A user input device for providing 8-way directional control, comprising a first set of sensors consisting of a first sensor adjacent a second sensor, constituting a first pair of sensors, and a third sensor adjacent the second sensor, constituting a second pair of sensors; and a second set of sensors, adjacent the second set of sensors, consisting of a fourth sensor adjacent a fifth sensor, constituting a third pair of sensors, and a sixth sensor adjacent the fifth sensor, constituting a fourth pair of sensors; wherein user actuation of a respective one of at least four of the six sensors provides for control in a respective one of four different directions and user actuation of a respective one of the first, second, third and fourth pairs of sensors provides for control in a respective one of the remaining four different directions.

At the present time, desktop computers use peripheral devices for user input. The mouse is the standard cursor control device used for most applications. The joystick is the standard input device used for gaming. Both of these devices are relatively bulky and are connected to the desktop computer. They are therefore generally unsuitable for portable computing. In one type of portable computer, the keyboard has integrated within it a joystick-like device which can be used to control the cursor instead of a mouse.
It would be desirable to provide joystick-like control in a hand portable device without having to integrate a joystick or use peripheral devices.
One way of providing joystick like control on a mobile phone would be to assign a key in a numeric keypad to each of 8 directional movements: North, South, East, West, North-East, South-East, South-West and North West. Thus the keypad would be operable as an 8-way directional controller. This would be achieved using the array of three columns and four rows of data input keys on a mobile phone by assigning three of the rows to 8-way directional control. For example, the keys for inputting "1", "2", "3", "4", "6", "7", "8" and "9" would respectively be used for moving NW, N, NE, W, E, SW, S and SE. The key for inputting "5" would be redundant.
The inventor has realised that such an arrangement is not intuitive and generally requires a user to locate a key visually before it is pressed. The inventor has additionally realised that this disadvantage arises from the presence of a redundant key, the use of a large number of keys to achieve the control, and the relatively large separation between, for example, keys for inputting "1" and "9", that is for moving from NW to SE.


An engine control system for controlling engine operation in activated and deactivated modes in a displacement on demand (DOD) engine includes an impulse charging device that is disposed upstream of an intake port of a cylinder of the DOD engine and that is operable to regulate air flow into the cylinder. A first module initiates impulse charging to regulate air flow into the cylinder when a desired engine torque output nears a first threshold engine torque output during engine operation in the deactivated mode.

Some internal combustion engines include engine control systems that deactivate cylinders under low load situations. For example, an eight cylinder engine can be operated using four cylinders to improve fuel economy by reducing pumping losses. This process is generally referred to as displacement on demand or DOD. Operation using all of the engine cylinders is referred to as an activated mode. A deactivated mode refers to operation using less than all of the cylinders of the engine (one or more cylinders not active).
In the deactivated mode, there are fewer cylinders operating. As a result, there is less drive torque available to drive the vehicle driveline and accessories (e.g., alternator, coolant pump, A/C compressor). Engine efficiency, however, is increased as a result of decreased fuel consumption (i.e., no fuel supplied to the deactivated cylinders) and decreased engine pumping. Because the deactivated cylinders do not take in air, overall engine pumping losses are reduced. During typical engine operation in the deactivated mode, the engine is switched to the activated mode when the torque demand is greater than a threshold (e.g., approximately 95%) of the maximum torque available in the deactivated mode.
During the course of normal driving, there are many operating conditions just above the threshold of the deactivated mode torque limit. As a result, there are multiple occurrences of switching to the less fuel efficient activated mode. Once in the activated mode, hysteresis often delays transition back into the deactivated mode. These conditions result in missed opportunities to reduce fuel consumption.

Impulse charging control to extend displacement on demand range


A folded cardboard box has four longitudinal walls and a separation wall dividing the box's interior into first and second sections. The separation wall has a through-hole and a flap element at an open end of the first section. The flap element has a first flap portion at one of the longitudinal walls and a second flap portion at an adjoining longitudinal wall. The flap element can be flapped from a first state in which each of the first and second flap portions are aligned with the respective wall into a second state in which the flap element projects into the first section. A longitudinally extending wall portion, provided at one of the longitudinal walls at the open end of the first section, is connected, at its rear end, to the longitudinal wall at which it is provided by means of a seam line allowing bending of the wall from a first state in which it extends in longitudinal direction into a second state in which the wall projects from the longitudinal wall at which it is provided at about a right angle into the first section, so that the flap element, when in its second state, keeps the wall portion in its second state.

It is generally known that folded cardboard boxes are used for holding and transporting articles of various kinds. As cardboard is typically mainly made of renewable materials such as cellulose fibers. Further, a certain percentage of already used cardboard can be recycled for making new cardboard. Thus, cardboard boxes widely known as sustainable packaging have advantages over packaging that comprises a high percentage (up to 100%) of synthetic plastic material based on unsaturated hydrocarbons that come from limited natural resources of petroleum oil or petroleum gas. Therefore, there is a high need to replace packaging items that so far were made from e.g. foamed polystyrene or deep-drawn or thermoformed plastic foil by sustainable packaging made from renewable materials such a cellulose fiber. In particular in the production of mass products there is also a need for packaging that can be easily utilized in an automated packaging process, where an article is placed into such a sustainable package and is secured therein so that the article can survive drops or other impacts. Further, it should also be inhibited that the article falls out of the packaging during the automated packaging process.
It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a folded cardboard box that can be used in automated packaging of in particular articles that have a first portion that has a larger diameter and a second portion that has a smaller diameter (e.g. handles of electric toothbrushes).


Various techniques directed to the design and construction of transformers are disclosed. In one aspect, a method according to embodiments of the present invention includes loading parameters of a transformer included in a power supply design, calculating primary winding parameters of the transformer in response to the loaded parameters of the transformer, calculating secondary winding parameters of the transformer in response to the loaded parameters of the transformer. Shield winding parameters of the transformer may be calculated in response to the loaded parameters of the transformer. The calculation of secondary winding parameters may include allocating pins of a secondary winding of the transformer.

1. Technical Field
Embodiments of the invention relate generally to the design of circuits, and more specifically, to the design of a transformer construction in power supply.
2. Background Information
Power supplies are used to provide power to electronic devices to enable the electronic devices to operate. Power supplies can come in a variety of designs, depending on the needs of the electronic devices. Sometimes the electronic devices are powered directly from the power supplies and sometimes the electronic devices are powered from batteries, which are charged by the power supplies.
One of the items often included in power supplies is a transformer. A voltage is usually applied to the transformer from one part of the power supply circuit (often referred to as the primary) and the transformer transfers energy from that part of the power supply circuitry to another part of the power supply circuitry (often referred to as the secondary). The transformer provides the electrical isolation and also shifts the voltage level between the primary and secondary.
The design and construction of power supplies as well as the transformers that are used in the power supplies can be a very complicated and complex task due to many factors and variables. The complexity is further increased if transformer shielding is to be added to the construction process. For example, the design and construction of transformers is often done through experimentation, on a trial and error basis in order for the power supply designer to realize a power supply having the desired specifications with regard to electrical and electromagnetic interference (EMI) performance.

Method and article of manufacture for designing a transformer


Systems, apparatuses, and methods are described for encoding media content based on an ending delay of first media content and a startup delay of second media content. Second media content may be configured for transmission after first media content in a media content stream. The first media content may be associated with an ending delay corresponding to transmission and/or decoding of frames of the first media content. The second media content may be associated with a starting delay corresponding to transmission and/or decoding of frames of the second media content. The first media content and the second media content may be encoded using different encoding formats. Based on comparing the ending delay and starting delay to a threshold, encoding parameters may be selected, one or more frames may be removed from the first media content and/or the second media content, and/or buffers of one or more devices may be adjusted.

Different media content transmitted to a viewer via a media content stream may be in a variety of encoding formats, and a variety of different data rates, such as Constant Bit Rate (CBR), Variable Bit Rate (VBR), and/or Capped Variable Bit Rate (CVBR). For example, video content may be encoded in CBR, but an advertisement displayed after the video content may be in VBR. When transmitted content switches from one encoding to another, such as from CBR to VBR, a viewer may experience a buffering delay, a black screen, and/or visual artifacts.

Seamless content encoding and transmission


A high compressive strength silica mortar to be used for the installation of constructs such as building inside and outside walls, the road pavement, a slope and planting trees in the roof and manufacturing method thereof are provided. The high compressive strength silica mortar is formed of 30 to 60 wt % of silica, 40 to 70 wt % of blast furnace slag, and the 15 to 35 weight parts of polycondensation regulator for 100 weight parts of dry mortar powder of these silica and blast furnace slag, and is solidified by generating C—S—H, C-A-H, amorphous Geopolymeric Matrix{Al2O3.mSiO2.nM2O.xH2O(M=K,Na,Ca)} and Zeolite in the mortar. In particular, the high compressive strength silica mortar exhibits the compressive strength of 70.0 MPa or more by vibration forming and curing for 12˜48 hours at 25 to 80° C. before removal of form and aging for 28 days, and can save energies because a firing process is not required. Accordingly, the high compressive strength silica mortar has excellent properties compared with conventional cement concretes or polymer cements, and further shows high compressive strength in initial stage, which could not be generated in such products.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a high compressive strength silica mortar and manufacturing method thereof, which is capable of exhibiting much better properties than those of conventional cement concrete or polymer cement, and more particularly, to a high compressive strength silica mortar and manufacturing method thereof, which is capable of providing reliability by recycling silica that is not utilized, and saving energy by exhibiting a higher compressive strength than cement, polymer cement, and clay bricks after curing for 28 days without an artificial firing process.
2. Discussion of Related Art
A conventional mortar has been developed and improved by various compositions according to the purpose of use. The mortar has been mainly used as joint fillers and adhesives. The fact is that mortars using pozzolan materials such as a plaster or lime, or blended cement including admixtures such as a fly ash, a slag and silica fume, and compositions with polymer addition for allowing the water resistance and elastic function that main materials are cement, have been developed and marketed.
Such products of which main materials are cement have been used at various fields or construction sites due to very easy work and a moderate price thereof. However, coal and petroleum resources consumed for producing cement emit enormous amounts of CO2 gas in heat treatment procedures and limestone composed of CaCO3 also emits CO2 gas during the production of cement. For producing cement, it is impossible to avoid the occurrence of CO2 gas, which is one of main causes that cause environmental and air pollution.
The use of cement, polymer and a firing product, which cause environmental and air pollution, is sublated, and the development of environmentally and naturally friendly technology has been recently carried out. The Korean Patent No. 10-0344446 discloses a clay composition with lime and limestone added to clay without the use of cement or polymer, which has the compressive strength of 145˜176 kgf/cm2.
Further, the Korean Patent No. 10-0348688 discloses a technology for manufacturing mortar using clay, lime, blast furnace slag and alkali agents, which shows the compressive strength of 412 kgf/cm2 at age of 14 days as the maximum strength. Such mortar is obtained by the recycling of industrial by-products, and accordingly, the consumption of enormous amounts of energy is not required and there is almost no damage to the nature. Also, in view of the environment, the mortar is very favorable product for our life because the occurrence of CO2 is very low.
However, the environmentally friendly products have a defect such that the low compressive strength of 412 kgf/cm2 is provided, and thus, cement products are still used in applied fields requiring high compressive strength

High compressive strength silica mortar and manufacturing method thereof


The present invention provides a computer-implemented method of producing a description of aircraft intent expressed using a formal language. The description may be used to predict aircraft trajectory, for example by air traffic management. Rules are used in association with information provided to generate a set of instructions describing both the aerodynamic configuration of the aircraft and the motion of the aircraft. These instructions are checked to ensure that they describe unambiguously the aircraft's trajectory. The instructions are then expressed using a formal language.

The ability to predict an aircraft's trajectory is useful for several reasons.
Air traffic management (ATM) would benefit from an improved ability to predict an aircraft's trajectory. Air traffic management is responsible for the safe separation of aircraft, a particularly demanding task in congested airspace such as around airports. ATM decision-support tools based on accurate trajectory predictions could allow a greater volume of aircraft to be handled while maintaining safety. By trajectory, a four-dimensional description of the aircraft's path is meant. The description may be the evolution of the aircraft's state with time, where the state may include the position of the aircraft's centre of mass and other aspects of its motion such as velocity, attitude and weight. This benefit is particularly significant where ATM is operating in and around airports. As demand for slots at airports increases, ATM is under constant pressure to increase capacity by decreasing separation between aircraft: increased accuracy in predicting aircraft trajectories enables this to be done without compromising safety. Also, greater predictability in aircraft trajectories allows arrival times to be determined more accurately thereby enabling better coordination with ground operations.
In current ATM practice, aircraft must typically fly set routes. For example, when approaching and departing an airport, aircraft are usually requested to fly a STAR (Standard Terminal Arrival Route) and a SID (Standard Instrument Departure), respectively. However, aircraft operators are requesting additional flexibility to fly according to their preferences, so that they can better pursue their business objectives. Furthermore, there is an increasing pressure on the ATM system to facilitate the reduction of the environmental impact of aircraft operations. As a result of the above, the ATM system requires the capability to predict operator-preferred trajectories as well as trajectories that minimize the impact on the environment, chiefly in terms of noise and emissions. In addition, the ATM system must be able to exchange descriptions of such trajectories with the operators in order to arrive at a coordinated, conflict-free solution to the traffic problem.
The ability to predict an aircraft's trajectory will also be of benefit to the management of autonomous vehicles such as unmanned air vehicles (UAVs), for example in programming flight plans for UAVs as well as in commanding and de-conflicting their trajectories.
In order to predict aircraft trajectory unambiguously, one must solve a set of differential equations that model both aircraft behaviour and atmospheric conditions. The computation process requires inputs corresponding to the aircraft intent.
Aircraft intent must be distinguished from flight intent. Flight intent may be thought of as a generalisation of the concept of a flight plan, and so will reflect operational requirements such as intended route and operator preferences. Generally, flight intent will not unambiguously define an aircraft's trajectory. Put another way, there are likely to be many aircraft trajectories that would satisfy a given flight intent. Thus, flight intent may be regarded as a basic blueprint in which the specific details required to compute unambiguously a trajectory are missing.
For example, the instructions to be followed during a STAR or a SID would correspond to an example of flight intent. In addition, airline preferences may also form an example of flight intent. To determine aircraft intent, instances of flight intent like a SID procedure, the airline's operational preferences and the actual pilot's decision making process must be combined. This is because aircraft intent comprises a structured set of instructions that are used by a trajectory computation infrastructure to provide an unambiguous trajectory. The instructions should include configuration details of the aircraft (e.g. landing gear deployment), and procedures to be followed during manoeuvres and normal flight (e.g. track a certain turn radius or hold a given airspeed). These instructions capture the basic commands and guidance modes at the disposal of the pilot and the aircraft's flight management system to direct the operation of the aircraft. Thus, aircraft intent may be thought of as an abstraction of the way in which an aircraft is commanded to behave by the pilot and/or flight management system. Of course, the pilot's decision making process is influenced by required procedures, for example as required to follow a STAR/SID or to comply with airline operational procedures.
Aircraft intent is expressed using a set of parameters presented so as to allow equations of motion to be solved. The theory of formal languages may be used to implement this formulation: an aircraft intent description language provides the set of instructions and the rules that govern the allowable combinations that express the aircraft intent, and so allow a prediction of the aircraft trajectory.
FIG. 1 shows a common infrastructure used in such aircraft trajectory computation, namely a trajectory computation infrastructure or TCI. The computation is executed by a trajectory engine. The trajectory engine requires as inputs both the aircraft intent description described above and also the initial state of the aircraft. The trajectory engine provides as an output a description of the computed trajectory for the aircraft. To produce such an output, the trajectory engine uses two models: an aircraft performance model and an Earth model.
The aircraft performance model provides the values of the aircraft performance aspects required by the trajectory engine to integrate the equations of motion. These values depend on the aircraft type for which the trajectory is being computed, the aircraft's current motion state (position, velocity, weight, etc) and the current local atmospheric conditions. In addition, the performance values may depend on the intended operation of the aircraft, i.e. on the aircraft intent. For example, a trajectory engine may use the aircraft performance model to provide a value of the instantaneous rate of descent corresponding to a certain aircraft weight, atmospheric conditions (pressure altitude and temperature) and intended speed schedule (e.g. constant calibrated airspeed). The trajectory engine will also request from the aircraft performance model the values of the applicable limitations so as to ensure that the aircraft motion remains within the flight envelope. The aircraft performance model is also responsible for providing the TE with other performance-related aspects that are intrinsic to the aircraft, such as flap and landing gear deployment times.
The Earth model provides information relating to environmental conditions, such as the state of the atmosphere, weather conditions, gravity and magnetic variation.
The trajectory engine uses the inputs, the aircraft performance model and the Earth model to solve a set of equations of motion. Many different sets of equations of motion are available that vary in complexity, and that may reduce the aircraft's motion to fewer degrees of freedom by means of a certain set of simplifying assumptions.
The trajectory computation infrastructure may be air-based or land-based. For example, the trajectory computation infrastructure may be associated with an aircraft's flight management system that controls the aircraft on the basis of a predicted trajectory that captures the airline operating preferences and business objectives. The primary role for land-based trajectory computation infrastructures is for air traffic management.
For land-based systems, the output of the trajectory engine (i.e. the description of the computed trajectory) is provided to an application that provides a service to a particular ATM body or organisation. However, many different such applications exist, with each ATM application using its own trajectory modelling. To date, there has been little, if any, commonality between these applications. Given the anticipated growth in the number and sophistication of such trajectory-based ATM applications, this lack of commonality is a serious issue since, for safety reasons: different applications dealing with the same flight must hold consistent predictions for the trajectory of that flight.
In addition, the accuracy of these applications has been limited. This situation may be attributed to several factors including scarce availability of aircraft performance data, limited computing power, less stringent requirements for accuracy and lack of coordination initiatives.
There is also a need to ensure that the trajectories predicted by ground-based ATM tools can be synchronized with those predicted by an aircraft's flight management system. As noted above, the aircraft's flight management system controls the aircraft on the basis of a predicted trajectory that captures the airline operating preferences and business objectives. The amendments to this reference business trajectory coming from the ground must be made in a way that is consistent with the flight management system's trajectory modelling methodology to ensure that air and ground systems operate in a coordinated manner.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.


A method, system, apparatus, and computer program product is presented for management of a distributed data processing system. An action at a target device is requested, and the completion of the action depends upon communication protocol operations on a set of devices along a logical route through the distributed data processing system. A set of supported protocols that are common to the set of devices along the logical route are identified, and a subset of supported protocols in the set of supported protocols that can be used to complete the action is then identified. An allowable supported protocol is selected for the action based on the type of requested action, after which the requesting application may use the action in accordance with the selected allowable supported protocol, e.g., to monitor or discover the target device. A topology mapping is used to derive an endpoint-to-endpoint route for completing the requested action. A comparison of assigned priorities of each allowable supported protocol may be performed to choose the selected allowable supported protocol.

1.Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an improved data processing system and, in particular, to a method and system for multiple computer or process coordinating. Still more particularly, the present invention provides a method and system for network management.
2.Description of Related Art
Technology expenditures have become a significant portion of operating costs for most enterprises, and businesses are constantly seeking ways to reduce information technology (IT) costs. This has given rise to an increasing number of outsourcing service providers, each promising, often contractually, to deliver reliable service while offloading the costly burdens of staffing, procuring, and maintaining an IT organization. While most service providers started as network pipe providers, they are moving into server outsourcing, application hosting, and desktop management. For those enterprises that do not outsource, they are demanding more accountability from their IT organizations as well as demanding that IT is integrated into their business goals. In both cases, "service level agreements" have been employed to contractually guarantee service delivery between an IT organization and its customers. As a result, IT teams now require management solutions that focus on and support "business processes" and "service delivery" rather than just disk space monitoring and network pings.
IT solutions now require end-to-end management that includes network connectivity, server maintenance, and application management in order to succeed. The focus of IT organizations has turned to ensuring overall service delivery and not just the "towers" of network, server, desktop, and application. Management systems must fulfill two broad goals: a flexible approach that allows rapid deployment and configuration of new services for the customer; and an ability to support rapid delivery of the management tools themselves. A successful management solution fits into a heterogeneous environment, provides openness with which it can knit together management tools and other types of applications, and a consistent approach to managing all of the IT assets.
With all of these requirements, a successful management approach will also require attention to the needs of the staff within the IT organization to accomplish these goals: the ability of an IT team to deploy an appropriate set of management tasks to match the delegated responsibilities of the IT staff; the ability of an IT team to navigate the relationships and effects of all of their technology assets, including networks, middleware, and applications; the ability of an IT team to define their roles and responsibilities consistently and securely across the various management tasks; the ability of an IT team to define groups of customers and their services consistently across the various management tasks; and the ability of an IT team to address, partition, and reach consistently the managed devices.
Many service providers have stated the need to be able to scale their capabilities to manage millions of devices. When one considers the number of customers in a home consumer network as well as pervasive devices, such as smart mobile phones, these numbers are quickly realized. Significant bottlenecks appear when typical IT solutions attempt to support more than several thousand devices.
Given such network spaces, a management system must be very resistant to failure so that service attributes, such as response time, uptime, and throughput, are delivered in accordance with guarantees in a service level agreement. In addition, a service provider may attempt to support as many customers as possible within a single network management system. The service provider's profit margins may materialize from the ability to bill the usage of a common network management system to multiple customers.
On the other hand, the service provider must be able to support contractual agreements on an individual basis. Service attributes, such as response time, uptime, and throughput, must be determinable for each customer. In order to do so, a network management system must provide a suite of network management tools that is able to perform device monitoring and discovery for each customer's network while integrating these abilities across a shared network backbone to gather the network management information into the service provider's distributed data processing system. By providing network management for each customer within an integrated system, a robust management system can enable a service provider to enter into quality-of-service (QOS) agreements with customers.
Hence, there is a direct relationship between the ability of a management system to provide network monitoring and discovery functionality and the ability of a service provider using the management system to serve multiple customers using a single management system. Preferably, the management system can replicate services, detect faults within a service, restart services, and reassign work to a replicated service. By implementing a common set of interfaces across all of their services, each service developer gains the benefits of system robustness. A well-designed, component-oriented, highly distributed system can easily accept a variety of services on a common infrastructure with built-in fault-tolerance and levels of service.
Distributed data processing systems with thousands of nodes are known in the prior art. The nodes can be geographically dispersed, and the overall computing environment can be managed in a distributed manner. The managed environment can be logically separated into a series of loosely connected managed regions, each with its management server for managing local resources. The management servers coordinate activities across the enterprise and permit remote site management and operation. Local resources within one region can be exported for the use of other regions.
Meeting quality-of-service objectives in a highly distributed system can be quite difficult. However, within a system that performs network management tasks for a million devices or more, a tremendous amount of computational resources throughout the system could be consumed for the managerial functions. When management activities are performed at a particular machine, a measurable amount of bandwidth could be consumed. In general, a customer does not want to experience a reduction in system performance, such as slower communication speeds, when a system is busy performing system management activities. Typical solutions for maintaining the bandwidth of the overall distributed system include increasing hardware resources throughout the network. However, solving one performance problem may introduce another problem.
A service provider should attempt to minimize the reduction of bandwidth that is caused by any system management activities. One manner of increasing bandwidth performance related to network management activities is to reduce the bandwidth requirements of the network management activities, although this technique cannot necessarily be applied without regard to the operation of other components within the machine. For example, a particular device may support a set of multiple protocols, and more than one protocol may provide certain functionality required by a particular component on the device to accomplish a particular network management task. However, each protocol may perform certain functions with less network traffic than other protocols, and bandwidth requirements for the device could be reduced by choosing the most appropriate protocol for the task from among the set of supported protocols.
Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) is a standard protocol that is used to administer management tasks on many currently available devices. SNMP can be difficult to integrate with other protocols, especially proprietary protocols. Current application frameworks, however, do not provide a platform-independent interface for certain network management processes, such as scanning protocols or discovery methods.
Therefore, it would be particularly advantageous to provide a method and system that provides a flexible, platform-independent scheme for network management tasks in a highly distributed system. It would be particularly advantageous for the network management system to provide a methodology for monitoring the status of endpoints using a variety of protocols.

Method and system for network management with platform-independent protocol interface for discovery and monitoring processes

International Business Machines Corporation


An ornament assembly with a suspension effect, including a base having a bottom frame and a transparent bottom cover, the transparent bottom cover being fixed on the bottom frame; a top frame fit combined with the base to form an integral body, wherein a transparent top cover is fixed on the top frame and the top cover is fit with the transparent bottom cover to form a holding space; a first magnetic member provided on the base; and an ornament, wherein a second magnetic member is provided on the ornament. The ornament is provided in the holding space and magnetic poles of the first magnetic member and the second magnetic member are oppositely arranged such that the ornament is suspended in the holding space under the repulsive force of magnetic forces.

Ornaments are indispensable articles for modern people, especially modern females. With the improvement of the living standard of people, the requirements on ornaments become higher and higher, and not only are the ornaments required to have delicate and attractive appearance, but also the ornaments are required to be capable of presenting different changes and effects.
Jewelry manufacturers manufacture various ornaments such as happy diamond series jewelries and watches in order to cater to the taste of the public. Diamonds in this series of products can be shaken to move in jewelries or watches, the diamonds are enabled to slip the leash of the traditional inlaying technology, the single effect of the existing products is improved, new creativity is produced and people feel inspired.
Obviously, the diamonds in the above-mentioned products can only be shaken to move in crystal planes, and the ornaments themselves still lack for attractive effects and cannot satisfy the pursuit of modern people for the sense of beauty of ornaments.

Ornament assembly with suspension effect


Methods, systems, and apparatus, includes computer programs encoded on a storage device, for sensor-assisted indoor gardening. In one aspect, a monitoring system is disclosed that includes a processor and a computer storage media storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform operations. The operations may include determining that a particular plant type is growing in a zone of a property, determining, based on sensor data generated by one or more sensors installed at the property, whether a current value of an environmental attribute of the zone of the property satisfies a threshold environmental value for the particular plant type, and performing, by the monitoring system, one or more operations configured to instruct a configurable device installed at the property to modify the current value of the environmental attribute of the zone of the property towards the threshold environmental value for the plant type.

Growing organic produce can be an expensive, time-consuming process. The challenges to growing organic produce can increase when a legitimate property occupant attempts to maintain an organic garden inside a property. Growing an organic garden indoors can be challenging because, environmental conditions required to successfully establish and maintain an organic garden are not uniformly available inside a property. For example, air quality, temperature, humidity, and access to sunlight may vary greatly from one room of a property to the next.

System and method for sensor-assisted indoor gardening


This invention is concerned with a butadiene-based polymer having a high cis-1,4 bond content, a low vinyl bond content and a molecular weight distribution of a specified range, and more particularly a butadiene-based polymer having a 1,3-butadiene monomer unit, characterized in that a cis-1,4 bond content and a vinyl bond content in the 1,3-butadiene monomer unit as measured by a Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) is not less than 98.0% and not more than 0.3%, respectively, and a ratio (Mw/Mn) of weight average molecular weight (Mw) to number average molecular weight (Mn) is 1.6-3.5.

Heretofore, the butadiene-based polymer such as poly-butadiene or the like has been known as a rubber having excellent thermal and mechanical properties, and is widely used in various fields. Particularly, the butadiene-based polymer being high in the cis-1,4 bond content in butadiene monomer unit is excellent in the mechanical properties, so that the production technique of the butadiene-based polymer having a high cis-1,4 bond content is strenuously studied and developed. For example, a composite catalyst system composed mainly of a compound of a transition metal such as nickel, cobalt, titanium or the like is known as a catalyst for the production of the butadiene-based polymer, and some systems are industrially used as a polymerization catalyst for butadiene.
Also, a composite catalyst system comprising a rare earth metal compound and an organometallic compound of Groups I-III is developed as a catalyst capable of producing the butadiene-based polymer with a high cis-1,4 bond content and having an excellent polymerization activity. For example, it is known that when using a catalyst system comprising a neodymium compound and, methylaluminoxane the polymerization can be conducted in a high reactivity and a conjugated diene polymer having a narrow molecular weight distribution is obtained. However, the polymer obtained by this method is not sufficiently high in the cis-1,4 bond content and also a vinyl bond content is not sufficiently low, so that the properties are still insufficient.
JP-A-2001-48940 discloses that the butadiene-based polymer having a very high cis-1,4 bond content is obtained by polymerizing butadiene in a catalyst system comprising a rare earth metal compound, an organometallic compound of Groups I-III and an ionic compound consisting of a non-coordinate anion and cation. In this case, however, there are problems that a special compound such as Nd(OCOCCl3)3 or the like is used as a rare earth metal compound and this compound has a low polymerization activity. Also, since NMR is utilized as a measurement of the micro-structure in JP-A-2001-48940, the error of the vinyl bond content is particularly large and further the value of the vinyl bond content in the resulting butadiene polymer is large, so that the rubber composition containing such a butadiene-based polymer is insufficient in the improvement of the properties as compared with the rubber composition containing the conventional butadiene polymer. Furthermore, the butadiene-based polymer obtained by this method tends to widen the molecular weight distribution as the vinyl bond content becomes low, so that there can not be obtained butadiene-based polymers in which the vinyl bond content is sufficiently low and the molecular weight distribution is within a specified range.
Also, JP-A-2002-241420 discloses that the butadiene-based polymer having a very high cis-1,4 bond content is obtained by polymerizing butadiene in a catalyst system comprising a rare earth metal salt consisting of a rare earth metal, a free halogen atom component and a halogen atom containing component and aluminoxane. In this case, however, there are problems that a special catalyst such as bis(trichloroacetic acid)(versatic acid) neodymium salt or the like is used and the polymerization activity of such a neodymium salt is low and the industrial productivity is low. Furthermore, JP-A-2002-241420 does not examine the vinyl bond content of the polymer at all.
In Aida, Hou, Nishiura, Doi, Kurakado, Horiuchi and Wakatsuki, Macromol. Rapid Commun. 2003, vol. 24, pp. 179-184, is disclosed that the polybutadiene-based polymer having a very high cis-1,4 bond content is obtained by polymerizing butadiene in a catalyst system comprising a metallocene complex of a gadolinium compound. In this case, however, there are problems that the molecular weight distribution of the polymer having a high cis-1,4 bond content is very low of not more than 1.5 and the rubber composition containing such a polymer is low in the workability and difficult in the milling and can not develop the excellent properties. Also, the butadiene-based polymer having a very high cis-1,4 bond content obtained by this method is too high in the molecular weight and has a problem that the workability is very poor in the usual rubber working machine. Further, means for controlling the molecular weight is not disclosed in the above Aida et al report, so that the practicality is low.

Butadiene-based polymer and method of producing the same as well as rubber composition and tire using the same


A antiglare layer 12 having a fine uneven surface is formed directly or through other layer(s) on a transparent substrate film 11, and a layer 13 having a low refractive index, which is lower than the refractive index of the antiglare layer 12, is formed thereon. The refractive index of the antiglare layer 12 is higher than the refractive index of a layer in contact with said antiglare layer 12 on its surface remote from the layer 13 having a low refractive index. An SiO.sub.x film may be used as the layer 13 having a low refractive index. The SiO.sub.x film per se has excellent gas barrier property and antifouling property as an optical functional membrane and is an optical functional material characterized by having excellent moistureproofness, scratch resistance, adhesion to a substrate, transparency, low refractive index, dye deterioration preventive property, and other properties. A layer 13 having a low-refractive index as a surface layer is formed through other layer(s) on a transparent substrate film 11, and at least one of the other layer(s) is a hard coat layer 12 of 0.5 .mu.m or more in thickness, having a high refractive index, composed mainly of a resin. The hard coat layer 12 having a high refractive index is in direct contact with a layer 13 having a low refractive index. The refractive index of the hard coat layer 12 having a high refractive index is higher than the refractive index of a layer in contact with the hard coat layer 12 having a high refractive index on its surface remote from the layer 13 having a low refractive index. For use, the antireflection film is laminated to a polarizing plate or a liquid crystal display device.

The present invention relates to an optical functional film and more particularly to an optical functional film suitable for use as an antireflection film in various displays of word processors, computers, and television, surfaces of polarizing plates used in liquid crystal displays, optical lenses, such as sunglass lenses of transparent plastics, lenses of eyeglasses, finder lenses for cameras, covers for various instruments, and surfaces of window glasses of automobiles and electric railcars, and a process for producing the same.
Transparent substrates, such as glasses and plastics, are used in curve mirrors, back mirrors, goggles, window glasses, displays of personal computers and word processors, and other various commercial displays When visual information, such as objects, letters, and figures, is observed through these transparent substrates or, in the case of mirrors, when an image from a reflecting layer is observed through the transparent substrates, light reflects at the surface of the transparent substrates, making it difficult to see the visual information through the transparent substrates.
Conventional methods for antireflection of light include, for example, a method wherein an antireflection coating is coated on the surface of glass or plastics, a method wherein a very thin film of MgF.sub.2 or the like having a thickness of about 0.1 .mu.m or a metal deposited film is provided on the surface of a transparent substrate, such as glass, a method wherein an ionizing radiation curing resin is coated on the surface of plastics, such as plastic lenses, and a film of SiO.sub.2 or MgF.sub.2 is formed thereon by vapor deposition, and a method wherein a coating having a low refractive index is formed on a cured film of an ionizing radiation curing resin.
An about 0.1 .mu.m thin film of MgF.sub.2 formed on the above glass will now be described in more detail It is already known that, when incident light perpendicularly enters a thin film, in order for the antireflection film to prevent the reflection of light by 100% and to pass light by 100% therethrough, relationships represented by the equations (1) and (2) should be met (see "Science Library" Physics=9 "Optics," pp.70-72, 1980, Science Sha Ltd., Japan). ##EQU1## wherein .lambda..sub.0 represents a particular wavelength, n.sub.0 represents the refractive index of the antireflection film at this wavelength, h represents the thickness of the antireflection film, and n.sub.g represents the refractive index of the substrate.
It is already known that the refractive index n.sub.g of glass is about 1.5, the refractive index n.sub.0 of an MgF.sub.2 film is 1.38 and the wavelength .lambda..sub.0 of incident light is 5500 .ANG. (reference) When these values are substituted in the equation (2), the results of calculation show that the thickness h of the antireflection film is about 0.1 .mu.m in terms of the optimal thickness.
From the equation (1), it is apparent that prevention of the reflection of light by 100% can be attained by the selection of such a material that the refractive index of the upper coating is approximately equal to a value of square root of the refractive index of the lower coating. The antireflection of light by utilizing the above principle, i.e., by making the refractive index of the upper coating slightly lower than the refractive index of the lower coating, has hitherto been carried out in the art.
Further, the surface of displays has hitherto been subjected to glare shielding treatment so that the reflection of light from the exterior or interior of displays could be diffused by the surface of the displays to shield glare. The glare shielding treatment has been carried out, for example, by a method wherein a resin containing a filler, such as silicon dioxide, is coated on the surface of a display, or a method wherein an antiglare substrate with a resin containing a filler, such as silicon dioxide, being coated thereon is applied onto the surface of a display.
In particular, a filmy polarizing element, which serves as an optical shutter, is provided on the surface of displays, such as liquid crystal displays. Since, however, the polarizing element per se has poor hardness, it is protected by a transparent protective substrate, such as glass, a transparent plastic sheet, or a transparent plastic film, to form a polarizing plate. However, the transparent protective substrate of a plastic, such as a transparent plastic sheet or a transparent plastic film, is also likely to be scratched. In order to solve this problem, in recent years, a polarizing plate with a hard property being imparted to the surface thereof has been developed. For example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 105738/1989 describes such a technique.
This publication discloses a transparent protective substrate having good hardness and an antiglare property, that is, a triacetate film for light control, which is laminated to a polarizing element to constitute a polarizing plate. Since this triacetate film is formed by providing a cured coating of an ultraviolet curing epoxy acrylate resin on one surface of an unsaponified triacetate film, it has an excellent hardness.
In order to further impart an antiglare property to the above triacetate film having excellent hardness, a resin composition comprising the above ultraviolet curing epoxy acrylate resin and, added thereto, amorphous silica is coated on the surface of a triacetate film followed by curing. In laminating the coated triacetate film onto a polarizing element to form a polarizing plate, the coated triacetate film is first saponified with an alkali for the purpose of enhancing the adhesion to a polarizing element and, at the same time, antistatic purposes and then laminated to a polarizing element to form a polarizing plate.
However, it is noted that, when a layer for imparting a light antireflection property and, at the same time, an antiglare property is provided on a substrate film to form an antiglare-antireflection film, at least layers having these functions and other various layers, such as an adhesive layer, are provided, necessitating the provision of at least one layer, for example, between a substrate film and the outermost layer provided on the substrate film. In this case, the reflection of light occurs in the interface of layers, particularly in the interface of a layer having a relatively large thickness of not less than 0.5 .mu.m such as formed by coating, i.e., a larger thickness than the wavelength of light, deteriorating the antireflection effect of the antireflection film.
On the other hand, for the conventional antireflection film with an antireflection layer being formed on the outermost surface of a transparent substrate film, since the thickness of the antireflection layer is as small as about 0.1 .mu.m, the antireflection film has poor hardness and, at the same time, is likely to be scratched.
Further, for the film having an optical function, such as an antireflection film, optical functional membranes are usually laminated thereon. These optical functional membranes have an unsatisfactory gas barrier property and, hence, have a poor moistureproofness. In particular, a polarizing element used in a liquid crystal display has poor moistureproofness, and, therefore, moistureproofness should be imparted thereto.
Accordingly, the first object of the present invention is to provide, with respect to optical functional materials constituting optical materials, such as an antireflection film and an antireflection film, an optical functional film having excellent gas barrier properties, such as moistureproofness.
The second object of the present invention is to provide an antiglare-antireflection film having an antiglare property and/or an antireflection property and, at the same time, capable of reducing the reflection of light in the interface of layers in the interior of the film and a process for producing the same.
The third object of the present invention is to provide an antireflection film having a hard property in addition to properties involved in the second object and a process for producing the same.

Optical functional materials and process for producing the same


A vapor cooled current lead for a superconducting device located in a cryostat includes a normal conductor section extending from ambient conditions inward to an intermediate point, and a composite lead having a ceramic high temperature superconductor core with a metallic sheath extending between the normal conductor section and the superconducting device, preferably in a helical path to reduce heat leak by conduction. The metallic sheath is stripped away at spaced intervals, preferably adjacent the low temperature end of the composite lead, and the gaps are filled with a filler which provides mechanical strength for the core and reduces thermal conduction. A flow of cryogen vapor directed by a tubular housing maintains the high temperature superconducting material below its critical temperature, and cools the normal conductors.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to current leads for conducting current to or from superconducting equipment contained in a cryostat. More particularly, it relates to such power leads incorporating composite high temperature, superconductors.
2. Background Information
Current leads transmit power between cryogenic equipment located within a cryostat and a power supply or load located at higher temperatures, such as room temperature. Conventional current leads use metals such as copper for their entire length. These leads introduce heat leak to the cryostat as a result of heat conduction from the external conductors and the resistive heating in the lead itself. It is generally recognized that the current lead is an important if not a dominant source of heat leak into the liquid cryogens such as liquid helium. The heat leak causes the cryogen to boil off and, for an open cycle system sets a limit on the operating time of the cryogenic equipment. For a closed cycle system, a refrigeration and liquefier system is needed to recondense the cryogen vapor back to its liquid phase. Due to the temperature difference and limitations of liquefier efficiency, the refrigeration power required to recondense the cryogen vapor back to the liquid state generally is several hundred to over a thousand times the heat leak to the cryogen pool. A substantial reduction in refrigeration system capital cost as well as the operating cost can therefore be achieved by the reduction of heat leak to the cryogen pool.
The heat leak can be reduced by minimizing the resistive heating and/or heat conduction. The newly discovered ceramic superconductors, such as Y--Ba--Cu--O (YBCO), Bi--Sr--Ca--Cu--O (BSCCO) and Tl--Ba--Ca--Cu--O (TBCCO) systems, have critical temperatures higher than liquid N.sub.2 temperature and can thus be used to eliminate the resistive heating in the low temperature part of the lead. These ceramic materials also have a thermal conductivity significantly lower than copper at temperatures near the liquid helium temperature. Both of these properties are ideally suited for minimizing the heat leak in the current lead.
The feasibility of this concept has been successfully demonstrated by a 2-kA current lead described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 07/585,419 filed on Oct. 20, 1990. Heat leak reduction of up to 40% from optimized conventional leads has been achieved in testing.
The basic feature of the lead described in that application for achieving low heat leak is the employment of an array of ceramic superconductor bars which may, for example, be made from powders of YBCO and silver (15% vol.). These bars are connected to the cryogenic device via a lower copper plate and are designed to operate from 4.2K to liquid nitrogen temperature. An array of copper conductors operates at a higher temperature range and interfaces to the room temperature power supply.
The superconductor bars are fabricated by pressing/sintering/annealing method and, unless time consuming and expensive melt texturing technique is applied, generally have low critical current density of 100-300 A/cm.sup.2 at zero external magnetic field and decreases rapidly with increasing external field. The limitation of critical current density produces two drawbacks for current lead application. First, the aforementioned superconductor current density is lower by a factor of five to ten as compared to the current density generally used in the copper portion of the lead. Thus, the superconductor portion requires substantially larger cross sectional area than the copper portion. This introduces complications in the design and fabrication of the lead and may exclude its use from the cases in which the space available for lead installation is not sufficient for the superconductor portion of the lead. Secondly, the low current density allows only limited margin in design flexibility in the considerations of conductor stability and heat leak optimization of the lead.
Composite superconductors of high critical current density have been developed such as silver sheathed composite high-T.sub.c superconductor wire made from powder-in-tube technique. Critical current densities as high as 31,000 A/cm.sup.2 at 77K and 0.1T, and 11,000 A/cm at 77K and 1.0T have been demonstrated in silver sheathed Bi-based superconductor tape-shaped wires. In this kind of conductor, the silver sheath serves as a stabilizer as well as a mechanical structure to confine and strengthen the ceramic superconductor material. However, due to high thermal conductivity at low temperature, the silver sheath can introduce significant heat leak to the cryogen.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,895,831 discloses a cryogenic current lead having a ceramic superconductor wound on the sleeve of a cryo-cooler to increase the overall length of the lead and therefore reduce heat conduction through the lead.
There remains a need for a power lead for cryogenic equipment which has a high current density capacity yet contributes a minimum to heat leak into the cryostat.

Current lead for cryostat using composite high temperature superconductors


A wireless communication system includes: a wireless base station; and a relay station that receives data periodically transmitted from each of a plurality of terminals, and transmits the received data to the wireless base station in accordance with an allocation pattern of a wireless resource based on the size of the data and the period of the transmission for each of the plurality of terminals.

One of the known relay stations wirelessly transmits data received from multiple terminals to a wireless base station. In cases where the terminals are, for example, sensor devices that are not hold by users, the relay station is called a Machine-to-Machine GateWay (M2M GW). The wireless base station transmits the data received from the relay station to a server, which is connected to the wireless base station via a communication network. The server stores therein the data received from the wireless base station.
Each terminal detects a physical value each time a certain period elapses and transmits data representing the result of the detection to the relay station. Examples of the physical value are temperature, humidity, and a consumed amount of electricity. The data has a certain size. The transmission period and the size of data may be different with terminal. For example, one terminal transmits 40-byte data at a one-second period to the relay station while another terminal transmits 60-byte data at a two-second period. In this case, although each individual terminal transmits data of a constant size, the data size that multiple terminals transmit to the relay station fluctuates as the passage of time.
The following first through third wireless communication systems have been known (see, for example, Patent Literatures 1-3). In a first wireless communication system, the wireless base station notifies the relay station of setting information of logical paths that the relay station needs to communicate with the wireless base station and terminals. In a second wireless communication system, the relay station receives data destined for multiple terminals and mapping reference from the wireless base station. The relay station specifies a wireless resource between the relay station and each terminal on the basis of the mapping reference, and transmits data to each terminal using the specified wireless resource. In a third wireless communication system, a terminal transmits data to the wireless base station at a period that is determined on the basis of the state of a wireless channel of the terminal.
[Patent Literature 1] Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2012-44336
[Patent Literature 2] Japanese National Publication No. 2010-532973
[Patent Literature 3] Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2012-231263

Wireless communication system, method for wireless communication, relay station, and wireless base station


A physical exercise method and apparatus comprises a mat/cushion device and accessories designed for fitness interactivity using an array of variations of graphics specifically placed on the mat. The locations of the graphics are provided as an aid to guide proper body positions or postures, placement and alignment in yoga and physical exercise, and for the use of creative sequencing of movement, proper technique, and body mechanics. The apparatus is a foundation and map for physical exercise programs, games, interactive play, physical therapies and methods. The apparatus contains graphics with anthropometric measurements that may be synchronized with instruction, audio and/or video displays, and/or video games containing and delivering corresponding graphics for body placement and timing. The method through instruction and gaming can be delivered auditorially and/or visually, through interactive multimedia systems, on a timed and/or touch sensitive system, as well as an array of different technologies such as the internet.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to physical exercise and multimedia, and more particularly to methods and apparatuses for integrating physical exercise with interactive multimedia systems such as the internet.
2. Background
Over the years, various systems and methodologies for promoting wellness, physical activity/education, and/or brain development have been created. See, e.g. U.S. Pat. No. 7,108,635 for a "Yoga Mat with Body Contact Placement Indicia"; U.S. Pat. No. 5,949,951 for an "Interactive Workstation for Creating Customized, Watch and Do Physical Exercise Programs"; and, U.S. Pat. No. 7,063,535 for a "System and Method for Facilitating Early Childhood Brain Development". Moreover, various setups have been developed for interactive multimedia systems useable for numerous applications. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 7,158,676 for "Interactive Systems"; U.S. Pat. No. 5,464,946 for a "System and Apparatus for Interactive Multimedia Entertainment"; and, U.S. Pat. No. 7,401,100 for a "Method of and Apparatus for Synchronizing Interactive Content". However, one drawback of these prior systems and methods is they do not provide a means for integrating anthropometrically-based physical exercise programs and education with interactive multimedia. Moreover, they do not suitably address normal health issues as well as a myriad of health problems such as ADHD, diabetes, and obesity through means of fun instructional material and readily available physical exercise curricula and content.
Modern, sedentary lifestyles characterized by activities such as: watching television and movies, using the computer and internet, and playing games on the internet and/or on gaming systems lend themselves to many health concerns. As a result of modern lifestyles, the Surgeon General warns that this generation of children may be the first with a life expectancy lower than that of its parents. Moreover, as many as 1 in 3 children are predicted to develop diabetes by age 20. Therefore, it is desirable to provide systems and methodologies for improving wellness through physical exercise and education while also appealing to modern lifestyles.
The present invention seeks to provide systems for integrating anthropometrically-based physical exercise and interactive multimedia, with the systems being fun and educational, promoting health and wellness, and appealing to those with modern lifestyles. Moreover, the present invention seeks to provide a means for making health and exercise readily available and accessible through the use of education and entertainment platforms.
At least one embodiment of the present invention provides an exercise/yoga mat which is used interactively with multimedia and is accessible to school programs, curricula, education, and the home. The exercise/yoga mat can be used alone or in conjunction with multimedia such as video displays and/or video games. Furthermore, the mat is a multi-functional design that supports proper positioning for multiple forms of physical exercise and training techniques for kids, adults, families, and teachers, facilitating such games and activities as yoga, martial arts forms and stances, dance, sports training, body sculpting, creative movement, and so forth. Various other possible embodiments comprise electronic interactive exercise/yoga mats with digital components, video displays, and/or video games, thus providing a user friendly apparatus compatible with the digital and entertainment environment.

Method and apparatus for integrating physical exercise and interactive multimedia


A method and apparatus for installing a metal annular seal (54) between the outer rough surface of a casing member (11) which has had a portion thereof cutaway with a remaining portion projecting upwardly from the upper end of a casing head (12). A slip installation tool (18) mounted on the upper end of the casing head (12) carries a slip assembly which includes segmented slips (42), a bushing (22), and a cam member (42). The slip installation tool (18) secures the slips (40) about the outer rough surface of the casing (11) as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 with bushing (22) acting as a supporting base or foundation to oppose the forces from the camming action because of support from lock down screws (24). After mounting of the slip assembly about the casing (11), the installation tool (18) is removed, and the metal seal (54), formed of a relatively soft metal material, is mounted over the extending end of the casing (11). Positioning of the tubing head (50) on the casing head (12) as shown in FIGS. 14-16 deforms the metal seal (54) into metal-to-metal sealing relation between the outer rough surface of casing (11) and the inner frusto-conical sealing surface (96) of the tubing head (50).

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a method and apparatus for sealing between a tubular member and a wellhead structure from which the tubular member is suspended, and more particularly to an apparatus and method for sealing between the upper end of a well casing stub having a generally rough unfinished outer surface and a tubing head or a Christmas Tree adapter, for example.
2. Background of the Invention
Casing strings are normally suspended from a wellhead assembly. The wellhead assembly includes a casing head, which with a casing hanger, supports a casing string which extends into the well. A casing string may extend upwardly from the casing head higher than a preferred height for installation of a tubing head about the casing and with connection to the casing head. The upper extension of the casing is called a "casing stub". Normal installation includes providing a metal-to-metal seal between the exterior casing stub wall and an interior surface of the tubing head. Normal installation is accomplished with a finished exterior of the casing stub so that sealing with a metal-to-metal seal is effective. A seal is necessary between the OD of the casing stub and the ID of the tubing head to prevent possible hydrocarbon spillover from the producing strings inside the casing to the annulus outside of the casing. The tubing head which fits about the casing stub supports the production tubing which extends into the casing to a hydrocarbon pay zone in the well.
During completion operations it may be desirable or necessary under various conditions, such as when a casing string is stuck downhole, to cut off or remove an upper longitudinal section of the casing string which projects from the upper end of the casing head. When an upper section of the casing is cut off, a projecting portion of the casing remains which projects above the casing head. It is not finished. Its outer surface may be rough in texture with a Root Mean Square (RMS) roughness of about 64 RMS, but the roughness may be as high as 250 RMS. Relatively hard metal seals are used for sealing between the finished or relatively smooth OD of the projecting upper end section of a casing and the adjacent ID sealing surface of a tubing head. A hard metal seal may not be acceptable in sealing about unfinished or relatively rough textured casing due to serrations on the casing caused by the sharp seal teeth.
Regular length casing which has not been cut has a sealing surface which has been finished or machined with a RMS roughness less than about 32. Therefore in the past when a top end of a casing has been cut off to produce a casing stub, it has been common to machine or otherwise finish the outer surface of the casing stub to provide a smooth, finished surface for a metal-to-metal seal to be installed between the casing stub and the tubing hanger, particularly when a relatively hard metal seal is used.
Installation of a metal seal is furthermore desired to be accomplished without regard to the particular arrangement of the installed casing head, because different casing head arrangements are provided by different manufacturers.

Method and apparatus for sealing between casing and wellhead connector structure


A multi-phase hybrid DC-DC converter using a switched-capacitor technique is described. The multi-phase hybrid converter can reduce the volt-seconds on the inductors of the converter, which can allow for a reduction in the size of the inductors. In addition, the multi-phase hybrid converter can utilize inductors as current sources to charge and discharge the flying capacitors, which can reduce the size of the mid capacitor and increase solution density. Because charging and discharging are performed by inductors, the multi-phase hybrid converter can eliminate the capacitor-to-capacitor charge transfer. As such, the multi-phase hybrid converter does not need high capacitance to achieve high efficiency operation, which can further increase solution density.

Hybrid power converter circuits provide efficient power solutions for power supply design. A hybrid power converter circuit is a type of power converter that provides direct current to direct current (DC-DC) voltage conversion based on switched capacitor converters and inductor-based converters. A hybrid power converter contains one or more switching elements (e.g., one or more transistors) and reactive elements (e.g., capacitors and inductors) that, in connection with a periodic switching of the switching elements provides DC output voltage.


A column address decoding circuit of a semiconductor memory apparatus includes a predecoder configured to combine a column address and a decoding test signal, thereby outputting a decoding address. A main decoder receives the decoding address, thereby outputting a plurality of column select signals.

1. Field
The embodiments described herein relate to circuits and a methods for decoding column addresses in a semiconductor memory apparatus and more particularly, to circuits and a methods for decoding column addresses in a semiconductor memory apparatus so as to increase the speed of a parallel test and thereby shorten a test period.
2. Background
In a conventional semiconductor memory apparatus individual memory cells are activated for data input and output operations by activating associated word (or row) and column select lines. The word select lines are designated by row addresses and the column select lines are designated by column addresses. Often, conventional semiconductor memory apparatus are divided into parallel banks of cells. Accordingly, a conventional semiconductor memory apparatus is accessed by activating one of the plurality of memory banks, and then enabling the appropriate column select line.
In a multi-bank active operation, such as in a parallel test mode, a plurality of memory banks are all activated, and a data write operation is implemented in a manner such that the column select lines designated by column addresses are enabled one by one in each memory bank. The write test period can be shortened using such a parallel test mode, since the plurality of memory banks are simultaneously activated. However, in this case, the advantage obtained by the shortening of the test period is not substantial, even though the plurality of memory banks are activated in parallel This is because the column select signals are activated one by one in each memory bank, which still takes time.
In order to decode column addresses, a conventional semiconductor memory apparatus includes a predecoder, a main decoder and a pulse generation unit. The predecoder has a plurality of (for example, 3) predecoding sections for decoding 2 or 3-bits of plural-bit (for example, 8-bit) address. The main decoder implements a decoding operation using the pulse signal provided from the pulse generation unit. A column address decoding circuit of a conventional semiconductor memory apparatus configured in this way does not have any structure for recognizing the parallel test mode. Therefore, even in the parallel test mode, as in the normal operation, the operation is implemented in such a way as to enable the column select signals one by one. As a result, in a conventional semiconductor memory apparatus, the advantage obtained by shortening of the test period through realization of the parallel test mode is not substantial, and a technical limit exists in shortening the test period by conducting a parallel test.

Circuit and method for decoding column addresses in semiconductor memory apparatus


An electrical connector assembly (1) includes a first connector (10), a second connector (20) and latching mean. The first connector includes a first housing (100), a number of first terminals (160) received in the first housing and a first shell (130, 140). The second connector includes a second housing (200), a number of second terminals (260) received in the second housing and a second shell (240). The latching mean includes a latching member (150) assembled on the first connector and a gap defined on the second connector. The latching member includes a pair of arms (151, 153), a connecting portion (157) connecting the arms, and a latching section (152) formed on the arm and received in the gap (245) of the second connector. The face of the latching section close to the connecting portion is inclined.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention generally relates to an electrical connector assembly, and more particularly to an electrical connector assembly with latching member.
2. Description of Prior Art
Normally, latching means are needed between a plug electrical connector and a receptacle connector for ensuring engagement there between and the signals transmission. The common latching means comprise active latching means and passive latching means. The active latching means relate to a latching member requires an additional pressure exerted thereon, when separating the plug and receptacle connector. This type of latching mean needs a bigger space for person making a force on the latching member. However, as the connector becomes more and more miniature, the space left for operator becomes more and more slight. So, the passive latching means are developed. The passive latching means relate to a person can separate a plug and receptacle connector by dragging the plug connector directly, and needn't a force working on the latching member directly. However, in some applications, both active and passive means are required.
Hence, it is desirable to have an improved connector with latching member to overcome the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art.

Electrical connector assembly with multi-function latching member


The present invention is a thermally formable plastic anatomical form for dentistry and a holder for the same. The holder is specially adapted to accommodate the plastic form in that it is heat resistant and features a bite guide to assure an even distribution of the plastic around the teeth of the patient and thickened occlusal surfaces to register specific tooth impressions more readily. The form according to the present invention may be used in any conventional dental work where a form may be needed, such as tray creation and stone molds, or may be utilized with therapeutic plastics so as to become a therapeutic dental device in and of itself.

Prior art anatomical impressions in dentistry are utilized to make crowns and treatment trays for an individual patient. Typically, a tray is loaded with an alginate or polyvinyl siloxane substance and placed in a patient's mouth until it cures. Then the tray is removed and the impression used to make a cast of the patient's mouth. Until now, patients had to wait for the substance to cure before a true impression was made. The present invention departs from the prior art in that it utilizes a thermally set plastic, which can be imprinted and removed in moments. The present invention is also available for use with therapeutic plastics, thus directly creating a dental device for treatment of a patient.

Two piece dental anatomical form and holder


A topically applied composition that is used to treat infections caused by pathogenic organisms. The composition contains melaleuca alternifolia extract oil to reduce the present population of the pathogenic organisms at the infection site. The composition also contains an immunostimulant that strengthens the immuno-response of the infected tissue in the area of application. The composition also includes an antioxidant that scavenges free radicals in the infected tissue and helps inhibit free radical damage. By combining these active ingredients in a carrier that can be topically applied, a composition is created that treats most every type of infection caused by pathogenic organisms with little or no side effects.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to compositions used topically to treat viral, bacterial and fungal infections of the skin and mucosa. More specifically, the present invention relates to topical compositions that combine anti-microbial agents with immunostimulants and antioxidants.
2. Description of Related Art
There are many types of infectious conditions that can effect the skin and/or mucosa. Some infectious conditions are caused by bacteria, such as staph infections. Some infectious conditions are caused by viral infections, such as herpes. Still other infectious conditions are fungal in nature, such as ringworm and athlete's foot.
There are many infectious conditions that are difficult to treat. Many infections of the skin and mucosa have become resistant to common antibiotics. Viral pathogens are difficult and sometimes impossible to completely eradicate with any known medications. Furthermore, persons with many conditions, such as AIDs, chemotherapy patients, transplant patients, lupus, chronic hepatitis, alcoholic cirrhosis, leukemia, Hodgkin's disease and the like, have compromised immune systems that make treating even simple infections a complicated endeavor.
There are thousands of pathogenic organisms that can effect the skin or the mucosa. For example, athlete's foot (tinea pedis) can be caused by any of four pathogenic organisms. These organisms include epidermophyton floccosum, trichophyton rubrum, candida albians and trichophyton mentagrophytes. Accordingly, when a topical cream is used to treat pathogenic organisms, that cream must have an effect on a wide variety of pathogens in order to be effective.
In the prior art, there exist many compositions that are used to treat different types of pathogenic organisms effecting the skin or mucosa. Most commonly, prior art compositions are dedicated to treating a certain family of pathogenic organism, be that family viral, bacterial or fungal in nature. Few compositions have both the anti-microbial properties and anti-fungal properties needed to treat viral, bacterial and fungal infections. Of the compositions that do exist, they tend to be highly toxic to all living matter, including the living cells of body tissue. Accordingly, when topically applied, such wide-base antimicrobials and antifungals have a tendency to cause damage and inflammation.
Tea tree oil is the extract oil of the plant species Melaleuca Alternifolia. It has both antimicrobial and antifungal properties. However, its antimicrobial properties are limited. The melaleuca alternifolia is a shrub-like tree that is indigenous to the swampy north costal regions of Australia. The British Pharmaceutical Codex of 1949 lists melaleuca alternifolia as oleum melaleuca consisting of terpinenes, cymene, pinene, 1-trepinen-e-ol, cineole, sequiterpenes and sesquiterpene alcohols. Extract oil of melaleuca alternifolia is an oil that is extracted using a steam distillation technique. One kilogram of foliage produces between 12 grams and 25 grams of extract oil after distillation. Various compositions containing the extract oil, commonly known as tea tree oil, have been used as a topical medication for over a century.
Currently, there are United States patents that use compositions containing melaleuca alternifolia extract oil for the treatment of sunburn, gingivitis, and flea infestation. A typical example of the use of tea tree oil in a topical application is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,894,020 to Concha, entitled Soap Composition Containing Antifungal Agent, wherein tea tree oil is used to treat athlete's foot.
The present invention discloses a composition that uses tea tree oil in combination with other active ingredients that enhances the ability of the tea tree oil to effectively treat viral, bacterial and fungal infections. The result is a topical treatment that is highly effective against a wide range of infections, yet is hypoallergenic, and does not cause inflammation to the tissue when topically applied. This composition is described and claimed below.

Topical composition for treating infectious conditions of skin and mucosa


A common electrode formed on the lowest piezoelectric sheet has a shape corresponding to drive electrodes, and lead-out parts of the common electrode have a shape corresponding to projecting parts of the drive electrodes. Because the common electrode formed on the lowest piezoelectric sheet is made large enough to include the projected contours in the horizontal plane of the drive electrodes together with their lead-out parts, the common electrode lies between the cavity plate and the drive electrodes nearest to the cavity plate. Therefore, the voltage applied to the drive electrode is restricted from leaking to the cavity plate.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an inkjet print head that is able to eject ink more stable and easy to assemble during manufacture.
2. Related Art
Drop-on-demand inkjet print head disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,402,159 includes a cavity unit and a piezoelectric actuator. The cavity unit is formed with a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink and a plurality of pressure chambers in one-to-one correspondence with the nozzles. The piezoelectric actuator includes a plurality of piezoelectric ceramic sheets on which drive electrodes are formed and a plurality of piezoelectric ceramic sheets on which common electrodes are formed. The piezoelectric ceramic sheets with the drive electrodes and the piezoelectric ceramic sheets with the common electrodes are stacked one on the other in alternation. Portions of each piezoelectric ceramic sheet sandwiched between the drive electrodes and the common electrode serve as active portions. The piezoelectric actuator is fixed to the cavity unit such that the active portions are in correspondence with the pressure chambers. By selectively activating (deforming) the active portions, ink is ejected from the corresponding nozzles.
The present applicant has proposed in Japanese Patent-Application Publication No. 2002-19102 an inkjet print head having a cavity unit made from an electrically-conducting material and a piezoelectric actuator whose lowest piezoelectric ceramic sheet is fixed to and in contact with the cavity unit. Drive electrodes are disposed on the lowest piezoelectric ceramic sheet, and a common electrode is disposed on a second piezoelectric ceramic sheet from the bottom. That is, the common electrode closest to the cavity unit is disposed above the drive electrodes via the second ceramic sheet. Each piezoelectric ceramic sheet has a thin thickness of 20 μam to 30 μm. With this configuration, a voltage applied to the drive electrode on the lowest piezoelectric sheet is adversely applied to the cavity unit via the thin lowest piezoelectric sheet and also to water-soluble, i.e., conductive ink, contained in pressure chambers formed in the cavity unit. As a result, when a voltage is applied to a drive electrode in order to eject ink from a corresponding pressure chamber, electric current conducts through the piezoelectric ceramic sheet, the cavity unit, and the ink, to a different drive electrode corresponding to an adjacent pressure chamber. This gives rise to the problem of unstable ejection of ink, and ink being ejected from unintended adjacent pressure chamber.

Inkjet head having laminated piezoelectric actuator