The present invention generally provides methods, systems and articles of manufacture for programmatically providing a user interface for creating queries. In one embodiment, graphical user interface content which defines a graphical user interface is provided. The graphical user interface comprises (i) a region for displaying conditions of a query; and (ii) a first graphical element for initiating a process of combining two or more conditions of the query together with logic values to form a complex condition. In another embodiment, the graphical user interface further comprises a second graphical element for initiating a process of separating two or more conditions of a complex condition.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention generally relates to data processing and more particularly to user interfaces for accessing data.
2. Description of the Related Art
Databases are computerized information storage and retrieval systems. A relational database management system is a computer database management system (DBMS) that uses relational techniques for storing and retrieving data. The most prevalent type of database is the relational database, a tabular database in which data is defined so that it can be reorganized and accessed in a number of different ways.
Regardless of the particular architecture, in a DBMS, a requesting entity (e.g., an application or the operating system) demands access to a specified database by issuing a database access request. Such requests may include, for instance, simple catalog lookup requests or transactions and combinations of transactions that operate to read, change and add specified records in the database. These requests are made using high-level query languages such as the Structured Query Language (SQL). Illustratively, SQL is used to make interactive queries for getting information from and updating a database such as International Business Machines' (IBM) DB2, Microsoft's SQL Server, and database products from Oracle, Sybase, and Computer Associates. The term "query" denominates a set of commands for retrieving data from a stored database. Queries take the form of a command language that lets programmers and programs select, insert, update, find out the location of data, and so forth.
Often, the queries take the form of hierarchical conditions. As defined herein, a simple condition is a comparison operation (e.g., >, <, =). An illustrative simple condition is (employeeName='Rich'). One or more simple conditions may then be grouped together by Boolean logic operators to produce complex (or grouped) conditions. An example of a complex condition is ((employeeName='Rich') OR (employeeName='John')). Further, simple conditions and complex conditions may be connected by Boolean logic operators to produce a hierarchy of conditions. The representation of hierarchical conditions (including complex/grouped conditions) in a visual layout where users can intuitively manipulate the groups presents substantial difficulties. The problem is further complicated when the user interface to the underlying data must be a graphical user interface (GUI), such as a web browser, because of the limited GUI elements that are available to work with.
To understand the unique difficulties presented by hierarchical conditions consider the following illustrations.
Data Hierarchy Illustration
<employee><firstName>Rich</firstName><lastName>Dettinger</lastName></employee>Condition Hierarchy Illustration
<AND><OR><employeeName = 'Rich'><employeeName = 'John'><employeeHire before 01/01/2000>The first illustration (Data Hierarchy Illustration) is an XML data document fragment which has an obvious meaning. Specifically, the firstName and the lastName belong to the employee. It is therefore feasible to show only <employee> without loss of meaning because users have a fundamental understanding of the whole structure.
In contrast, the hierarchy of conditions illustrated above (Condition Hierarchy Illustration) is simply unrelated groupings. When the data represents conditions, a user interface cannot selectively not show subconditions because the user loses all context. This is because the hierarchy of conditions is arbitrary. For example, the above illustrated condition hierarchy represents the following relational expression: ((employeeName='Rich') OR (employeeName='John')) AND (employeeHire before 01/01/200). However, there is no reason that a user may not want the following query instead: (employeeName='Rich') OR ((employeeName='John') AND (employeeHire before 01/01/200)). This latter expression is considerably different than the first, but equally valid.
Accordingly, the ability to represent hierarchical conditions (including complex/grouped conditions) in a visual layout where users can intuitively manipulate the groups it critical to being able to generate valid mathematical operations, relational database queries, etc.
Therefore, there is a need for a method and system for visually representing hierarchical conditions capable of being manipulated by users.

Graphical user interface for building queries with hierarchical conditions

International Business Machines Corporation


When an upper layer of a device is going to initiate an exchange of two or more messages with a corresponding upper layer of another device, the initiating device will provide from its upper layer to a lower layer such as a MAC layer an indication of how many messages the devices will be exchanging. In response to that indication, the lower layer of the initiating device will then cause the lower layer of the other device to forgo checking for and confirming availability of the channel for transmission of the next message of the exchange from the other device to the initiating device. Further, the lower layer of the initiating device may also responsively forgo for and confirming availability of the channel for a subsequent message of the exchange.

Unless otherwise indicated herein, the description provided in this section is not itself prior art to the claims and is not admitted to be prior art by inclusion in this section.
In order for two wireless devices to engage in useful communication with each other over a wireless channel, each device could implement a protocol stack defining a sequence of logical processing layers. Under the Internet protocol suite, for instance, the protocol stack may range, top down, from an application layer to a transport layer, to a network layer, and to a data-link layer, to a physical layer. Each device may be configured to process data sequentially through the layers of such a stack, with the transmitting device processing data downward through the stack and taking specific action at each layer (e.g., adding a layer-specific header), and with the receiving device then processing data upward through the stack and taking layer-specific action at each layer (e.g., stripping the headers added by the transmitting device).
With this arrangement, the devices can communicate with each other at corresponding layers of their respective protocol stacks, with each lower layer of their protocol stacks operating on the communication along the way. In particular, a layer of one device could generate a communication to the corresponding layer of the other device, and the communication could pass down through the protocol stack of the first device, over the physical wireless channel, and up through the protocol stack of the other device to the destination corresponding layer.
For example, an application-layer program running on a first device could communicate with a corresponding application-layer program running on a second device. At the first device, for instance, the application layer could pass program data down to a transport-layer, the transport layer could add a transport-layer header (e.g., specifying originating and destination transport port numbers) and pass the result down to the network layer, the network layer could add a network-layer header (e.g., specifying originating and destination Internet Protocol (IP) addresses) and pass the result down to the data-link layer, the data-link layer could add a data-link-layer header (e.g. specifying originating and destination Media Access Control (MAC) addresses) and pass the result down to the physical layer, and the physical layer could process the result for physical transmission on the shared wireless channel and engage in physical wireless-channel transmission to the second device.
At the second device, the physical layer could then receive and process the physical wireless-channel transmission and pass the result up to the data-link layer, the data-link layer could strip the added data-link-layer header and pass the result up to the network layer, the network layer could strip the added network-layer header and pass the result up to the transport layer, and the transport layer could strip the added transport-layer header and pass the data up to the appropriate program at the application layer for handling.
As another example, the transport layer of a first device could communicate with a corresponding transport layer of a second device, in order to set up a transport layer "socket" between the two devices or to carry out other transport layer functions. At the first device, for instance, the transport layer could pass a transport-layer data message to the network layer, the network layer could add a network-layer header and pass the result to the data-link layer, the data-link layer could then add a data-link-layer header and pass the result to the physical layer, and the physical layer could process the result for transmission on the shared wireless channel, and engage in physical wireless-channel transmission to the to the second device. At the second device, the physical layer could then receive and process the physical transmission, the data-link layer could strip the added link-layer header, and the network layer could strip the added network-layer header and provide the underlying data message to the transport layer for handling.
Numerous other examples of inter-device communication using their protocol stacks are possible as well. Further, it should be understood that variations from the examples above are possible. For instance, the layers noted above could carry out operations in addition to or instead of those noted, and other layers could be implemented in addition to or instead of those noted.
When a device is going to transmit data to another device via a shared wireless channel (i.e., a channel that could be used by others as well), the transmitting device may further implement at a lower layer of its protocol stack, such as at a data-link layer (e.g., a MAC layer) or other lower layer, a process to check for and confirm availability of the channel as a condition for engaging in the transmission. To check for and confirm availability of the channel, for instance, the data-link layer could apply a carrier sense multiple access with collision avoidance (CSMA/CA) process, in which the transmitting device listens to the channel (e.g., monitors energy level on the channel) for a certain time interval to determine whether another device is transmitting on the channel, and the data-link layer concludes that the channel is available only if the transmitting device thus detects an absence of any such other transmission on the channel.
In addition, as part of the checking for and confirming availability of the channel, the data-link layer could engage in control signaling with a corresponding data-link layer of the receiving device to help ensure that the channel will be available for use by both the transmitting device and the receiving device for an expected duration for the transmission (including a duration of the transmission and a duration of an acknowledgment, and a duration of one or more associated interframe intervals). For instance, after determining that the channel is idle, the data-link layer of the transmitting device could send to the data-link layer of the receiving device a Ready-to-Send (RTS) signal that indicates the expected duration, and if the data-link layer of the receiving device receives that RTS signal, the data-link layer of the receiving device could then respond with a Clear-to-Send (CTS) signal that also indicates the expected duration or a variation of that duration. The data-link layer of the transmitting device could thus conclude that the channel will be available only if the link layer of the transmitting device receives the CTS signal from the receiving device.
This added RTS/CTS control signaling also has an added benefit of possibly helping to prevent neighboring devices from transmitting on the channel during the indicated duration, thus additionally confirming that the channel will be available for use for the intended transmission. In particular, if a neighboring device in range of the transmitting device is checking to see if the channel is available and detects the RTS signal, the neighboring device could responsively set itself to avoid use of the channel for the duration indicated in the RTS signal. Likewise, if a neighboring device in range of the receiving device is checking to see if the channel is available and detects the CTS signal, the neighboring node could responsively set itself to avoid use of the channel for the duration indicated in the CTS signal.

Method and system for managing a multi-message exchange over a wireless channel


Disclosed is a process for producing a laminate suited for use in producing disposable absorbent products comprising a nonwoven web formed from randomly dispersed fibers bonded with a crosslinked vinyl acetate/ethylene adhesive and a particulate polymeric absorbent entrapped within the laminate in fixed location by means of adhesively bonding the nonwoven web to itself or to another substrate, the improvement which comprises utilizing a nonwoven web incorporating an acrylic or vinyl acetate/ethylene adhesive having the following characteristics, and further, said nonwoven web adhesively bonded to itself or to another substrate through the crosslinked acrylic or crosslinked vinyl acetate/ethylene adhesive.

Not applicable.
Over the past two decades or so, a variety of disposable absorbent products have been widely marketed for use as disposable baby and adult diapers, underpads, hospital bed pads, feminine napkins, and so forth. These products largely consist of laminates of one or more layers of tissue-like material incorporating a layer of liquid absorbing agent. Typically, these laminates are constructed of a nonwoven cover sheet, an absorbent center section and a water impermeable backing sheet to entrain moisture within the disposable absorbent product.
In recent years, a variety of hydrocolloidal polymers, often referred to as superabsorbents, have been incorporated into these laminates for disposable absorbent products. Prior to the incorporation of superabsorbents, it was common to incorporate tissue-like cellulose and other bulky, water absorbing materials to absorb body fluids. Superabsorbents have been used to replace at least a portion of the cellulosic materials primarily because these polymeric components have an ability to absorb larger quantities of liquids, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the disposable product. Another factor leading to their use is their ability to retain moisture under pressure as might be experienced when a child sits on the absorbent medium. Cellulose, waddings and fluff pulp tend to fail under those types of pressure conditions.
The introduction of superabsorbents into the disposable absorbent product market has not been without problems. The superabsorbents are dusty thus making handling and storage difficult and they tend to shift within the finished product. Shifting of the superabsorbent presents two problems, first the superabsorbent may shift from the point where it is most needed in the product and second, shifting allows the superabsorbents to agglomerate within the product. When the superabsorbents agglomerate, they display a tendency to generate a gelatinous barrier film when wet which detracts from their ability to absorb fluids. To overcome shifting of the superabsorbents within these laminates for disposable absorbent soft goods, a variety of methods have been developed to retain the superabsorbents in fixed location within the laminates. Typically, these methods of retaining the superabsorbents within a fixed position within the laminates (typically the fixed locations have been in the shape of squares, rectangles, and triangles) have involved the application of a variety of adhesives, the use of hot melts, specialty fibers, or superabsorbents which are moisture activated, to anchor the superabsorbent between fibrous facing sheets.
The following patents are representative of various techniques for preparing a variety of disposable absorbent soft goods and fixing superabsorbents and hydro-colloidal polymers within the disposable product.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,102,340 discloses an absorbent article, such as a diaper or sanitary napkin, comprised of a facing sheet, an absorbent pad means and a moisture-impervious backing sheet. The absorbent pad comprises a fibrous structure having an intermediate, densified layer and a layer of highly porous, loosely compacted bats on each side of the densified layer, the bat incorporating particulate water insoluble and water swellable polymeric absorbents. The facing sheet is comprised of a cellulosic material incorporating a self-crosslinking acrylic emulsion bonding agent to supply strength to the cellulosic substrate such that when the disposable product is wet it retains dimensional stability. In practice, the absorbent pad is disposed between the moisture impervious backing, and the facing sheet and then bonded to the moisture-impervious backing sheet by means of adhesive beads.
European 0 202 472 discloses non-laminated, dry formed absorbent products formed by an air-laying technique. More particularly, the absorbent products are formed by forming in dry condition, a sheet or web from matrix fibers consisting of cellulose or mixture of cellulosic and synthetic fibers. Distributed among the matrix fibers is a superabsorbent material and a heat-activated binder such as polyvinyl acetate, vinyl acetate ethylene and vinyl chloride, etc., which, upon the application of heat, thermally sets to bind the matrix fibers and liquid absorbing material into a coherent web.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,260,443 discloses a process for producing disposable absorbent goods which comprises forming a laminated sheet composed of two or more layers of tissue having a water-absorbing polymer, e.g., a superabsorbent, fixed in place between the layers. When the tissue sheets are passed through an embossing roll, a, small amount of water is applied to all, or a percentage of the embossed area, which causes the superabsorbent to become tacky and act as an adhesive at these locations thereby securing the tissue sheets together. After the resulting laminate has passed through the embossing roll, the laminating sheet is dried.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,575,749 discloses a method for making fibrous sheets or web by incorporating a binder such as starch or starch derivative, acrylic or butadiene/styrene emulsions, etc. into the fibrous material. The fiber layer to which the binder has been applied is made plastic by applying moisture. During an embossing operation where the fibers are brought into intimate contact with each other followed by drying of the product, the partly plasticized binder is cured, thereby effecting a strong bond.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,273,596 discloses a method for producing disposable absorbent pads employing a multi-layer, nonwoven fabric for use as a top sheet. The multi-layer, fabric is comprised of a continuous first layer of about 75% hydrophobic thermoplastic fibers and a second layer comprised of a blend of hydrophobic and hydrophilic fibers. The layers are secured by bonds which are formed by melt-fusing portions of the hydrophobic thermoplastic fiber.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,415,717 discloses an apparatus for depositing particles on a moving web of materials. In the process, a web is conveyed by means of a belt and particulate material, e.g., a superabsorbent, is deposited upon the web. As the web is conveyed along the belt, it is brought into contact with a second web and the second web is caused to overlap the particulate particles. The first and second webs then are compressed beneath rollers and the particles caused to be locked into a fixed position through the use of binder coatings or spray adhesives.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,370,764 discloses a process for producing film-laminated material employing a nonwoven web formed by a variety of processes such as spun bonding, air laying, wet laying, dry laying, etc. The laminates incorporate a moisture-absorbing medium and, when brought into contact with another web, are embossed to form spaced apart bonding regions. Bonding is effected via thermal means, e.g., heated rollers and the like.
This invention relates to an improvement in a process for producing a laminate for use in preparing disposable absorbent products. Such laminates are comprised of a nonwoven fibrous web bonded by means of a polymeric resin, particularly a crosslinkable polymeric resin, particulate, polymeric absorbent (superabsorbent) in fixed position within the laminate. The improvement resides in utilizing a nonwoven web bonded with a slightly pressure sensitive vinyl acetate/ethylene polymer having a Tg of xe2x88x9222.0 to xc2x14xc2x0 C. and using the adhesiveness afforded within the nonwoven web itself for anchoring the superabsorbents within a fixed position at room temperatures, e.g., from 20 to 30xc2x0 C. Anchoring is effected by applying localized pressure to the nonwoven web. In another embodiment the Tg can be from xe2x88x9222 to +18xc2x0 C. and anchoring can be effected by applying pressure to the nonwoven web and minimal heat to effect an adhesive temperature below about 100xc2x0 C., preferably from 60 to 100xc2x0 C., and thus in the absence of the substantial heat required for melting thermal fusible thermoplastic fibers, and in the absence of applied moisture. Additionally, the adhesion is effected in the absence of applied moisture. Substrates essentially devoid of thermofusible fibers which require temperatures higher than 105xc2x0 C. to melt and effect adhesion, can be used to form the laminates.
The nonwoven web when utilized in the manufacture of laminates for disposable absorbent products incorporating superabsorbents within fixed locations within the laminate product allows for the following advantages:
an ability to effect excellent adhesion with the application of heat and pressure at temperatures below the fusion temperature of conventional themobondable plastics and polymeric olefins employed in personal care products, e.g., below a temperature of about 105xc2x0 C.;
an ability to effect sufficient adhesion between the nonwoven web and another substrate, including itself, without additional adhesive or the addition of water and yet retain sufficient strength;
an ability to simplify the process for producing a laminate used in producing disposable absorbent products by eliminating process steps associated with the application of a moisture activated adhesive and/or the elimination of the step of applying water;
an ability to wind the laminates into large rolls and then unwind such laminates without tearing or deforming due to adhesion to itself;
an ability to reduce energy costs associated with the manufacture of laminates for disposable products by virtue of the elimination of costs associated with the use of heated (high temperature) rollers and/or dryers to melt fibers and evaporate water;
an ability to eliminate the use of specialty fusible bicomponent fibers and xe2x80x9chot meltxe2x80x9d adhesives in the nonwoven web necessary for effecting adhesion of substrates to define regions therein and fix the location of superabsorbents; and,
an ability to form embossed products which retain embossed markings without employing adhesives;
Not applicable.
The nonwoven web incorporating the polymeric resin performs multiple functions in the process for making laminates for disposable goods and these primarily include supplying wet strength to the nonwoven web and supplying sufficient pressure sensitive adhesion to permit the nonwoven web to adhere to itself or to polymeric films and substrates employed in the manufacture of laminates for use in preparing disposable absorbent products. The use of these unique nonwoven webs permits one to alter the way such laminates are made in that one may eliminate some process steps and/or reduce energy requirements associated with the manufacture of the laminate products.
The nonwoven web is key to producing the laminates for disposable absorbent products contemplated herein. To form the laminate containing the superabsorbent within fixed location the nonwoven web should have sufficient pressure sensitive adhesive characteristics provided by the binder to provide a peel strength ranging from a low of about 50 g/5 cm to about 400 g/5 cm width and yet have a wet strength to provide a wet strength of at least 50 g/5 cm width. Preferably, the peel strength is within a range of 60 to 150 g/5 cm width and, if wet strength is a desired feature in the application, then the wet strength is at least 300 g/5 cm and typically at least 1000 g/5 cm width. When the nonwoven web has a peel strength within this range, the nonwoven web can be forced to adhere to itself under application of localized pressure (slightly better with the application of minimal heat) but at the same time be xe2x80x9cdelaminated from itself when wound into a large roll. The wet strength requirement is necessary to prevent disintegration under wet conditions. In some personal care applications that wet strength is not required. This wet strength is imparted through the crosslinkable functionality in the binder impregnated in the nonwoven webs. Too much crosslinking function tends to destroy the pressure sensitive characteristics of the nonwoven web thus rendering it unsuited for the process for preparing the laminate.
The nonwoven webs comprise a structure of fibers or filaments interlayed random fashion bonded together with a preferably, crosslinkable vinyl acetate/ethylene adhesive. A variety of processes have been used to prepare nonwoven webs and can be used in the preparation of the nonwoven webs described herein. These methods include air laying or wet laying, where the fibers are deposited upon a belt and a self-crosslinking vinyl acetate/ethylene adhesive sprayed over the surface of the fibers as it is passed along the belt. The fibers typically comprise wood pulp or a mixture of synthetic melt-fusible fibers, including rayon or other polymeric fibers. The nonwoven web is passed over a suction box which tends to pull the adhesive emulsion through the fibers to facilitate penetration and coating thereof. Often, the sheet is turned and an adhesive applied to the opposite surface of the fibrous bat while a suction is applied. The fibrous bat then is compressed between rollers and conveyed to a heated oven where the moisture is driven off and the adhesive cured. The polymer typically is incorporated in an amount to provide from 5 to 30%, preferably 10-25% by weight of the nonwoven web on a dry weight basis.
Crosslinkable acrylic and vinyl acetate/ethylene emulsions have been used heretofore in the preparation of nonwoven fabrics and have served to impart wet strength to disposable adsorbent products in conventional manner. In contrast to conventional prior art nonwoven webs, the acrylic or vinyl acetate/ethylene emulsion, for example, used for producing the nonwoven web is an acrylic emulsion polymer or a vinyl acetate/ethylene copolymer binder emulsion should have a viscosity in the range of 25 to 1000 cps @ 52% solids at 25xc2x0 C. so that it may be appropriately sprayed onto the fibers and caused to penetrate and coat the fibers for enhanced adhesion. The vinyl acetate/ethylene copolymer is further characterized in that it has a vinyl acetate content of from 40 to 85 wt %, an ethylene concentration of from 15 to 60 wt. %, and a crosslinking monomer functionality, e.g., N-methylolacrylamide or its low formaldehyde derivative, i.e., the N-methylolacrylamide/acrylamide derivative in a 50/50 molar ratio. The Tg is from xe2x88x9226 to xe2x88x9218xc2x0 C. if adhesion is effected at room temperature (20-30xc2x0 C). If minimal heat and lower roll pressures are employed, the Tg can be from a higher Tg polymer may be employed. Another key to the preferred vinyl acetate/ethylene/crosslinkable polymer emulsion is that it is prepared by emulsion polymerization in the presence of a low molecular weight polyvinyl alcohol having a degree of hydrolysis of from about 80 to 84% and a degree of polymerization of from 200 to 300. This viscosity range permits ease of application by spraying. Although stabilizing surfactants can be employed in the emulsion polymerization processes in amounts up to 10% by weight of the nonionic stabilizer, it is preferred, no surfactant is employed as surfactants may affect the wet strength of the web.
Acrylic emulsions stabilized with polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) can be used for forming the laminates such as in the C-fold application. This polymer should contain 2-10 wt % poly(vinyl) alcohol based upon the weight of the monomers and with the alcohol having a hydrolysis value of from 96 to 98.8% and the degree of polymerization is the same as that used in forming the vinyl acetate/ethylene emulsions. The monomers can be such acrylates or methacrylates as butyl acrylate, 2-ethylhexyl acrylate, ethyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate, butyl methacrylate, etc. as known in the art and balanced to give a Tg broadly between xe2x88x9226 and +18xc2x0 C., if minimal heat is employed and xe2x88x9222 to xe2x88x9218 if adhesion is effected at room temperature.
The monomers for providing crosslinking functionality in either the acrylic or the vinyl acetate/ethylene polymers include N-methylolacrylamide, acrylamide, acrylamidobutyraldehyde dimethyl acetal, acrylamidobutyraldehyde diethyl acetal, acrylamidoglycolic acid, methyl acrylamidoglycolate, methyl acrylamidoglycolate methyl ether, acrylamidoglycolic acid methyl ester, iso-butyl methylol acrylamide or any other crosslinking monomer known in the art. The concentration of functional monomer in the polymer typically ranges from 0.5-6% by weight of the polymer, preferably 1-4%. The level may need to be adjusted within that range to accommodate variations in Tg in order to optimize pressure sensitive adhesive properties.
The fiber component which form the nonwoven substrate base generally is comprised of cellulosic tissue, i.e., wood pulp having a basis weight from about 30 g/m2 to 300 g/m2, preferably 40 to 120 g/m2. The wood pulp can be combined or bonded with other materials to form laminates, such as nonwoven-tissue, nonwoven-plastic (polyethylene or polypropylene) nonwoven-cellulosic, etc.
One key is that through the use of these nonwoven fibrous webs bonded with the unique vinyl acetate/ethylene polymers, pressure alone is sufficient to cause the nonwoven web or fabric to adhere to another substrate, typically itself, to provide adhesive bonds or adhesive lines which then have sufficient strength to maintain dry particulate, superabsorbent powders and cellulosic pulp within defined regions within the laminate. Another key is that under mild application of heat, i.e., temperatures far below those required for effecting adhesion via thermofusible bicomponent fibers, may be employed for higher Tg polymers. Temperatures required for effecting adhesion in non woven webs incorporating essentially no thermofusible fibers component range from 60 to 100xc2x0 C. Conventional temperatures required for effecting bonding of thermofusible bicomponent fibers range from about 105xc2x0 C. and above. Elevation of temperature in the web to enhance adhesion is best achieved by use of a heat sealing bar heated to a temperature of not greater than about 250xc2x0 C. for a time ranging up to a few seconds or through ultrasonic bonding techniques.
The liquid-absorbing agents which can be utilized in forming the disposable absorbent products include the common particulate water-absorbing polymeric absorbents. A host of superabsorbent materials are widely known in the art and can be employed here; representative examples are given in U.S. Pat. No. 4,960,477 and are incorporated by reference. Typically these are crosslinked polyacrylic acids and its salt, polysaccharides, starch, regenerated cellulose and derivatives thereof. Crosslinked polyacrylamides, crosslinked sulfonated polystyrenes, crosslinked poly(alkylene oxides) and alkyl-substituted phenyl ether, and others as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,102,340 can also be employed and are incorporated by reference.
In accordance with one embodiment of the process, a high-capacity liquid absorbing laminate suitable for the fabrication of disposable absorbent soft goods is prepared by applying a metered amount of a dry, hydrophilic, polymeric absorbing agent to a substrate tissue or other material commonly used in the preparation of such liquid-absorbing laminates, enclosing the polymeric absorbing agent within the substrate and introducing the combined web into an embossing nip, calendar roll or caterpillar tread, (pressure roller) for providing indentations and defined regions in the laminate. One common method of forming the laminate is to deposit the particulate polymeric absorbents onto a moving, nonwoven web and then once the particulate polymeric absorbent is deposited on the web, another substrate, e.g., another nonwoven web is placed over the particulate polymeric absorbent and then the two substrates bonded together. When at least one of the nonwoven webs has the vinyl acetate/ethylene self crosslinking adhesive described herein, bonding points or lines can be effected through the localized pressure supplied by the pressure roller.
Another embodiment for producing absorbent particles is referred to as the C-fold process. In the C or e-fold process, a nonwoven web is carried upon a belt and the liquid-absorbing polymeric materials, e.g., the superabsorbents, powder or fiber or cellulose pulp, added generally toward the middle portion of the web as it proceeds along the belt. The side portions of the nonwoven web then are folded inwardly toward the center or longitudinal axis of the web in overlapping manner and then passed under the pressure roller. Again, because of the unique acrylic and vinyl acetate/ethylene binders employed in the bonding of the nonwoven web, pressure of the pressure roller alone which is used to provide indentations within the now-folded web causes the nonwoven web to adhesively adhere to its surface and provide bonding points or lines. Accordingly, the liquid-absorbing polymeric material or cellulosic pulp is fixed within the folds of the nonwoven web. The resulting laminate then can be incorporated into a final product by, converters (down stream manufacturers) wherein the laminate comprising the nonwoven web containing the polymeric superabsorbent is combined with other components to generate a disposable product, such as a disposable diaper, etc.
Adhesion of the nonwoven web to itself or another substrate is effected by means of pressure applied to the nonwoven web via embossing nips or ultrasonic bonding techniques. These pressure rollers e.g., nip rolls, as they are sometimes called, are rollers having a tooth-like surface which form indentations in the nonwoven web as the web passes under the pressure roller. When using the nonwoven webs described herein, at rolling nip pressures of from about 10 to in excess of 100,000 lbs/in2, preferably within 50 to 50,000 lbs/in2, the web incorporating the acrylic, vinyl acetate/ethylene or crosslinkable acrylic or vinyl acetate/ethylene adhesive bonds between the surfaces of the web, thereby defining regions within the web and thus fixing the location of the hydrophilic polymeric absorbing materials within the laminate formed from the web. Lower pressures may be used if some heat is employed. Also, the nonwoven web allows for the retention of embossed and decorative surfaces due to the reduced hysteresis of the self crosslinking vinyl acetate/ethylene adhesive. Recall that earlier processes required the application of an additional adhesive, the addition of water to tackify the polymeric absorbents or adhesives or excess heat to effect adhesion of the nonwoven web through the melt fusion of thermoplastic polymeric fibers and or hot melt adhesives.
The following examples are provided to illustrate various embodiments of the invention and are not intended to restrict the scope thereof.


Methods and apparatus for processing labels is described. An exemplary method includes allocating labels at a network device in accordance with a set of one or more ranges, and reflecting, in the set of ranges, labels allocated for label switching with peers of the network device. According to an embodiment, the labels and the set of ranges are within a sub-space of a logically partitioned label space, the sub-space being designated to a client.

1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to the field of communication. More specifically, the invention relates to communication networks.
2. Background of the Invention
The multi-protocol label switching (MPLS) protocol may be categorized as a network layer protocol of the Open Standards Institute (OSI) reference model. MPLS provides a method for generically tunneling data through networks with label switched paths (LSPs). Traffic travels along an LSP with label stacks.
FIG. 1 (Prior Art) is a diagram of a label stack entry according to multi-protocol label switching (MPLS). A label stack entry 100 is a 32-bit value that includes the following fields: a label identifier field 101, a stack bit field 103, an experimental field 105, and a time to live field (TTL)107. The label identifier field 101 includes a 20-bit label identifier for a label switched path (LSP). The stack bit field 103 includes a single bit to indicate whether the label stack entry 100 is the last label stack entry of a packet. The experimental field 105 includes 3 bits reserved for experimental purposes. The time to live field 107 includes 8 bits to indicate the number of hops a label stack entry should exist.
Typically, a client (e.g., a signaling protocol module) requests a label identifier. A centralized process allocates a label identifier from a label space by traversing an array of label identifiers previously allocated from the label space. Once the allocated label identifiers are determined, a free label identifier is allocated. Traversing such an array of previously allocated labels is inefficient. As the number of allocated labels increases, label allocation performance deteriorates. In addition, allocating labels from a centralized array of label identifiers for a label space, prevents continued forwarding of packets along an LSP of a signaling protocol module that has restarted.

Method and apparatus for processing labels


A tampon applicator member can be made from a roll of sheet-like material. A flowable material is applied to one surface of the sheet-like material and is transformed into a solid polymeric layer. The coated material is separated into a plurality of applicator blanks. A first surface of each blank, corresponding to the first surface of the individual sheet-like web, has an uncoated portion adjacent a first side edge, parallel to the longitudinal axis, and a coated portion. An adhesive is applied to the uncoated portion of the first surface of a blank, and the blank is rolled to form a tubular member having a longitudinal seam. The seam has a first edge of the inner surface of the structural member superposed over and adhered to an uncoated opposite edge of the outer surface of the structural member.

Tampon applicators are typically fabricated from either cardboard or plastic materials, with both capable of having laminates or coatings thereon. Plastic applicators are generally associated with easy and comfortable insertion into the body, especially on light flow days. However, the currently marketed plastic products are constructed from polyolefins, and these materials are not considered flushable or degradable. Thus, they are not generally considered to be safe for the environment. There has been considerable research performed on water-dispersible and degradable polymers to eliminate these deficiencies, but many of the approaches compromise the properties that make plastic applicators attractive to consumers, such as perceived surface smoothness. The degradable materials can also be significantly more expensive than traditional polyolefins, making them uneconomical. Herring, U.S. Pat. No. 5,002,526 discloses a water-soluble plastic applicator made from polyvinyl alcohol based compositions. Another approach using water-dispersible polyesters to improve flushability of applicators is disclosed in Keck, U.S. Pat. No. 5,389,068.
Conversely, cardboard applicators are generally considered to be more environmentally friendly and more easily and discreetly disposable, because they are generally flushable in standard toilets. However, some consumers do not believe that cardboard applicators are as easy and comfortable to insert as plastic applicators, due to the differences in their respective surfaces.
In an effort to provide the consumer with the attractive properties of both applicator types, products have been designed and marketed that contain thin polymeric films laminated to cardboard substrates. An example of this approach is disclosed in Campion et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,346,468. This reference also describes spirally wound tubes. Other tampon applicators are formed of convolutely wound tubes as described in Whitehead, U.S. Pat. No. 4,508,531.
A third known method of fabricating a cardboard tube, is disclosed in Hinzmann, U.S. Pat. No. 4,755,164. This patent disclosed forming a cylindrical tube from a rectangular sheet of pre-cut material. The method requires overlapping a portion of the two longitudinal edges of the rectangular sheet, to form a longitudinal seam. While this fabrication method is useful in cardboard or paperboard applicators, it is more difficult to employ this method to form applicators having an outer layer of plastic. This is because the longitudinal seam is likely to be weaker if the plastic layer is present in the seam area. Thus, the seam adhesive would not be able to penetrate the cardboard structure by both mechanical and chemical bonding, in comparison to a simple cardboard material. Thus, the seam area should be free of the plastic layer to form as strong a seam as possible. This strength is required, because tampons contained within these applicators may be radially-expanding tampons that may exert a significant "hoop stress" on the seam prior to the expulsion of the tampon out of the applicator. If the hoop stress overcomes the seam bond strength, then the seam can open up and cause discomfort during insertion, or alternatively be unusable.
Therefore, what is needed is a method of forming an economical applicator for use with tampons that has a strong, longitudinal seam and a pleasingly smooth polymeric outer surface.

Method of making a coated tampon applicator


A multi-purpose cane includes a shaft portion that can be adjusted to different lengths, and an electrical circuit that is used to activate a light generating element and/or an alarm or communicating unit. The electrical circuit includes a manual switch mounted on a handle portion of the cane. A rechargeable battery unit is located in the handle portion, and a second light unit can be mounted on a tip of the cane so the can be used to direct light longitudinally of the shaft portion. The other light generating unit can be moved to direct light at various angles with respect to the shaft portion.

Many people, especially elderly people, use some form of walking assistance to move about. A cane is the most common element used. Many of these people must move about at night and under a variety of conditions. For example, a person may use a cane at night while carrying other items. This person may also require constant monitoring due to medical conditions or the like. This additional requirement may add further equipment to the items that must be carried by the person. Such a situation may require the person to carry so many items with them that moving about is too much trouble and is simply foregone.
Therefore, there is a need for a cane that can be used at night. Specifically, there is a need for a cane that has a light generating system thereon.
However, each cane may be used in a variety of situations. Therefore, a single light generating means may not be suitable for all situations. For example, when a cane is required for actual step-by-step assistance in the dark, a light should be directed forward at about 45.degree. with respect to the ground; a light fixed straight forward is virtually useless. When the cane is carried as a "walking stick," to have in hand if needed, the light should be directed along the longitudinal centerline of the cane so it can be directed straight down parallel to the cane if necessary, so the swinging cane becomes a regular flashlight being directed ahead and down as the cane is swung. If it is rotated through approximately 350.degree., from forward down and around to the rear, it can serve the above purposes and, in addition, be used to attract attention when walking in a roadway at night, either with or against traffic flow.
Therefore, there is a need for a cane having a light generating means thereon that can be adjusted to suit any particular situation.
Furthermore, many people have need for canes of a length that is different from other canes. This situation is caused by difference in walking styles, walking situations and even different heights. However, present canes are all generally manufactured to a fairly standard length. Therefore, some people actually need several canes, and some situations, such as nursing homes, there may be canes provided for general use. However, these general use canes may not be suitable for all uses due to the above-mentioned differences in situations. To accommodate such variations in requirements, many different canes should be available. However, this can be inefficient and expensive.
Therefore, there is a need for a cane that can be used in a variety of situations and can satisfy a variety of different requirements.
Still further, some people who use a cane may need assistance for one reason or another. Therefore, these people often carry special communicating and alarm means with them at all times. However, such means may not be easily accessible when needed and may also be cumbersome to carry, especially if the person is also using a cane.
Therefore, there is a further need for a cane which can be easily used by someone who also has other items to carry, such as communicating or alarm equipment.


A display panel including a translucent carrier element that has an inner side, an outer side, and a display area is provided. At least one display element is arranged within the display area, the display element being formed by geometric structures realized as protrusions and/or depressions on both of the inner side and the outer side of the translucent carrier element. The display panel can be used in an information display that in particular comprises at least a light emitting element for backlighting the display element. The information display can be used in an appliance such as an electric toothbrush, wherein the protrusions and/or depressions integrally formed with the translucent carrier element.

In electronic and electromechanical handheld appliances, which can be manually handled, light emitting elements are provided in the interior thereof, in particular in the form of LEDs, through which specific switching and operating states of the appliance are visualized to a user. These light emitting elements are typically arranged in the interior of the housing so that corresponding lighted dots can be generated that are usually associated to or with an explanatory print on the outside of the housing (for example, "Charge Status" could be printed onto the housing and the lighted dot could change between a green color and a red color).
A backlit display panel is known from DE 20 2008 008 101, which comprises a light-transparent main body, an outer light-transparent cover layer and an inner light-opaque cover layer being provided on this main body. The inner light-opaque cover layer is locally provided with a pictogram mask. With corresponding backlighting of the main body, the lighted image generated by the pictogram mask is visible through the main body and the outer cover layer.

Display panel and manufacturing a translucent carrier element of the display panel


The system bus in a computer system includes a number of slots for individual expansion cards. Generally, input/output and memory operations to those expansion cards enable all the cards when one addressing range is used, but only enable one of the cards when another addressing range is used. According to the invention, any particular card can be disabled, or any combination of cards can be disabled, no matter which address range is used for the input/output or memory operation. This allows each card to be individually checked at start up to determine its I/O address and memory range without the possibility of another card responding, even if that other card is configured to respond to the same addresses.

1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to computer busing systems, and more particularly to a method of and apparatus for individually disabling specific slots independent of the address asserted on the system bus.
2. Description of the Related Art
The microcomputer industry has experienced tremendous growth over the last twenty years. From the days of its infancy when only a few interested "hackers" could fathom its quirks and nuances, the microcomputer has now evolved into a powerful business and personal tool found on virtually every office desk and in virtually every home.
The microcomputer's road to success has not been without its problems, however. While advances occur at an astounding pace, those advances must accommodate the standards found in the then existing base of microcomputer systems. This is known as upwards compatibility. To maintain such compatibility, the industry has seen one microcomputer standard laid on top of another, with a resulting hodgepodge of standards-within-standards that designers must maintain to allow existing users to upgrade their equipment. These multiple standards gradually shed their oldest layers, replacing them with new layers reflecting the state-of-the-art. In this way, only the very oldest microcomputer systems become obsolete.
One early idea to enhance microcomputer systems was the addition of hardware enhancing cards. These cards were generally plugged into a system bus to provide added functionality, such as telecommunications, disk storage, and improved video. These cards obviously had to conform to some standard. With the introduction of the IBM PC by International Business Machines Corp., and the later introduction of the PC/AT by IBM, the AT system bus soon became a de facto standard known as the Industry Standard Architecture bus, or the ISA bus. The AT bus accommodated both the 8-bit cards of the PC and newer 16-bit cards developed for the AT. Third-party manufacturers could economically design standard cards compatible with the wide variety of IBM PC and AT compatible microcomputer systems.
Further advances in microprocessor technology, however, pushed the ISA bus to its limits. For this reason, another "layer" was added to the ISA bus standard. This added layer became known as the Extended Industry Standard Architecture bus, or the EISA bus. Cards designed for the EISA bus had more pins, providing a wider data path for information to flow through the microcomputer system bus, analogous to adding lanes to a highway. The EISA bus also added more address lines to the standard, permitting more memory locations to be individually specified, much as would adding more digits to a phone number or a zip code.
Along with its improved information pathways, however, the EISA bus brought certain problems. The EISA bus standard had to accommodate existing ISA cards to provide upwards compatibility. The ISA bus, however, not only had fewer data and address lines, but also had only enough control lines to handle the smaller size of those data and address lines. The broader data and addressing width of the EISA bus demanded more control signals. This resulted in a two-layer standard.
While the ISA standard provided 16 bits of I/O addressing, in developing cards for PC-compatible computers, vendors often only used or decoded the lower 10 bits. Thus, to be fully compatible with the available cards, the I/O address space of the ISA bus effectively was only from 0 to 03FFh. Thus, a large portion of the I/O space was unusable.
Another limitation of the ISA bus involved its method of handling I/O and memory addressing. An address enable signal (AEN) was driven low by an ISA bus master to indicate to all of the cards that the currently asserted address was an I/O address or a memory address rather than a direct memory access (DMA) operation. But because AEN was asserted low to all cards, each card had to be physically configured to respond to a different range of I/O and memory addresses to avoid conflicts. This address differentiation was usually accomplished when installing the boards by setting microswitches on dual in-line packages (DIP) or by connecting jumpers on each board. Improperly setting these switches could result in conflicts on a read or write to a particular I/O and memory address and could even result in physical hardware damage.
The EISA bus standard has resolved this problem to some extent. The EISA bus definition provides for a conflict-free I/O address space for each slot. This is fully described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,999,805, and the EISA Specification, Version 3.1, which is Appendix 1 of U.S. Pat. No. 4,101,492, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference. The expansion board manufacturers include a configuration file with each EISA expansion board, and optionally, with switch programmable ISA products. A configuration utility program provided by the system manufacturer uses the information contained in the configuration files to determine a conflict-free configuration of the system resources. The configuration utility stores the configuration and initialization information into non-volatile memory and saves a backup copy on diskette. Details of this configuration process are provided in Ser. No. 07/293,315, entitled "Method and Apparatus for Configuration of Computer System and Circuit Boards," allowed on May 10, 1993, which is hereby incorporated by reference. The system ROM power up routines use the initialization information to initialize the system during power up, and device drivers use the configuration information to configure the expansion boards during operation.
Expansion boards install into EISA and ISA bus connectors. Each bus connector is referred to as a slot. The bus connectors are numbered sequentially from 1 to "Z" (with 14 as the maximum "Z"). For example, an EISA system with 7 bus connectors has slots numbered from slot 1 to slot 7. Slots 0 and 15 are reserved for the system board. The system board mounts the slot connectors and can also include individual EISA or ISA devices of its own.
An EISA bus controller on the system board has I/O address decoding hardware that provides each EISA slot with a unique, 1,024 byte, slot specific I/O address space. The slot specific information is decoded as follows. EISA systems reserve I/O spaces at 0Z00h-0Z0FFh, 0Z400h-0Z4FFh, 0Z800h-0Z8FFh, and 0Zc00h-0ZcFFh for slot specific I/O slaves on ISA and EISA expansion boards. These address ranges do not conflict with ISA board I/O addresses because they alias ISA system board I/O address space. EISA system boards must fully decode system board I/O accesses to ensure they do not alias with slot specific I/O slaves. The system board uses the slot specific I/O range where "Z" is 0 or 15 for all system I/O devices.
The system board disables the slot specific I/O ranges to the non-selected slot by asserting a slot specific bus signal AENx high (where "x" is the slot number) if the address "Z" does not match the slot number and the least significant 12 address bits address a slot specific range (0Z00h-0Z0FFh, 0Z400h-0Z4FFh, 0Z800h-0Z8FFh, 0Zc00h-0ZcFFh). Expansion boards that take advantage of the slot specific I/O ranges must, at a minimum, decode the LA[8] and LA[9] address bits to "0" with AENx negated (low) to assure they do not alias with ISA expansion board I/O. This is all more fully detailed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,999,805, and in the EISA Specification Version 3.1, both of which are above incorporated by reference.
A problem with both the ISA and EISA specifications is that there is no way to prevent conflicts between ISA boards residing in the same non-slot specific I/O address space or residing in the same memory space. When an ISA expansion board I/O or memory address is accessed and that address is occupied by two ISA boards, both will attempt to drive the data bus in response to that address. This is because on accesses to ISA I/O addresses or memory addresses, all of the AENx bus signals are asserted low. This, of course, can lead to both unpredictable and undesirable results. Thus, it would be desirable to determine the possibility of such conflicts before they occur.
Further, it is difficult to determine in which slot a card using ISA I/O addressing or containing memory is located. EISA cards are readily located and their identity determined by reading defined slot specific registers. But no such registers exist for ISA cards. This, combined with all the AEN or AENx signals being asserted low on ISA slot space accesses, renders it effectively impossible to simply provide a given address and look for a response, as the responding unit could be located in any slot and all the responses would be identical. Thus, it is also desirable to be able to determine the location of the particular board for configuration purposes.

Method of and apparatus for arbitrarily disabling under processor control individual slots on a computer bus


An image recording apparatus operates a counter acting as a print timer in a printing operation. In a case where a counted value reaches a predetermined value, the image recording apparatus sets a waiting state, stops power supply from a high voltage power supply unit according to a predetermined sequence, starts to operate a nonvolatile memory in a cartridge according to a predetermined procedure, reads data from the memory, adds the read data to the counted value of the print timer, and then writes an added result.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an image recording apparatus which accesses a memory storing data used in detecting a life of a replaceable cartridge.
2. Related Background Art
Conventionally, an image recording apparatus of an electrostatic photographic system using a process cartridge has been known, and a structure of the apparatus has been described in, e.g., Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 8-160680. The process cartridge is integrally composed of a photosensitive drum, a charger, a development unit, a cleaner and the like, and is detachably mounted on the image recording apparatus. The process cartridge involves a nonvolatile memory unit to store the sum total of rotating times of the photosensitive drum. The contents in the nonvolatile memory unit are used to detect whether or not the life of the photosensitive drum terminates.
As described above, the nonvolatile memory unit is arranged in the vicinity of the charger, the development unit, a transfer roller and the like. Therefore, in a case where an electromagnetic noise is generated from a high voltage power supply unit in an image formation apparatus due to, e.g., a discharge (leak) of high voltage applied to the charger, the electromagnetic noise is superimposed on read and write signals of the nonvolatile memory unit. As a result, there is some fear that the stored contents change.
Therefore, in order to prevent that the electromagnetic noise is superimposed on the read and write signals of the nonvolatile memory unit, it is thought that read and write operations of the nonvolatile memory unit are to be performed only when the image recording apparatus is in a standby state. In other words, it is through that the operations are to be performed only when the high voltage is not applied. However, if doing so, the read and write operations of the nonvolatile memory unit can not be performed when the image recording apparatus continuously performs the image recording. For this reason, if such a condition as the read and write operations can not be performed continues for long, the rotating time (period) of the photosensitive drum during this condition is not added to the sum of rotating time (period) previously stored in the nonvolatile memory unit. Thus, if a power supply unit is shut down before the sum of actual rotating time of the photosensitive drum is written into the memory unit, the stored contents are seriously different from the sum of actual rotating time.
Even if the read and write operations of the nonvolatile memory unit are performed while applying of the high voltage in continuous image recording is being stopped, there is some fear that an electric charge transfers onto a paper sheet being moved inside the image recording apparatus and thus discharge occurs on the moving sheet. Due to this discharge, there is some fear that the electromagnetic noise is generated, the generated noise is superimposed on the read and write signals of the nonvolatile memory unit, and thus the data changes by such the superimposed noise.

Image recording apparatus capable of detecting life of a replaceable cartridge


There are disclosed carbonate polymers having terminal arylcyclobutene moieties. Such carbonate polymers are prepared from one or more multi-hydric compounds and have an average degree of polymerization of at least about 2 based on multi-hydric compound. These polymers, including blends thereof, can be easily processed and shaped into various forms and structures according to the known techniques. During or subsequent to the processing, the polymers can be crosslinked, by exposure to heat or radiation, for example, to provide crosslinked polymer compositions. These compositions have a good combination of properties, including for example, processability into shaped articles having unexpectedly good combinations of toughness, solvent resistance, ignition resistance, modulus and resistance to thermal linear expansion.

There have been many efforts to provide improved combinations of physical properties in carbonate polymers and other engineering thermoplastic resins. For example, in U.S. Pat. No. 4,708,994 it is taught to incorporate reactive arylcyclobutene groups by means of alkylating or acylating aromatic groups of such resins with a molecule containing a reactive arylcyclobutene moiety to provide pendant arylcyclobutene moieties randomly along the polymer backbone. Such resins are then crosslinked and cured during a subsequent heating step and shown to be more solvent and heat resistant. Unfortunately, however, these materials having random and uncontrolled crosslinking throughout the polymer backbone are found to possess generally unsatisfactory combinations of other physical properties such as toughness.
In U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,795,827 and 4,825,001 cyclobutarene ketoaniline monomers are used for attaching cyclobutarene groups to polymers or other molecules having amino-reactive functionalities. However, no arylcyclobutene terminated carbonate polymer compositions are shown. Moreover, carbonate polymers endcapped or terminated with such monomers would not be sufficiently stable for typical engineering thermoplastic applications due to the known thermal instability of the carbamate linkage that would be produced.

Arylcyclobutene terminated carbonate polymer


A non-resonant voltage converter includes an inductive element, a primary circuit including a first chopping switch and a first diode in parallel, a secondary circuit including a second chopping switch and a second diode in parallel, at least a smooth switching capacitor of one of said switches, which can form, with a spurious inductance of the inductive element, an oscillating circuit which generates a spurious current. The smooth switching capacitor of the converter is connected in parallel to the terminals of the inductive element, and forms with this element a loop having a reduced length in which is contained the spurious oscillating current.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to switching power supplies, and more particularly to DC-to-DC voltage converters with inductive storing. Such converters, which transform DC voltages, have many industrial applications, especially in aeronautics, where they are used to generate, from the DC power supply of an aircraft, voltages of 5 volts, .+-.12 volts, .+-.15 volts, and so on, to supply various electronic devices.
2. Discussion of the Related Art
Generally, the operation of inductive storing converters is based on energy transfer cycles including a period of accumulation of magnetic energy in an inductive device, through a primary circuit, followed by a period of restitution of this energy in a load, through a secondary circuit. A converter whose inductive element is a single winding inductance is referred to as a "buck-boost" converter, and a converter whose inductive element is a transformer including at least two windings is referred to as a "fly-back" converter.
In this field the present invention more particularly relates to bidirectional voltage converters, which can transform energy both from the primary to the secondary and from the secondary to the primary. Such bidirectional converters are particularly adapted to supply complex loads (capacitive and/or inductive), accumulators or reversible devices such as electric motors, liable to feed back energy to the converter.
Exemplary bidirectional converters with inductive storing are described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,986,097 relative to fly-back converters, and in U.S. Pat. No. 4,736,151 and European patent application 336,725 relative to buck-boost converters.
A general object of the present invention is to improve bidirectional converters, whose operation will be first described.
FIG. 1a is a basic diagram of a conventional bidirectional buck-boost converter. Such a converter includes, on both sides of an inductance L, a primary circuit and a secondary circuit. The primary circuit includes a diode Dp and a chopping switch Tp that are connected in parallel, and interposed between a voltage source Vin and the inductance L. Similarly, the secondary circuit includes a diode Ds and a chopping switch Ts interposed between the inductance L and an output capacitor Cout. Capacitor Cout ensures smoothing of the converter output voltage Vout applied to a load Z. In practice, the switches Tp, Ts are electronic switches such as MOS or bipolar transistors.
As mentioned above, an operating cycle of the converter includes two periods, i.e. a first accumulation or storing period, having a duration Ton, during which a current Ip flows in the primary, and a second restitution or restoring period, having a duration Toff, during which a current Is flows in the secondary. FIG. 2 represents the total current I flowing through the inductance L during a cycle. In bidirectional operation mode, the storing period Ton in fact has a first phase Ton1 for restoring in the voltage source Vin an excess energy stored in inductance L during a previous cycle, followed by a second phase Ton2 for the effective storing of a magnetic energy in inductance L. FIGS. 1b and 1c are equivalent circuit diagrams of the converter during phases Ton1 and Ton2. During the phase Ton1, the inductance L generates the current Ip which is negative (diode Dp conductive--FIG. 1b). When this energy has been entirely restored, the storing phase Ton2 begins, where Ip is positive (Tp on, diode Dp blocked--FIG. 1c). Similarly, the so-called restoring phase Toff includes a first phase Toff1 for effectively restoring in capacitor Cout and in load Z the energy stored by inductance L during the phase Ton2, followed by a phase Toff2 of storing in inductance L an energy in excess provided to the capacitor Cout or to the load Z during the phase Toff1. FIGS. 1d and 1e are equivalent circuit diagrams of the converter during the phases Toff1, Toff2. It can be noted that the secondary current Is is positive during the phase Toff1 (diode Ds conductive--FIG. 1d), then negative during Toff2 (Ts on, diode Ds blocked--FIG. 1e), the load Z or the capacitor Cout behaving like a voltage generator. The energy stored during Toff2 is transmitted to the voltage source Vin during the phase Ton1 of the next cycle, which is a characteristic of a bidirectional operation.
A drawback of such a converter is that its efficiency decreases when the operation frequency increases, while, conversely, it is more advantageous to select high operation frequencies, ranging from 100 kHz to 1 MHz, to reduce the size and the bulkiness of the converter.
It is well known that the decrease of the efficiency with the increase of the operation frequency is especially caused by loss of energy in the switches during the switching periods. It will be noted that the energy lost in a switch during switching is equal to the product of the voltage across the switch by the current flow and the switching time. Switching-on losses and switching-off losses should be distinguished. In a converter operating in a bidirectional mode as represented in FIG. 2, the problem of switching-on losses of switches Tp, Ts is theoretically solved provided that each switching on is preceded by a conduction period of diodes Dp, Ds ensuring a switching-off voltage close to 0 (diode voltage). In contrast, each switching-off of a switch Tp, Ts causes the inductive element to react whereby the voltage across the switch increases abruptly, which in turn increases the switching-off duration through Miller effect. This phenomenon causes a loss of energy in the switches that is all the more significant as it occurs many times per second when the frequency is high. In addition, the abrupt increase in the voltage at the switching off generates spurious electromagnetic radiation. The same drawbacks occur in a fly-back transformer converter.
To avoid this drawback, one has proposed low-loss converters, in which the voltage edges occurring at the switching-off of the primary and secondary switches are smoothed by the addition of so-called "smooth-switching" capacitors.
FIG. 3 represents a low-loss fly-back converter 10. The converter 10 is, for example, of the type represented in FIG. 15 of European patent application 336,725. The converter 10 differs from the converter of FIG. 1 by the addition of two smooth switching capacitors Cp, Cs and by a specific operation mode including two transition periods which will be described hereinafter. Capacitor Cp is connected in parallel with the diode/switch circuit Dp/Tp of the primary and capacitor Cs is connected in parallel with the diode/switch circuit Ds/Ts of the secondary. In addition, since the converter is of the fly-back type, the inductance L of FIG. 1 is replaced with a transformer 1 which includes a primary inductance Lp formed by a winding of Np turns, and a secondary inductance Ls formed by a winding of Ns turns.
The operation of the converter is illustrated in FIG. 4. FIGS. 4a and 4b represent control signals Hp and Hs applied to switches Tp and Ts, respectively. FIGS. 4c and 4d represent currents Ip and Is respectively flowing through the primary Lp and the secondary Ls inductances of the transformer. FIGS. 4e and 4f represent voltages VTp and VTs across switches Tp and Ts. FIGS. 4g and 4h represent charge and discharge currents Icp and Ics of the capacitors Cp and Cs. FIGS. 4i and 4j represent spurious currents Iop and Ios, which are added to the primary Ip and secondary Is currents represented in FIGS. 4c and 4d.
As shown in FIG. 4, each operation cycle of converter 10 includes four distinct periods designated by their respective time durations T1, T2, T3 and T4.
Periods T1 and T3 are similar to periods Ton and Toff described above, except that the respective currents of the primary Ip and of the secondary Is flow through distinct windings Lp and Ls. Thus, period T1 comprises a restoring period at the primary where current Ip is negative (FIG. 4c--diode Dp conductive, Tp on or off), followed by a storing phase where current Ip is positive (diode Dp blocked, Tp on, Hp=1). Conversely, period T3 first includes a restoring phase at the secondary where current Is is positive (diode Ds conductive, Ts on or off) followed by a storing phase where current Is is negative (FIG. 4d--diode Ds blocked, Ts on, Hs=1). As represented by dotted lines in FIGS. 4a, 4b (during periods T1 and T3) there is an operation margin to turn on switches Tp and Ts, as long as diodes Dp and Ds are conductive.
The periods T2 and T4 are transition periods of short duration during which Tp and Ts are maintained off. In FIG. 4, T2 and T4 are not drawn to scale and are in fact of the order of 1/10 or 1/100 of T1 and T3. During these transition periods, capacitor Cp is discharged and capacitor Cs is charged, and conversely (FIGS. 4g and 4h). Diodes Dp, Ds are blocked, the energy stored in the transformer is not conveyed to the primary nor to the secondary.
Those skilled in the art will notice that the smooth switching capacitors Cp and Cs should not be mistaken for capacitors existing in so-called resonance converters, whose operation principle cannot be compared with the operation of the related inductive storing converters. Here, capacitors Cp and Cs are not means for transferring energy through the converter. On the contrary, capacitor Cp, Cs are selected so as to have charging and discharging periods T2 and T4 that are short with respect to periods T1 and T3 during which the energy is transferred within the converter.
The advantage of adding transition periods T2 and T4 and to use smooth switching capacitors Cp and CS is that, at the switching off of a switch Tp or Ts, the capacitor Cp or Cs associated with the switch is progressively charged and prevents voltage VTp or VTs from abruptly rising. As represented in FIGS. 4e and 4f, voltage VTp or VTs of the switch increases during the transition period T2 or T4 until it reaches its maximum value, which is equal to Vin+Vout*Np/Ns for VTp, and Vout+Vin*Ns/Np for VTs. The switching-off losses due to Miller effect are eliminated, or at least significantly reduced.
However the above converters have other drawbacks that will be described hereinafter.
Drawbacks caused by the use of smooth switching capacitors
The applicant has first noticed that despite smoothing of the rising/falling edges of VTp and VTs, the switchings still generate spurious electromagnetic radiation. More particularly, it has been noticed that these radiation are generated by spurious currents Iop, Ios due to a spurious oscillation phenomenon between the smooth switching capacitors Cp, Cs and spurious inductances present in the converter, which can be represented as a first inductance lp in series with Lp and a second inductance ls in series with Ls (FIG. 3). The currents Iop and Ios, represented in FIGS. 4i and 4j, occur after each switching of switches Tp, Ts, follow an oscillating state which slowly damps, and have a peak intensity which can be equal to the maximum values reached by Ip and Is at the end of T1 and T3. The current Iop flows in the whole loop formed by the primary circuit, including inductance Lp, the diode/switch/capacitor circuit Dp/Tp/Cp and the voltage source Vin, as well as the electrical connections between these elements. Similarly, the current Ios flows in the whole loop formed by the secondary. Thus, each primary or secondary loop generates an electromagnetic radiation due to an antenna effect, proportional to a magnetic flux .PHI.=S*.beta., where .beta. is the magnetic field generated by the spurious current and S is the surface area of the loop.

DC-to-DC bidirectional voltage converters and current sensor


A hydraulic intensifier generates a hydraulic pressure which is higher than the input hydraulic pressure generated in the discharge port and the outer periphery hydraulic pressure chamber. The hydraulic intensifier, provided inside a case member, has a discharge part connected with an outer periphery hydraulic pressure chamber. An input port supplies input hydraulic pressure from the exterior to an input oil chamber of hydraulic intensifier. Oil is filled in a sealed manner in outer periphery hydraulic pressure chamber.and discharge part. The hydraulic intensifier is driven by the input hydraulic pressure. The rod is locked by the elastic deformation of a thinned tube part of a sleeve body. A relatively small hydraulic locking device having a relatively high power is achieved. Furthermore, a relatively small hydraulic pressure source having reduced pressure is realized.

The present invention relates to a hydraulic locking device whereby a rod is locked by a sleeve having elastic deformations which are elastically deformed by hydraulic pressure. More specifically, the present invention relates to a hydraulic locking device constructed so that the sleeve is elastically deformed by generating a high hydraulic pressure using a hydraulic intensifier provided inside a case member.
A conventional hydraulic locking device is used for clamping and supporting a workpiece locking it into a desired position for cutting, or the like, of the workpiece. For example, Japanese Utility Model Laid-open Patent Publication 59-128902 and Japanese Utility Model Laid-open Patent Publication 6-47710 describe this type of hydraulic locking device.
In Japanese Utility Model Laid-open Patent Publication 59-128902, a hydraulic locking device has an approximately cylindrical case member. A hollow piston member slidably fits inside the case member. The hollow piston member can be elastically deformed to have a smaller diameter. A rod, slidably fitting inside the hollow piston member, passes through the case member. According to this hydraulic locking device, by introducing oil into the hydraulic pressure chamber that is between the case member and the piston member, there is elastic deformation of the piston member, pressing the piston member into contact with the rod. The piston member and the rod are locked so that there is no relative displacement in the axial direction.
In Japanese Utility Model Laid-open Patent Publication 6-47710, a hydraulic locking device has a hydraulic cylinder equipped with a cylinder body and a piston member that slidably fits inside the cylinder body. A rod, passing through the cylinder body, has a piston member passing through it in the axial direction. An elastically deforming sleeve, between the piston member and the rod, fits outside the rod and is attached to the piston member, preventing relative displacement in the axial direction. According to this conventional hydraulic locking device, hydraulic pressure introduced to the hydraulic pressure chamber formed inside the piston member is transferred on the outer periphery of the sleeve, elastically deforming the sleeve. Thereupon, this sleeve is pressed into contact with the outer perimeter surface of the rod. The rod is locked to the piston member to prevent relative displacement.
In the hydraulic locking devices described in Japanese Utility Model Laid-open Patent Publication 59-128902 and Japanese Utility Model Laid-open Patent Publication 6-47710, the sleeve, which is either integral with the piston member or is separate from the piston member, is elastically deformed to have a smaller diameter due to the hydraulic pressure. The rod is locked by the static frictional force acting between the sleeve and the rod. With this construction, if the hydraulic pressure to elastically deform the sleeve is a low pressure, the locking force is small. In order to generate a large locking force, a large locking device is necessary. This is disadvantageous in terms of equipment costs. Otherwise, a high-pressure hydraulic pressure must be supplied from the hydraulic pressure supply source. This causes the hydraulic pressure supply source to become large, and also results in hydraulic pressure leaks being more easily generated. This results in a bulky and expensive hydraulic locking device.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a hydraulic locking device which overcomes the foregoing problems.
More specifically, it is an object of the present invention to devise a smaller, high powered hydraulic locking device.
It is another object of the present invention to devise a smaller and a lower pressure hydraulic pressure supply source.
Briefly stated, the present invention provides a hydraulic intensifier which generates a hydraulic pressure that is higher than the input hydraulic pressure generated in the discharge port and the outer periphery hydraulic pressure chamber. The hydraulic intensifier, provided inside a case member, has a discharge part connected with an outer periphery hydraulic pressure chamber. An input port supplies input hydraulic pressure from the exterior to an input oil chamber of hydraulic intensifier. Oil is filled in a sealed manner in outer periphery hydraulic pressure chamber and discharge part. The hydraulic intensifier is driven by the input hydraulic pressure. The rod is locked by the elastic deformation of a thinned tube part of a sleeve body. A relatively small hydraulic locking device having a relatively high power is achieved. Furthermore, a relatively small hydraulic pressure source having reduced pressure is realized.
The present invention is a hydraulic locking device having a rod as an output member. A sleeve body, fitting outside the rod, is equipped with a thinned tube part that can be elastically deformed to a smaller diameter. A case member supports the sleeve body. An outer periphery hydraulic pressure chamber is formed on the outer periphery side of the thinned tube part of the sleeve body. A hydraulic intensifier, provided inside the case member, has a discharge part continuous with the outer periphery hydraulic pressure chamber. An input port supplies input hydraulic pressure from the exterior to the input oil chamber of the hydraulic intensifier. Oil that is filled, in a sealed manner, in the outer periphery hydraulic pressure chamber and discharge part. The hydraulic intensifier is driven by the input hydraulic pressure supplied from the input port. Hydraulic pressure, having a higher pressure than the input hydraulic pressure, is generated in the discharge part and outer periphery hydraulic pressure chamber. Locking of the rod being is conducted by elastically deforming the thinned tube part of the sleeve body to a smaller diameter.
An example wherein the workpiece being supplied for machining is supported from underneath by the hydraulic locking device will be described. The workpiece is supplied from above the hydraulic locking device. While the rod is in contact with this workpiece, the rod is pushed downward. When the workpiece reaches the desired height, input hydraulic pressure is supplied from the input port to the input oil chamber of the hydraulic intensifier. Thereupon, driving the hydraulic intensifier results in a hydraulic pressure that is higher than the input hydraulic pressure is generated in the outer periphery hydraulic pressure chamber on the outer periphery of the sleeve and in the discharge part. Next, the thinned tube part of the sleeve body is elastically deformed to a smaller diameter, securely locking the rod. In particular, because the hydraulic intensifier is driven by a low input hydraulic pressure and the oil, which is filled in a sealed manner in the outer periphery hydraulic pressure chamber and the discharge part, is intensified to a higher pressure than the input hydraulic pressure, a high powered locking device can be devised without requiring a large locking device. The hydraulic pressure supply source is thus made smaller and has a reduced pressure.
The hydraulic intensifier has an annular piston member that fits outside the sleeve body. The discharge part of the hydraulic intensifier is preferably formed on the outside periphery of the thinned tube part of the sleeve body. The hydraulic intensifier can be provided inside the case member without having to increase the diameter of the case member. The space on the outer periphery of the sleeve body is thus effectively used.
A spring housing hole, open on one end, is formed near the shaft core of the rod. A spring bearing member is inserted partially in this spring housing hole in a manner allowing for relative displacement. The spring bearing is affixed to the bottom wall of the case member. A compression spring is attached to the spring housing hole and is stopped by the spring bearing member is provided. The rod is preferably elastically impelled towards the other end by the compression spring. The rod is constantly elastically impelled towards the other end by the elastic impelling force of the compression spring.
A spring housing hole, open on one end, is formed near the shaft core of the rod. A spring is housed in the spring housing hole, and a spring bearing piston member receives one end of the spring. It is preferable to have a hydraulic pressure chamber that has hydraulic pressure acting on the spring bearing-piston member, receiving an external supply of hydraulic pressure. When a low input hydraulic pressure is supplied to the hydraulic pressure chamber from the input port, the spring bearing piston member slides to the other end in opposition of the impelling force of the spring, compressing the spring. Thereupon, the rod is shifted to the other end and contacts the workpiece that is provided on top of this device. Next, driving the hydraulic intensifier, and a hydraulic pressure, of higher pressure than the input pressure, is generated in the outer periphery hydraulic pressure chamber and discharge part. By this, the thinned tube part of the sleeve body is elastically deformed to a smaller diameter, securely locking the rod.
The above hydraulic intensifier preferably has a piston member housing hole formed inside the inner wall of the case member at a position separated from the sleeve body. The hydraulic intensifier preferably also has a piston member that is housed shiftably in the piston member housing hole and that has a pressure receiving part and a pressure applying part. The workpiece is in contact with the rod and is pushed. At the desired height of the workpiece, a low-pressure input hydraulic pressure from the input port is received by the pressure receiving part of the piston member. Thereupon, the piston member slides inside the piston member housing hole. The oil in the discharge part is pressurized by the pressure applying part. A hydraulic pressure of higher pressure than the input hydraulic pressure is generated in the outer periphery hydraulic pressure chamber and the discharge part. By this, the thinned tube part of the sleeve body is elastically deformed to a smaller diameter, and securely locking the rod.
The above rod is preferably provided so that it protrudes to the exterior from one end of the case member. With this hydraulic locking device, the workpiece used in machining is pressed into contact with the rod and is pushed. At the desired position, the rod is locked, and the workpiece can be securely supported by clamping and the like.
The above rod is preferably provided so that it passes through the sleeve body and case member. As a result, after adjusting the rod which passes through the sleeve body and case member to the desired position, the input hydraulic pressure is supplied and the rod can be locked.


A highly reliable semiconductor device and a method for manufacturing the semiconductor device are provided. The semiconductor device is manufactured with a high yield, so that high productivity is achieved. In a semiconductor device including a transistor in which a source electrode layer and a drain electrode layer are provided over and in contact with an oxide semiconductor film, entry of impurities and formation of oxygen vacancies in an end face portion of the oxide semiconductor film are suppressed. This can prevent fluctuation in the electric characteristics of the transistor which is caused by formation of a parasitic channel in the end face portion of the oxide semiconductor film.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a semiconductor device and a method for manufacturing the semiconductor device.
In this specification, a semiconductor device generally means a device which can function by utilizing semiconductor characteristics, and an electro-optical device, a semiconductor circuit, and electronic equipment are all semiconductor devices.
2. Description of the Related Art
A technique by which a transistor is formed using a semiconductor thin film formed over a substrate having an insulating surface has been attracting attention. The transistor is applied to a wide range of electronic devices such as an integrated circuit (IC) and an image display device (also simply referred to as a display device). A silicon-based semiconductor material is widely known as a material for a semiconductor thin film applicable to a transistor. As another material, an oxide semiconductor has been attracting attention.
For example, a transistor including a semiconductor thin film which includes an amorphous oxide containing indium (In), gallium (Ga), and zinc (Zn) (an In—Ga—Zn—O-based amorphous oxide) is disclosed (see Patent Document 1). In addition, Patent Document 2 discloses a technique by which a transistor similar to that in Patent Document 1 is manufactured and used as a switching element or the like in a pixel of a display device.
In addition, as for such an oxide semiconductor used in a transistor, there is also description as follows: an oxide semiconductor is insensitive to impurities, there is no problem when a considerable amount of metal impurities are contained in a film, and soda-lime glass which contains a large amount of alkali metals such as sodium and is inexpensive can also be used (see Non-Patent Document 1).

Semiconductor device and method for manufacturing the same

Semiconductor Energy Laboratory Co., Ltd.


A lid for a cup having a rim has a first component having a sip opening, the sip opening being located on the first component so as to be adjacent the rim of the cup when the lid is mounted on the cup. The lid further includes a second component having an edge defining at least a portion of a spill opening, the spill opening being spaced from the sip opening substantially along a line corresponding to a diameter of the rim of the cup when the lid is mounted on the cup. The lid still further includes a spillover chamber connected to the second component so as to receive liquid from within the cup through the spill opening when the cup is tipped toward the second position, the spillover chamber being outside of the cup when the lid is mounted on the cup. Finally, the lid includes a transfer structure providing a path to transfer liquid from the spillover chamber to the sip opening when the cup is tipped toward the sip opening, and a barrier to prevent transfer of liquid from within the cup to the sip opening without passing through the spillover chamber in any tipping position of the cup.

This invention relates to lids for cups, and especially to lids that enable the holder to drink from the cup without removing the entire lid.
In today""s rushed world, the sight of people hurrying down the sidewalk drinking coffee or other beverages from takeout plastic, paper or styrofoam cups has become commonplace. An essential element in making such drinking on the run enjoyable is the development of cup lids, made from plastic or other suitable materials, that clip onto the rim of the cup and partially or completely seal the cup to prevent the liquid inside from easily spilling. Such lids have a sip opening through which the liquid in the cup can be accessed, with the sip opening being either a permanent opening or initially covered by a tear-away portion that is displaced to permit sipping from the cup. The relatively small size of the sip opening acts to reduce the possibility of spilling the liquid, as opposed to the case when no lid is provided.
One difficulty remaining in making such drinking on the run as pleasant as possible is that the coffee is usually served while very hot, with the presence of the lid helping to keep the coffee inside hot by preventing it from cooling down at anything other than a slow rate. While this heat retention is advantageous after the coffee has reached an acceptable temperature, it is frustrating to the drinker who may want to start drinking right away. Moreover, different drinkers will have their own ideal temperatures for drinking. As a result, the drinker often keeps taking experimental sips, scalding lips and tongue until the coffee is drinkable, and often consuming a goodly quantity of the coffee in its overheated condition.
Two ways to accelerate the cooling process would be to make the sip opening larger or to remove the lid completely until the coffee has cooled down sufficiently. However, this would not only increase the possibility of spillage, but would also make all of the coffee in the cup cool down more quickly. In that case, while the first sips might be at the right temperature, the remaining coffee would still cool down slowly so that the final sips of coffee would be undesirably cold.
Still further, although the cup lid could be made disposable for takeout, the cups and cup lids could be made non-disposable, as for example with thermos-type hot or cold drink cups. In either case, requiring the lid to be removed for cooling can be inconvenient and presents the risk of misplacing the lid or exposing it to dirt and germs.
It is an important consideration to correct these difficulties using a lid design so that any extra cost incurred will be acceptable to both sellers and buyers of the cups and lids.
Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a lid for a cup that avoids the above-discussed difficulties of the prior art.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a lid for a cup, such as a takeout coffee cup, that enables a small portion of the hot liquid inside to be cooled rapidly for immediate drinking while the remainder of the liquid is kept hot.
It is yet another object of the present invention to provide such a lid that provides at least the same protection against spillage as conventional lids.
It is still another object of the present invention to provide such a lid that uses conventional design to the extent possible.
The above objects, as well as additional advantages, will be realized in the practice of the invention as herein described. In its broadest embodiment, the lid for a cup having a rim comprises a first component having a sip opening, the sip opening being located on the first component so as to be adjacent the rim of the cup when the lid is mounted on the cup. The lid further comprises a second component having an edge defining at least a portion of a perimeter of a spill opening, the spill opening being spaced from the sip opening substantially along a line corresponding to a diameter of the rim of the cup when the lid is mounted on the cup. The lid still further comprises a spillover chamber connected to the second component so as to receive liquid from within the cup through the spill opening when the cup is tipped toward the spill opening, the spillover chamber being outside of the cup when the lid is mounted on the cup. Finally, the lid comprises a transfer structure providing a path to transfer liquid from the spillover chamber to the sip opening when the cup is tipped toward the sip opening, the transfer structure including a barrier to prevent transfer of liquid from within the cup to the sip opening without passing through the spillover chamber in any tipping position of the cup.
In another embodiment, a lid for a cup comprises an upper component having a sip opening, and a lower component having an edge defining at least a portion of a perimeter of a spill opening and a spillover chamber open to the spill opening, wherein the spillover chamber is positioned on the lid so as to be outside of the cup when the lid is mounted on the cup. When the lower component is attached to the upper component with the spill opening substantially spaced peripherally from the sip opening, the upper component and the lower component define a cavity therebetween allowing liquid to flow in a selected one only of first and second paths depending upon a tipping direction of the lid, wherein the first path is from the spill opening to the spillover chamber and the second path is from the spillover chamber to the sip opening.
In a further development of the present invention, a method of drinking from a cup having one of the above-described lids mounted thereon comprises the steps of first tipping the cup toward the spill opening so that liquid in an interior of the cup flows through the spill opening to the spillover chamber, and subsequently tipping the cup toward the sip opening so that liquid in the spillover chamber flows to the sip opening.
In any of these embodiments, the two components may be permanently attached or removably attachable, the two components may be manufactured separately or as a unit, or the spillover chamber may be an integral part of the cup.