A method for testing high-voltage alternating-current power switches in a synthetic test circuit has the step of connecting a high-voltage oscillating circuit in parallel to a test switch Bt in a time interval before the current zero of an interruptible high current, which is determined by a half-cycle duration (Th/2) of the oscillating current (ih) less the duration of equivalence (Δtse) of the sole flow of the oscillating current as sequential current in the test switch with a stress exerted upon the switch by the homogeneous current in a direct test circuit. The sequential-current flow duration of the equivalence results, at least approximately, from the comparison of the values of common physical stress parameters acting in the test switch during the test, on the one hand, in the synthetic test circuit and, on the other hand, in the direct test circuit.

Synthetic test circuits are known from IEC publication 60427, third edition 2000-04, page 95, Figure BB1.
The "typical current injection circuit with voltage circuit in parallel with the test circuit-breaker" was developed in the early 1950s at the initiative of Professor J. Biermanns, who was then director of the new High-Voltage Institute of AEG in Kassel-Bettenhausen and was formerly director of the AEG-Transformatoren-Fabrik Oberschöneweide ("TRO") in Berlin, to increase the direct testing capacity of the testing department of the Institute.
During the development work, this synthetic test circuit was known in the Institute as "artificial circuit", and Mr. Biermanns, too, always called it the "artificial circuit".
After the "artificial circuit" was put into operation in 1953, the development management of AEG in Frankfurt am Main renamed it the "Weil circuit" and later the "Weil-Dobke circuit," as exemplified in the publications "The Weil-circuit, a circuit to be tested as a high-voltage circuit", by E. Slamecka, in Proceedings from the Opening of the AEG-High-voltage Institute in Kassel, 1953, pp. 52–57, and "Investigation of the AEG test circuit for high-capacity circuit-breakers according to 'Weil-Dobke'", by E. Slamecka, dissertation thesis, Graz (Austria) Institute of Technology, 1955.
However, a more accurate analysis of the German patent specification 962 731 by Fritz Weil ("Weil '731") describing a synthetic test circuit, and of German patent specification 975 303 by G. Dobke ("Dobke '303"), proves that the association of these names with the circuit was an oversight and, therefore, objectively unjustified.
The known prior art described in Weil '731, that is, the AEG "artificial circuit," was mistakenly understood as the subject of his invention and thus erroneously connected with the name of Weil.
Also, Dobke '303, entitled "Supplement to Patent 962 731" (that is, Weil '731), according to disclosed principle and the represented current flow, represents the state of art described and to be improved in Weil '731, the same "artificial circuit" of AEG, and factually forms the patented subject of Weil's invention related back to this state of the art in 1942, invented by unknown inventors in the former TRO. This fact also was overlooked at that time and thus the "artificial circuit" of AEG obtained, again erroneously, the surname "Dobke".
In Weil '731, it is said of the state of the art: "A known test arrangement of this type ("artificial circuit") has the disadvantage that the characteristics of the primary current do not conform to the conditions of the natural test shortly before its zero crossing and the inception of high voltage as recovery voltage, respectively. This is the result of the circumstance that the high-voltage source is already switched to the test switching point before the primary current's zero crossing, so that both currents are superimposed in the breaker gap and result in too high a value." To this, the present inventor adds: "The superimposition of current can also result in an under stressing of the test switch, if the high-voltage source current becomes zero too far away from primary current becoming zero."
The IEC publication 60427, cited above in paragraph [0002], at page 23, indicates limiting values (without disclosing any relation) for the duration of the sole flow of the oscillatory current in the test switch—minimum 200 μs, maximum 500 μs—that should not be exceeded on either side. The publication does not provide information where an equivalence exists in the stress of the test switch in this synthetic test circuit and its stress in a direct test circuit and, if applicable, when (within this time interval) the zero current of the oscillatory current should occur.
During the synthetic test, the auxiliary switch does not relieve a superimposition of the high current with an oscillatory current of opposite polarity, which is a system-immanent characteristic of another known synthetic test circuit shown in IEC publication 60427 at page 97, Figure BB3 and Figure BB4. Therefore, with approximately the same current-breaking capacity of the auxiliary switch and the test switch, the arc voltages of the two switches are also about the same. These voltages in series in the high current circuit can substantially distort the high current.
The known remedy, a high-current transformer, to increase the source voltage in the high-current circuit, is costly and reduces its current yield.
As a result, this state of the art poses three unsolved objects for this invention. First, it asks to clarify whether the problem can be resolved, i.e., as a principle, can an equivalence exist in the loading of the test switch in this synthetic test circuit as compared with a direct test circuit? Second, it seeks to develop a method for determining a set value for the synthetic test circuit, at which the loading of this circuit is equivalent to the loading in a direct test circuit. And, third, it seeks to substantially reduce the loading of the auxiliary switch by arc energy emitted into the interrupter chamber in order to dispense with a high-current transformer with a simultaneously achieved substantially reduced interrupter effect and a corresponding lower arc voltage as well as current distortion.


Bladder devices and various brace apparatuses are used for providing added support to joint regions of a user. Use of the bladder devices enable a user to control the amount of pressure and resulting support to be supplied to selected portions of the joint regions. The bladder devices are able to be inserted into existing brace apparatuses. In addition, cold/hot packs are also insertable into the brace apparatus along with the bladder devices separately or integrally combined therewith, as needed to provide additional comfort and care to the joint region.

The present invention relates to a joint support device. More particularly, to a bladder device and a brace apparatus comprising the bladder device.
There are several types of brace apparatuses that are currently being used to provide joint support for specific joint regions, e.g., knees, ankles, and wrists of a user. A brace apparatus surrounds the joint region and provides a predetermined amount of joint support based on the structure of the brace apparatus. Some brace apparatuses are stretchable slip-on type brace apparatuses that surround the joint region and have problems such as providing minimal support due to an inability to be further adjusted. Other brace apparatuses have different mechanisms for performing tightening operation thereof. The latter typically include adjustable straps and/or an air pressure mechanism (e.g., a pump) to allow a user to tighten the brace apparatuses. There are some problems associated with a conventional brace apparatus including only providing pressure/support to the total joint region, thereby providing unwanted amounts of support to some portions of the joint region.

Bladder device and brace apparatuses comprising the bladder device


A climbing system includes a treestand and a plurality of climbing sticks. The treestand includes a monolithic platform formed from strengthened material. Each of the climbing sticks includes a frame having a plurality of weight-reduction apertures formed therethrough. Methods of manufacturing a treestand and climbing sticks are also disclosed. The method of manufacturing a treestand includes providing a solid, strengthened piece of material and removing portions of the material to form openings between structural supports. The method of manufacturing a climbing stick includes providing a frame and forming a plurality of weight-reduction apertures therethrough.

Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to elevated hunting platforms, and more particularly to portable treestand systems.
Description of the Background Art
Portable treestand systems have become commonplace in big game hunting. Typically, a portable treestand system includes a treestand and a plurality of climbing sticks. The treestand includes a platform, a frame, a seat, and a means for securing the treestand to a tree. The platform provides a flat base for the hunter to stand on while the seat provides a place for the hunter to sit. Typically, the platform and the seat are mounted on the bottom and top ends, respectively, of the frame. The securing means is typically some type of suitable fastener(s) (e.g., ratchet strap, chain, steel cable, rope, etc.) that secures the frame to the tree. Each climbing stick typically includes a set of steps, a set of tree engaging features, a frame, and a means (e.g., ratchet strap, chain, steel cable, rope, etc.) for securing the climbing stick to the tree. The steps are affixed to the frame to provide surfaces to grab and step on when ascending and descending the tree. The tree engaging features are also affixed to the frame to facilitate the mounting of the climbing stick to the tree.
In designing and manufacturing treestand systems, there are several factors that must be taken into consideration. For example, mobile hunters typically carry their treestand systems to their hunting locations, and it is, therefore, desirable to make the system as lightweight and compact as possible. Of course, in making the system as lightweight and compact as possible, it must also maintain a structural integrity sufficient for safe use. As another example, it is essential that the system be extremely quiet both when being mounted to a tree and also during the hunt so as not to alert game of the hunter's presence.
There are several prior art treestand system designs that attempt to minimize weight. For example, treestand platforms are often formed by welding metal mesh onto square stock that has been bent into the shape of the platform. Likewise, the climbing sticks are often formed from lightweight metal tube having steps and tree engaging features welded thereon. Although such an approach can provide for a lightweight treestand system, it also suffers from undesirable noise caused by flexing materials and poor welds. In attempting to address problems associated with flexing materials and poor welds, some manufacturers have developed treestands having cast metal platforms that minimize weld points. Although cast metal platforms minimize weld points, they suffer other drawbacks. For example, cast metals are inherently brittle and, therefore, the platform has to be relatively large to compensate for the undesirable mechanical properties of cast metal. Of course, the added size results in a relatively heavy and bulky treestand. In addition, the failure of brittle materials tend to be catastrophic (e.g., shattering instead of bending), therefore causing significant safety problems.
What is needed, therefore, is a treestand system that is lighter, stronger, smaller, more silent, and/or less prone to catastrophic failure than prior treestand systems.

Portable treestand and climbing stick system


A hair conditioning shampoo composition containing: (a) a quaternary ammonium component; (b) an emulsifier component; (c) an amphoteric surfactant component; (d) an alkyl polyglycoside of formula I: EQU R.sub.1 O(R.sub.2 O).sub.b (Z).sub.a I. wherein R.sub.1 is a monovalent organic radical having from about 6 to about 30 carbon atoms; R.sub.2 is a divalent alkylene radical having from 2 to 4 carbon atoms; Z is a saccharide residue having 5 or 6 carbon atoms; b is a number having a value from 0 to about 12; a is a number having a value from 1 to about 6; (e) an emollient component; (f) water; (g) an anionic surfactant component; (h) an amide component; and (i) an electrolyte component.

Human hair becomes soiled due to its contact with the surrounding atmosphere and, to a greater extent, from sebum secreted by the head. The build-up of the sebum causes the hair to have a dirty feel and an unattractive appearance. The soiling of the hair necessitates it being shampooed with frequent regularity.
Shampooing relates to the cleaning of hair by removing excess soil and sebum. However, the shampooing process has disadvantages in that the hair is left in a wet, tangled and generally unmanageable state. A variety of approaches have been developed to alleviate the after-shampoo problems. These approaches range from the inclusion of hair conditioning aids in shampoos to post-shampoo application of hair conditioners, i.e., hair rinses. Hair rinses typically work by depositing a polymeric film or other material onto the hair. However, such solutions to a very prevalent problem have not been fully satisfactory for the following reasons. Hair rinses are generally liquid in nature and must be applied in a separate step following the shampooing step, left on the hair for a length of time, and rinsed with fresh water. This, of course, is time consuming and is not convenient.
While shampoos have been disclosed which contain conditioning aids, they have not been totally satisfactory for a variety of reasons. One problem relates to compatibility problems between good cleaning anionic surfactants and the fatty cationic agents which are good conditioning agents. This has caused other surfactants such as nonionics, amphoterics and zwitterionics to be experimented with by the shampoo industry.
The use of these other surfactants solved many of the compatibility problems but still did not provide complete answers in all areas. For instance cationic conditioners may not deliver the required level of softness desired by users. Materials which have been found to increase softness are silicones, both those which are soluble as well as insoluble in the shampoo matrix.
Even with the inclusion of silicones, one unsolved problem is that of providing satisfactory static control as well as other hair conditioning properties such as softness and wet and dry combability. Moreover, the use of silicones in shampoo formulations has certain inherent disadvantages such as: (1) silicones act as defoamers, thus reducing the amount of foam (lather) formed during the hair washing process; (2) silicones are prone to leave an undesirable residue on the hair, even after rinsing, which cause the hair to be unnecessarily weighed down; (3) the undesirable residue imparted onto the hair by the silicones, has a tendency to quickly attract dirt particles present in the environment, thus making the hair unseemingly dirty/greasy looking; and (4) silicones are typically difficult to incorporate into formulations due to their inherent chemical incompatability with many of the components contained therein.


A C-clamp device has a blocking bar detachably secured to the upper pad to prevent rotation of the pad and has a swivel pad on the lower anvil means for engagement with the clamped article.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to a device, usually of some rigid material, for strengthening or supporting objects or fastening them together, for example, a C-clamp.
2. The Prior Art
The prior art is exemplified by an appliance with opposite sides or parts that may be adjusted or brought closer together to hold or compress something. A so-called bar clamp has a longitudinally extending bar which may be notched and grooved so that an anvil may be adjustably positioned along the length of the bar. At one end of the bar, there is an upstanding bracket through which a threaded rod extends in threaded relation therewith. The rod may be selectively rotated by turning a crank arm on one of the ends of the rod. At the opposite end of the rod, there is a pad which is also slidably supported by the bar. Thus, by turning the crank, the rod will threadedly advance or retract in the bracket, thereby correspondingly advancing or retracting the pad towards and/or away from the anvil so that objects may be held or clamped thereby.
In another form of prior art device, a C-clamp is provided wherein a body portion is made of a rigid material such as metal and is shaped in the form of the letter "C", i.e., it has a bight portion from which extend longitudinally spaced apart parallel arms disposed at right angles to the bight portion.
One of the arms has a threaded aperture through which extends a correspondingly threaded rod having an actuating lever on the free end thereof. The other of the arms has an anvil portion formed thereon against which a workpiece, or, a part to be held or clamped may be retained when engaged by the end of the threaded rod between the arms.
To enhance the engagement of the rod with the workpiece, there is oftentimes provided a pad so that the workpiece does not become deformed or otherwise damaged by the clamping or holding action. When such a pad is provided, it is sometimes retained on the end of the threaded rod by a ball joint, or simply by; some simple form of slip joint so that the pad may accommodate relative rotation with respect to the rod.
However, as clamping forces increase, the pad tends to rotate along with, or in unison with, the rod and the workpiece is apt to be marred or damaged during the course of the clamping or holding action. With the C-clamps available on the market today, many times the friction in the ball joint will be greater than the friction between the pad and the clamped workpiece, thereby causing the pad to move and loosen up, particularly on non-parallel objects.

Portable C-clamp with non-rotatable clamping pad means


A method for managing use of a fixed memory space of a computer system is provided. The computer system interfaces with controllers for managing operation of devices that operate with the computer system. The method includes determining whether sufficient memory is allocated in the fixed memory space for initializing code for the controllers, and jumping to swappable portion of the fixed memory space. The method also includes executing code in the swappable portion of the fixed memory space. The method further includes loading additional code needed to initialize the controllers from an external memory chip to the fixed memory space where the additional code is executed to complete initialization of the controllers of the computer system.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to the field of computing technology and more particularly concerns the initialization routine of a computer system which prepares the system for the loading of an operating system.
2. Description of the Related Art
During a computer system's initialization routine, commonly referred to as a boot sequence, a variety of diagnostics are performed to ascertain the availability and status of hardware devices and ensure proper operation of components. For example, during initialization, a system BIOS executes a boot program which invokes a series of system checks to ascertain the location, number and identity of various devices connected to the computer system. The processing components may be a variety of host adapter cards including, by way of example only, a video display adapter, a network adapter, a SCSI adapter or other similar device. Further, these host adapters cards may either be non-processor based, such as some SCSI and RAID controllers, or may be processor based, such as some high end or low end RAID controllers. In any event, each of these processing components have an associated Option ROM BIOS chip.
FIG. 1A shows a block diagram representing an Option ROM BIOS chip for an adapter card having a BIOS image. The Option ROM BIOS chip 20 includes program instructions known as the Option ROM BIOS, and is also referred to herein as a BIOS image 22. As the need for more functionality in the initialization process continues to grow, the BIOS image 22 necessarily grows in size. A typical size of a BIOS image 22 utilized in RAID controller applications is about 64K. The contents of the BIOS image 22 includes, among other things, a header, memory allocator code, decompressor code, runtime code, initialization code, and configuration utility code. A typical processor-based RAID controller, such as the AAA-130SA ULTRA WIDE SCSI RAID Card manufactured by the Adaptec, Inc. of Milpitas, Calif. may have a compressed BIOS image size of approximately 64K.
FIG. 1B shows a block diagram illustrating the memory areas within a system RAM of a computer system. At boot-up, the system BIOS loads the BIOS image 22 to the system RAM 40. As is well known, the BIOS image 22 is loaded to an area of the system RAM that is dedicated for this use. As shown in FIG. 1B, a hexadecimal address range between C800:00 and DFFF:00 is often referred to as Option ROM memory space. For discussion purposes, it should be assumed that BIOS image-1 22a represents the copied 64K BIOS image 22. Once the BIOS image is copied to this memory space, selected portions of the BIOS image are decompressed and copied to conventional memory 42. The decompressed code is then implemented to initialize the host adapter associated with the Option ROM BIOS chip 20.
Although no problems arise during the initialization of Option ROM BIOS chip 20, there many situations in which a computer system needs to initialize several Option ROM BIOS chips. Because the size of the BIOS image continues to grow, the Option ROM memory space can be quickly consumed. This problem is pictorially illustrated in FIG. 1B, where three BIOS images 22a, 22b, and 22c need to be copied to the Option ROM memory space. After the images 22a, 22b, and 22c are in the Option ROM space, there is no other memory available for additional BIOS images or other types of initialization code such as for example, configuration code. Therefore, if additional memory space is needed, a major problem of memory deficiency would exist.
If the system BIOS encounters uncompressed BIOS images, there might also be a problem because these uncompressed BIOS images might occupy a footprint of more than 64K. This would initially occupy even more memory when initially copied from an associated Option ROM BIOS chip into the Option ROM memory space.
In addition to problems with memory usage in the Option ROM memory space, space within conventional memory and extended memory is also typically limited. Therefore, in cases where conventional memory, extended memory, and Option ROM memory space are filled, there is often no memory space available when code such as a configuration code from an Option ROM chip is desired to be run during the initialization process. When such a circumstance occurs, the configuration code that a user desires to run may not operate because the conventional memory and extended memory are filled. In addition, the Option ROM space as indicated above, may be filled with other types of Option ROM images and typically does not have enough space to load the configuration code. Unfortunately, when this occurs, configuration of certain types of devices may not be configured properly therefore degrading performance. Therefore, multiple problems can occur during an initialization process due to the limited amount of space available in the Option ROM space.
In view of the foregoing, what is needed is a new and improved methodology for optimizing memory resources available to a computer system during execution of the system BIOS in order to have the ability to run specialized initialization codes such as, for example, configuration code. Such an approach would thereby ensure proper initialization of the computer system.

Method for managing memory space during system initialization


Described is apparatus and a process for collection for subsequent analysis a volatile composition such as a perfume composition located on the surface and/or in the interstices of a planar pliable porous substrate such as a towel section. A planar surface of the substrate which contains the volatile composition is initially juxtaposed adjacent a solid wall (e.g., glass frit) porous to a nonreactive carrier gas such as air, nitrogen or carbon dioxide, and fully and tightly covers the porous section of the wall. The carrier gas is passed through the porous section of the wall and then through the pliable porous substrate section which is adjacent to the wall; after which the carrier gas contains each component of the volatile composition. The composition-carrier gas mixture is then passed through a trapping substance (e.g., TENAX(copyright)) which entraps the molecules of each component of the volatile composition. The thus-collected volatile composition may subsequently be analyzed (e.g., using GLC and NMR techniques) after removing the trapping substance containing the entrapped components from the apparatus.

My invention covers apparatus for collecting (for purposes of subsequent analysis) a volatile composition of matter which is releasably bonded to a pliable porous substrate such as a towel, as well as a process for using such apparatus.
The properties of a pliable substrate (including physical, chemical and microbiological properties) affect the behavior of the substrate with respect to chemicals, particularly volatile chemicals, either naturally present in or on the substrate in a substance applied thereto and so affect the chemicals present in a headspace above the substrate. Conversely, the chemicals entrapped in the interstices of a porous substrate or on the surface of the porous substrate have an effect upon the properties of the substrate, for example, if the substrate is a towel and the towel contains a fragrance, the concentration of that fragrance and the nature of the fragrance in the particular substrate will affect the ultimate aroma in the headspace above the substrate after the substrate is utilized, washed and dried.
Considerably complicated techniques exist in the prior art for collection for purposes of subsequent analysis of volatile materials contained within a substrate. U.S. Pat. No. 5,891,729 discloses a method of characterizing a substrate which comprises applying a test formulation to said substrate, subsequently collecting volatile chemicals in a headspace above the substrate, determining a profile of the volatile chemicals so emanated and using said profile to characterize the substrate. Specific examples of substrates in U.S. Pat. No. 5,891,729 are skin, wood, hair, clothing, carpets, plastics, surfaces, ceramic tiles, wool, fabric or perfumed products.
Noting the complexity of the methods and techniques of U.S. Pat. No. 5,891,729, it is apparent that a need exists for a more standardized and simplified technique for collection (for purposes of subsequent analysis) of a volatile composition of matter releasably bonded to a pliable porous substrate such as a towel.
Thus, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,891,835 issued on Apr. 6, 1999 discloses a cleaner impregnated towel comprising a flexible porous substrate and impregnated into the substrate a cleaner formulation comprising d-limonene, dibasic acid ester, N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, secondary alcohol ethoxylate, sodium lauryl sulfate, polysorbate 80, a salt of a coconut oil, fatty acid ester of isethionic acid, glycerine, ethyl alcohol, an antimicrobial preservative and, optionally, water. Although the composition impregnated into the substrate is known initially, after the substrate is utilized, there is no teaching of the method for collecting (for purposes of subsequent analysis) the components impregnated into the substrate after initial use or after repeated use of the substrate, nor is there any teaching in U.S. Pat. No. 5,891,835 or U.S. Pat. No. 5,891,729 of apparatus or processes for a simplified technique for collecting (for purposes of subsequent analysis) the contents of such substrate.
My invention is directed to a process for the utilization of apparatus which will effect collection (for purposes of subsequent analysis) of compounds in the headspace over dry cloth as well as moist cloth and other substrates. The compounds are releasably bonded to the surface and/or in the interstices of the porous substrate.
More specifically, my invention is directed to a process for collection (for purposes of analysis) of a volatile composition such as a perfumery composition located on the surface and/or in the interstices of a planar pliable porous substrate such as a towel section.
In practicing my invention, a planar surface of the substrate which contains the volatile composition is initially juxtaposed adjacent a solid wall (e.g., glass frit) porous to a nonreactive carrier gas such as air, nitrogen or carbon dioxide and fully and tightly covers the porous section of the wall. The carrier gas is passed through the porous section of the wall and then through the pliable porous substrate section which is adjacent the wall, after which the carrier gas will contain each component of the volatile composition. The composition-carrier gas mixture is then passed through a trapping substance (e.g.,TENAX(copyright) (Registered Trademark of BUCHEM, B. V. of Apeldoorn, Netherlands), a polyphenylene oxide having a CAS Registration Number,2438-68-9) which entraps the molecules of each component of the volatile composition. The volatile composition can then be analyzed (e.g., using GLC, NMR and mass spectral techniques) after removing the trapping substance containing the entrapped molecules from the apparatus.
Thus, my invention is directed to a process for using apparatus for collecting (for purposes of subsequent analysis) components of a volatile substance such as a perfumery material releasably bonded to a substantially planar pliable porous substrate having an inner surface and an outer surface. The substrate is porous to the passage of a carrier gas therethrough in a direction substantially perpendicular to the inner and outer surfaces of the planar pliable porous substrate. The apparatus consists essentially of:
(a) hollow enclosure means (which can be cylindrically shaped or elliptical-cylindrically shaped) having:
i. hollow outer enclosure means circumventing a first void space and consisting essentially of a base supporting a substantially cylindrical gas impermeable wall having exit port means therethrough;
ii. entirely surrounded by said hollow outer enclosure means, substantially cylindrically-shaped inner enclosure means situated within said first void space and circumventing a second void space, and having two spaced-apart oppositely-situated end sections and a central section juxtaposed to and communicating with each of said oppositely-situated end sections, said central section being substantially parallel to the wall of said outer enclosure means, said central section having an outer surface and an inner surface, and said central section consisting of a cylindrically-shaped gas-permeable hollow frit structure for both (A) supporting the pliable porous substrate whereby, when in use, said porous substrate fully covers said laminar gas-permeable central section in an all-encompassing manner and (B) enabling carrier gas to flow from within said inner enclosure means second void space to the void space located between the outer enclosure means and the inner enclosure means, in a direction substantially perpendicular to and through said porous substrate, each of the two end sections being impervious to the flow of gas therethrough and one of said end sections having an entry port means communicating from without said hollow enclosure means to the second void space within said inner enclosure means;
(b) analyte collection means located downstream from said hollow enclosure means and communicating with the exit port means thereof, consisting essentially of tube trapping means whereby analyte mixture components emitted from said pliable porous substrate during gas flow therethrough are entrapped in said tube trapping means;
(c) upstream from said hollow enclosure means or downstream from said analyte collection means, inert gas flow effecting means for effecting the flow of inert gas sequentially (I) through said entry port means; (II) through the porous pliable substrate means located on said hollow frit structure; (III) through said exit port means; and (IV) through said analyte collection means.
More specifically, my invention is directed to a process for collecting (for purposes of subsequent analysis) a volatile substance (such as a fragrance composition or an insect-repelling composition) releasably bonded to a substantially planar pliable porous substrate (for example, a cloth or a towel fabricated from cotton or polyester) having an inner surface and an outer surface comprising the step of:
(a) providing the apparatus as set forth, supra;
(b) providing said porous substrate;
(c) wrapping in an all-encompassing manner said porous substrate around said central section of said inner enclosure means of said apparatus whereby the inner surface of said porous substrate is removably adhered to and intimately adjacent to the entirety of the outer surface of the hollow frit structure of the inner enclosure means; and
(d) effecting the flow of carrier gas sequentially (I) from a location upstream from the entry port means; (II) into the inner enclosure means through said entry port means; (III) through said hollow frit structure; (IV) through said porous substrate means in a direction substantially perpendicular thereto in a substantially evenly distributed manner across the inner and outer surface thereof; (V) into and through the void space between the inner enclosure means and the outer enclosure means; (VI)through said exit port means of said hollow outer enclosure means; and (VII) into and through said analyte collection means,
whereby components of the analyte composition emitted from said porous substrate are trapped in said tube trapping means.
Another embodiment of the present invention provides for the rotation of framing retaining means to which is attached the pliable porous substrate, for example a towel, thereby releasing a volatile composition of matter from the substrate. More specifically, the present invention provides for methods for using apparatus designed for the purpose of carrying out this embodiment.
Thus, the invention employs apparatus for collecting (for purposes of subsequent analysis) a volatile substance releasably bonded to a substantially planar pliable porous substrate having an inner surface and an outer surface, said substrate being porous to the passage of a carrier gas consisting essentially of:
(a) vertically-positioned rotational shaft means having an upper end section, a middle section, a lower end section, and a vertically-disposed shaft means axis;
(b) vertically-positioned framing retaining means connected to said lower end section of said rotational shaft means;
(c) hollow substantially air-tight enclosure means surrounding a void space, supported on a horizontally-disposed supporting means, and having a horizontally-disposed lid, a vertically-positioned cylindrical wall circumventing and extending upwardly from said horizontally-disposed supporting means and downwardly from the circumference of said horizontally-disposed lid, a vertical enclosure means axis, carrier gas exit port means therethrough, carrier gas first entry port means therethrough, gas-impermeable second entry port means therethrough located at the intersection of said vertical enclosure means axis and said lid for sealably holding in place said rotational shaft means at its middle section with the vertically-disposed shaft means axis of said rotational shaft means being coincident with said vertical enclosure means axis and sealably extending through said second entry port means into said void space and with said vertically-positioned framing retaining means being supported by and attached to said rotational shaft means located at the lower end section of said rotational shaft means, for retaining said pliable porous substrate;
(d) attachment means for attaching said pliable porous substrate to said framing retaining means;
(e) rotational motor means attached to the upper end section of said rotational shaft means for causing said rotational shaft means to rotate about said vertically-disposed shaft means axis when said apparatus is in operation;
(f) analyte collection means located downstream from said hollow enclosure means and communicating with said exit port means thereof, consisting essentially of tube trapping means whereby analyte mixture components emitted from said pliable porous substrate during gas flow therethrough are entrapped in said tube trapping means; and
(g) upstream from said hollow enclosure means or downstream from said analyte collection means, gas flow effecting means for effecting the flow of gas sequentially (I) from a location upstream from said first entry port means; (II) through said first entry port means; (III) into said hollow enclosure means in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of said porous substrate located on and attached to said framing retaining means; (IV) onto the inner surface of said porous substrate; (V) through said porous substrate, exiting from said outer surface thereof; (VI) through said exit port means of said hollow enclosure means and (VII) into and through said analyte collection means.
The method of my invention consists essentially of the use of the apparatus described above as follows:
A process for carrying out collection of analyte, for the purpose of effecting qualitative and quantitative analysis of a volatile analyte composition releasably bonded to a substantially pliable porous substrate having an inner vertically-positioned surface and an outer vertically-positioned surface, said substrate being porous to the passage of a carrier gas and being fixedly retained by a rigid framing retaining means, as a vertically positioned substantially planar lamina, consisting essentially of the steps of:
(a) providing the apparatus set forth hereinabove;
(b) providing said porous substrate and attaching said porous substrate via said attachment means to said framing retaining means;
(c) engaging said rotational motor means;
(d) simultaneously with the engagement of said rotational motor means, upstream from said hollow enclosure means or downstream from said analyte collection means effecting the flow of carrier gas sequentially (I) from a location upstream from said first entry port means; (II) through said first entry port means; (III) into said hollow enclosure means in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane of said porous substrate located on and attached to said framing retaining means; (IV) onto the inner surface of said porous substrate; (V) through said porous substrate, exiting from said outer surface thereof; (VI) through said exit port means of said hollow enclosure means and (VII) into and through said analyte collection means
whereby volatile substance components emitted from said porous substrate are trapped in said analyte collection means.
Preferably, the hollow enclosure means of the above-described apparatus contains two concentric cylindrical enclosures, with the outer cylindrical enclosure being impervious to gas except for an exit port and with the inner enclosure means having an entry port and having a centrally located solid porous surface (e.g,., glass frit, or solid microporous polymer).
Preferably, after the pliable porous substrate is in place on the inner enclosure, carrier gas is forced through the inner enclosure past the porous substrate into the outer enclosure and then out of the outer enclosure into the analytical means which preferably contains a trapping material. The carrier gas, such as nitrogen, air or carbon dioxide, is inert and nonreactive with the porous substrate or with the volatile substance releasably bonded to the porous substrate. The carrier gas can either be forced through from a pressurized device upstream from the hollow enclosure means (e.g., a pressurized carbon dioxide cylinder), or the carrier gas can be pulled through using means downstream from the analytical apparatus means such as a vacuum pump.
Whether the inert gas flow effecting means is upstream from the remainder of the apparatus or downstream from the remainder of the apparatus, it is preferable to have a gas filter in place in the apparatus of my invention, upstream from the hollow enclosure means so that the inert gas is free of any contaminants which would interfere with the analysis of the composition releasably bonded to the substantially planar pliable porous substrate (e.g., towel section).
Preferably, the hollow outer enclosure means of the hollow enclosure means part of the apparatus of my invention is cylindrical and has a height dimension of from about 4 cm up to about 20 cm and a diameter dimension of from about 4 cm up to about 12 cm. Preferably, the inner enclosure means of the hollow enclosure means part of the apparatus of my invention is cylindrical and has a height dimension between from about 50% up to about 85% of the height dimension of the hollow outer enclosure means and a diameter dimension of from about 40% up to about 70% of the diameter dimension of the hollow outer enclosure means.
The support means part of the inner enclosure means (that is, the central section of the inner enclosure means) is preferably cylindrical or substantially cylindrical in shape and as stated, supra, is preferably glass frit or microporous polymer. However, other suitable support means are useful in the practice of my invention, for example, the material which is marketed as cylindrical filter screens by the B. C. McDonald and Company of St. Louis, Mo. 63132 under the description of xe2x80x9cRonningen-Petter Woven Wire Screenxe2x80x9d; or Ronningen-Petter Woven Synthetic Screen (illustrated in FIG. 1E which is described in the Brief Description of the Drawings and in the Detailed Description of the Drawings sections, infra); or the Ronningen-Petter Perforated Screen. The Ronningen-Petter Screens are manufactured by the Dover Corporation/Ronningen-Petter Division, P.O. Box 188, Portage, Mich. 49081. The Ronningen-Petter Cylindrical Screens useful as support means in the practice of our invention are specifically described in literature published by Ronningen-Petter entitled xe2x80x9cHow to Select Filter Screens for the Removal of Trace Contaminants in a Closed Liquid System.xe2x80x9d
Other support means useful in fabrication of the central section of the inner enclosure means of the apparatus of my invention are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,762,797 issued on Jun. 9, 1998 entitled xe2x80x9cANTIMICROBIAL FILTER CARTRIDGE,xe2x80x9d the specification for which is incorporated by reference herein, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,868,933 issued on Feb. 9, 1999 entitled xe2x80x9cANTIMICROBIAL FILTER CARTRIDGExe2x80x9d, the specification for which is incorporated by reference herein.
With respect to the analyte collection means located downstream from the hollow enclosure means and communicating with the exit port means of the hollow outer enclosure means, the analyte collection part of the apparatus of my invention as stated, supra, consists essentially of tube trapping means whereby volatile substance components emitted from the pliable porous substrate during gas flow therethrough are entrapped in the tube trapping means. The tube trapping means preferably consists of a tube having a length in the range of from about 2 cm up to about 4 cm and a diameter of from about 0.1 cm up to about 0.4 cm. Thus, various trapping materials are useful in the practice of my invention. As stated, supra, TENAX(copyright) is a preferable material. Various forms of TENAX(copyright) are useful, for example, TENAX(copyright)-GC. TENAX(copyright) is a registered trademark of ENKA, N.V. of the Kingdom of the Netherlands (CAS Registration No. 2438-68-9). Other forms of TENAX(copyright) and methods of production of such forms of TENAX(copyright) are described in the following U.S. Letters Patents, the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein:
U.S. Pat. No. 3,400,100 issued on Sep. 30, 1968 (xe2x80x9cPROCESS FOR THE PREPARATION OF POLYPHENYLENE ETHERSxe2x80x9d);
U.S. Pat. No. 3,644,227 issued on Feb. 22, 1972 (xe2x80x9cSEPARATION OF POLY (2,6-DIMETHYL-1,4-PHENYLENEOXIDE)xe2x80x9d) FROM ITS BLENDS WITH OTHER POLYMERS);
U.S. Pat. No. 3,703,564 issued on Nov. 21, 1972 (BIS-POLYPHENYLENEOXIDE]ESTER BLOCK COPOLYMERSxe2x80x9d);
U.S. Pat. No. 4,431,779 issued on Feb. 14, 1984 (POLYETHERAMIDE-POLYPHENYLENE ETHER BLENDSxe2x80x9d); and
U.S. Pat. No. 4,801,645 issued on Jan. 31, 1989 (xe2x80x9cTHERMOPLASTIC RESIN COMPOSITIONxe2x80x9d).
TENAX(copyright)-GC is actually a polyphenyleneoxide defined according to the structure:
wherein N is an integer of from about 100 up to about 150.
Other trapping materials useful in the practice of my invention are as follows:
Activated Carbon marketed by Aldrich Chemical Company of 1001 West Saint Paul Avenue, Milwaukee, Wis. 53233 (Catalog Nos. 16, 155-1; 29, 259-1; 24, 223-3; 24, 224-1; and 24, 227-6);
Activated Alumina marketed by Sigma Chemical Company of St. Louis, Mo. (Catalog Nos. A8753; A8878; A9003; A1522; and A2272);
Silica Gels marketed by Sigma Chemical Company (for example, Catalog Nos. S4004; S6628; and H8506); and
CHROMOSORB(copyright) (registered trademark of the Johns-Manville Company of Manville, N.J.), such as CHROMOSORB(copyright) LC-2; CHROMOSOPB(copyright) LC-3; AND CHROMOSORB(copyright) LC-7, marketed by Sigma Chemical Company under Catalog Nos. C 0641; C 0766; C 5517 and C 6269.
The analyte collection means useful in the practice of my invention may contain, in place of the TENAX(copyright) trapping substance, solid phase microextraction materials (xe2x80x9cSPMExe2x80x9d materials) such as those described in Bulletin 869 published by SUPELCO, INC., Supelco Park, Bellefonte, Pa. 16823-0048. An SPME example useful in the practice of my invention is 100 xcexcm polydimethylsiloxane fiber, Catalog No. 5-7300 of Supelco, Inc. The Supelco, Inc. Bulletin 869 is incorporated by reference herein. An additional description of the SPME (solid phase microextraction) technique useful in conjunction with the practice of my invention is the paper, Elmore, et al, J. Agric. Food Chem., 1997, Volume 45, pages 2638-2641, entitled xe2x80x9cComparison of Dynamic Headspace Concentration on Tenax [TENAX(copyright)] with Solid Phase Microextraction for the Analysis of Aroma Volatiles,xe2x80x9d incorporated by reference herein.
As stated, supra, the means for effecting the flow of inert gas sequentially (i) through the entry port means of the inner enclosure means; (ii) and through the porous pliable substrate means located on the support means of the apparatus of my invention can be located downstream from the analytical apparatus means. If that is the case, the inert gas flow effecting means is a negative pressure pump means, preferably a vacuum pump of the xe2x80x9clow flowxe2x80x9d variety, for example, xe2x80x9cLow Flowxe2x80x9d pumps marketed by the Ametek Company of Largo, Fla. 34643 (the xe2x80x9cAmetek Constant flow Samplerxe2x80x9d).
The flow rate of inert carrier gas past the porous pliable substrate is preferably at a rate in the range of from about 20 ml per minute up to about 200 ml per minute of carrier gas, e.g., nitrogen, air or carbon dioxide.
At the indicated rates of carrier gas flow, a range of molar rates of release of volatile composition will occur from the porous substrate, e.g., towel section, in accordance with the following algorithm:       Δ              xe2x80x83            n    =            n      1                  [                                                  V              1                                      V              2                                                      ⅇ                          -                                                                    2                                                              C                      V                                                        zR                                                                  [                                                                                T                        2                                            -                                              T                        1                                                                                T                        2                                            +                                              T                        1                                                                              ]                                                                    -        1            ]
wherein
n1 is the carrier gas flow rate in gram moles per hour;
xcex94n is the molar flow rate (in gram moles per hour) of release of volatile composition from the pliable porous substrate;
V1 is the volume of the inner enclosure;
T1 is the temperature of the void space of the inner enclosure in xc2x0K (degrees Kelvin);
V2 is the volume between the porous pliable substrate and the outer enclosure;
T2 is the temperature of the carrier gas and volatile composition released from the pliable porous substrate (that is, the temperature of volume V2) in xc2x0K;
R is the gas constant       [          0.08206                    xe2x80x83                                    liter          -          atm                                      gm                                      xe2x80x83                                    mole                    -                      xc2x0                                      xe2x80x83                                                  K              .                                            ]    ;
z is the compressibility factor of the carrier gas; and
Cv is the heat capacity of the carrier gas defined as             (                        ∂          E                          ∂          T                    )        V    ,
wherein E is the internal energy of the carrier gas during flow through the apparatus of my invention.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the pliable porous substrate is put into motion, preferably rotated, most preferably rotated at a controlled rate to simulate the ability of a fragrance to be released from the substrate when the substrate is moved. For example, this movement is intended to simulate the release of a fragrance from a sheet when the sheet is being placed upon a bed.
When the substrate is rotated it is desirable to provide a gentle, but thorough movement of the substrate. The movement can be done in various directions, such as a back and forth motion, an elliptical motion or most preferably in a circular motion. The circular motion is most preferred in that the rotation of the substrate on a rotating shaft is easily accomplished as well as providing a seal between the rotating shaft and enclosure means. The enclosure means could be enlarged such that all equipment is enclosed within the enclosure means; however, that makes collection (for purposes of subsequent qualitative and quantitative analysis) of the volatile compounds that are removed from the substrate more difficult.
Preferably, the rotating shaft is controlled via a motor means such as an electric motor, preferably by a variable control source. The rotation of the shaft should be from about 10 to about 150 revolutions per minute, typically from about 30 to about 120 and preferably from 50 to about 90 revolutions per minute. In a highly preferred embodiment, the rotation of the substrate should be about 82 revolutions per minute. This rpm is sufficient to simulate the movement of the substrate in routine motion without being unduly harsh, thereby removing too much of the fragrance, or too gently which might not release sufficient fragrance from the substrate.
The carrier gas, preferably an inert gas, is provided at a rate of from 0.1 to about 1.0 liter/minute, typically from about 0.2 to about 0.8 and preferably from about 0.3 to about 0.7 liter/minute. The most preferred flowrate is about 0.5 liter/minute.
The analysis of the headspace is carried out in the same manner as described hereinabove. The analysis means (not part of my invention) monitors the headspace of the enclosure means in a substantially continuous manner. The contents of the headspace is then carried onto the trapping materials and the analysis is conducted as described herein above.

Process for collecting for subsequent analysis a volatile composition of matter releasably bonded to a pliable porous rotating substrate

Abstract: In a second embodiment of the invention the planar porous substrate is attached to a rigid frame and the frame is rotated and the movement of the fragrance from the substrate is measured.

International Flavors and Fragrances Inc.


An elevator operation system and apparatus reduce the round trip time of an elevator, by determining a target floor that corresponds to the destination floor requested by a passenger; and assigning the target floor to one of a plurality of elevators for service exclusively to the target floor.

Usually, as buildings become higher, the space occupied by elevators becomes greater, and the usable space in the building becomes smaller. For example, in Landmark Tower in Yokohama, Japan, about ⅓ the total space is occupied by elevators.
As a means for improving the efficiency of elevators in ultrahigh buildings, the sky lobby system has been proposed. In this system, a sky lobby is provided as a transit lobby on a floor at nearly the midpoint of the total height of the building. A shuttle elevator is provided that is dedicated (goes directly) to the sky lobby, and the main line (local elevators) is divided into upper and lower portions so as to achieve economic design (with space and energy reduction). (The name "sky lobby" comes from the fact that it is located in the sky as viewed from the lobby near the ground).
The sky lobby system has been adopted in the Petronas Towers in Malaysia, the Jingmao Building and Bank of China Buildings in China, Central Plaza in Hong Kong, the T&C Tower in Taiwan, as well as the Yamao Park Tower and the Roppongi 1-Chome Plan Building in Japan.
This system has been found to have significant advantages for buildings 200 m high or higher. On the other hand, when the building is super high (400 m or higher), more than one sky lobby may be provided as an economic design.
However, when several sky lobbies are provided (for example, when a sky lobby is provided for every 150 m in a building 750 m high), when conventional elevator operation is used, the time for the shuttle elevator to complete a trip becomes much longer, and the service level becomes much poorer. As a result, many more elevators are needed.
This is because, for large cars (with a rating of 40–68 passengers), the time for passengers to get on and off the car becomes longer, so that the time to complete each trip becomes longer for each elevator, the average time between starts becomes longer, and the transporting ability is reduced.
In the following, the operation method for a conventional elevator system will be explained with reference to FIGS. 6–13. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a conventional group management system. In this system, all of elevators A–D stop at all of the floors. Consequently, the passenger riding on the elevator can reach any desired target floor. Also, due to group management, there is little likelihood that the passenger will wait a long time. In FIG. 6, the circles indicate the floors to which the elevator provides service (same in following FIGS. 7–10).
On the other hand, because passengers going to lower floors and passengers going to higher floors share the same elevator, the time it takes for passengers to reach higher floors becomes longer, especially during the rush hour, and a longer time is needed for the elevator to return to the lobby (the ground floor building lobby). As a result, more passengers have to wait, and the lobby becomes crowded. This is undesirable.
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the rush hour division service system. As indicated by hatched zones in the figure, the service floors for each elevator are limited during the rush hour. For example, the service floors for units A and B are limited to the 2nd–6th floors, and the service floors for units C and D are limited to the 7th–11th floors.
In this system, passengers going to the same target floor go together, so that the riding time can be shortened, and the car can return to the lobby more quickly, so that the lobby is not so crowded. This is an advantage. On the other hand, however, when there are many passengers in a certain group, the lobby becomes crowded, while the elevators for other groups are idled. This is undesirable. In addition, the number of elevators that can be selected by each passenger is halved, so that the wait time becomes longer. This is also undesirable.
FIGS. 8–10 illustrate the so-called channeling system for further improving the rush hour division service shown in FIG. 7. First of all, as shown in FIG. 8, the service floors are limited to a few floors (floors are divided to sectors), and elevators are assigned to respective sectors.
In this case, one elevator unit is not assigned to any sector (unit D in FIG. 8), and the elevators assigned to the sectors represent the various service floors (floors indicated by hatched areas).
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the situation in which passengers have entered elevator unit A for departure. Simultaneously with said departure, the service floor display for unit A is erased, and the sector of the departing elevator (that is, sector 3) is assigned to the elevator that had no service floors displayed (that is, unit D). As a result, the service floor display of elevator unit D becomes "9th–11th floors."
When the elevators depart one by one, the elevator that returns first is assigned to an empty sector. As shown in FIG. 10, unit C has departed, so that the display of "6th–8th floors," as shown in FIG. 9, is erased. Instead, "6th–8th floors" is displayed as the service floors for unit A that had no display in the situation shown in FIG. 9. As shown in FIG. 10, for unit A it is displayed that service for the 9th floor and 10th floor, assigned as shown in FIG. 9, is terminated, and the elevator is now on the 10th floor; for unit B it is displayed that service for the 3rd floor, 4th floor and 5th floor, assigned as shown in FIG. 9, is terminated, and the elevator is now on the 5th floor. On the other hand, for unit D it is displayed that the elevator is now on the lobby floor.
For the aforementioned rush hour division service shown in FIG. 7, because the elevators for sectors are fixed, one has to wait until an elevator returns once it has departed. On the other hand, for the channeling system shown in FIGS. 8–10, because an empty section is assigned to the first elevator that returns, there is no need to wait for an elevator for a long time. As a result, it is possible to prevent crowding in the lobby, and it is possible to reduce the service time as the wait time becomes shorter.
However, because the number of sectors and the number of floors are fixed in the channeling (static channeling) shown in FIGS. 8–10, if a large number of passengers wants to travel to a certain floor at the same time, the riding time for the sector containing said floor becomes longer, and the overall service level for the entire sector may degrade.
In order to solve this problem, the so-called dynamic channeling system shown in FIGS. 11–13 is adopted. In this system, the total number of passengers is counted, and changes are made to the number of sectors and numbers of floors so as to have uniform distribution of passengers among the various sectors.
For example, in a situation with the settings shown in FIG. 11, the number of sectors is 3; the number of floors in the sector for unit A is 3; the number of floors in the sector for unit B is 4; and the number of floors in the sector for unit C is 3. When passengers are concentrated on a certain floor, as shown in FIG. 12, changes can be made to the settings to reduce the number of floors for the sector containing said floor that is the destination for many passengers. That is, the number of floors in the sector for unit A is changed to 2; the number of floors in the sector for unit B is changed to 7; and the number of floors in the sector for unit C is changed to 1.
On the other hand, when the distribution of the passengers is even, as shown in FIG. 13, the number of sectors is 2, the number of floors in the sector for unit A is 5, and the number of floors in the sector for unit B is 5.
In this way, as the distribution in the number of passengers for various floors changes, the sectors are adjusted to cope with variations in the passenger flow over time. Consequently, the cycle time for the elevators becomes shorter, and service to the sectors can be improved.
In this case, there are various criteria, as listed below, used for evaluation of elevators (JIS) (reference: "Kenchiku sekkei•shiko no tame no shinkoki keikaku shishin" [Guidelines for elevator plans in the design and construction of buildings], published 1992 by Japan Elevator Association).
(1) Round trip time.
The time from return of the car to the start floor to return again of the car to the start floor after having carried passengers from the start floor to upper floors.
(2) Average round trip time.
Average round trip time=travel time+door open/close time+time for passengers getting on and off+loss time (sec).
(2-1) The travel distance and the number of travel segments (accelerations/decelerations) are included in the travel time.
(2-2) The predicted number of stops is included in the door opening/closing time, time for passengers getting on and off and loss time.
(3) Average departure interval round trip time/number of units (sec).
(4) 5-min transporting ability 300/average departure interval×number of passengers riding (number of persons).
However, in the conventional operation method, there are multiple floors served by any given elevator among the multiple elevator units. Consequently, the round trip time from departure to return to the starting floor after serving multiple floors is long.
For example, even when the number of floors served is changed, as with the dynamic channeling system shown in FIG. 12, multiple floors are assigned to any given elevator as service floors. Consequently, the round trip time becomes longer.
This problem becomes more significant when the building becomes higher and the number of floors is increased. For example, in a skyscraper with a shuttle elevator, because the original shuttle elevator serves for express travel to the sky lobby, said items (2-1), (2-2) are counted only twice, and high efficiency can be realized in the operation.
However, when more than one sky lobby is provided, just as with a conventional elevator, sequential stop service is provided, and, finally, the criteria pertaining to the predicted number of stops (running cycle number[sic], door opening/closing time, time for passengers getting on and off, loss time) are added to the round trip time, so that the round trip time becomes much longer.
For a conventional elevator in actual operation, when a passenger near the inside wall wants to exit the car, passengers standing near the door have to get off and then back on the car again. Taking this scenario into consideration for said sky lobbies in a skyscraper, the loss time is expected to become longer.
For the shuttle elevator in the sky lobby scheme, although an elevator system is adopted, it is actually like an express bus system, that is, a new traffic system.
The purpose of this invention is to solve the aforementioned problems of the prior art by providing a type of elevator operation system and elevator operation method characterized by the fact that it can shorten the round trip time of elevator, optimize the general elevator operation characteristics and application characteristics of a shuttle elevator, and improve the service level.

Method of assigning elevators for sky lobbies


An ultrasound transducer array suitable for medical uses such as tissue ablation and short duration high intensity hyperthermia has a plurality of ultrasound transducer elements dispersed across a substrate surface for focusing ultrasound energy over a predetermined focal volume. Particularly optimal results are obtained where the elements are dispersed over the substrate surface in a quasi-random distribution, where the total radiating area of the elements occupying between approximately 40 and 70 % of the total array area, and the frequency of operation of the ultrasound elements and the average diameter of the elements are related according to the expression: d=Axc3x97c/f.

The present invention relates to transducer arrays for generating and focusing ultrasound energy distributions.
There has recently been much interest in developing minimally invasive therapeutic ultrasound techniques for surgery (eg. tissue ablation) or short duration high-intensity hyperthermia, since these may offer potential benefits compared with conventional approaches in terms of reduced morbidity, increased patient acceptability and reduced in-patient time.
Much of the work reported in the field of ultrasound induced ablation has involved the use of single, or a few, piezoceramic transducers with spherical curved surfaces. Examples are described in: C R Hill et al, xe2x80x9cReview article: High intensity focused ultrasoundxe2x80x94potential for cancer treatmentxe2x80x9d, Br J Radiology, vol. 68, pp. 1296-1303; I H Rivens et al, xe2x80x9cDesign of focused ultrasound surgery transducersxe2x80x9d, IEEE Trans. Ultras. Ferroelec. Freq. Ctrl., vol. 43, pp1023-1031; S Madersbacher et al, xe2x80x9cTissue ablation in benign prostatic hyperplasia with high-intensity ultrasoundxe2x80x9d, Eur. Urol., vol. 23 (suppl. 1), pp39-43; and A Gelet et al, xe2x80x9cHigh-intensity focused ultrasound experimentation on human benign prostatic hypertrophyxe2x80x9d, Eur. Urol., vol. 23 (suppl. 1), pp. 44-47, 1993.
However, a significant disadvantage of using a single focused transducer is its fixed focal length. Since the volume of the ultrasound focus is usually smaller than the volume of tissue to be ablated, a means for mechanically translating the transducer must be incorporated. Since it is possible to ablate approximately 2 cm3 of tissue per hour using a single focused transducer, treatment of a modest tissue volume (say 8 cm3) may require multiple sessions totalling 4 hours. Thus, whilst adequate for experimental studies and preliminary clinical testing, mechanical scanning of a single transducer presents a serious practical limitation that may prevent it becoming a routine clinical procedure.
It is possible to reduce such problems by the use of phased arrays in which a plurality of transducer elements are mounted on a substrate surface and collectively provide a focused beam of ultrasound. Such arrays are generally described in: C A Cain et al, xe2x80x9cConcentric-ring and sector-vortex phased-array applicators for ultrasound hyperthermiaxe2x80x9d, IEEE Trans. Microwave Theory Tech., vol. MTT-34, pp542-551; E S Ebbini et al, xe2x80x9cA spherical-section ultrasound phased-array applicator for deep localized hyperthermiaxe2x80x9d, IEEE Trans. Biomed. Eng., vol. 38, pp634-643; S Umemura et al, xe2x80x9cAcoustical evaluation of a prototype sector-vortex phased-array applicatorxe2x80x9d, IEEE Trans. Ultrason. Ferroelec. Freq. Contr., vol. 39, pp32-38; S A Goss et al, xe2x80x9cSparse random ultrasound phased array for focal surgeryxe2x80x9d, IEEE Trans. Ultras. Ferroelec. Freq. Ctrl., vol. 43, pp. 1111-1121, 1996; E B Hutchinson et al, xe2x80x9cDesign and optimization of an aperiodic ultrasound phased array for intracavitary prostate thermal therapiesxe2x80x9d, Med. Phys., vol. 23, pp767-776; E B Hutchinson et al, xe2x80x9cIntracavitary ultrasound phased array for non-invasive prostate surgery,xe2x80x9d IEEE Trans. Ultras. Ferroelec. Freq. Ctrl., vol. 43, pp 1032-1042; H Wan et al, xe2x80x9cUltrasound surgery: comparison of strategies using phased array systemsxe2x80x9d, IEEE Trans. Ultras. Ferroelec. Freq. Ctrl., vol. 43, pp. 1085-1097; K Hynynen et al, xe2x80x9cFeasibility of using ultrasound phased arrays for MRI monitored non-invasive surgeryxe2x80x9d, IEEE Trans. Ultras. Ferroelec. Freq. Ctrl., vol. 43, pp1043-1053; L R Gavrilov et al, xe2x80x9cA method of reducing grating lobes associated with an ultrasound linear phased array intended for transrectal thermotherapyxe2x80x9d, IEEE Trans. Ultras. Ferroelec. Freq. CtrI, vol. 44, pp1010-1017.
Such phased arrays offer electronically controlled dynamic focusing and the ability to vary and control precisely the range and location of the focus during treatment without moving the array. The use of phased arrays offers means of not only rapidly scanning the ultrasound focus but also of synthesizing fields with multiple simultaneous foci. Their use is expected to reduce the time taken to deliver ablative therapy. Several references above propose the use of phased arrays in which elements are placed on a spherical shell, thereby combining electronic and geometric focusing.
A significant disadvantage of known phased arrays is the unwanted presence of grating lobes and other unpredictable secondary intensity maxima which can potentially lead to injuries to a patient undergoing surgery, where excessive energy is deposited into tissue outside the focal region. Another disadvantage, particularly for extracorporeal, two-dimensional arrays, is complexity and potentially relatively high cost.
The need to reduce grating lobes is common to all therapeutic arrays reported to date, and several techniques including apodization, broad banding and the use of subsets of elements have been investigated. The use of a random distribution of different sized elements in a linear phased array has been investigated. Grating lobe levels associated with an array with an aperiodic distribution of elements are approximately 30%-45% less than those associated with periodic centre-to-centre spacing.
It is an object of the present invention to provide an ultrasound transducer array which significantly improves the ability to control precisely the range and location of the focus of the ultrasound energy.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide an ultrasound transducer array which significantly improves the ability to vary the range and location of the focus of the ultrasound energy during use without moving the array.
According to one aspect, the present invention provides an array of ultrasound transducer elements dispersed across a substrate surface, for focusing ultrasound energy over a predetermined focal volume, the elements being dispersed over the substrate surface in a quasi-random distribution, the total radiating area of the elements occupying between approximately 40 and 70% of the total array area.
Preferably the frequency of operation of the ultrasound elements and the average diameter of the elements are related according to the expression:
d=Axc3x97c/f
where d=average diameter of the elements, c=velocity of sound in the medium to be irradiated with the ultrasound energy, lying in the range 1400 to 1600 msxe2x88x921, f=frequency of ultrasound energy and A is a value lying in the range approximately 0.5 to 5.
Preferably, the transducer array substrate surface is a curved shell in which the transducer elements are adapted to radiate from the concave surface of the shell and in which the array has an average diameter, D, which is greater than or equal to 0.7R where R is the radius of curvature of the shell and in which the value of R lies in the range 70 to 200 mm.
Preferably the frequency f lies in the range 0.5 to 3 MHz, and more preferably lies in the range 0.5 to 2 MHz, or 1 to 2 MHz.
According to another aspect, the present invention provides a method of providing localised ultrasonic heating to tissue within a body, using a phased array of ultrasound transducer elements which are dispersed across a substrate surface to focus ultrasound energy over a predetermined focal volume, comprising the steps of:
dispersing the elements over the substrate surface in a quasi-random distribution, with the total radiating area of the elements occupying between approximately 40 and 70% of the total array area,
selecting a frequency of operation of the ultrasound elements and the average diameter of the elements related according to the expression:
d=Axc3x97c/f
where d=average diameter of the elements, c=velocity of sound in the tissue medium being irradiated with the ultrasound energy, f=frequency of ultrasound energy and A is a value lying in the range approximately 0.5 to 5.

Arrays of quasi-randomly distributed ultrasound transducers


The invention provides a bearing sleeve and method of forming a sleeve having at least one window whose edge boundary has a first apex region and a second apex region situated opposite one another in the sleeve longitudinal direction. In order to prevent chip formation when pressing the bearing sleeve into a bearing housing, it is provided that, in at least one apex region, the edge boundary forms an angle α≠90° with the sleeve longitudinal direction of the bearing sleeve.

1. Technical Field
The invention relates to a bearing bush having at least one aperture whose edge boundary has a first apex and a second apex situated opposite one another in the bush longitudinal direction. The invention further relates to a particular use of said bearing bush, and a manufacturing method.
2. Related Art
Such bearing bushes are used, for example, in brake calipers of motor vehicles. For a combined parking brake-service brake, the bearing bush must have at least one aperture through which a corresponding pin may engage in the bush when the parking brake is actuated.
When these bushes are incorporated into the housing, which may be made of aluminum, for example, the sharp-edged boundary of the aperture may produce chips which may impair the function of the bearing. This drawback occurs in particular for bearings having a butt edge, since when the bushing is pressed in, partial surfaces of the bearing on one side are compressed, and on the opposite side are spread apart. As a result of this deformation of the bearing bush, chip formation is facilitated in particular when the aperture is located in the region of the partial surfaces.

Bearing shell and method for its production


A protection relay device includes a housing and a fuse unit. The fuse unit includes a connection conductor, an input conductor connected to the connection conductor and receiving an external power, a fuse connected to the connection conductor, and an external device connection conductor connected to the fuse on a side opposite to the input conductor, and to which an external device is connected. A short-circuit induction conductor is provided on at least one of the input conductor on a side opposite to the fuse and the flapper portion, the short-circuit induction conductor protruding toward the other of the input conductor and the flapper portion.

Conventionally, it is known to provide a protective relay such as a fuse between an external power supply and a circuit so that a current exceeding a predetermined value does not flow through a circuit such as a power conversion system. With this configuration, when a current equal to or more than a predetermined value attempts to enter the circuit, the external power supply and the circuit are cut off by the protection relay. Therefore, the circuit can be protected.
By the way, in a large-scale power conversion system, an inrush current larger than a predetermined value can flow. When a large inrush current flows, the protection relay cannot be set accurately, and high incident energy is generated. Thereby, an arc flash may occur.
In recent years, as a measure against the arc flash, a power conversion system that satisfies the arc flash standard has been desired. However, when the power conversion system is simply designed to satisfy the standard relating to the arc flash, there has been a problem that the feasibility is poor, for example, the entire system is unnecessarily enlarged in order to secure the strength of the housing.

Protection relay device and power conversion system

TOSHIBA MITSUBISHI-ELECTRIC INDUSTRIAL SYSTEMS CORPORATION


A fiber optic interferometric strain gauge assembly includes a sensor element (1) in the form of a length of single mode optical fiber whose ends (1a) and (1b) have a peak reflectivity not exceeding 10%. This reflectivity is provided either by semi-transparent coating on the fiber ends or by the establishment of Bragg gratings within the fiber length. A laser source (2) provides a beam which is coupled into the element (1) as one arm of an interferometer. The light reflected in the interferometer whose intensity varies depending upon the degree of strain applied to the element (1) is detected and separated out into samples corresponding to the frequency of the laser source and to twice the frequency of the laser source with the two values being processed to provide both the magnitude of strain and the direction of strain in the element (1).

Conventional electrical strain gauges require a relatively large number of electrical lead outs which increases the weight and expense. Additionally such conventional electrical strain gauges are subject to electromagnetic noise which can give rise to false or distorted readings. This makes such conventional gauges relatively unsatisfactory for use on aircraft either as the retrofit assembly or as part of a composite panel assembly. Moreover in an aircraft application the use of electrical cables means that they can be damaged by lightning strikes with consequent reduction in reliability and life of the strain gauge assembly.

Fiber optic interferometric strain gauge assembly using an intensity ratio

British Aerospace Public Limited Company


The accumulator assembly comprises a plurality of electrical energy accumulator elements 12 superimposed along a stacking axis, each element comprising connecting electrodes 18, 20, spacers 22, 24 positioned axially between at least some of said connecting electrodes, and assembly bars 54 extending axially through the apertures in the connecting electrodes and in the spacers. The assembly further comprises end plates 50, 52 which interact with the assembly bars to clamp the connecting electrodes and the spacers axially, and resilient prestressing means 80 which interact with at least one of the end plates to exert axial prestressing forces on the stacked connecting electrodes and spacers.

Patent application US 2006/0204840 describes an accumulator assembly formed by the alternate stacking of energy accumulator elements and stiffening plates. Fastening plates are provided for clamping the accumulator elements and plates together. These fastening plates have lugs for the passage of threaded rods interacting with nuts to form a unitary assembly.
There is also a known accumulator assembly, described in patent application US 2009/0017367, comprising a plurality of accumulator elements stacked against each other, two fastening plates at the ends of the stack, and stiffening members extending transversely between the plates and having housings adapted to receive the ends of the accumulator elements. The assembly further comprises threaded rods and nuts which are combined in order to fasten the members and keep the stack of accumulator elements assembled.
In this accumulator assembly, an electrical connecting plate is provided between the associated positive and negative electrodes of the adjacent accumulator elements. The positive electrode is mounted inside a hole formed in the connecting plate and is then soldered to the plate. The negative electrode is fastened to the plate by screwing. These operations are lengthy and costly.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,674,641 discloses another accumulator assembly which comprises a plurality of superimposed electrical energy accumulator elements, spacers positioned axially between the connecting electrodes of the accumulator elements, fastening rods extending axially through apertures in the connecting electrodes and spacers, and upper and lower end plates interacting with the rods for the assembly of the connecting electrodes and spacers.
WO 2006/068373 discloses another accumulator assembly comprising a plurality of accumulator elements stacked and mounted inside a receiving casing made in two parts. The connecting electrodes of the accumulator elements include apertures for the passage of threaded rods and a fastening for said rods on the lower part of the casing. Insulating spacers are positioned axially between the connecting electrodes of adjacent accumulator elements. These spacers support electrical connecting plates which connect the electrodes of the accumulator elements.
When these accumulator assemblies are installed, poor-quality plating of the connecting electrodes and of the means positioned axially between the electrodes may result in a defective flow of electric current.
Furthermore, in certain vehicle driving conditions, the vibrations to which these accumulator assemblies are subjected may cause a break in the electrical contact between the means positioned axially between the electrodes and the electrodes themselves. This also results in a defective supply of current.

Battery unit for an electric or hybrid vehicle

COMPAGNIE GENERALE DES ETABLISSEMENTS MICHELIN


A pulley is provided having a first plate and a second plate arranged adjacent to the first plate and connected to the first plate by an axle. An eccentrically mounted sheave is located between the first plate and the second plate and is adapted to freewheel in one direction only. The eccentrically mounted sheave is mounted eccentrically with respect to the axle. A fixed block is mounted between the first plate and the second plate and is adapted to fixedly lock a line between the fixed block and the eccentrically mounted sheave.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to a pulley, and more particularly, to a self-camming or self rope-locking pulley.
2. Description of Related Art
Pulleys are generally known in the art. A pulley is a wheel or sheave with a groove along its edge for holding a line, such as a rope, cable, cord, or chain. A pulley may be used in a number of configurations. One such configuration is the block and tackle arrangement in which two pulleys work in unison, one pulley being fixed and another moving with the load. The simplest of pulleys includes a sheave or sheaves that all freewheel in both clockwise and counter-clockwise directions. More sophisticated pulleys provide locking mechanisms so that a load is locked in place when a force on a line carried by the sheaves is released. Such locking sheave features are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,189,867; 5,927,438; and 5,868,380, which are herein incorporated by reference.
Some pulleys also include cord extensions for releasing the load. With such pulleys, the user typically has to raise the load slightly with the pulley system to take pressure off a toothed cam before the user can completely move the cam out of the way to allow releasing or lowering of the load. For such pulleys, see U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,664,640 and 5,927,438, which are herein incorporated by reference.
While pulleys with locking mechanisms and cord extensions for releasing a load are known in the art, there is a need for a self-camming pulley with an improved locking mechanism and release mechanism for a controllable release under a load.


The present disclosure relates to a thermal management system configured to control a temperature of a building and having a controller configured to determine an adjustment to a window setting of the building based on current weather data, forecasted weather data, or both. The thermal management system also includes a display configured to display instructions related to the adjustment.

The present disclosure relates generally to heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. A wide range of applications exist for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. For example, residential, light commercial, commercial, and industrial systems are used to control temperatures and air quality in residences and buildings. Such systems often are dedicated to either heating or cooling, although systems are common that perform both of these functions. Very generally, these systems operate by implementing a thermal cycle in which fluids are heated and cooled to provide the desired temperature in a controlled space, typically the inside of a residence or building. Similar systems are used for vehicle heating and cooling, and as well as for general refrigeration. In many HVAC systems, sunlight and external weather may affect internal conditions of a building.

Systems and methods for window setting adjustment