An open end of a standard pipe fitting is enlarged in diameter to coaxially receive an O-ring and a retainer having a cylindrical surface. A plurality of locking teeth project from the cylindrical surface and are engageable with both the inner surface of the fitting and an outer surface of a pipe end inserted coaxially into the fitting open end. Each of the locking teeth have oppositely disposed edges facing obliquely inwardly and outwardly to engage both the pipe end and the fitting and resisting motion of the pipe end relatively to the fitting. In an alternate embodiment, a first plurality of teeth each have an edge facing obliquely inwardly of the fitting to engage the pipe end and resist motion tending to withdraw the pipe end from the fitting. A second plurality of teeth each have an edge facing obliquely outwardly of the fitting and resist motion tending to withdraw the retainer from the fitting.

This invention relates to couplings for pipes and especially to couplings which effect a strong, reliable joint with a fluid-tight seal without the need for brazing or soldering.
The construction of piping networks requires couplings that can form fluid-tight joints between pipe ends which can withstand external mechanical forces, as well as internal fluid pressure and reliably maintain the integrity of the joint. Many forms of joints are known, such as brazed or soldered joints, threaded joints, welded joints and joints effected by mechanical means.
For example, copper tubing, which is used extensively throughout the world to provide water service in homes, businesses and industry, is typically joined by means of couplings which are soldered to the pipe ends to effect a connection.
The use of copper tubing for piping networks is so widespread that standard tubing sizes have been established in various countries. For example, in the U.S., there is the ASTM Standard entitled xe2x80x9cSpecification B88-99e1 Standard Specification for Seamless Copper Water Tubexe2x80x9d copyright 2001, in Germany, the DIN Standard and in the United Kingdom, the British Standard (BS) both of which are defined by the European Standard EN 1057, dated April, 1996 and entitled xe2x80x9cCopper and Copper Alloysxe2x80x94Seamless, Round Copper Tubes For Water and Gas in Sanitary and Heating Applicationsxe2x80x9d. Chart 1 below shows a portion of the range of outer diameters of the various standard copper tubes listed above.
Naturally, there are standard pipe fittings such as elbows (45xc2x0 and 90xc2x0), tees and straight segments matched for use with the standard tube diameters. These standard fittings are defined in the U.S. by ASME/Standard B16.22a-1998, Addenda to ASME B16.22-1995, entitled xe2x80x9cWrought Copper and Copper Alloy Solder Joint Pressure Fittingsxe2x80x9d, dated 1998. In Europe, the standard fittings are defined by EN 1254, dated Jul. 15, 1998 and entitled xe2x80x9cCopper and Copper Alloysxe2x80x94Plumbing Fittingsxe2x80x94Part 1 Fittings With Ends for Capilary Soldering or Capilary Brazing to Copper Tubesxe2x80x9d. The standard fittings have open ends with inner diameters sized to accept the outer diameter of a particular standard tube in mating contact for effecting a soldered joint.
In addition to the standard fittings described above, other components, such as valves, strainers, adapters, flow measurement devices, and other components which may be found in a pipe network will have a coupling which is compatible with the standard pipe, and it is understood that the term xe2x80x9ccouplingxe2x80x9d, when used herein, is not limited to a standard elbow, tee, or other fitting but includes the open end of any component useable in a piping network which serves to couple the component to the pipe end.
A soldered joint is effected between a standard diameter tube end and its associated standard fitting by first cleaning the surfaces to be joined, typically with an abrasive such as a wire brush or steel wool, to remove any contaminants and the oxide layer which forms on the surfaces. Next, the cleaned surfaces are coated with a flux material, usually an acid flux, which further disrupts the oxide layer (when heated) and permits metal to metal contact between the fitting, the pipe end and the solder. The pipe end is next mated with the fitting thereby bringing the cleaned, flux coated surfaces into contact. The fitting and pipe end are then heated to the melting temperature of the solder, and the solder is applied to the interface between the tube and the fitting. The solder melts, flows between the surfaces of the pipe end and the fitting via capillary action and forms the solder joint.
While the soldered joint provides a strong, fluid-tight connection between pipe end and fitting, it has several disadvantages. Many steps are required to make the soldered joint, thus, it is a time consuming and labor intensive operation. Some skill is required to obtain a quality, fluid-tight joint. Furthermore, the solder often contains lead, and the flux, when heated, can give off noxious fumes, thus, exposing the worker to hazardous substances which can adversely affect health over time. The joint is typically heated with an open gas flame which can pose a fire hazard.
To overcome these disadvantages, many attempts have been made to create mechanical couplings which do not require solder or flame to effect a strong, fluid-tight joint. Such mechanical couplings often use an over-sized opening accommodating an O-ring for sealing purposes and an annular ring interposed between the outer diameter of the pipe end and the inner diameter of the coupling to mechanically hold the parts together. The annular ring often has radially extending teeth which dig into the facing surfaces of the coupling and the pipe end to resist extraction of the pipe end from the coupling after engagement.
While these mechanical couplings avoid the above identified problems associated with soldered joints, they can suffer from one or more of the following disadvantages. The annular ring may not provide adequate pull-out strength, and the pipe end could be inadvertently separated from the coupling, for example, during thermal contraction of a long run made of several segments of mechanically coupled pipes. If both ends of the pipe run are fixed the thermal contraction will put significant tension loads on each joint, tending to pull them apart. If the pipes carry water and the water in the pipe freezes, the expansion of the water upon freezing will also put significant tensile load on the mechanical joints. Pressure spikes within the pipe, caused by a sudden closing of a valve (the xe2x80x9cwater hammer effectxe2x80x9d) also place the joints under tension, and could lead to a joint failure.
The annular ring also does not help keep the pipe end concentric with the coupling upon insertion, allowing the pipe end to tip and deform the annular ring and gouge the inside surface of the coupling or an elastomeric seal, such as an O-ring. The annular ring cannot be relied upon to provide electrical continuity between the pipe end and the coupling, sometimes resulting in a relatively poor ground for electrical purposes. In such a joint, there is furthermore little or no resistance to axial rotation of the pipe relatively to the coupling (i.e., relative rotation of the pipe and coupling about the longitudinal axis of the pipe). Thus, valves or other items mounted on the pipe will tend to rotate. Use of an enlarged section to accommodate the annular ring may cause energy loss impeding fluid flow if the fluid is forced to flow into a coupling having a larger cross-sectional area. In general, when mechanical couplings are designed to overcome the aforementioned inherent disadvantages, they tend to suffer from a high part count, making them relatively complex and expensive.
The invention concerns a coupling for engaging a pipe end without the use of solder. The coupling comprises a first receptacle, preferably cylindrical in shape for receiving the pipe end, and a second receptacle, also preferably cylindrical, arranged coaxially and in tandem with the first receptacle. The second receptacle is smaller than the first receptacle so as to form a shoulder within the coupling between the first and second receptacles.
The coupling also includes a retainer having a perimetrical surface, preferably cylindrical and positioned within and coaxial with the first receptacle. Locking teeth are positioned circumferentially around the retainer and project from the perimetrical surface, the locking teeth being engageable with the first receptacle and the pipe end to resist removal of the pipe end from the coupling.
An elastomeric seal, for example an O-ring, is positioned coaxially within the first receptacle between the shoulder and the retainer and effects a fluid-tight seal between the pipe end and the first receptacle.
In the preferred embodiment of the invention, each of the locking teeth has a first edge facing toward the shoulder and a second edge positioned opposite thereto. Each of the locking teeth is resiliently angularly biased to position the first edges radially inwardly of the perimetrical surface of the retainer and the second edges radially outwardly thereof. The first edges are engageable with the pipe end to resist relative motion between the pipe end and the retainer in a direction away from the shoulder, and the second edges are engaged with the first receptacle for resisting relative motion between the retainer and the first receptacle in a direction away from the shoulder. The pipe end is insertable under the first edges in a direction toward the shoulder for insertion into the fitting.
A circumferential groove is preferably positioned within the first receptacle adjacent to the locking teeth. Each of the second edges is resiliently biased into engagement with the groove providing even greater resistence to motion of the retainer relative to the first receptacle in a direction away from the shoulder.
In an alternate embodiment, the retainer includes a first plurality of the teeth that are resiliently biased radially inwardly from the perimetrical surface of the retainer. The first plurality of teeth each have an edge facing toward the shoulder, each edge being engageable with the pipe end. The first plurality of teeth deflect resiliently radially outwardly to allow insertion of the pipe end coaxially into the coupling, the edges being resiliently biased into engagement with the pipe to resist relative movement between the pipe and the retainer in a direction away from the shoulder.
A second plurality of the teeth each have a first segment resiliently biased radially inwardly from the perimetrical surface and a second segment extending angularly from the first segment outwardly from the perimetrical surface. The first and second segments define an apex located between the segments, and each apex is engageable with the pipe end to support it upon its insertion coaxially into the coupling. Each second segment also has an edge facing away from the shoulder for engaging the first receptacle. The second plurality of teeth resiliently deflect radially inwardly to allow insertion of the retainer coaxially into the first receptacle. The edges on the second segments are resiliently biased into engagement with the first receptacle to resist relative movement between the retainer and the coupling in a direction away from the shoulder.
The retainer preferably has a first end facing the shoulder and a second end oppositely arranged. A first flange is positioned on the first end and extends radially inwardly from the perimetrical surface. Together, the first flange and the shoulder define a pocket for containing an elastomeric seal such as and O-ring. A second flange is positioned on the second end and extends radially outwardly from the perimetrical surface. The second flange engages the first receptacle and limits motion of the retainer into it.
To afford a more positive engagement between the teeth and the pipe end in both the preferred and alternate embodiments, a circumferential groove may be located along an outer surface of the pipe end and positioned for engagement with the edges of the teeth. The edges are resiliently biased into the groove upon engagement between the coupling and the pipe end and provide even greater resistance to motion of the pipe end relatively to the coupling in a direction away from the shoulder. A second circumferential groove is preferably located on the pipe end in spaced relation to the first groove. The second groove is positioned to align coaxially flush with an end of the retainer when the edges of the aforementioned teeth are engaged with the first groove, thus, giving a visual indication that the pipe end is properly engaged with the coupling.
Preferably, the standard copper fitting is chosen from among the ASTM standards but could also comprise DIN or BS standard fittings as well.
It is an object of the invention to provide a mechanical pipe coupling which does not require solder to effect a fluid-tight joint.
It is another object of the invention to provide a pipe coupling which can be readily formed from ASTM, DIN or BS standard fittings.
It is another object of the invention to provide a pipe coupling which is simple to make, simple to use and has a low part count.
It is still another object of the invention to provide a pipe coupling having a relatively high pull-out strength.
It is yet another object of the invention to provide a pipe coupling which helps to concentrically align the coupling and pipe upon insertion of the pipe end into the coupling.
It is again another object of the invention to provide a coupling which maintains good electrical conductivity across the joint.
It is yet again another object of the invention to provide a coupling which causes low energy loss to fluid flowing through it.
It is still again another object of the invention to provide a coupling which effectively resists axial rotation of the pipe relatively to the fitting.
These and other objects of the invention will become apparent from consideration of the following drawings and detailed description of preferred and alternate embodiments of the coupling according to the invention.

Mechanical pipe coupling with toothed retainer


Apparatus for retaining a workpiece in a semiconductor wafer processing system. The apparatus has a collector positioned between an electrostatic chuck pedestal and the floor of the processing chamber. The collector has inlet and exhaust control valves connected to inlet and exhaust ports for providing and expelling a backside heat transfer gas (e.g., Helium). Heat transfer exhaust cavities in the collector are connected to the exhaust port to rapidly draw the gas off the backside of the wafer. Additionally, control of the heat transfer gas layer uniformity during processing is achieved by opening and closing the valves to the inlet and exhaust ports as required.

1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates generally to apparatus for retaining a workpiece in a semiconductor wafer processing system and, more specifically, to an apparatus for controlling heat transfer gas layer uniformity along a bottom surface of the workpiece and eliminating workpiece pop off during dechucking.
2. Description of the Background Art
Electrostatic chucks are used for holding a workpiece in various applications ranging from holding a sheet of paper in a computer graphics plotter to holding a semiconductor wafer within a semiconductor wafer process chamber. Although electrostatic chucks vary in design, they all are based on the principal of applying a voltage to one or more electrodes in the chuck so as to induce opposite polarity charges in the workpiece and electrodes, respectively. The electrostatic attractive force between the opposite charges pulls the workpiece against the chuck, thereby retaining the workpiece.
In semiconductor wafer processing equipment, electrostatic chucks are used for clamping wafers to a pedestal during processing. For example, electrostatic chucks find use in etching, chemical vapor deposition (CVD), and physical vapor deposition (PVD) applications. One type of electrostatic chuck is fabricated using conventional, flexible printed circuit fabrication techniques with materials available from a flexible circuit board manufacturer such as Rogers Corporation of Chandler, Ariz. More specifically, the electrostatic chuck is comprised of a top layer of dielectric material covering a conductive electrode. Below the electrode is a bottom layer of dielectric material. The top and bottom dielectric layers encapsulate the conductive electrode or electrodes. The entire assembly is then adhered to the pedestal. The top layer of dielectric material forms a support surface upon which the workpiece is retained. When a voltage is applied to the electrode, the wafer is referred back to the same ground reference as the voltage source by a conductive connection to the wafer via an electrical conductor or a plasma formed proximate the wafer. As such, an electrostatic force is established between the wafer being clamped and the electrostatic chuck.
The materials and processes used to process a wafer are extremely temperature sensitive. Should these materials be exposed to excessive temperature fluctuations due to poor heat transfer from the wafer during processing, performance of the wafer processing system may be compromised resulting in wafer damage. The aforementioned pedestal forms both a cathode and a heat sink. To optimally transfer heat between the wafer and chuck, a very large electrostatic force is used in an attempt to cause the greatest amount of wafer surface to physically contact the support surface. However, due to surface roughness of both the wafer and the chuck, small interstitial spaces remain between the chuck and wafer that interfere with optimal heat transfer.
To achieve further cooling of the wafer during processing, an inert gas such as Helium is pumped into the interstitial spaces formed between the wafer and the support surface of the chuck. This gas acts as a thermal transfer medium from the wafer to the chuck that has better heat transfer characteristics than the vacuum it replaces. To further enhance the cooling process, the chuck is typically water-cooled via conduits within the pedestal. This cooling technique is known as backside gas cooling.
The backside gas exerts a pressure on the wafer that pushes it away from the support surface. The electrostatic force exerted by the electrostatic chuck is greater than the force created by the gas pressure; therefore, the wafer remains in position during processing. However, the interaction of these two forces may cause random, localized leakage of the heat transfer gas where the edge of the wafer contacts the electrostatic chuck. Leakage of the gas contributes to an undesirable non-uniform temperature condition across the bottom surface of the wafer.
When processing is completed, the wafer must be quickly and accurately removed from the chamber. A wafer is typically "dechucked" by turning off power to the electrostatic chuck. In this way, the electrostatic force is eliminated and the wafer is no longer clamped to the support surface of the pedestal. Lifting and moving mechanisms (i.e., lift pins from beneath the pedestal and/or a robotic arm) can then engage the wafer to remove it from the chamber.
As the electrostatic force is reduced, the heat transfer gas is evacuated from the interstitial spaces between the wafer and the support surface. A vacuum pump connected to the backside gas inlet port is activated to draw the gas from the process chamber, i.e., the path used to supply the gas is used to remove the gas. Gas pressure is thereby reduced, but not necessarily at the same rate that the electrostatic clamping force is reduced. If the force from the evacuating gas is greater than the clamping force, the wafer will pop off the support surface. Once a wafer has moved from its original position, the lift pins or robotic arm may not properly contact the wafer. As a result, the wafer is pushed off the support surface and into an irretrievable position within the process chamber. Contaminating the wafer in this manner results in a total loss of the wafer as a usable product. The wafer may also be scratched by engaging it in an area that has been processed thereby damaging the delicate circuit patterns formed onto its surface.
Existing wafer processing systems and the chucking apparatus they employ are not adequately equipped to eliminate the leakage of heat transfer gas during wafer processing or the dynamic interaction of unequal forces encountered by a wafer during the dechucking process. There are no provisions for the rapid removal of backside gas. As result, wafer pop off continues to be a condition not l addressed by the prior art.
Therefore, there is a need in the art for an apparatus that provides greater control of heat transfer gas during wafer processing and quickly removes backside gas from beneath a wafer prior to dechucking the wafer.

Backside gas quick dump apparatus for a semiconductor wafer processing system


A screen deck runner assembly (20) suitable for use in a vibratory screening machine characterized by the assembly including a saddle member (5), being configured and 420 dimensioned to removably straddle a screen deck runner (1) and to engage a screen panel (3).

Vibratory screening machines are well known in the bulk materials handling industry. Vibratory screening machines are used particularly for the size classification of bulk particulate materials such as mineral bearing ore. Vibratory screening machines usually consist of screen decks, supported on a vibratile frame structure, operatively linked to a motorized vibratory mechanism.
Modular-type screen decks are well known, consisting typically of a matrix of screen panels, generally mounted on a number of steel runners. The steel runners are usually mounted on a steel grid or lattice-type structure, the grid forming part of the vibratile frame structure. The vibratile frame structure, together with the motorized vibratory mechanism, is normally supplied by the manufacturer, while specialist screen deck suppliers add and supply replacement parts such as the runners and the screen panels.
The screen panels and the runners wear as the classified particulate material flow across and through the screen panel apertures as well as over the runners. The known designs of the runners are such that, although the runners do not wear as fast as the screen panels, they do have to be replaced from time to time.
As the runners provide support for the screen panels, they typically extend across the whole surface of the screen. The replacement of runners therefore usually requires the removal of all the screen panels, the unbolting of the runners from the grid, and the subsequent replacement of the runners. This procedure is time consuming and labour intensive, causing substantial equipment downtime relative to the replacement of, for example, a screen panel. When downtime is planned for replacement of worn screen panels and/or runners, it typically entails production to be stopped or reduced. The wear resistance of the screen panels as well as the runners are therefore of utmost importance to reduce wear and consequential downtime of the vibratory screening machines during refurbishment, as well as the capital costs of replacing the worn runners.
It is accordingly an object of the present invention to provide a screen deck runner assembly for vibratory screening machines that overcomes or at least partially alleviates some of the disadvantages mentioned above.


An optical modulator holder 4402 has a middle frame 4409 for supporting a liquid crystal panel 441, a pair of frame members 4405 and 4406 for sandwiching the middle frame 4409 supporting the liquid crystal panel 441, a second elastic member 4407B and a third elastic member 4407C respectively interposed between the pair of frame members 4405 and 4406 and the liquid crystal panel 441, and translucent boards 442A and 443A respectively arranged on outer faces of the pair of frame members 4405 and 4406. An opening 4409A into which the liquid crystal panel 441 can be fitted is formed on the middle frame 4409, and an inner face thereof serves as an exterior position reference face for the liquid crystal panel 441.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an optical modulator holder, an optical device and a projector.
2. Description of Related Art
There has been a well-know projector including a plurality of optical modulator devices that modulate light beams irradiated from a light source in accordance with image information to form an optical image, a color-combining optical device that combines the light beams modulated by the respective optical modulator devices to irradiate them, and a projection optical device that projects the light beams combined by the color-combining optical device in an enlarged manner.
As for the optical modulator device, for example, an optical modulator of an active-matrix drive system having a pair of boards with electro-optic material such as liquid crystal sealed therebetween is typically used. More specifically, the pair of boards of the optical modulator includes a drive board arranged on a light-irradiation side, adapted to apply a drive voltage to the liquid crystal and provided with data lines, scan lines, switching elements, pixel electrodes and the like, and an opposing board arranged on a light-incident side and provided with common electrodes, a black matrix and the like.
An incident-side polarization plate and an irradiation-side polarization plate for transmitting a light beam having a predetermined polarization axis are respectively arranged on the light-incident side and light-irradiation side of the optical modulator.
When the light beam irradiated from the light source is irradiated on the optical modulator, the temperature of the optical modulator tends to rise due to light absorption by a liquid crystal layer as well as light absorption by the data lines and scan lines formed on the drive board and the black matrix formed on the opposing board. Further, a light beam not having a predetermined polarization axis contained in the light beam irradiated by the light source and the light beam transmitted through the optical modulator is absorbed by the incident-side polarization plate and the irradiation-side polarization plate, and therefore the polarization plates tend to be heated.
A projector having such optical elements thereinside disclosed in Reference: JP Hei 01-302386A includes a cooling device with use of a cooling fluid in order to suppress the temperature rise of the optical elements.
More specifically, the cooling device described in the Reference is constructed of a substantially rectangular solid casing with openings on opposing end faces. The openings are respectively covered by glass plates, and thus a cooling chamber for sealing the cooling fluid therein is formed. The previously-mentioned optical modulator, the incident-side polarization plate and the irradiation-side polarization plate are arranged at predetermined intervals in the cooling fluid. With this configuration, the heat generated in the optical modulator, the incident-side polarization plate and the irradiation-side polarization plate is directly radiated to the cooling fluid.
In the cooling device described in Reference, however, it is difficult to install the optical modulators at predetermined positions in the casing, and the positioning accuracy of the optical modulator with respect to the casing is low.
Moreover, the positions of the optical modulators might be displaced with respect to the casing after a long period of use.
If the optical modulators are displaced with respect to the casing as mentioned above, the positions of the optical modulators with respect to the optical axis of the light beam irradiated from the light source are also displaced, and therefore an unwanted light is projected on the screen.

Optical modulator holder optical device and projector


There is provided an information processing system capable of always ensuring output with a predetermined number of output sheets, and an information processing method and a recording medium therefor. A printer control system is composed of a host computer on which a printer driver constituting a printer control command generating program is operable, and a printer capable of processing the data as if the data have been received by a designated number of times, wherein the host computer is provided with an external memory for temporarily storing the maximum data amount of the received data temporarily storable in the printer, and a printer driver for discriminating whether the total data size of the printer control commands exceeds the maximum data amount, and, in case of excess, outputting the temporarily stored printer control commands by a designated number of times to the printer.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an information processing system, an information processing method and a memory medium therefor, and more particularly an information processing system adapted for use in a system consisting of a host computer and a printer connected thereto, and a method and a memory medium therefor.
2. Related Background Art
Conventionally there is known a system which consists of a host computer and a printer connected thereto and in which printing is executed by transmitting print data from the host computer to the printer. In such system, by transmitting the print data from the host computer to the printer plural times, it is possible to stack the output sheets, on a sheet discharge unit provided in the printer, by the number of transmissions (hereinafter called multiple-copy output). In such process, however, the load of data communication between the host computer and the printer inevitably increases in proportion to the number of transmission.
On the other hand, some recent printers have the function of temporarily storing the received data in specified memory means and executing the operation as if the data have been received by the designated number of times. Such function allows to realize the multiple-copy output described above by a communication load of transmitting the print data of about one time to the printer. In case of the multiple-copy output with the above-described printer function, the conventional printer driver functioning on the host computer always adds, to the ordinary printer control commands, a printer control command for designating the number of repetition of the process on the data received by and temporarily stored in the printer.
However, the above-described conventional technology has been associated with the following drawback. As the total data size of the printer control commands generated by the printer driver cannot be generally known until the end of the command generating process, such total data size of the printer control commands may exceed the maximum data size temporarily storable in the printer. Consequently the multiple-copy output based on the above-described printer function is not necessarily always ensured.
In consideration of the foregoing, the object of the present invention is to provide an information processing system capable of always ensuring the result of predetermined multiple-copy output, and an information processing method and a memory medium therefor.
The above-mentioned object can be attained, according to the present invention, by an information processing system including an upper equipment such as a computer on which a command generating program for generating the print control commands is operable and a printing device such as a printer for effecting printing based on the data received from the upper equipment, the system comprising command memory means for temporarily storing the print control commands, discrimination means for discriminating whether the total data size of the temporarily stored print control commands exceeds the maximum data size of the received data temporarily storable in the printing device, and output means adapted, in case of excess, to output the temporarily stored print control commands by a designated number of times to the printing device, or an information processing method of a memory medium therefor.
The present invention is also featured in that the printing device includes received data memory means for temporarily storing the received data from the upper equipment and is capable of execution as if such data have been received by the designated number of times.
The present invention is also featured in that the upper equipment includes data size memory means for memorizing the maximum data size.
The present invention is also featured in that the data size memory means is attachable to and detachable from the upper equipment.
The present invention is also featured in that the maximum data size is memorized through a user interface of the command generating program.
The present invention is also featured in that the maximum data size is memorized by a program module other than the command generating program.
The present invention is also featured in that the printing device includes data size memory means for memorizing the maximum data size, and the upper equipment includes acquisition means for acquiring the maximum data size from the data size memory means.
The present invention is also featured in that the data size memory means is attachable to and detachable from the printing device.
The present invention is also featured in that the acquisition means is adapted to acquire the maximum data size through a bidirectional interface or a network.

Image processing apparatus, method and memory medium therefor


In a computer network, user input is used to control the bandwidth used by particular applications. Data is sent from either a data source computer or an intermediate computer (e.g. dial-up server) to a client computer according to the user input. The allocation of bandwidth may be managed from the client computer, data source computer, or intermediate computer. The user may set a limit on the baud rate used by particular applications.

In the telecommunications infrastructure, e.g. in computer networks, different applications often compete for use of data links having limited available bandwidth to transmit multiple data messages to a single receiving computer. Processing power of the receiving computer may also be heavily loaded by the need to process different messages of incoming data. In many networks such as the Internet, the priority in use of the limited bandwidth and/or the limited processing power of the receiving computer is often determined on a first come first serve basis. That is higher speed computers which have a higher speed data path to the computer (e.g. dial up server) which is one data link away from the destination (client) computer, will tend to monopolize the link to the client computer. Consequently, the dominant use of data link bandwidth, and processing power of the client computer, may not conform to the priorities of the client user.
A current example of this problem is the situation for home users of the Internet. It is often the case that an Internet user is interested in conducting multiple downloads at the same time. For example, a user may click a link to download one or more files from a File Transfer Protocol (FTP) site, and then wish to continue browsing the World Wide Web (WWW) using his web browser which requires Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) downloads. Unfortunately, the FTP requests may use a large fraction of the available bandwidth leaving a small portion available for the HTTP messages, so that consequently, the response time of the user's web browser to navigation inputs is greatly increased. The user may consider the download a low priority, and prefer to have enhanced response time to WWW navigation inputs.
The user may be connected to the Internet by a relatively slow digital modem, or a fast cable modem or fast Digital Subscriber Line (DSL). In any case, the speed of the source computers and the speed of the transmission path between the source computers and the node to which the user's computer is connected (e.g. the Internet Service Provider (ISP) dial-up server) will determine which source computer dominates the use of the final link to the user's computer. Although, all delays are reduced in the case of a fast link, the delay becomes appreciable again, in the case of much larger file transfers, which can be expected to be common place in the near future given the growing interest in multimedia uses of the Internet.
The percentage of the available bandwidth used by two different applications may also be affected by the format of the messages sent. For example, other factors being equal an application which sends large data blocks will use more bandwidth.
In the case of two data messages coming from the same computer there may be a default prioritization which is not to the liking of the user.
For example this can happen to a user who connects to a private network for the purpose of sending or checking email. At login, some systems check various information files on the client computer and if any are found to be outdated, initiates downloading of updated files. This too, can use up a large portion of the available bandwidth, and slow down the response of the system to user initiated requests.
There is a need for a system in which the user can control the bandwidth used by one or more applications, in order to reserve a remainder portion of the bandwidth for use by other applications.

User input based allocation of bandwidth on a data link

International Business Machines Corporation


A method and structure is disclosed for constraining cache line replacement that processes a cache miss in a computer system. The invention contains a K-way set associative cache that selects lines in the cache for replacement. The invention constrains the selecting process so that only a predetermined subset of each set of cache lines is selected for replacement. The subset has at least a single cache line and the set size is at least two cache lines. The invention may further select between at least two cache lines based upon which of the cache lines was accessed least recently. A selective enablement of the constraining process is based on a free space memory condition of a memory associated with the cache memory. The invention may further constrain cache line replacement based upon whether the cache miss is from a non-local node in a nonuniform-memory-access system. The invention may also process cache writes so that a predetermined subset of each set is known to be in an unmodified state.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention generally relates to novel cache configurations for compressed memory systems.
2. Description of Related Art
A compressed memory system is a system in which main memory is divided into a number of logically fixed size segments (e.g., units of compression or lines). Each such logical segment is physically preferably stored in a compressed format. A segment is stored in an uncompressed format if it cannot be compressed. One way of implementing such systems is to make use of a cache between main memory and higher-level caches; to decompress lines on cache misses; and to compress lines on writebacks of modified cache lines. FIG. 1 illustrates a high-level system architecture for a compressed memory system of this type: processors, together with level 1 (L1) and level 2 (L2) caches (110, 120) share a large L3 cache (130) in which data is stored in uncompressed format. On a cache writeback, the data is compressed by a compressor (140) before being stored in main memory (160); conversely, on a cache miss, data is decompressed by a decompressor (150) as it is read from main memory (160).
An issue in such systems is that the compression of the data stored in the compressed memory system can vary dynamically. If the amount of free space available in the compressed memory becomes sufficiently low, there is a possibility that a writeback of a modified cache line could fail. To prevent this, interrupts may be generated when the amount of free space decreases below certain thresholds, with the interrupts causing OS (operating system) intervention so as to prevent this from occurring.
If the line size of the cache in a compressed memory system is smaller than the compressed memory line size (i.e., size of a unit of compression), the amount of free space in the compressed memory system required to guarantee that all modified cache lines can be written back could be unacceptably large. An example follows.
Suppose the unit of compression is 1024 bytes, that the cache line size is 64 bytes, and that the cache holds M lines. The worst case loss of compression that could result from a store of a modified 64 byte line depends on details of the compressed memory system compression and storage allocation designs; an upper bound on the loss of compression is that a compressed memory line could become incompressible, and require 1024 bytes; thus in general it may be necessary to reserve 1024 bytes of free space in the compressed memory system for each modified 64 byte cache line. Furthermore, in general the number of modified cache lines may not be known, and the number of distinct compressed memory lines for which there is one or more cache lines residing in the cache also may not be known; in the worst case all cache lines may be modified and reside in distinct compressed memory lines. Since the ratio of cache line size to compressed memory line size is 16 (16×64=1024), this means that to handle this worst case an upper bound on the amount of free space that must be reserved in the compressed memory is 16×64×M=1024×M bytes. Such a requirement can significantly reduce the overall compression (that is the compression taking into account the free space together with compressed memory system storage fragmentation and directory overheads). It is, therefore, an object of this invention to reduce the amount of free space required to guarantee that all modified cache lines can be written to a compressed main memory system.
There are related problems associated with the design of NUMA (non-uniform-memory-access) architectures. In such systems, there are a number of nodes, where each node has processors, a cache hierarchy, and main memory. For convenience, only the cache immediately above main memory in each such node is considered. A global real memory space is provided in such architectures by means of addressing schemes in which any node may address the real memory of any other node by means of inter-cache transfers. FIG. 2 illustrates a high-level system architecture of this type. The figure is adapted from the book by Lenoski and Weber, Scalable Shared-Memory Multiprocessing, FIG. 3-2, "Nonuniform Memory Access (NUMA) Architecture", page 91, and in which further descriptions of NUMA architectures and references to the extensive prior art can be found. As shown in FIG. 2, in a typical NUMA system there are a number of nodes, where each node consists of a processor (210 in the first node, 220 in the second node, and 230 in the last node), a cache (240 in the first node, 250 in the second node, and 260 in the last node), and a memory local to that node (270 in the first node, 280 in the second node, and 290 in the last node). Inter-cache transfers, which enable access from one node to a non-local memory of a different node, take place by means of an interconnection network (295). If the local memories in such systems are implemented using compressed memory architectures, situations may arise in which the cache in a given node contains not only uncompressed sections of compressed memory lines from the given node, but uncompressed sections from compressed memory lines from any other node in the NUMA system. This significantly complicates the problem of guaranteeing forward progress, since in analogy with the above worst case analysis, an additional factor equal to the number of nodes in the NUMA system must be taken into account for required free space calculations. That is, if there are N nodes in the NUMA system, an upper bound on the amount of free space that must be reserved in the compressed memory is 16×64×M×N=1024×M×N bytes, that is N times more than the above example. Furthermore, OS handling of a compressed memory low free space condition on one node could cause writebacks of modified remote lines, which could cause a low free space condition on a remote node; that is a "chain reaction" in low free space conditions is possible. It is, therefore, desirable to de-couple low free space condition handling on each node, in a manner which complements the cache operation constraints for those cases in which the OS is handling a compressed memory low free space condition.

Cache configuration for compressed memory systems


A system and method for transmitting and relaying data packets within an ARQ 3G HDL framework includes populating unused packet positions with unacknowledged packets during retransmission. The unused packet positions are populated according to lowest unacknowledged sequence numbers. Unused packet positions may be populated with multiple copies of the lowest unacknowledged sequence number or some set of the lowest unacknowledged sequence numbers. A set of lowest sequence unacknowledged sequence numbers may be weighted toward the lowest unacknowledged sequence number to increase the probability of the lowest unacknowledged sequence number being received so that the send window can be slid forward.

In 3G automatic link establishment, high-throughput data link (HDL) traffic is supported by selective retransmission (ARQ) to achieve error-free data transfer. Unacknowledged packets must be received to clear the HDL packet position and allow the send window to be shifted or slid to accommodate new data packets. Existing algorithms having defined HDL frame sizes include inefficiencies in the retransmission process because no new data packets can be included due to protocol constrains until unacknowledged packets are received, and the unacknowledged packets are tied to their packet position. It would be advantageous to have a system and method for more efficiently retransmitting unacknowledged data packets.

Selective repeat ARQ enhancement for HDL data transfer


Systems and methods are provided for use in distributing one or more services to edge devices in a payment network and for monitoring distributed processing devices associated with the payment network by a network of nodes of the payment network. One exemplary method includes receiving, at a first node of the network of nodes, a request for data from a client and identifying, by the first node, a second node as including the data. The method also includes forwarding the request for the data to the second node, and providing the data to the client, by the first node, in response to the request, upon receipt of the data from the second node, whereby the network of nodes fulfills the request for the data even when the data is included in the second node and the request is received at the first node.

This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.
Payment accounts are often used to fund transactions for the purchase of products (e.g., goods and/or services) from merchants, etc. To facilitate such transactions, payment networks support communications between acquirer banks associated with the merchants and issuer banks associated with the particular payment accounts funding the transactions, to provide authorization, clearing and settlement of the transactions. The payment networks typically include interface processors (e.g., MasterCard® interface processors (MIPs), etc.), which are often disposed with the acquirer banks and issuer banks, to receive and/or provide messages to the acquirer banks and the issuer banks related to the transactions (e.g., authorization requests, authorization replies, etc.).
In connection with the above transactions and interactions, it is also known for the payment networks to provide centralized servers to monitor and/or analyze the individual interface processors and/or other edge devices within the payment networks to facilitate the communications between the acquirer banks and the issuer banks.
Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

Systems and methods for monitoring distributed payment networks


A method according to one embodiment may include decoupling a CAUDIO/SPKR#/BVD2 signal line from a PC Card controller integrated circuit. The method of this embodiment may also include controlling, by the PC Card controller integrated circuit, at least one PC Card independently of the CAUDIO/SPKR#/BVD2 signal line. Of course, many alternatives, variations, and modifications are possible without departing from this embodiment.

Conventional PC Card controllers have a terminal called CAUDIO/SPKR#/BVD2 used as an audio input from the PC Card in some modes, and a battery voltage detection input in other modes. Conventional controllers also have a terminal, typically called SPKROUT# or SPKR_OUT#, that outputs audio data associated with CAUDIO/SPKR#/BVD2 either directly to a speaker interface chip, a CODEC, or some other logic that may use this audio information.
Other conventional controllers provide dual-socket PC Card controllers. In these controllers each socket includes a CAUDIO/SPKR#/BVD2 terminal, and typically logic in the PC Card controller combines audio data from these two inputs into one audio output, called SPKROUT#.
In some PC Card configurations, the CAUDIO/SPKR#/BVD2 terminal provides indication of a battery condition. Conventional PC Card controllers include legacy Intel 82365 ExCA (Exchangeable Card Architecture) programming registers, and these registers report battery conditions to software. There are two battery voltage detection pins defined by the PC Card Standard: CAUDIO/SPKR#/BVD2 and CSTSCHG/STSCHG#/BVD1.
These conventional controllers do not offer reduced pin count, which may make them in more cost effective packages, and/or packages with smaller geometries.
Although the following Detailed Description will proceed with reference being made to illustrative embodiments, many alternatives, modifications, and variations thereof will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended that the claimed subject matter be viewed broadly, and be defined only as set forth in the accompanying claims.

Integrated circuit having reduced pin count


The present invention provides a fountain-type electroplating apparatus with functions of voltage detection and flow rectification, comprising: an electroplating tank, a rectification device, and an overflow tank, wherein the electroplating tank is positioned inside the overflow tank, and the rectification device is arranged under the electroplating tank, in addition, the electroplating tank is composed of a shell, a cathode electrode, and an mesh shaped anode. The apparatus of the present invention further comprises: a power supplier, a switcher, a plurality of detection circuits, and a plurality of connecting line, which is used for monitoring the same.

Electroplating is an electrochemical process by which metal is deposited on a substrate by passing a current through the bath. Usually there is an anode (positively charged electrode), which is the source of the material to be deposited; the electrochemistry that is the medium through which metal ions are exchanged and transferred to the substrate to be coated; and a cathode, which is the substrate (the negatively charged electrode) to be coated. Plating is done in a plating bath that is usually a non-metallic tank (usually plastic). The tank is filled with electrolyte that has the metal in ionic form to be plated. The anode is connected to the positive terminal of the power supply. The anode is usually the metal to be plated (assuming that the metal will corrode in the electrolyte). For ease of operation, the metal is in the form of nuggets and placed in an inert metal basket made out non-corroding metal (such as titanium or stainless steel). The cathode is the substrate to be plated which is connected to the negative terminal of the power supply. The power supply is well regulated to minimize ripples as well to deliver a steady predictable current. As the current is applied, positive metal ions from the solution are attracted to the negatively charged cathode and deposit on the cathode. As a replenishment for these deposited ions, the metal from the anode is dissolved and goes into the solution and balances the ionic potential. The electroplating process can increase the surface brightness and the corrosion resistance of the object to be plated. Following the rapid development of integrated circuit (IC), the quality requirement for wafer electroplating is becoming more and more demanding for fulfilling the increasing needs of IC applications. There are several prior arts concerning the techniques of fountain-type electroplating apparatus and the monitoring devices for the same, for example, the U.S. Pat. No. 6,024,856 disclosed an electrolytic plating process having a substantially steady state electrolyte, wherein the plating properties of the deposit remain constant, but having no electrolytic rectifier for increasing the homogenous of the flow field; the U.S. Pat. No. 4,137,867 disclosed an improved apparatus for bump-plating semiconductor wafer, but having no real-time current monitoring device for enhancing the stability of the electroplating process; and the U.S. Pat. No. 4,906,346 disclosed an improved electroplating apparatus having an electroplating cell for producing finely structure, thick metal depositions of semiconductor wafers, but providing no solution for edge effect so as to generate a good current distribution; and further U.S. Pat. No. 6,027,631 disclosed a cathode joint of single-point contact, which is prone to incur the unevenness of charge distribution.
Please refer to FIG. 1, which is an illustration of a fountain-type electroplating apparatus of prior arts. The electroplating apparatus mainly comprises a plating tank 102, an overflow tank 104, and a pipe 106. Wherein, the plating tank 102 is positioned inside the overflow tank 104 and further comprises a cathode electrode 122 having a substrate attached under thereof, a shell 112, and an mesh shaped anodemesh shaped anode 114 which is a metal plate having plural holes 116. Moreover, an input hole 118 which is connected to the pipe 106 and an exit hole 120 are arranged at the bottom of the overflow tank 104. Restricted by the space of plating apparatus, the pipe 106 is usually an L-shaped pipe so as to connect to the plating apparatus. The mesh shaped anode 114 can be made of titanium or titanium plated with platinum. The substrate 110 may be a silicon wafer.
As seen in FIG. 1, when plating solution is being transported through the pipe 106 into the overflow tank 104, the condition that the vertical length of the upward-connecting part of the pipe 106 is insufficient, or the pipe 106 is deformed, or even the pipe 106 is skewed with a certain angle will result in the plating solution 108 entering the plating tank 102 through the plural holes 116 of mesh shaped anode 114 to form an unsymmetrical flow field, such that the concentration and the flow velocity of the plating solution 108 in the plating tank 102 is not evenly distributed and further will influence the homogeneity of the plating layer.
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a connecting line and the mesh shaped anode according to the prior arts. As seen in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the mesh shaped anode 114 is connected to a connecting line 130 in a single-point contact and the connecting line 130 is made of materials of excellent conductivity and superior anti-oxidization capability, such as gold. Since the impedance of the connecting line 130 is lower than that of the mesh shaped anode made of titanium or titanium plated with platinum, excessive charges are prone to accumulate at the neighboring zone of the point connecting the connecting line 130 and the mesh shaped anode 114 such that the metallic ions ionized from the plating solution 108 by the mesh shaped anode 114 are distributed unevenly according to the different location of the mesh shaped anode 114. The aforesaid phenomenon will cause the different position on plating surface of the substrate 110 to be plated with different plating rate, and further will influence the homogeneity of the plating layer of the substrate 110.
In this regard, the fountain-type electroplating apparatus of the prior arts has the following shortcomings:                1. Unstable flow field existing at the interface between the plating solution and the surface of substrate not only influences the plating quality, but also reduce the plating stability and homogeneity.        2. Irregular bubbles generated at the interface between the plating solution and the substrate, and even accumulated on the surface of the substrate will result in that the plating solution can not come into touch with the surface of the substrate, and consequently the outcome is not as expected since the total plating area is changed.

Electroplating apparatus with functions of voltage detection and flow rectification

Industrial Technology Research Institute


An auger mixer for mixing a concrete mix includes an elongated mixer housing having a mixing chamber for mixing the concrete mix therein. A mixing auger is rotatably mounted within the mixing chamber. A bearing assembly mounts one end of the auger shaft to the mixer housing. A seal assembly comprising a stationary seal remains stationary relative to the mixer housing and a rotating seal rotates with the auger. The stationary seal and the rotating seal contact one another to create a seal preventing the concrete mix from exiting the mixing chamber and moving toward the bearing assembly.

The present invention relates to a bearing seal assembly for a concrete auger mixer.
Concrete auger mixers have been utilized to mix concrete in a continuous process. They include an elongated housing having a rotating auger therein. The housing usually has a flexible bottom and a rigid top and is arcuate at least in the bottom portion to conform to the flightings on the auger.
The auger housing is usually elevated at the discharge end and is lowered at the input end so that the concrete ingredients are placed within the housing at the lower end and is raised by the auger and mixed as it approaches the discharge opening at the upper end of the auger.
Problems have been encountered in providing a satisfactory seal of the lower end of the auger to the lower end of the auger housing. The auger rotates within the lower end wall of the auger housing and the cementations materials and water directed downwardly by gravity seep into the bearing and ultimately damage the bearing because of the abrasive nature of the cementatious material.
It is therefore desirable to provide an improved seal preventing the cementatious material from entering the bearing from within the auger housing.
Therefore a primary object of the present invention is the provision of an improved bearing seal for concrete auger mixers.
A further object of the present invention is the provision of a bearing seal for a concrete auger mixer that utilizes a stationary seal and a rotating seal which engage one another and provide a seal therebetween.
A further object of the present invention is the provision of a stationary seal that remains stationary relative to the end wall of the housing mixer and a rotating seal that rotates with the auger, the two seals engaging one another and providing a seal to prevent cementations material from exiting the mixing housing chamber.
A further object of the present invention is the provision of a seal comprising a fixed sealing member and a fixed flexible member, and providing a rotating sealing member and a rotating flexible member. The fixed sealing member and the rotating sealing member include sealing surfaces that engage one another and prevent cementatious material from exiting the auger housing.
A further object of the present invention is the provision of a flexible plate outside the lower housing wall which permits a slight movement of the angle of the auger relative to the mixer housing wall so as to permit slight flexing thereof.
A further object of the present invention is the provision of a bearing for permitting the rotation of the auger relative of the end wall of the mixer, the seal being provided between the bearing and the cementatious material.
A further object of the present invention is the provision of a seal and bearing for a concrete auger mixer which is economical to manufacture, durable in use, and efficient in operation.
A further object of the present invention is the provision of a method for sealing the cementatious material within the mixer housing during rotation of the auger.
A further object of the present invention is the provision of a bearing which utilizes lapped surfaces for engaging one another to cause the seal.

Bearing seal assembly for concrete auger mixer and method for using same


The subject matter described herein relate to a segmented piston seal system. The segmented piston seal includes a first semi-circular section (FSCS) that includes a first locking structure at opposite ends of the FSCS. The segmented piston seal includes a second semi-circular section (SSCS) that includes a second locking structure at opposite ends of the SSCS. The first and second locking structures are configured to lock the FSCS and the SSCS together to form a piston seal.

Conventional piston seals are single body or single piece seals. For example, conventional piston seals are a single uniform ring. Conventional piston seals may not be able to be installed on large diameter segmented machines where axial access is not available. For example, the conventional piston seals may not be able to be installed on horizontally split turbomachinery with large rotor diameters.


A device for connecting a first tube (10) with a connection tube (14) whose end segments (22, 24) extend through an opening (12) of the first tube and to establish in a simple manner, a force-fit connection between the tubes, a tool (34) is proposed which comprises at least two segments (36, 38) axially displaceable relative to the other and extending within the connection tube(14) up to or nearly into the first tube (10), with one of the segments (36) having a radially projecting protrusion (42) which engages the end segment (22, 24) with the segments disposed within the tube (10), and external to the projecting protrusion the segments have a total effective diameter which is adapted to the inner diameter of the connection tube (14) in the region of the opening (12) of the first tube (10).

The invention relates to a device for connecting a first tube with a tubular element such as a connection tube or segment of such, wherein the tubular element extends with its end segment into an opening of the first tube and, by means of a tool, can be connected force-fittingly with it. The invention further relates to a method for connecting a first tube with a tubular element.
The invention also refers to a connection between a first tube and a junction element such as a valve, sprinkler head or further tube, comprising a hollow cylindrical connecting element, extending through an opening of the first tube with at least one segment into it and sealed relative to it, such as a housing which is connectable with the connecting element or the further tube.
According to DE 94 16 506 U1 a corresponding connection comprises a connection element with self-cutting threads which can be screwed into the opening of the first tube and which is encompassed by a hollow cylindrical housing which has a sealing effect relative to the connection element as well as also relative to the tube. A segment of the connection element extends within the first tube such that its free cross section is reduced in this region. In addition, several elements are required in order to establish the desired fluid-and pressure-tight connection.
It is also known to establish a connection by means of a sprinkler clamping collar such as are disclosed in EP 0 332 500 B1 or DE 94 11 013 U1.
According to DE 94 11 979 U1 a tube branch is realized by structuring a planar surface of a wall of a first tube from which extends a second tube.
A connection between a tube and a junction can, according to U.S. Pat. No. 2,015,246, be established by means of welding.
In U.S. Pat. No. 5,207,461 a device of the type cited in the introduction is disclosed which comprises a piston-cylinder arrangement as well as a frame with support receiving the first tube. Extending from the piston is a piston rod with which a bar is detachably connected, which comprises at the end a hemispherical segment whose maximum diameter is smaller than that of the opening of the first tube. The tube connection piece itself which is connected with the first tube, comprises a fish-mouth shaped end segment with flanged margin which changes over into a groove resulting in a material weakening which groove, in turn, is limited by an outer shoulder of the tube connection piece whose outer diameter is greater than that of the opening. For the force-fit connection of the tube connection piece with the first tube, the bar with the hemispherical head is introduced with the end at the fish-mouth side into the tube connection piece in order to be connected with the piston rod. The tube connection piece is subsequently placed onto the opening of the first tube. Tailored to the length of the tube connection piece, arms of the frame are braced on its outer margin in order to pull subsequently by means of the piston-cylinder arrangement the bar with the hemispherical head in the direction of the tube connection piece whereby the flanged edge extending within the first tube is bent over in the direction of the first tube in order to establish the force-fit connection. After sufficient deformation the hemispherical head with the bar can be pulled out of the tube connection piece. A flat sealing gasket ring extends between the shoulder and the outer surface of the first tube to effect a sealing between the tube connection piece and the first tube.
The present invention, for one, is based on the problem of further developing a device and a method of the type cited in the introduction such that with simple measures and independently of a piston-cylinder arrangement, a secure connection between a first tube and a tubular element, such as a second tube or other tubular junction elements, such as sprinkler head, can take place, and it is intended to ensure that the branching is fluid- and pressure-tight. For another, through the invention the problem is to be solved of further developing a connection of the type cited in the introduction such that with the least possible number of elements in a simple manner a fluid-and pressure-tight branching is possible without clamping collars or geometric changes of the connecting tube being required.
According to the device, the problem is solved thereby that the tool comprises at least two segments, axially displaceable one with respect to the other and extending within the tubular element up into the opening, that one of the segments comprises a radially projecting protrusion which engages behind the end segment of the tubular element when the segments are disposed within the tubular element, wherein the segments comprise external to the projecting protrusion a total effective diameter which is adjusted to the inner cross section of the tubular element.
The segment comprising the projecting protrusion is axially displaceable at least relative to a further segment such that the end segment extending within the first tube of the tubular element is bendable in the direction toward the inner wall of the first tube.
Due to the device according to the invention a force-fit connection of the tubular element with the opening of the first tube is possible with simple measures. For this purpose it is only required that the segment of the tool with a radially projecting protrusion is initially shifted from the outside through the tubular element into the interior of the first tube in order to displace subsequently the one or the further segments axially into the region of the opening wherein the total effective cross section of the segments extending within the opening corresponding approximately to the inner diameter of the tubular element. This ensures that when by means of the projecting protrusion of the first segment the margin segment, extending within the first tube, of the tubular element is bent in the direction toward the inner wall of the first tube, a lateral yielding of the segment cannot take place so that axial forces alone must act onto the segment effecting the bending or flanging.
It is simultaneously ensured that the tubular element is not exposed to uncontrolled forces which can lead to impermissible deformation.
The invention provides, in particular, that the tool comprises two segments, axially extending within the opening of the first tube and rotatable within the opening, that the first segment having the projecting protrusion comprises a cylinder-form basic body and the second segment has a sickle-form in cross section whose concave surface in the contact region with the first segment is adapted to its outer geometry.
In other words, the first and second segments which are axially displaceable one relative to the other, have a total cross section which corresponds approximately to a circle form, whereby is possible the good adaptation to the inner cross section of the tubular element to be connected with the first tube.
The projecting protrusion itself comprises preferably a cylinder form with an underside extending obliquely in the direction of the basic body, with the angle of inclination laid out such that the surface contact of the end segment to be bent over of the tubular element on the inner wall of the first tube becomes possible.
The protrusion should further extend flush from that region of the outer surface which is displaceable along the second segment.
The bending over or flanging of the end segment extending within the first tube takes place peripherally thereby that the tool is rotatable successively about its longitudinal axis.
According to the method, the problem for the force-fit connection of the tubular element with the opening of the first tube is solved thereby that the tubular element is introduced with its end segment into the opening of the first tube, that through the tubular element a first segment of the tool with a radially projecting protrusion is introduced into the interior of the first tube such that the protrusion extends between the external free edge of the tubular element and the inner wall opposite the opening of the first tube, that axially along the first segment a second segment is shifted up into the opening region of the first tube wherein the first and the second segment in the region of the opening has a total effective cross section adapted to the inner cross section of the tubular element, that the first segment is shifted in the direction of the opening along the second segment while simultaneously the margin segment of the tubular element extending within the first tube is bent, that the first segment subsequently is shifted in the direction of the tube interior and rotated about its longitudinal axis in order to bend over subsequently, in a previously described manner, further regions of the end segment of the tubular element and, consequently, to connect them force-fittingly with the margin of the opening of the first tube.
After the end segment of the tubular element has been bent or flanged to the required extent, first, the second segment and subsequently the first segment are removed from the tubular element.
The pressure-and fluid-tight connection between the tubular element and the first tube takes place thereby that the tubular element on the outside of the tube comprises a preferably encircling reception for a sealing element such as an O-ring.
A connection of the type described in the introduction is distinguished thereby that the segment, or segments, extending on the inside along the first tube are pressed over, flanged or compressed. In particular, it is provided that the connection element having a hollow cylinder form comprises on the outside of the tube a reception, preferably encircling, for a sealing element, such as an O-ring.
A connection between a first tube and a junction element, such as a valve, sprinkler head or a further tube, comprising a hollow cylindrical connection element connectable with the junction element or the further tube, such as a housing, which is sealed relative to the first tube and extends with a segment within an opening of the first tube, is also distinguished thereby that the segment of the connection element is connected with the first tube through welding processes, with the hollow cylindrical segment of the connection element, adapted at the circumferential side of the opening of the first tube comprises protrusions forming dot-form contact sites which are welded to the first tube, in particular with the margin encompassing the opening and/or the hollow cylindrical segment of the connection element comprises a recess, adapted to the cross sectional geometry of the tube, which is welded to the margin-side region of the opening.
Due to the teaching according to the invention it is only required to place the connection element, such as a housing, with its segment into the opening of the first tube and subsequently, by applying electrodes, to weld the segment to the first tube and specifically in particular with the margin region of the opening so that the required force fit between the connection elements, such as a housing, and the first tube is ensured.
The recess of the hollow cylindrical segment is preferably such as to be encircling and comprises an annular step, adapted to the outer geometry of the tube, which can be welded to the first tube, preferably to the inner margin of the opening.
The teaching according to the invention opens the possibility of establishing with simple measures a fluid-and pressure-tight connection between the connection element, such as a housing, which is connectable with the junction element or a further tube, and the first tube, withxe2x80x94in contrast to previously known prior artxe2x80x94the cross section of the first tube in the region of the connection element not needing to be decreased. Rather, the possibility exists that the segment extends at the front wall flush or nearly flush with the opening-side inner walls of the first tube and runs offset toward the inside.
In order to permit the simple placement of the connection element into the opening of the first tube and/or to make available simultaneously a contact surface conducting the welding current to the required extent between the connection element and the first tube, the opening can be chamfered at the outside wall at least in regions, with the recess of the segment, extending into the opening, of the connection element having a congruent geometry.
The connection element itself having a hollow cylindrical form should comprise on the outside of the tube a reception, preferably encircling, for a sealing element-such as an O-ring-in order to ensure the required sealing between the elements.

Method and device for connecting a first tube to a tubular element, and connection between a first tube and a tubular element


Systems and methods for managing applications on an appliance are provided. A server is in communication with appliances. The server is also coupled to databases which include appliance information, as well as application data. A user may authenticate using the appliance. A set of permissions may be associated with the user. The server then supervises information exchanged between the appliance and the server, as well as application functionality upon the appliance, by supplementing the applications downloaded to the appliance with supplemental code, referred to hereafter as an AppGuard. The AppGuard is tailored, using information related to the appliance, to the appliance type in order to ensure proper functionality. The AppGuard is executed upon installation, and collects device information for validation. After validation, the application may be run. Additionally, management of the applications may include augmenting, deleting, disabling or authorizing the application.

The present invention relates to the management of applications on an appliance. More specifically the invention relates to controlling the use of applications on appliances such as mobile devices according to permissions set on an external server system. The appliance, in some embodiments, may be subservient to the server.
The rapid growth in the availability and deployment of mobile appliances has facilitated remote working From ultra-portable laptop computers to smart-phones, there is a need for portability of the conventional workplace for office workers and workers who must travel. Currently, there are two ways that a mobile appliance may be enabled for remote working. In the first case, applications are run remotely and the user enjoys the use of the application through a connected session. This usually involves a browser, or some application-specific equivalent, that offers the user the same user interaction and experience, within the limitations of the device, as are normally achieved when connected in an office environment at a desktop computer. A session based solution suffers from the inconvenience and technical challenge that a connection must be secured and the appliance remains connected throughout the session. In a truly mobile environment, the data connection is often difficult because of network limitations and uncertain signal quality.
The second way a mobile appliance may be enabled for remote working is for the application in use to be physically resident and enabled on the appliance (i.e., stored locally on the appliance). This solution has a strong advantage in that it permits a user to work with the application locally without the need for a sustained connection. To implement this second solution requires that the applications be downloaded to the appliance and then enabled. Applications for mobile devices may already be stored and retrieved from application repositories and delivered to mobile appliances using a wireless network. Such examples can be found with Apple's AppStore for the iPhone and the RIM Blackberry family of products.
There are significant drawbacks to locally stored applications on an appliance. For example, it has a serious disadvantage in that stored local information is not secure, and corporate intellectual property, or other sensitive information, may be compromised by its exposure. Access to sensitive information is not easily controlled, and the risks of theft damaging a company are very high.
Hence there is a need for a system to manage applications on an appliance without requiring constant connectivity, and further without compromising security of the application and/or confidential information. Such a system may manage applications by individually approving them for execution, functionally augmenting them by adding validity checking and user confirmation, and monitoring them for permitted networks and connection targets. In some embodiments, applications may be restricted from access to locally stored persistent data or the data may itself be removed.
In view of the foregoing, systems and methods for managing applications on an appliance are disclosed. The present invention provides a novel system for securely regulating information exchange on an appliance, without requiring a constant connection between the appliance and an external server.

System and methods to store, retrieve, manage, augment and monitor applications on appliances


A regenerative braking control apparatus for use with a motor driven by a D.C. power source. In response to a series of operating parameters, the control apparatus causes the motor to transition between a drive mode, a transient mode, a regulated current regenerative braking mode, and a constant PWM regenerative braking mode. In particular, the motor enters the drive mode in response to a request for an increase in speed, the motor enters the transient mode in response to a request for a decrease in speed, the motor enters the regulated current regenerative braking mode in response to a lapse of a predetermined time delay or in response to a request for a reduction in the magnitude of the previously requested decrease in speed, and the motor enters the PWM regenerative braking mode in response to a request to continue braking when the requested braking torque cannot be maintained.

Regenerative braking is the conversion of kinetic energy created by a system powered by a motor into electrical energy, and the storing of that electrical energy to power the motor.
Zapi Corporation of Italy manufactures direct current motor controllers using a regenerative braking circuit, as illustrated in FIG. 1. The essential element of the Zapi regenerative braking circuit is a single-pole, double-throw regenerative braking contactor 10. The regenerative braking contactor 10 is energized in drive mode. When energized, the regenerative braking contactor 10 allows current to flow from the positive terminal of battery 20 through armature winding 30, field winding 40, and motor drive FETs 50.
The regenerative braking contactor 10 is de-energized in braking mode. When the regenerative braking contactor is de-energized its contacts connect a top connector A1 of the armature winding 30 to the negative terminal of the battery 20. This connection enables regenerative braking.
While the Zapi circuit is somewhat effective, it may be utilized only under limited conditions. In fact, three conditions must be met in order for regenerative braking to occur: first, the motor field winding 40 must contain sufficient flux to induce an opposing current in the armature 30; second, the motor field winding 40 must be electrically connected such that the magnetic interaction of the armature 30 with the induced field generates a regenerative current (i.e., the direction contactors 42 and 44 must be reversed so the motor current flows in a direction that opposes the existing direction of motor rotation); and finally, a complete path for current flow must exist from the motor field winding 40 to the battery 20.
These conditions for operation make reversing the direction contactors 42 and 44 very difficult. For example, to switch from the forward driving direction to the reverse driving direction, the motor current must be off. Otherwise, if the direction contactors 42 and 44 are reversed while a substantial current is flowing through the motor, there is a danger the contactors will be welded in place. Moreover, even if the direction contactors 42 and 44 are successfully switched while current is flowing through the motor, the contactor switch times are generally longer than the time constant (the time required for flux dissipation) of high powered direct current motors. Thus, there will be little or no flux left in the field winding 40 after the contactors are reversed.
For regenerative braking to be safely induced using the available Zapi circuit, a secondary mechanism must be included for exciting the regenerative braking current in the armature 30. This is accomplished by using a weak magnetic field induced in the iron of the electric motor case (not shown). If a flux path is in the proper direction in relation to the magnetic field, a high rotational armature speed will cause a small current to begin to flow through the motor drive FETs 50. Once the flow of current is detected, it can be regulated through controlled pulse width modulation (PWM) at the motor drive FETs 50.
One primary disadvantage of the Zapi regenerative braking circuit is that high motor speed is required to initiate the regenerative braking current. The Zapi circuit requires a four-step process to begin regenerative braking:
1. Disengage forward contactor 42 and engage reverse contactor 44. PA0 2. Initiate plug braking by turning on the motor drive FETs 50 to "set" the flux direction in the field winding 40. PA0 3. Drop out the main contactor 10 to connect the negative terminal of the battery 20 to the top of the armature 30. PA0 4. Monitor the circuit for initiation of a regenerative braking current and signal the motor drive FETs 50 to control the regenerative breaking current.
In short, the Zapi regenerative braking circuit depends upon a weak magnetic field in the iron of the motor case to excite the armature current for regenerative braking. This eliminates the possibility of using non-ferrous metals in the motor case. Even more importantly, the armature current can only be generated in the Zapi circuit if the speed of the armature is great enough to overcome the voltage drops of the active and passive components in the circuit. This may require hundreds, or thousands of motor revolutions per minute, depending upon the motor and gearing ratios utilized, to begin regenerative braking.
There is, therefore, a need in the art for a more efficient regenerative braking apparatus and method which addresses the shortcomings of the available art. However, the applicant knows of no prior art which satisfies all of the aforementioned problems. More specifically, the following is the most relevant prior art known to the applicant.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,479,080 to Lambert is directed to an electrical braking control for DC series traction motors that initiates braking in a plug mode, transitions to regeneration mode, and returns to plug mode when regeneration braking is no longer efficient, with all switching carried out smoothly and efficiently without unduly wasting regenerative power. A series wound traction motor includes an armature winding, a field winding, a mechanical arrangement, and a battery source. A power regulating circuit is used and the field winding is arranged to be connected in either a forward or reverse direction by means of a plurality of contacts. A current shunt is connected in series with the motor and power source to supply a signal to the motor controller. Included in the circuit is a plugging diode, a free-wheeling diode, and a regenerative braking diode. Upon initiation of braking by the operator, the direction and brake logic circuit will switch from propulsion to plug braking mode. Signals from the shunt and the percent on-time controller are monitored by the regeneration control circuit and, if efficient, will switch into regenerative braking mode. When the motor speed decreases to the point that the regulator is operating at 100% duty cycle and the desired motor torque cannot be maintained, the braking operation will switch back to plug mode. While the Lambert device is somewhat effective, it has several disadvantages. One primary disadvantage is that, in the Lambert device the contactor 22 is switched from a closed position to an open position to force the transition from plug mode to regenerative braking mode. Using the contactor 22 as a switch between these modes exposes the contactor 22 to a welding risk since the contactor 22 cannot instantaneously go from the closed position to opened position. Another disadvantage in the Lambert device is its transition from regenerative braking mode to plug mode when a required motor torque cannot be maintained due to low motor rotation speed. As can readily be appreciated, this transition drains of the charge the battery stored during regenerative breaking. A further disadvantage in the Lambert device is its inability to regulate regenerative braking at high speeds.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,332,954 to Lankin is directed to a solid state electronic control for DC traction motors having a series or separate field. The control provides for regenerative braking at low motor speeds. The optimum configuration of a DC motor controller includes a plurality of MOSFET devices to connect the series wound or separately excited traction motor to the power source for propulsion or braking. During vehicle operation, a control logic circuit continuously pulls a brake sensor to determine if conditions are suitable for regenerative braking. When selected, the field circuit with the bridge arrangement of MOSFET devices can provide strong regenerative braking by supplying full field as required.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,730,151 to Florey, et al., is directed to a continuous field control of series wound motors, particularly for use in regulating electrical braking current in a direct current electric traction motor. A DC series motor with an armature and field winding is supplied power either in series or in parallel for operation in the running or braking mode. In normal, forward or reverse operation, the motor is connected in series mode with the battery supplying power to the armature connected in series with the field. Control is provided by a microprocessor controlling a chopper control in series with the motor. Field control mode, with the armature across the battery and the field in series with the chopper control, is used for maximum power in the running mode or for full control in regenerative braking mode.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,422,021 to Schwarz is directed to highly efficient recuperation of energy stored in a dynamo electric machine system using a control system that includes a controlled switch to initiate field current to start generation. The motor is controlled by a circuit including field reversing switches and a control switch. Upon braking, the field is reversed using the field switches and the controlled switch. A thyristor or transistor, is turned on, along with turn-off thyristor, to supply energy stored in capacitor to cause a field current in a winding. After the release of an impulse from the capacitor, the field current is maintained by a field diode until the generator action of the dynamo starts. A control unit will control the duty cycle of the cycling period, maintaining the current flow through the armature at an appropriate value.
Finally, U.S. Pat. No. 4,124,812 to Naito, et al., is directed to a braking control for a battery operated forklift that executes a regeneration mode, then plugging. Voltage from a battery is controlled by a chopping circuit and applied to the series circuit comprised of a motor field coil and motor armature. For braking, a regeneration contractor is switched and the armature and field are connected in parallel with one another, and in series with the chopping control across the battery for regenerative braking. After the velocity detector determines that the speed is down to a predetermined value, the braking is changed over to plugging.

Regenerative braking apparatus and method for direct current motors


The disclosure features a lipid nanoparticle (LNP) formulation comprising a plurality of LNPs and a stabilizing agent that mitigates the degradation of the LNPs or a subpopulation thereof. Lipid nanoparticles further including therapeutics and/or prophylactics such as RNA are useful in the delivery of therapeutics and/or prophylactics to mammalian cells or organs to, for example, regulate polypeptide, protein, or gene expression. Methods of manufacturing LNP formulations and screening for a stabilizing agent are also disclosed.

The effective targeted delivery of biologically active substances such as small molecule drugs, proteins, and nucleic acids represents a continuing medical challenge. In particular, the delivery of nucleic acids to cells is made difficult by the relative instability and low cell permeability of such species. Thus, there exists a need to develop methods and compositions to facilitate the delivery of therapeutics and/or prophylactics such as nucleic acids to cells.
Lipid-containing nanoparticles or lipid nanoparticles, liposomes, and lipoplexes have proven effective as transport vehicles into cells and/or intracellular compartments for biologically active substances such as small molecule drugs, proteins, and nucleic acids. Though a variety of such lipid-containing nanoparticles have been demonstrated, improvements in safety, efficacy, and specificity are still lacking.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Stabilized formulations of lipid nanoparticles


4,4'-Biphenol is prepared through debutylation of 3,3', 5,5'-tetra-tert-butyl-4,4'-biphenol in an organic solvent in the presence of an acid catalyst wherein the debutylation is carried out continuously using at least two reactors aligned in series, with a high yield and high purity on an industrial level.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a method for preparing 4,4'-biphenol. More particularly, the present invention relates to an economical method for preparing 4,4'-biphenol with high purity.
4,4'-Biphenol of the desired product to be prepared by the method of the present invention has recently been attracting a great deal of attention as a starting material for heat-resistant engineering plastics and the like. With the method of the present invention 4,4'-biphenol with enough purity for use as a raw material for these plastics can be prepared economically.
2. Description of the Background Art
4,4'-biphenol (referred to as BPL hereinafter) has been prepared by the following methods: alkali fusion of diphenyl disulfonic acid; hydrolysis of dibromodiphenyl; oxidative dimerization of 2,6-ditert-butyl phenol (referred to as 2,6-DTBP hereinafter) to 3,3',5,5'-tetra-tert-butyl biphenol (referred to as TBBPL hereinafter) and subsequent debutylation thereof; and the like. In the former two methods severe reaction conditions are required and separation of large amounts of, inorganic salts used in these reactions from the products is difficult, and therefore the oxidative dimerization of 2,6-DTBP is most preferably used to prepare BPL on an industrial level.
However, the process to produce BPL through the 2,6-DTBP route has not yet been fully economical or effective, particularly because the debutylation reaction has been proceeded in a batch process. The major problem of the debutylation reaction is the large endothermic reaction which requires large amounts of heat input to proceed with the reaction.
Consequently, the batch reactor requires a large of heat supply capacity to get high yields and quality of BPL. 0n the other hand, continuous processes using one reactor, which have never been known to give high yields with good quality, require very severe conditions, such as high temperatures, long detention time, and high concentrations of catalysts, which cause low selectivity and low quality of BPL.