the focus location followed by its sequential propagation in epilepsies that are being evaluated for surgical treatment.
The EEG and the MEG both have their common origin in the ionic currents produced by the cellular elements (the neurons) composing the CNS. The total current density vector field is determined by the vectorial additive combination of all of the elementary currents. The simultaneous activation of a large number of such elements, together with an adequate geometrical distribution, produces resulting electric potentials and magnetic fields which can be measured outside the head. In the transformation process from total current density to measurable external fields, the effects of the volume conductor properties of the different tissues composing the head must be taken into account: brain, meninges, cerebral spinal fluid, skull, and scalp.
The resulting measured fields have the characteristics of a stochastic process, which can be described either in the frequency domain or in the temporal domain, as a function of the statistical moments. In the case of a Gaussian process, first and second order moments give an exhaustive description.
The neural elements which generate a given EEG or MEG component may be localized on a small cortical area ("concentrated generator") or may, on the other hand, be widely distributed in different parts of the CNS ("diffuse generator"). The determination of the spatial distribution of the generators and of the multivariate statistical moments describing their interactions is very important.
For a number of decades electric potential measurements of the CNS have been performed by means of electrodes placed on the scalp. Much experience has accumulated on the practical utility of the visual inspection of the EEG in the diagnostics and treatment of patients with neuropsychiatric diseases. More recently, brain magnetic fields have been measured (U.S. Pat. No. 4,591,787), offering complementary information to that obtained from the EEG.
The current state of the art, as reflected in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,201,224; 4,408,616; and 4,417,592 is summarized as follows. Quantitative analysis of brain electric activity by means of digital signal processing methods (QEEG) allows an objective evaluation of the functioning of the CNS. The signal recorded at each electrode is summarized by means of a set of descriptive parameters (DPs), based on stochastic process modeling. The DPs reflect the normal and pathological functioning of the CNS. Topographic maps based on the DPs are clinically useful, and even more so when statistically compared to a normative data base.
However, this analysis method generates an excessively large number of DPs, thus making quite difficult the evaluation of a particular patient. Moreover, the method does not attempt to localize the generators responsible for the measured DPs, thus limiting the clinical usefulness and contributing to the excessive redundancy of the DPs due to volume conduction effects. Finally, EEG is limited to the study of second order moments in the frequency domain, which means that the EEG has been implicitly assumed to be a Gaussian stochastic process, despite evidence revealing the non-linear nature of such signals.
In U.S. Pat. No. 4,913,160 a method for the reduction of the dimensionality of the DPs is proposed based on principal components (PCs) computation. This procedure produces minimum sets of linear combinations of the original DPs, with optimum descriptive properties, but which are meaningless in terms of the underlying neuronal generators and their localization. Furthermore, this method does not take into account the non-linear nature of the original signals.
An improvement in the usefulness of QEEG has been achieved by means of biophysical models which take into account the behavior of the electromagnetic fields produced by current sources in a complex volume conductor such as the human head. In this sense, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,416,288; 4,753,246; and 4,736,751 propose procedures for eliminating the distortion effects due to the volume conductor. However, they do not deal with the spatial characterization of the generators.
Several attempts have been made to fit equivalent dipoles to measured fields in order to represent, albeit approximately, concentrated generators, either in the time domain or in the frequency domain. These procedures are based on the minimization of a certain distance criterion between the measurements and the theoretical field values due to a current dipole inside a volume conductor model of the head.
This type of procedure for source localization, based on first order moment data, does not take into account the existence of diffuse generators, nor the existence of other sources of "spatial noise". Furthermore, a statistical method for testing the goodness of fit of the source model is not provided. On the other hand, there is a fundamental limit on the number of dipoles that can be estimated, the maximum number being roughly equal to the number of electric or magnetic signals divided by six.
In French patent 2,622,990, several improvements are achieved by using frequency domain second order moment data, in the form of coherence matrices. An estimation method for the cross spectral spatial noise matrix is proposed, under the assumption of interelectrode independence, the method thus being statistically equivalent to the classical factor analysis model. The eigenvectors of the common factor space are then used for determining the concentrated generators (as many as the number of common factors).
However, empirical and theoretical evidence points towards a diffuse generator model for spatial noise, producing a structured cross spectral noise matrix for EEG and MEG. This explains why the proposed noise elimination method under the interelectrode independence assumption gives incorrect results. In such a case computations based on coherence matrices are not justified. Furthermore, dipole fitting methods applied to second order moment data or to eigenvector data are not equivalent. Finally, interactions between generators, neither linear nor non-linear, are taken into account in the eigenvector dipole fitting approach.

Method and system for three dimensional tomography of activity and connectivity of brain and heart electromagnetic waves generators


A method for manufacturing ceramic bails for water treatment capable of exerting microbicidal activity in water and solution is provided. The method includes producing a first composition by dissolving borax (Na2B4O7.10H2O) and copper sulfate (CuSO4.5H2O) in an equivalent ratio of 1:1 to water, and drying the solution to produce a first composition, producing a second composition by adding silica to a first mixture of nitric acid and silver mixed in an equivalent ratio of 1:1 while heating the first mixture, adding more than 3 weight percents of the first composition to 200 weight percents of distilled water based on 100 weight percents of a ceramic ball while heating the distilled water, adding more than 8 weight percents of the second composition to a second mixture of the first composition and the distilled water when a total weight of the second mixture is reduced by a half, and drying the second mixture; and dehydrating the second mixture at a temperature of 400° C. to 500° C.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing ceramic balls for water treatment capable of exerting microbicidal activity in water and solution, more particularly a method for manufacturing ceramic balls for water treatment having excellent water-purifying and water-treating function capable of sterilizing microorganism or bacteria living or breeding in an aqueous solution.
A variety of ceramics typically include multiple pores in its interior. The mechanical and thermal properties of the article made of the said porous ceramics depend on the size, the shape, the porosity and the continuity of the pores existing inside the porous ceramics.
Particularly, the porous ceramics is used as lightweight building materials for a certain purpose, because the ceramics has the artificially formed multiple pores in its inside, and thereby rendering the materials light and low dense. Accordingly, the demand for the ceramics is largely increased in order to manufacture various filters, instruments for sintering, deodorants, heat-insulating materials, sound-proofing materials, fillers, immersing materials, flowerpot stones and the like.
2. Description of the Related Art
In recent, as the utility value of the porous ceramics in the field of water-purification, filter, and the like utilizing its own absorbent and deodorant property is increased, the development and the research for the porous ceramics has been vigorously made. As result, a number of technologies for the porous ceramics have been published.
However, there has been no porous ceramics having microbicidal action in itself until now. Therefore, the materials to be water-treated for sterilization were necessary to be purified with ceramics and then subjected to a separate sterilizing process.
The object of the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing ceramic balls for water treatment for the purpose of solving the above problem by rendering ceramic balls in itself microbicidal activity in addition to purifying activity of ceramics, so that microorganisms or bacteria living or breeding in an aqueous solution may be effectively sterilized, and thus maximizing the water-treating function.

Method for manufacturing ceramic balls for water treatment


A thermal management system (201) is provided which includes a housing (203) equipped with a first set of apertures S1={a1, ai} (213), a second set of apertures S2={b1, . . . bj} (215) and a set of entrainment features S3={c1, Ck} (217), wherein i, j, k≧1, and wherein, for any pair of adjacent apertures Pa={am, bn}, wherein am ε S1 and m ε I={1, . . . , i}, and wherein bn ε S2 and n ε J={1, . . . , j}, there is at least one entrainment feature cp ε S3 which is disposed between aperture am and aperture bn, wherein p ε K={1, . . . , k} . The thermal management system also includes a synthetic jet actuator disposed in said housing which is in fluidic communication with the sets of apertures S1 and S2 and which operates to create a synthetic jet at each aperture dr ε { S1, S2}, wherein r ε I∪J.

A variety of thermal management devices are known to the art, including conventional fan based systems, piezoelectric systems, and synthetic jet ejectors. The latter type of system has emerged as a highly efficient and versatile thermal management solution, especially in applications where thermal management is required at the local level.
Various examples of synthetic jet ejectors are known to the art. Earlier examples are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,758,823 (Glezer et al.), entitled "Synthetic Jet Actuator and Applications Thereof"; U.S. Pat. No. 5,894,990 (Glezer et al.), entitled "Synthetic Jet Actuator and Applications Thereof"; U.S. Pat. No. 5,988,522 (Glezer et al.), entitled Synthetic Jet Actuators for Modifying the Direction of Fluid Flows"; U.S. Pat. No. 6,056,204 (Glezer et al.), entitled "Synthetic Jet Actuators for Mixing Applications"; U.S. Pat. No. 6,123,145 (Glezer et al.), entitled Synthetic Jet Actuators for Cooling Heated Bodies and Environments"; and U.S. Pat. No. 6,588,497 (Glezer et al.), entitled "System and Method for Thermal Management by Synthetic Jet Ejector Channel Cooling Techniques".
Further advances have been made in the art of synthetic jet ejectors, both with respect to synthetic jet ejector technology in general and with respect to the applications of this technology. Some examples of these advances are described in U.S. 20100263838 (Mahalingam et al.), entitled "Synthetic Jet Ejector for Augmentation of Pumped Liquid Loop Cooling and Enhancement of Pool and Flow Boiling"; U.S. 20100039012 (Grimm), entitled "Advanced Synjet Cooler Design For LED Light Modules"; U.S. 20100033071 (Heffington et al.), entitled "Thermal management of LED Illumination Devices"; U.S. 20090141065 (Darbin et al.), entitled "Method and Apparatus for Controlling Diaphragm Displacement in Synthetic Jet Actuators"; U.S. 20090109625 (Booth et al.), entitled Light Fixture with Multiple LEDs and Synthetic Jet Thermal Management System"; U.S. 20090084866 (Grimm et al.), entitled Vibration Balanced Synthetic Jet Ejector"; U.S. 20080295997 (Heffington et al.), entitled Synthetic Jet Ejector with Viewing Window and Temporal Aliasing"; U.S. 20080219007 (Heffington et al.), entitled "Thermal Management System for LED Array"; U.S. 20080151541 (Heffington et al.), entitled "Thermal Management System for LED Array"; U.S. 20080043061 (Glezer et al.), entitled "Methods for Reducing the Non-Linear Behavior of Actuators Used for Synthetic Jets"; U.S. 20080009187 (Grimm et al.), entitled "Moldable Housing design for Synthetic Jet Ejector"; U.S. 20080006393 (Grimm), entitled Vibration Isolation System for Synthetic Jet Devices"; U.S. 20070272393 (Reichenbach), entitled "Electronics Package for Synthetic Jet Ejectors"; U.S. 20070141453 (Mahalingam et al.), entitled "Thermal Management of Batteries using Synthetic Jets"; U.S. 20070096118 (Mahalingam et al.), entitled "Synthetic Jet Cooling System for LED Module"; U.S. 20070081027 (Beltran et al.), entitled "Acoustic Resonator for Synthetic Jet Generation for Thermal Management"; U.S. 20070023169 (Mahalingam et al.), entitled "Synthetic Jet Ejector for Augmentation of Pumped Liquid Loop Cooling and Enhancement of Pool and Flow Boiling"; U.S. 20070119573 (Mahalingam et al.), entitled "Synthetic Jet Ejector for the Thermal Management of PCI Cards"; U.S. 20070119575 (Glezer et al.), entitled "Synthetic Jet Heat Pipe Thermal Management System"; U.S. 20070127210 (Mahalingam et al.), entitled "Thermal Management System for Distributed Heat Sources"; U.S. 20070141453 (Mahalingam et al.), entitled "Thermal Management of Batteries using Synthetic Jets"; U.S. Pat. No. 7,252,140 (Glezer et al.), entitled "Apparatus and Method for Enhanced Heat Transfer"; U.S. Pat. No. 7,606,029 (Mahalingam et al.), entitled "Thermal Management System for Distributed Heat Sources"; U.S. Pat. No. 7,607,470 (Glezer et al.), entitled "Synthetic Jet Heat Pipe Thermal Management System"; U.S. Pat. No. 7,760,499 (Darbin et al.), entitled "Thermal Management System for Card Cages"; U.S. Pat. No. 7,768,779 (Heffington et al.), entitled "Synthetic Jet Ejector with Viewing Window and Temporal Aliasing"; U.S. Pat. No. 7,784,972 (Heffington et al.), entitled "Thermal Management System for LED Array"; and U.S. Pat. No. 7,819,556 (Heffington et al.), entitled "Thermal Management System for LED Array".

Synthetic jet actuator equipped with entrainment features


An endoscopic lithotripsy probe apparatus includes a probe, ultrasonic-vibration source, mechanical shock generation source, and switch-mechanism. The ultrasonic-vibration source is detachably attached to the probe to transmit an ultrasonic-vibration to the probe in a state in which the proximal end of the probe is connected to the ultrasonic-vibration source. The mechanical shock generation source, which is disposed on the side of the proximal end of the probe, applies a force to the ultrasonic-vibration source in a state in which the ultrasonic-vibration source is detached from the proximal end of the probe, and allows the ultrasonic-vibration source to collide with the proximal end of the probe so that a mechanical shock is applied to the probe. The switch-mechanism switches a state in which the ultrasonic-vibration from the ultrasonic-vibration source is transmitted to the probe and a state in which the mechanical shock from the mechanical shock generation source is transmitted.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an endoscopic lithotripsy apparatus and a lithotripsy method of a treatment object using the endoscopic lithotripsy apparatus, in which a probe is inserted in to a body cavity to crush/treat solid matter such as a urinary calculus.
2. Description of the Related Art
For example, as disclosed in Jpn. Pat. Appln. KOKAI Publication No. 61-268244, an ultrasonic lithotripsy apparatus has heretofore been known which applies an ultrasonic vibration to a calculus produced in a body cavity under an endoscope to crush the calculus. Additionally, for example, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,722,980 and 6,149,656, a mechanical shock type lithotripsy apparatus has also been known, which applies a mechanical shock to a probe under the endoscope to crush the calculus.

Endoscopic lithotripsy apparatus and lithotripsy method of treatment object using the apparatus


Apparatus for processing plant material in which a first rotatable crushing roller with an outer generally cylindrical surface cooperates with a second adjacent rotatable crushing roller also having an outer generally cylindrical surface. The rollers, mounted with their surfaces positioned in close proximity to each other, rotate in opposite directions to receive and crush plant material. A unique rotatable impact rotor having a plurality of outwardly extending projections is mounted rearwardly of the crushing rollers for impacting plant material that has passed between the rollers to macerate the plant material that has been previously crushed by the rollers. The crushed and macerated plant material is diverted and again impacted one or more times by the outwardly extending projections of the impact rotor after which it is deflected in rearward path by a variably positioned baffle.

During the process of producing and harvesting hay it is common to condition stalky plant material such as alfalfa, clover, or the like, by crimping the stems. This cracks the stems and thereby reduces the time cut plant material remains in the field by increasing the rate at which moisture escapes. U.S. Pat. No. 4,445,313, issued May 1, 1984 in the name of Thomas Elliott et al, discloses a machine illustrative of the general principle of conditioning by crimping. Another example of prior art showing conditioning by crimping is U.S. Pat. No. 4,862,681, issued Sep. 5, 1989 in the name of Gilbert W. Linde et al, which discloses conditioning rolls that crimp and also reciprocate relative to each other to enhance the conditioning.
In addition to crushing or crimping, it is also well known that plant drying can be further enhanced by subjecting the crushed plants to additional conditioning that causes the plant stems to be severely crushed and/or fiberized. This very severe conditioning is commonly referred to as maceration. The various levels of conditioning to which plant materials are subjected has a direct affect on the drying rate. Another benefit of severe conditioning, i.e., maceration, is that studies have shown that macerated hay enhances digestibility. Maceration is also carried out as a precursor to juice expression from herbage, where industrially valuable products, such as enzymes or nutritional substances are then extracted from the plant juice.
An example of prior art apparatus for macerating plant material, such as forage crops, is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 4,265,076, issued May 5, 1981 in the name of Gary W. Krutz, wherein a self propelled implement is disclosed. The crop material is macerated by a pair of opposing crushing rolls with differential peripheral speeds, after which it is conveyed to a press to form a mat that is discharged rearwardly onto the field over which the implement is being operated.
Another example of prior art apparatus for macerating plant material, also referred to as herbage, is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,152,127, issued on Oct. 2, 1992 in the name of Richard G. Koegel et al ( "'127 patent"). This patent, which provides an extensive explanation of background material relating to severe conditioning, discloses an implement for processing herbage, such as forage crop material, by cutting standing crop, feeding the cut crop material to a pair of crushing rollers to initially crack the stems of the plants, and subsequently impacting the crushed forage crop material to provide additional fiberization.
The copending application mentioned above is directed to the method and apparatus for reimpacting plant material after it has been impacted. Applicants know of no other prior art that relates to the reimpaction of plant material that has been impacted.
The present invention contemplates improvements to apparatus that impacts severely conditioned plant material one or more times.


A calling location and a receiving location are analyzed by called party number analysis means by processing a called party number for specifying a communication terminal at the receiving side transmitted by a communication terminal at the calling side is processed, a charging unit price is determined by charging unit price determination means by referring to contents of a table memory storing a table of charging unit price using the calling location and the receiving location as parameters, and the information of charging unit price is informed to a communication terminal through a charging unit price determination/information apparatus, whereby a communication fee according to the receiving destination can be informed to the caller, or the receiver.

When calling a mobile terminal in a mobile telephone system, which recently is rapidly spreading, for example, a caller at the calling side dials a communication network access code, which is a specific number such as 030 or 040, and then dials a called party number which specifies the terminal at the reception side. Then, at the communication network (hereinafter referred to as "network") side, a charging unit price, which is a unit price of communication fee, is selected according to the mobile network access code dialed by the caller at the calling side, to make charging. That is, at the network side, the location of the mobile terminal is not determined.
As described above, in the mobile telephone system at present, charging processing is made according to the mobile communication network access code dialed by the caller at the calling side. However, a system for automatically charging according to location information of the mobile terminal can naturally be considered.
In a system in which the location of the mobile terminal is determined at the network side and the charging unit price is determined for charging, the charging unit price must be informed to the caller. This is because the communication fee varies with the location of the mobile terminal. In other words, a communication fee unexpected by the caller may be charged.
The requirement for informing the charging unit price is particularly large when the reception side is a mobile terminal, but in other cases, it will often be convenient if the charging unit price can be known by the caller. If it can be known, the caller will become possible to select, not only calling consciously of the charging unit price, but also not calling depending on the charging unit price.

Charging unit price determination/information apparatus and communication system having charging unit price information function


A forensic light source kit including a portable light source having a self contained battery and a white light source with a plurality of sliding filters for providing selected wavelength illumination, a plurality of barrier filter goggles, a tripod for mounting the light source, and a carrying case therefor.

The systematic identification and securing of trace evidence at a crime scene is of crucial importance in crime investigation. Each scene may present a myriad of forensic residues, not readily visible to the naked eye. Fibers, fluorescent powders, body fluids, blood traces, semen, stained prints and other forensic residues are best observed and recorded when illuminated at certain wavelengths. Accordingly, light source and filtration packages have been available to permit the user to investigate for such forensic residues. The light sources have been typically externally powered, using shoulder mounted battery packs or electrical cables. The electrical cables limit the ease with which the user can scan a scene particularly in narrow or small areas.


The present invention consists of a concealment device for vehicle roofs with a transparent element comprising a group of technical solutions in the blocking means which enable unblocking and smooth opening and closing movements without losing efficiency in respect of retention. It is characterized by the use in the rail of an elastomeric body with a distortion capacity such that when the braking brake shoe attempts to advance a front of elastomeric material forms in front and a traction zone forms behind, checking the advance. The device also incorporates blocking means which make use of an appropriately configured lever which multiplies the release force of the retention brake shoes applied by means of a wire or similar, by power obtained from the handle device.

The presence of transparent elements in vehicle roofs has given rise to the design of sunblinds adapted to the configuration of the area to be covered.
This type of device depends largely on the area and its configuration both in terms of form and aspect of the perimeter edge and its curvature. The availability of a technical solution with a given configuration does not guarantee the viability of an application to a greater area or one with different curvature as a simple scaling for example, can give rise to components with inertias which exceed the admissible values for the means of retention or guiding.
Modifying the guiding means is not always possible by scaling since its location in the vehicle roof imposes severe spatial restrictions because, for example, the height of the device reduces habitability in the interior of the vehicle.
As a result, changing the dimensions of the transparent element to be covered in the majority of cases requires a change in the solutions applied to each of the parts of the shading device.
Returning to the blocking means, the use of increasingly large transparent elements gives rise to sunblinds which, due to their greater dimensions, also show greater inertial effects.
These inertial effects are important both in the braking and acceleration of the vehicle since the sunblind is impelled and is displaced longitudinally according to the vehicle's direction. This undue displacement does not occur if the blocking means are able to provide sufficient retention.
Sufficient retention is achieved with brake shoes which apply the necessary pressure to ensure that the frictional or interlocking forces used are able to balance the inertial forces.
This pressure force is usually carried out by springs which can be used as chocks. The release of these springs is achieved by applying greater force from the handle device. When this force is high, the manual action of the sunblind becomes difficult or even impossible for users with little strength.
The patents with publication numbers EP1201473 and EP1353037 make use of cables or traction bars which act directly on the pressure spring of the retention brake shoes. The release of the blocking means is achieved by direct traction from the handle device. It is possible that the handle device is provided with some means of increasing the tension either because it causes a control to rotate with a different curvature radius in the cable winding from that at the point of application of the force, or either another medium situated in the central point of the handle device.
The drawings in the patent with publication number DE10338722 shows a support point which is almost precisely between the brake shoe and the sunblind guide.
The drawings show that this brake shoe is withdrawn by means of a cable with a cover which enables the brake shoe to be retracted directly overcoming the resistance offered by the pressure spring against the guide.
In all the cases known the brake shoe support is exercised on the elastomeric material with a retention based on a retention force which principally verifies being proportional to the friction coefficient and the applied force; or it either establishes the retention by incorporation of teeth which improve the braking force.
The present invention proposes the use of an elastomeric component with properties in respect of distortion which give rise to a different form of retention as well as the incorporation of means for multiplying force situated in the point of application of the blocking combined with a handle device with symmetrical conduct in order to make the unblocking of the sunblind more effective, thus facilitating operation.

Shading device for vehicle roofs with transparent element


Detailed herein is a technology which, among other things, allows for storage and playback of interactive user elements in a television stream. In one approach to this technology, a content data stream, including a television program and a user experience element, is received. This content data stream is transformed, and the transformed data stream is examined, to identify which packets are associated with the user experience element. Those packets are then passed to a handler appropriate for the user experience element.

In recent years, the field of television has been the subject of substantial innovation. High-definition content has provided a better picture, while digital delivery has allowed for greater interactivity with viewers. Devices like the digital video recorder (DVR) (or personal video recorder (PVR)) and the media center computer have allowed users an unprecedented degree of control over their television viewing time.
Interactive television services, in particular, offer the potential for a truly novel television viewing experience. Rather than the simple delivery of a single broadcast over a single channel, interactive television (iTV) offers users a richer user experience (UX). Existing content receivers, however, are coupled to "now" style UX, where interactive elements accompanying a broadcast are limited to use during actual broadcast time. Moreover, broadcasters are often tied into existing proprietary systems, which hinders their ability to adopt new platforms.

Extensible encoding for interactive experience elements


Method and system for x-ray detection of flaws in containers or their contents wherein containers are conveyed on a circular path around a central axis upon which an x-ray source is situated below the plane of the base of the containers. The x-ray source emits x-ray radiation obliquely upwards through the containers to a plurality of imaging x-ray detectors. Analysis of the images provided by these x-ray detectors determines the presence of a flaw in a container or its contents and is used to command a rejection mechanism to reject the container in question.

During manufacture and/or filling of containers, various flaws can occur. For instance, in the case of glass containers such as glass vials, chips and cracks can occur in the containers themselves, and these chips or cracks can result in glass particles or glass shards being included in the interior of the container. In the case of plastic containers, splits, folds, or other discontinuities can occur during moulding of the container. Other flaws can also occur in the contents of containers of any type: foreign objects may be incorporated due to manufacturing errors, and in the case of containers containing food products, agglomerations of bacterial or fungal matter can occur due to microbial contamination. Another example of such flaws in the contents of containers are bent or broken needles in filled syringes. Such flaws can be detected in closed or open containers, whether filled or unfilled.
It is noted that for the purposes of this specification, the term "flawed container" is to be understood as comprising the case in which the container itself contains a flaw, or in which the contents of the container contains a flaw, or both.
It is important to be able to detect such flaws on a production line to prevent potentially harmfully-flawed or even dangerously-flawed products from reaching the consumer.
Visual inspection, or optical-based methods are only suitable for transparent containers, and inspection of the bottom corners of the interior of containers is made more difficult by optical distortion and refraction caused by the material and shape of the container. The container bottom is typically thick, non-planar, and of non-constant cross-section. Nevertheless this is the most critical portion to be inspected due to foreign objects typically accumulating there. Hence over the years, many different approaches for detecting such flaws have been developed using x-rays, which penetrate glass and plastic irrespective of its optical properties in the visible spectral range. Most materials have a degree of opacity to x-rays, enabling flaws including discontinuities and so on to show up on x-ray transmission imaging. For instance in the case of a glass vial with a crack, the discontinuity caused by the crack will reflect and/or refract the x-ray radiation, which can then be detected. Likewise, a thin section in a plastic container will absorb less x-ray radiation than a thicker section, and will thus be detectable. Furthermore, foreign objects in the container contents will reflect and/or refract and/or absorb x-rays and will likewise be detectable.
Several prior art flaw detecting methods and systems for containers using x-rays are discussed below:
EP 0 604 302 shows a method of x-ray analysis of objects passed on a circular track between an x-ray source and a single detector consisting of a conversion screen and a camera. This method would appear to result in low throughput of objects and poor resolution. Furthermore, the base of the objects will be poorly imaged, since the edges of the track overlap the bases of the objects.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,005,912 shows a method of x-ray analysis of containers incorporating two perpendicular x-ray sources (which may be constituted by a single source emitting two discrete beams) placed at 45° with respect to a line of containers being conveyed between the x-ray sources and respective detectors. Thus two images are taken of each container at 90° of rotation from each other. However, the x-ray source is disposed at the level of a conveyor belt which does not give good coverage of the base of the containers.
U.S. Pat. No. 7,164,750 presents an improvement to the method of U.S. Pat. No. 6,005,912 by situating the x-ray source above the plane of the conveyor so as to achieve improved imaging of the inside of the base of the containers.
U.S. Pat. No. 7,106,827 improves on the above by utilising obliquely-emitted x-rays originating from above and/or below the plane of the base of the containers presented on a linear conveyor belt, so as to better image the inside of the base of the container for the presence of foreign objects. However, a portion of the x-rays must pass through the conveyor belt, which reduces the imaging quality.
Finally, U.S. Pat. No. 4,989,225 shows a CAT scanner for creating dynamically-computed tomographic x-ray images of containers. In one embodiment, containers are passed on a circular path between an x-ray source at the geometric centre of the circular path and a sensor, the containers being additionally rotated around their own axes.
An object of the present invention is thus to overcome at least one of the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art, and thereby to provide a system and method for detecting flaws in containers and/or their contents which permits improved detection and higher throughput.
This object is achieved by a system for detecting flaws in containers and/or flaws in their contents, comprising a transport arrangement comprising a transport test path for transporting the containers, the transport test path being arc-shaped about an axis and defining a plane perpendicular to this axis for the movement of the outer surfaces of bases of the containers, i.e. when in use, the outer surfaces of the bases of the containers will travel along this plane. An x-ray source is disposed on the aforementioned axis, and a plurality of imaging x-ray detectors each having a sensing surface, i.e. x-ray detectors capable of forming an image based on received x-ray radiation, are arranged about the axis. By "sensing surface" we understand the surface of a detector which converts x-ray radiation into signals (as in the case of a semiconductor-type direct x-ray detector) or into another type of radiation that will itself be detected (as in the case of a scintillator plate converting x-ray radiation into visible light which is then itself detected by a digital camera or similar). The plurality of detectors permits imaging the containers being tested at various angles so as to obtain good coverage of the containers, and to achieve a good rate of throughput. The plane, x-ray source, and sensing surfaces are arranged such that, when considering each x-ray detector, a straight line which intersects the x-ray source and the x-ray detector in question intersects the plane such that the distance along the line from the x-ray source to the plane be shorter than the distance along the line from the plane to the sensing surface of the x-ray detector in question. Since this line intersects the plane, the x-ray source and the imaging x-ray detectors are situated on opposite sides of the plane. This geometric arrangement ensures good imaging at the detectors since it results in a good degree of magnification of the containers at the imaging x-ray detectors. Furthermore, the system comprises a processing unit with inputs operationally connected to outputs of the imaging x-ray detectors and itself having an output for a signal dependent on x-ray imaging by the imaging x-ray detectors. This output is operationally connected to a control input of a rejection mechanism for rejecting containers detected as having flaws in the containers themselves or in their contents. This combination of features enables accurate testing of containers with a good rate of throughput.
In an embodiment, which may be combined with any subsequently addressed embodiment unless in contradiction, the above-addressed straight line is normal to the sensing surface of the respective imaging x-ray detector. By thus arranging one possible straight line to be drawn as described, distortion at the imaging x-ray detector is minimised.
In an embodiment, which may be combined with any previously or subsequently addressed embodiment unless in contradiction, the x-ray source is tailored to emit x-rays on a single arc, i.e. an unbroken arc. This eliminates the requirement for multiple x-ray sources or complex and potentially fragile shuttering of the x-ray source, thus decreasing complexity and increasing robustness of the system.
In an embodiment, which may be combined with any previously or subsequently addressed embodiment unless in contradiction, the single arc has an opening angle of at least 180°, or of at least 220°, or of at least 270°, or of 360°, as considered in the previously mentioned plane. This permits the radiation to be emitted towards detectors over a wide arc, enabling the use of a large number of detectors in cooperation with a single source.
In an embodiment, which may be combined with any previously or subsequently addressed embodiment unless in contradiction, the distance along the previously mentioned line from the x-ray source to the plane is at most 80%, or at most 60%, or at most 40%, or at most 20% of the distance along that line from the plane to the respective sensing surface. This allows the skilled person to tailor the geometry to achieve the best compromise of magnification and image clarity.
In an embodiment, which may be combined with any previously or subsequently addressed embodiment unless in contradiction, the transport arrangement comprises a plurality of container supports each arranged to contact the base of the container over at most 50% of the area of the base of the container. This ensures that the edges of the base are kept free from interference with the container support, thus maximising the accuracy of the imaging especially of the inside bottom corners of the containers.
In an embodiment, which may be combined with any previously or subsequently addressed embodiment unless in contradiction, the transport arrangement comprises a plurality of container supports each arranged to hold the top of the container, which on the one hand, when used on their own, permits the base of the container to be kept completely free, e.g. in the case when the supports are hanger supports, or on the other hand, when used in combination with supports contacting the container bases, permits a very stable supporting arrangement for the containers.
In an embodiment, which may be combined with any previously or subsequently addressed embodiment unless in contradiction, at least some of the container supports are movable in a direction parallel to the addressed axis, i.e. up and down. This provides one mechanism by which the transport arrangement can pick up containers from e.g. an inlet section of the transport arrangement, such that they can be transported along the transport test path of the transport arrangement.
In an embodiment, which may be combined with any previously or subsequently addressed embodiment unless in contradiction, at least some of the container supports are rotatable about support axes parallel to the addressed axis, e.g. about their own central axes. This enables the containers to be presented to the detectors at different angles so as to image as much of the containers as possible.
Furthermore, the object of the invention is resolved by a method of detecting flaws in containers and/or in their contents, comprising transporting the containers along a transport test path, the transport test path being arc-shaped about an axis and defining a plane perpendicular to said axis for the outer surfaces of bases of said containers, i.e. the plane is defined by the passage of outer surfaces of the bases of the containers as they travel. X-ray radiation is emitted from an x-ray source disposed on the addressed axis, and the emitted x-ray radiation is received at a plurality of imaging x-ray detectors (i.e. x-ray detectors capable of forming an image based on received x-ray radiation) arranged about said axis and having respective sensing surfaces. The plurality of detectors permits imaging the containers being tested at various angles so as to obtain good coverage of the containers, and to achieve a good rate of throughput. The addressed plane, x-ray source and sensing surfaces are mutually arranged such that a respective straight line which intersects the x-ray source and a respective sensing surface intersects the plane such that the distance along the line from said x-ray source to the plane is shorter than the distance along the line from the plane to the respective sensing surface, i.e. the x-ray source and the x-ray detector are disposed on opposite sides of the plane. Images received by the imaging x-ray detectors are processed so as to determine the presence or absence of one or more than one flaws in the container and/or its contents, and the results are assigned to the respective containers. Containers determined as having one or more flaws therein or in their contents are rejected. This method enables accurate testing of containers with a good rate of throughput.
In an embodiment of this method, which may be combined with any subsequently addressed embodiment of the method unless in contradiction, the x-ray radiation is emitted on a single arc. This eliminates the requirement for multiple x-ray sources or complex and potentially fragile shuttering of the x-ray source, thus decreasing complexity and increasing robustness of the system.
In an embodiment of this method, which may be combined with any previously or subsequently addressed embodiment of the method unless in contradiction, the single arc has an opening angle of at least 180°, or of at least 220°, or of at least 270°, or of 360°, considered in the previously-mentioned plane. This permits the radiation to be emitted towards detectors over a wide arc, enabling the use of a large number of detectors and a single source.
In an embodiment of this method, which may be combined with any previously or subsequently addressed embodiment of the method unless in contradiction, the distance along the previously mentioned line from the x-ray source to the plane is at most 80%, or at most 60%, or at most 40%, or at most 20% of the distance along the line from the plane to the respective sensing surface. This allows the skilled person to tailor the geometry to achieve the best compromise of magnification and image clarity dependent on the specific application.
In an embodiment of this method, which may be combined with any previously or subsequently addressed embodiment of the method unless in contradiction, the containers are transported by a transporting arrangement comprising a plurality of supports each arranged to contact the base of a container over at most 50% of the area of the base of the container. Thereby the edges of the base may be kept free from interference with the container support, thus maximising the accuracy of the imaging of the inside bottom corners of the containers.
In an embodiment of this method, which may be combined with any previously or subsequently addressed embodiment of the method unless in contradiction, the containers are transported by a transporting arrangement comprising a plurality of container supports each arranged to hold the top of the container, which on the one hand, when used on their own, permits the base of the container to be kept completely free, e.g. in the case when the supports are e.g. hanging supports, or on the other hand, when used in combination with supports contacting the container bases, permits a very stable supporting arrangement for the containers.
In an embodiment of this method, which may be combined with any previously or subsequently addressed embodiment of the method unless in contradiction, the containers are transported around the transport test path at continuous speed or in a stepwise manner. This presents various operating possibilities, stepwise transport particularly enabling clarity of imaging since the containers can be imaged when stationary.
In an embodiment of this method, which may be combined with any previously or subsequently addressed embodiment of the method unless in contradiction, the containers are rotated about their axes. This can be either at constant angular velocity or stepwise while the containers are transported along the transport test path. This permits imaging the containers from a plurality of angles in a plurality of orientations so as to obtain good coverage of the containers and to reduce the risk of non-detection of a flaw, and also permits tomographic 3-D imaging of the containers.
Finally, the invention relates to a method of manufacturing flaw-free containers, i.e. containers with no detectable flaws in the containers themselves or in the contents thereof, comprising manufacturing filled or unfilled untested containers—this manufacturing possibly also comprising filling of the containers—then testing the containers by any of the above-mentioned methods of detecting flaws. Containers which have not been detected as having flaws therein or in their contents are then accepted as being manufactured flaw-free containers. Containers which have been detected as having flaws therein or in their contents are rejected. This permits reliable manufacture of flaw-free containers.

X-ray detection of flaws in containers and/or in their contents


A method and apparatus for an improved multiple channel sensor interface circuit is described which comprises a plurality of input integrator circuits (35) coupled in parallel; a switched capacitor multiplexer (37) coupled to the input integrator circuits (35); and an output integrator stage (39) coupled to the switched capacitor multiplexer (37). An additional embodiment is described wherein a multiple channel voltage sensor interface circuit comprising a plurality of switched capacitor storage elements (S26 . . . S28) is coupled to a plurality of inputs; a plurality of integrator amplifiers (51, 53) is coupled to the switched capacitor storage elements (C22 . . . C30); and timing circuitry is coupled to the switched capacitor storage elements (C221 . . . C30) and to integrator amplifiers (51, 53) operable to selectively enable sampling of the inputs.

Without limiting the scope of the invention, its background is described in connection with a multiple channel video sensor having multiple analog video inputs which are sampled in parallel and having a single time multiplexed analog output channel, the output reflecting the value of a single one of the input channels at any particular time, such as might be found in a facsimile machine, as an example.
Heretofore, in this field, the standard method of implementing such a sensor interface was to build a bank of integrator circuits followed by a bank of sample-hold amplifiers, followed by a multiplexer which determines which channel's signal is to be transmitted to the sensor interface output. This approach requires two amplifiers per channel, and it also imposes a requirement that each channel be identically matched to all the others. Further, any normal offset voltages which occur in the sample-hold circuits are transmitted to the output and result in further channel to channel non uniformity.
Accordingly, it is a goal of this invention to create improvements which overcome the requirement of channel matching, the sensitivity to offset voltages in the sample-hold circuits, and which is more efficient to design, test and manufacture.

Method and apparatus for an improved multiple channel sensor interface circuit