A coordinate encryption method includes the steps of encoding a coordinate with an encryption algorithm, testing whether the result of the encoding is within a predefined range, and outputting the result of the encoding in case the result of the encoding is within the predefined range.

The invention presents a coordinate encryption method and system, which is tailored to encrypt coordinates, in particular coordinates of geographical positions as, e.g., obtained from a positioning unit. The positioning unit can obtain global positioning signals and determine a coordinate set for the position based on the received global positioning signals. The positioning unit can e.g. receive signals from a GPS, Glonass, Beidou and/or Galileo global positioning system.
Vehicle manufacturers connect their vehicles to so-called backend systems, e.g. computer, cloud, or server systems or clusters, in order to support a user with services and to enable technologies such as autonomous driving. For autonomous or driverless vehicles, such as automobiles or motorcycles, for example, high definition maps (HD Maps) become more important as they are used to obtain detailed information about the vehicles' environment. Based on this information, the vehicle can better react to a situation and can also apply machine learning methods to improve reactions. Results of the information processing are then used to update the maps from which other vehicles, e.g. of a car fleet, can also benefit. In particular, they benefit from the experiences and knowledge of a single vehicle.
The maps used especially for autonomous vehicles, e.g. semi-autonomous or fully autonomous cars, are based on real time data. This real time data include geographical positions, but may also include other aggregated sensor data. Even if the data including geographical positions is completely anonymized, geographical positions still are sensitive data qualified for privacy protection. However, geographical positions are required for map improvement in the backend, i.e. the cloud, computer server or cluster system. For this reason, the sensitive data has to be stored and transmitted securely. For securing the sensitive data transmission, state of the art security mechanisms like transport encryption, private tunneling, and individual certificates can be used.
Of course, sensitive data like the geographical positions, generated in the vehicle, also need to be securely stored in the vehicle and in the backend for later processing. Commonly known encryption methods using AES or 3DES block ciphers can be applied. While providing good security, these algorithms have a key disadvantage: When encoding or encrypting geographical positions with these block ciphers, the data format of the stored information is changed during the encoding or encryption process. For example, an analysis process looking for data adhering to a specific format for geographical positions in a large amount of data will break if the format of the geographical positions is changed to a block cipher. The geographical information being now presented in the changed format can then not be identified as geographical information. For example, using AES for encrypting 100-bit values creates other 100-bit values. However, this block cipher is not suitable and efficient for the geographical positions. The format produced by AES would vary greatly from the desired format.
The invention therefore provides a method and system for coordinate encryption in accordance with embodiments of the invention.
In a first aspect, a coordinate encryption method is provided, comprising the steps of (a) encoding a coordinate with an encryption algorithm, (b) testing whether the result of the encoding is within a predefined range, and (c) outputting the result of the encoding in case the result of the encoding is within the predefined range.
The encryption algorithm can be a SPECK encryption algorithm, preferably with a 48 bit block cipher.
Steps a. and b. can be performed repeatedly until the result of the encoding is within the predefined range.
Before step a. the coordinate, preferably in a decimal degree representation, can be transformed into a binary representation, preferably a 48 bit binary representation, and in particular a fix point representation.
In the binary representation one bit can be used for the sign, 8 bit can be used for the integer value, and 39 bits can be used for the fraction.
After step b., the binary representation can be transformed into the coordinate, preferably in a decimal degree representation.
A format of the encoded coordinate and/or the output result can correspond to a format of the coordinate.
The result can be output to a storage device for storing the result.
The border values of the predefined range can be −180, −90, 0, 90, and/or 180, and the range can be from −90 to 90 and/or −180 to 180. The ranges can be predefined for latitude and/or longitude coordinates, and separate ranges for longitude and/or latitude coordinates can be defined.
The coordinate, in particular a coordinate of geographical position, is a longitude or latitude of a geographical position.
For the encoding a passphrase can be used.
The coordinate encryption method or a coordinate decryption method can comprise the steps of decoding the result of the encoding with a decryption algorithm, testing whether the result of the decoding is within the predefined range, outputting the result of the decoding as the geographical coordinate in case the result of the decoding is within the predefined range.
In another aspect, a coordinate encryption system is provided, comprising a storage device configured to store at least one coordinate, and a processor configured to perform the method as disclosed herein. The coordinate encryption system can comprise a positioning unit, configured to determine at least one coordinate of a geographical position and to store the at least one coordinate in the storage means. The system can comprise a communication unit, configured to send the result to a remote processing system. In the remote processing system, which is typically a computer system, cluster or cloud, additional processing steps and, in particular, algorithms working on coordinates can be performed. Therefore, additional services can be provided based on the data transmitted to the remote processing system by the coordinate encryption system.
In yet another aspect, the invention provides a vehicle with a coordinate encryption system as disclosed herein. In particular, a large number of vehicles submit their data in encoded format to the remote processing system.
Other objects, advantages and novel features of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of one or more preferred embodiments when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

Encryption method and system for coordinates

Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft


Disclosed is a method of producing a nonwoven material having improved resistance to penetration by particles. The method includes the steps of heating at least one nonwoven web containing meltblown thermoplastic polymer fibers to a temperature at which the peak total energy absorbed by the nonwoven web of meltblown fibers is at least about 250 percent greater than the amount absorbed by the nonwoven web of meltblown fibers at room temperature; applying a tensioning force to neck the heated nonwoven web so that at least a portion of individual meltblown fibers have sections where the fiber diameter is substantially less than the diameter of the immediately adjacent sections; and cooling the necked nonwoven web Also disclosed is a nonwoven material composed of at least one web of meltblown thermoplastic polymer fibers, the web containing at least a portion of individual meltblown fibers having sections where the fiber diameter is substantially less than the diameter of the immediately adjacent sections so that the web is adapted to have improved resistance to particle penetration. The nonwoven material may be a component of a multilayer material having desirable resistance to particle penetration.

There are many types of nonwoven webs that have application as particle barrier materials.
Nonwoven webs of very small diameter fibers or microfibers have long been known to be permeable to air and water vapor while remaining relatively impermeable to particles and/or liquid droplets (e.g., aerosols) Useful webs of small diameter fibers can be made by extruding non-elastomeric thermoplastic polymers utilizing fiber forming processes such as, for example, meltblowing processes. Such nonwoven webs of meltblown fibers formed from non-elastomeric polymers are relatively inexpensive and have many applications in limited use or disposable products that are designed to serve a barriers to particulate materials.
Important applications of such materials include, for example, medical and industrial coveralls, filter materials and face masks. In recent years, concern over the filtration efficiency of surgical face masks has grown because of problems associated with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, tuberculosis and other infectious diseases which may be passed by droplets created in a medical environment as well as the use of laser surgery with its associated aerosol plume created by vaporization of tissue. In many applications of such particle barrier materials, it is desirable to provide a combination of particle barrier properties and porosity Unfortunately, it has been difficult to provide these properties together because conventional methods which increase particle barrier properties generally tend to decrease the porosity of a material.
Thus, a need exists for an inexpensive material which is porous and breathable yet relatively impermeable to particles and/or liquid droplets


A drawer stop device, for use in combination with a sliding drawer mounted in a cabinet behind a front door vertically hinged to one lateral side of the cabinet, has a mounting portion which is mounted to a portion adjacent to a vertical front edge of the drawer, a bearing portion having a bearing flange which projects perpendicularly from the mounting portion, and a roller element rotatably mounted on an end of the bearing flange such that it can make rolling contact with the door ahead of the vertical front edge when the drawer is slid out from the cabinet. This prevents the front edges of the drawer from bumping against and scratching the inside surface of the door. If the drawer is of the type wherein the ends of the front panel extend by a small amount of trim laterally beyond the side walls of the drawer, a second drawer stop device is mounted to the side walls behind the trim such that its roller element projects laterally beyond the trim so that it can make rolling contact with the door when the drawer is retracted back into the cabinet. In another version, the mounting flange of the drawer stop device is formed as an integral part of a lateral rail which is mounted to the side walls of the drawer and provides a guide surface on which the drawer slides.

Sliding drawers are commonly built into kitchen cabinets, desks, dining room cabinetry, office furniture, and the like to provide more convenient access to storage space therein. Typically, the drawers are mounted behind cabinet doors which serve to close off and provide a clean, finished, external appearance when the cabinet is not in use. When access into the cabinet is desired, the doors are swung open to a position perpendicular or obtuse to the front plane of the cabinet, clearing the opening to allow a drawer to be slid out from the interior of the cabinet.
However, if the doors are not fully opened, or if they swing back, it often happens that when the drawers are pulled out, their front edges bump against and scratch the inside surface of the doors. This is especially bothersome if the cabinet doors are made of expensive wood or a custom finish. Also, if a drawer is not returned to its fully retracted position, an attempt to close the cabinet doors can cause the doors to bump against the protruding front edges of the drawers. After repeated use, scratch lines and other marks can become gouged into the doors and create an unsightly appearance which is difficult to restore.


An LGA socket includes a socket body (20) receiving a number of contacts (70), a stiffener (30) attached to the socket body, and a socket plate (40) and a load lever (50) respectively mounted to opposite ends of the stiffener. The socket plate has a connecting side (401) to connect the stiffener, a pressing side (402) to engage the load lever, and a pair of opposite lateral sides (403) respectively and integrally connected to the connecting side and the pressing side. The opposite lateral sides have a pair of clasping sections (4031) and a pair of accessorial pressing members (4032) adjacent the pressing side. The clasping sections and the accessorial pressing members can jointly press a top surface of the LGA package (60). Thus, reliable electrical connection between conductive pads on the LGA package and the corresponding contacts received in the socket body is ensured.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to electrical connectors, and more particularly, to a land grid array (LGA) socket having accessorial pressing members for reliable electrical connection between an LGA package and a circuit substrate, such as a printed circuit board (PCB).
2. Description of the Prior Art
An integrated circuit (IC) package having conductive pads arranged on a bottom surface thereof in a land grid array (LGA) fashion is known as an LGA package. LGA packages are widely used due to relatively low height and reliable electrical characteristics.
Connectors for removably mounting an LGA package on a PCB are known as LGA sockets. Normally, an LGA socket comprises a socket body and a stiffener attached to the socket body. The socket body defines an array of passageways for receiving contacts therein. Each contact has a spring arm and a terminal section protruding from opposite external surfaces of the socket body. The spring arm is resiliently urged to electrically engage with a corresponding conductive pad on the LGA package, while the terminal section is electrically mounted to the PCB.
When the LGA package is positioned on the socket body, the conductive pads of the LGA package rest on corresponding contacts received in the socket body. Electrical connection between the conductive pads and the corresponding contacts is obtained via elastic deflection and deformation of the spring arms. Thereupon, it is necessary to exert sufficient engaging force against the LGA package to maintain electrical engagement between the conductive pads and the corresponding contacts.
Heretofore, various LGA sockets each including a socket plate and a load lever to provide the engaging force are disclosed. Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7, a conventional LGA socket 8 comprises a socket body 82 receiving a plurality of contacts 81, a stiffener 83 attached to the socket body 82, and a socket plate 84 and a load lever 85. The socket plate 84 and the load lever 85 are pivotally assembled to opposite ends of the stiffener 83 respectively to fasten the LGA package 100 jointly.
The socket plate 84 includes a connecting side 840 to assemble to the stiffener 83, a pressing side 841 to engage with the load lever 85, and a pair of lateral sides 842 respectively and integrally connected to two ends of the connecting side 840 and the pressing side 841. The lateral sides 842 of the socket plate 84 are bent slightly downward to form a pair of clasping sections 843 thereunder.
In assembly, prior to positioning the LGA package 100 on the socket 8, the socket plate 84 and the load lever 85 are rotated away from the socket body 82. After the LGA package 100 is set on the socket body 82, with the conductive pads (not shown) resting on the corresponding contacts 81, the socket plate 84 is rotated with respect to the socket body 82 till the clasping sections 843 meet a top surface of the LGA package 100. Whereafter, the load lever 85 is rotated to clip the socket plate 83 and push the LGA package 100 to move downward. In a closed position, the clasping sections 843 press on the top surface of the LGA package 100 and hold the LGA package 100 in position, thereby providing the engaging force to assure electrical connection between the conductive pads and the corresponding contacts 81.
When the socket plate 84 is rotated to fasten the LGA package 100, the part of the socket plate 84 adjacent the connecting side 840 contacts the LGA package 100 foremost, which is liable to cause the LGA package 100 become inclined relative to and slide along a top surface of the socket body 82. As a result, the LGA package 100 may engage with the sidewalls of the socket body 82. When the LGA package 100 is driven down to electrically mate with the contacts 81, a considerable friction force between the LGA package 100 and the sidewalls is generated. The friction force will provide a vertical force and moment to tilt the LGA package and prevent the LGA package 100 from moving downward. Therefore, the conductive pads, especially the conductive pads distant from the connecting side 840, are prone to separate from the corresponding contacts received in the socket body 82. This will surely disturb electrical engagement between the conductive pads of the LGA package and the corresponding contacts 81 received in the socket body 82.
Heretofore, various efforts have been provided to eliminate the friction force between the LGA package and the sidewalls of the socket body, such as enhancing the loading force. This will increase interactional force among each electrical component and is prone to unfavorably affect electrical characteristics of the LGA socket.
Hence, a new LGA socket which overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages of the prior art is desired.

Land grid array socket having accessorial pressing members


To provide a four-wheel drive system which improves running performance of an automotive vehicle by inhibiting a driving torque from becoming insufficient upon occurrence of a slip.

The present invention relates to a four-wheel drive system for driving four wheels of an automotive vehicle, and particularly to a control of driving of the wheels at the time of the occurrence of a wheel slip.
As a conventional four-wheel drive system for an automotive vehicle, there is known a system sensing a slip of driving wheels and reducing the torque of the slipping wheels to inhibit the slip, as disclosed in JP-A-2002-67723, for instance.
However, since the system disclosed in JP-A-2002-67723 is based on a technique not taking account of the fact that the coefficient of dynamic friction is lower than the coefficient of static friction. Therefore it may be that when a torque applied to the slipping wheel is reduced upon sensing of the slip, the driving force becomes insufficient, thereby deteriorating the running performance of the vehicle.

Abstract: An R slip sensing means of a DC motor torque calculating means senses a slip due to a spin of rear wheels. When the rear wheel slip is sensed, an R slip DC-motor-torque correcting means corrects a torque of the rear wheels so that a driving force of the rear wheels is reduced and then increased. The R slip DC-motor-torque correcting means reduces a driving torque of the rear wheels to eliminate the slip and holds the reduced driving torque until the slip is eliminated, and then increases the driving torque to a value lower than a value which the driving torque has taken at the time of occurrence of the slip. The driving torque is increased to a predetermined limit value depending on the number of slips.


An apparatus with two identical fluid reservoirs for the containment of paint or other finishes to be applied by spraying using compressed air is disclosed. Each of the two reservoirs is connected via metallic tubing to a spray mechanism of conventional design. Each tubing line is equipped with an integral shutoff valve to allow the user to select which paint or finish is applied. When the user wishes to change to the opposing reservoir, both shutoff valves are closed and the remaining paint in the tubing and spray mechanism is blown through. Then the shutoff valve on the desired reservoir is opened allowing the desired paint or finish to be applied. The operating controls as well as the physical weight, center of gravity and balance are similar to that experienced with a conventional single reservoir, air powered, paint gun, allowing the user to quickly become accustomed to the present invention. Preparation, use and post-use clean up are accomplished using readily known procedures and common practices.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to spray guns used for painting and, more particularly, to spray paint system having dual paint storage reservoirs.
2. Description of the Related Art
As is well-known in the art, delivery and application of paints and coatings by spray atomization is widely used. Many devices common known as "spray guns" have been developed, and have become widely standardized for various specific applications. Although differing applications can result in different standards, in general the standard spray gun features only a only a one-reservoir liquid storage and delivery system, and therefore can handle only one type of paint or liquid coating at any given moment.
A search of the prior art did not disclose any patents that read directly on the claims of the instant invention; however, the following references were considered related:
______________________________________ U.S. Pat. No. Inventor Issue Date ______________________________________ 5,474,609 Mulder et al. Dec. 12, 1995 5,421,900 Clontz Jun. 6, 1995 5,419,491 Breitsprecher May 30, 1995 5,417,372 Portugal May 23, 1995 5,299,737 McGinnis et al Apr. 5, 1994 5,279,329 Pippel Jan. 18, 1994 4,193,546 Hetherington Mar. 18, 1980 3,598,322 Rupert et al. Aug. 10, 1971 3,485,453 McGinnis 2,850,421 Thompson Sept. 2, 1968 ______________________________________
Although many of these references incorporate features that may be present in the current invention, none address the present problems directly, nor incorporate the features of the present invention in combination. By way of example and not definitive clarification, the '609 reference addresses a powder delivery system for non-solvent based coating, and addresses some unique problems associated with the fluidizing and delivery of such coatings. The '900 reference discloses a cleaning method incorporating a step sequence of multiple fluid delivery. In the '737 reference discloses an intermittent flushing system, as the -453 reference discloses an automatic flushing system.
Closely related in the '419 reference, in which mixing of dual atomized streams is disclosed at a spray head, and the '322 reference, in which 2 liquids pass through a common exit at separate times. A need has therefore been felt for an improved but less complex mechanism that can reservoir and deliver multiple fluid coatings to a conventional spray head in a separate or combined manner.

Spray paint system with multi-chambered, mixing reservoir


This invention (FIG. 1) was conceived out of necessity to control hazardous conditions created while mixing materials like concrete or mortar in containers (1) such as a three gallon or five gallon bucket. The invention (2) is a vacuum attachment which produces a low pressure zone within the bucket when a vacuum is applied to the outlet port (3) of the invention that will keep dust and other airborne material from leaving the interior of the invention through the top of the opening (4). It consists of a funnel shaped opening (4) on the top and a channel around the underside of the funnel leading to the vacuum attachment opening (3), which creates high and low pressure zones, which controls the release of particulate into the atmosphere.

Workers often need to mix products in buckets or containers. The resulting process can put the person at risk of airborne particles. The inventor was pondering this idea, and started thinking about different ways to control the dust. Workers were trying to set a vacuum hose near the edge of the bucket but this did not effectively control the dust. The inventor drew up his idea and experimented with a prototype and proved his theory that by creating a venturi while isolating the vacuum attachment point, the worker was able to effectively control the airborne dust.

Dust control device and method of controlling airborne particles from a dust-containing material


In an electronic apparatus case, the cover thereof mounted on one side of the case body through the intermediary of a hinge member so that the cover can be opened and closed by the same. Further, a substantially T-shaped lock member is rotatably mounted on the other side of the case body and, at the same time, an elongated lock hole is formed on the side of the cover corresponding to the lock member, so that the cover can be secured in position by allowing the head section of the lock member to pass through the lock hole of the cover and rotating the lock member by 90.degree..

The present invention relates to a cover device for opening and closing the interior of the case of a small electronic apparatus when, for example, it is necessary to repair or replace an electronic part or a battery or the like lodged in the case.
Conventionally, the case of such an electronic apparatus comprises a case body and a cover attached thereto by a plurality of screws. To open the interior of the case body, the cover is separated from the case body by removing the screws.
A problem with this structure is that the cover is completely separated from the case body, so that the cover may get lost when separated. Further, since the cover is attached to the case body by screws, a special tool for removing the screws, such as a driver, is needed. In other words, without such a special tool, the cover cannot be opened.

Cover device for electronic apparatus case

Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.


The present invention relates to a particularly convenient medium for providing contrast enhancement and/or distension of the subject body or organ cavity during imaging, radiographic, visualization, or other similar medical examinations, including ultrasound, endoscopic examinations, MRI, x-ray, hystero-salpingograms, CT scans, and similar procedures. The present invention provides the contrast enhancement and/or distends the body or organ cavity without constant leakage of the medium or the resulting need to constantly or repeatedly infuse additional medium. The medium is designed to have sufficient viscosity or consistence initially to remain in the body or organ cavity for a time generally sufficient to complete the procedure, and then to facilitate easy removal or expulsion from the cavity, preferably by liquefying or losing viscosity. The phase or viscosity change may be triggered by a variety of factors that liquefy or otherwise facilitate easy removal or expulsion of the composition from the cavity.

Ultrasonic and endoscopic examinations are frequently used for medical observation of various organs located in or near various body cavities. For example, the uterus is easily accessible to ultrasound imaging. New trans-vaginal probes, originally designed to facilitate egg retrieval in in vitro fertilization (IVF), have further enhanced the quality and usefulness of uterine ultrasound imaging. This improvement has directly resulted from the high frequency-high resolution ultrasound probes made possible by the proximity between the probe, inserted vaginally, and the organ being analyzed—in this case, the uterus.
Clinical circumstances warranting ultrasound imaging of the uterus fall into two main categories. During pregnancy, ultrasounds are very often used to assess fetal growth and well-being. And in non-pregnant women, ultrasounds frequently serve to identify uterine pathologies, such as fibroids or polyps, particularly while investigating the resulting symptoms such as bleeding disorders (dysfunctional uterine bleeding, or "DUB"), cramping, and infertility.
One striking difference between ultrasound imaging of the pregnant and non-pregnant uterus is the presence of amniotic fluid in the pregnant uterus. During pregnancy, the intrauterine (amniotic) fluid serves as a remarkable contrast enhancer that markedly improves the resolution of ultrasound images. The structures that are most affected by the contrast enhancement provided by the amniotic fluid are those lying in the immediate vicinity of fluid inter-phases, such as the central nervous system structures.
Learning from the unique advantages of ultrasound imaging during pregnancy and the role played by amniotic fluid as a contrast enhancer, several investigators have tried to reproduce these advantages for assessing the non-pregnant uterus. Thus, in order to similarly improve the quality of ultrasound imaging of a non-pregnant uterus, researchers have infused sono-transparent or sono-opaque fluids into the uterine cavity for providing, respectively, negative (black) or positive (white) contrast enhancement for the resulting images.
Most commonly, about 10-40 milliliters of 0.9% sodium chloride (NaCl, or saline) solution—a sono-transparent solution providing negative contrast—is slowly, and continually or repeatedly, infused into the uterine cavity in order to maintain appropriate pressure to distend the uterus during the ultrasound examination. This is usually done with plastic catheters designed for embryo transfers, or various other catheter models. The fluid must be continually or repeatedly infused because—as would happen with any pressurized fluid in an open container—it continually leaks out, in this instance through the cervix and/or fallopian tubes. Sometimes, a catheter may be equipped with an inflatable balloon or other sealing mechanism, which is intended to reduce leakage at the cervical end, but not at the tubes.
Today, such a procedure involving infusion of fluid during a uterine ultrasound procedure is most commonly referred to as a "sonohysterography," though it is also known by other names, including hysterosalpingo-contrast sonography (HyCoSY), saline hysterosonography, etc.
While simple in principle, the use of an intrauterine infusion of a NaCl or other solution as an ultrasound contrast enhancer is complex and cumbersome in practice. The intrauterine catheter connected to the NaCl syringe must be first introduced through the cervical canal into the uterus after a speculum is put in place. Then, the speculum needs to be removed while the catheter is held in the uterus, in order to accommodate the intra-vaginal ultrasound probe. Finally, the probe is inserted into the vagina with one hand, taking care not to displace the catheter, while the other hand holds the catheter and the syringe, pushing the plunger to initiate the intrauterine flow of fluid. Thus, a "3rd hand" is needed to make any necessary adjustments to the ultrasound machine, and to save iconographic documents.
The need to constantly flush contrast fluid through the uterine cavity while conducting the ultrasound examination, as it continually leaks out, also results in inconvenient and messy fluid puddles in the examination area, including on the examination table—which can be a further source of discomfort for the patient. Needless to say, sonohysterography is considered a time-consuming procedure by most gynecologists, who tend to use it reluctantly and only in certain cases that are deemed to warrant the extra inconvenience and discomfort. Despite these practical difficulties, the quality enhancement of ultrasound images achieved through sonohysterography is significant and allows more precise diagnoses of uterine pathologies, such as uterine fibroids and polyps, otherwise impossible or difficult to examine with plain ultrasounds.
Enhanced contrast ultrasounds provide better images of intrauterine pathologies. See, for example, FIGS. 1 through 4. FIGS. 1A, 2A, 3A, and 4A show the results of a plain uterine ultrasound in each of four patients. FIGS. 1B, 2B, 3B, and 4B show the results, respectively in the same four patients, of an enhanced contrast ultrasound using the medium of the instant invention. The substantially increased contrast and visibility attained with the instant invention is similar to that achieved even with typical sonohysterography (which would not provide the convenience and benefits of the instant invention, discussed below).
Numerous studies have validated the improvement provided by the addition of an intrauterine contrast medium over plain uterine sonography. Specifically, a wealth of data has demonstrated the superior positive and negative prediction value of saline sonohysterography for identifying intrauterine pathologies, when compared to the results and abilities of plain uterine ultrasounds. The pathologies easily identified by sonohysterography include submucosal fibroids and endometrial polyps, two common causes of dysfunctional uterine bleeding. Yet despite ample clinical value documented by many academic studies, actual use of sonohysterography remains relatively limited because of the difficulties and time-consuming nature of the procedure. It is for these practical reasons that sonohysterography is not commonly used in everyday gynecology.
One variation of saline sonohysterography uses sono-opaque solutions such as Echovist®-200, Albunex®, or similar products instead of the sono-transparent solutions such as normal saline, in order to render the uterine cavity hyperechogenic ("white") instead of hypoechogenic ("black"). The value of "white" hyperechogenic contrast over "black" hypoechogenic products such as saline has been debated.
For hysterosonography using hyperechogenic ("white") medium, the products used (Echovist and similar products) were designed for intra-vascular injection and contrast enhancement of cardiac ultrasounds. Hence, their use in obstetrics and gynecology has been an afterthought. They are all fluid and require infusion throughout the procedure, just like NaCl or other "black" hypoechogenic products. One claimed advantage of a hyperechogenic, or positive contrast, procedure is the resulting enhanced contrast image of the Fallopian tubes, particularly in their proximal segment, as compared to the relative lack of contrast when using negative contrast (such as saline) sonohysterography for such imaging.
Today, however, while many physicians recognize that positive contrast sonohysterography can be used to verify tubal patency, classic hysterosalpingography (HSG), an examination using x-rays, remains the primary mode for studying tubal anatomy because of the superior quality of tubal imaging obtained. While we agree that HSG is generally superior to positive contrast hysterosonography for assessing tubal anatomy, we believe that positive contrast hysterosonography may have a role to play for studying tubal functionality (peristaltic contractions).
Irrespective of its indications, positive contrast sonohysterography is as cumbersome a "3 hand" procedure as negative sonohysterography. It, too, requires simultaneously instilling the contrast fluid, holding the ultrasound probe, and making necessary adjustments on the ultrasound machine. As positive contrast preparations such as Echovist-200 are injectable, fluid preparations, the products typically still need to be continuously or periodically instilled during the examination. Hence, these procedures, too, require keeping the catheter in the uterine cavity during the procedure to allow continued or frequent replenishment of the medium, and commonly result in unpleasant watery leakages on the examination table.
Hysteroscopy, in contrast to ultrasound procedures, is an endoscopic investigation of the uterus intended to provide a direct visualization, rather than a contrast image. Accordingly, such a procedure typically does not require use of a contrast enhancing agent, but it still uses an "image enhancing" medium to distend the uterus, which otherwise is a virtual cavity—that is, one that is 'collapsed' and thus difficult to visualize. This type of procedure, however helpful, has significant disadvantages that prevent its widespread use. These disadvantages include pain and discomfort caused to the patient during the procedure, and the need to re-sterilize the expensive instruments after each examination.
During a hysteroscopy, the hysteroscope is introduced into the uterine cavity through the cervical os. In operative hysteroscopies, the procedure is conducted under anesthesia, which usually is general anesthesia, but may be a spinal or local (cervical block) anesthesia. The procedure typically requires dilatation of the cervix to approximately 7 to 9 mm to permit insertion of the relatively large instrument—the surgical hysteroscope. Constant infusion of a solution, such as a NaCl solution, Ringers, or glycine (if monopolar coagulation is envisioned), or of a gas, such as CO2, is needed to constantly distend the cavity and to wash away bleeding.
In some circumstances, a thicker solution, such as Hyscon™ is infused during the hysteroscopy procedure. While sticky and slightly thicker than saline, Hyscon still does not distend the cavity by itself without being infused under pressure. And Hyscon, too, leaks out, so again the procedure requires constant or periodic infusion.
Hysteroscopes are typically configured in such a way that, if needed, mini-surgical instruments may be inserted through the hysteroscope to cut and remove abnormal structures such as polyps, sub-endometrial fibroids and scar tissue (synechiae), or to burn them away using electrocoagulation or laser beams. Accordingly, operative hysteroscopes tend to be anything but compact.
Office hysteroscopy is a simplified version, performed for diagnostic purposes only. The smaller instrument size used in office hysteroscopy (3-5 mm in diameter) allows the physician to avoid cervical dilatation and anesthesia. Nevertheless, pain and discomfort still accompany the procedure, and so resort to this form of the procedure, too, remains somewhat limited. As in operative hysteroscopy, a solution or a gas must be infused throughout the procedure, in order to distend the uterine cavity, thereby permitting visualization. Of course, the infusion itself (which takes place under pressure), and the typical accompanying mess of leaked fluid, are additional sources of discomfort for the patient.
Thus, a product that provides (1) the ultrasound contrast enhancing properties of negative or positive intrauterine contrast enhancers and slightly distends the uterine cavity for offering a contrast interphase but without the leakage requiring constant fluid perfusion during the ultrasound examination, or (2) the distension required for a hysteroscopy procedure while allowing optical clarity, but without the need for bulky apparatus to continually perfuse the medium, or both, would be a huge advance in both aspects of the field. Such a product would make the procedures less burdensome, uncomfortable, and messy, and more convenient and efficient.
Such a product should have gel-like viscosity, or otherwise be able to remain in the uterine cavity after intrauterine infusion for the duration of the examination. This would permit the physician to remove the speculum and intrauterine catheter after infusion, and to perform the ultrasound or hysteroscopy procedure freely without having to constantly infuse the product during the examination. One added advantage would be that images generated would be free of image artifacts generated by the intrauterine catheter. The ideal product should then liquefy after a reasonable period of time, or otherwise facilitate easy removal, so that it is not permanently retained, but rather expelled from the uterine cavity after completion of the ultrasound examination. Intrauterine retention of a substance remaining in viscous gel consistency would be improper because of the potential to interfere with fertility.
As used herein, an "image enhancing" medium means a medium that enhances or facilitates contrast and/or direct visualization during medical examination procedures, such as by distending a body or organ cavity during a procedure such as ultrasound or endoscopy, and/or by providing improved contrast during imaging procedures such as ultrasounds. Thus, contrast enhancement is used here more broadly than the pure sense of merely enhancing or improving a contrast image. Instead, we use the term herein, as appropriate in context, to refer to enhancing or facilitating imaging, radiographic, visualization and similar techniques generally, whether by literally increasing the contrast, or by facilitating distension of the surface being examined, or both.
As used herein, a "phase-changing" or "phase-shifting" medium is one that is more of a solid or semi-solid (such as a gel) initially in a body or organ cavity during a medical examination procedure, but then changes or shifts to more of a liquid to facilitate removal or expulsion from the cavity, preferably after the procedure is completed. In contrast, a "viscosity-changing" or "viscosity-shifting" medium is one that is more viscous when used in a body or organ cavity during a medical examination procedure, but then becomes less viscous to facilitate removal or expulsion from the cavity, preferably after the procedure is completed.
As used herein, a medium that is in a "solid," "semi-solid," or "gel" state or phase is in a form that is sufficiently stable physically (i.e., relatively solid or viscous rather than fluid or gaseous) to substantially remain in a body or organ cavity typically without requiring constant or frequent replenishment during a medical examination procedure.
As used herein, "sufficient time" to conduct a medical examination procedure is typically on the order of at least several minutes, generally about 3 to 10 minutes, and preferably about 5 to 7 minutes. By the time the inventive composition is in place for such a sufficient time, the procedure is generally completed. Whether or not it liquefies or decreases in viscosity, the composition then is allowed to leak from the body or organ cavity, or is removed quickly and easily. Generally the cavity is mostly free of the composition within about 7 to 20 minutes of its initial placement in the cavity, preferably within about 10 to 15 minutes.
As used herein, "medical imaging" refers to imaging, radiographic, visualization, or other similar procedures for examining body or organ cavities or contiguous tissue, for various purposes including evaluation, diagnosis, observation, treatment, etc., whether prompted by specific concerns or symptoms or simply as precautionary measures. Such procedures include, for example, ultrasound, endoscopic procedures, MRI, x-rays, hystero-salpingograms (HSG), and CT (Computed Tomography) scans (each a "medical imaging procedure"). Similarly, a medical imaging composition or medium is intended for use in such medical imaging procedures.

Medium for contrast enhancement or convenience for ultrasonic, endoscopic, and other medical examinations


Embodiments are directed toward a pulley. The pulley preferably has a fixed side plate, an operable side plate, a sheave, and a double-action lock. The operable side plate is preferably transitionable between a closed configuration and an open configuration. The sheave is preferably disposed between the fixed side plate and the operable side plate. The double-action lock is preferably transitionable from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration upon completion of two separate and distinct actions. The lock in the locked configuration preferably prevents transition of the operable side plate from the closed configuration to the open configuration. The lock in the unlocked configuration preferably permits transition of the operable side plate from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

In general, pulleys support the movement of and change the direction of taut elements, such as ropes, cables, belts, or chains that extend through the pulleys. This characteristic allows pulleys to be arranged in manners that provide mechanical advantage that amplifies the force applied to the taut elements, such as in a block-and-tackle arrangement. Pulleys often require reeving the elements through the pulleys to prepare the system for bearing a load. The side plates of some pulleys pivot about the axis of the one or more sheaves in the pulley. A pulley having such hinged side plates eliminates the need for reeving because pivoting the hinged side plates to an open configuration exposes the one or more sheaves in the pulley to allow a user to set a bight of the element such as rope or cable onto the one or more sheaves and returning the hinged side plates to a closed configuration to provide a rove pulley.
The hinged side plates are typically locked into the closed configuration with another object, such as a carabiner, that extends through a hole in each side plate of the pulley. The object then anchors the pulley to a support, such as a tripod. Although reliable, carabiners are prone to being lost when not in use. Moreover, this arrangement requires separating the pulley from the support to add or remove the element such as rope.
Some pulleys having hinged side plates include an operable side plate, a fixed side plate, and a lock. The fixed side plate often connects to a thimble that may be fixed or rotate about a thimble axis. The operable side plate typically pivots about the axis of the one or more sheaves in the pulley relative to the fixed side plate to transition the pulley between the closed configuration and the open configuration. The lock is typically located at or near the thimble and is typically laterally offset from the thimble axis. The lock is typically a simple spring-biased button that can be depressed toward the fixed side plate. When in the undepressed configuration, the button extends through a hole in the operable side plate, thereby locking the pulley in the closed configuration. When the button is depressed, the operable side plate is free to pivot relative to the fixed side plate and thereby transition the pulley to the open configuration. This arrangement allows adding or removing the element such as rope without separating the pulley from the support. This arrangement, however, leaves the pulley susceptible to unintentional transitioning from the closed configuration to the open configuration in use because the taut element (or another item) can snag or depress the lock and subsequently open the lock. Moreover, when the lock is in the unlocked configuration and the thimble is disposed above the one or more sheaves of the pulley, the force of gravity pulls the operable face into the open configuration. Accordingly, such pulleys having hinged side plates and locks pose danger to users, bystanders, and equipment. An additional factor of safety may be desirable.


In certain embodiments, an apparatus is provided for use in removing pollutants from a gas stream. The apparatus includes a thermal reaction unit formed from a plurality of stacked porous ceramic rings. At least one of the stacked ceramic sections may be adapted to allow sensing of a characteristic of contents of the central chamber. In some embodiments, waste gas inlets to the thermal reaction unit may be angled to create a helical vortex within the thermal reaction unit. Other aspects are provided.

The gaseous effluents from the manufacturing of semiconductor materials, devices, products and memory articles involve a wide variety of chemical compounds used and produced in the process facility. These compounds include inorganic and organic compounds, breakdown products of photo-resist and other reagents, and a wide variety of other gases that must be removed from the waste gas before being vented from the process facility into the atmosphere.
Semiconductor manufacturing processes utilize a variety of chemicals, many of which have extremely low human tolerance levels. Such materials include gaseous hydrides of antimony, arsenic, boron, germanium, nitrogen, phosphorous, silicon, selenium, silane, silane mixtures with phosphine, argon, hydrogen, organosilanes, halosilanes, halogens, organometallics and other organic compounds.
Halogens, e.g., fluorine (F2) and other fluorinated compounds, are particularly problematic among the various components requiring abatement. The electronics industry uses perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) in wafer processing tools to remove residue from deposition steps and to etch thin films. PFCs are recognized to be strong contributors to global warming and the electronics industry is working to reduce the emissions of these gases. The most commonly used PFCs include, but are not limited to, CF4, C2F6, SF6, C3F8, C4H8, C4H8O and NF3. In practice, these PFCs are dissociated in a plasma to generate highly reactive fluoride ions and fluorine radicals, which do the actual cleaning and/or etching. The effluent from these processing operations include mostly fluorine, silicon tetrafluoride (SiF4), hydrogen fluoride (HF), carbonyl fluoride (COF2), CF4 and C2F6.
Improved methods and apparatus for abating such effluent streams are desired.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Methods and apparatus for sensing characteristics of the contents of a process abatement reactor


A conveyance device includes: a conveyance unit that conveys a printing paper sheet in a given conveyance direction; and a pressing unit that presses the printing paper sheet with ultrasound emitted from a plurality of ultrasound emitter elements which are arranged in a direction perpendicular to the conveyance direction and emit ultrasound of an identical frequency and an identical phase.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a conveyance device that conveys a medium to be conveyed with pressing the medium to be conveyed.
2. Description of the Related Art
Conventionally, an inkjet printer system wherein a printing paper sheet is conveyed with being nipped between a conveying belt and nip rollers, and ink is ejected onto the printing paper sheet being conveyed to achieve printing is proposed (see, for example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2012-218349).
In this type of inkjet printer system, a plurality of nip rollers are arranged on the conveying belt along the conveyance direction, and the printing paper sheet is sequentially conveyed from the most upstream nip roller to the most downstream nip roller.


In regard to a peripheral device in which commands are inputted and power is supplied from the main device, a peripheral device which can reduce power consumption while making use of a necessary function is provided. Peripheral device of the present invention comprises a functional unit which carries out a function based on commands from main device; a power control section which controls power consumption of the above-mentioned functional unit; a power profile information memory which memorizes a power profile information list that includes single or plural power profile information; and an interface section which sends and receives the above-mentioned power profile information and commands relevant to the functional unit to and from the above-mentioned main device; wherein the above-mentioned interface section corresponds to the demand from the above-mentioned main device and sends the above-mentioned power profile information list to the above-mentioned main device; and the above-mentioned power control section controls power consumption of the above-mentioned functional unit by corresponding to the selected information of the above-mentioned power profile information that was received from the above-mentioned main device.

In recent years, along with the popularization of portable information devices such as digital still camera and PDA, compact peripheral devices that can be used not only with personal computers but also in common with portable information devices such as digital still camera and PDA are drawing attention.
Main device and peripheral device of the conventional art 1 are disclosed in the Official Gazette of Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication Sho 62-217314. Main device and peripheral device of the conventional art 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 9.
FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing the configuration of main device having an I/O slot for connecting peripheral device in accordance with the conventional art 1. In FIG. 9, reference numeral 901 denotes a main device. Main device 901 has a control section 902, a plurality of I/O slots 903-906, and reed relays 907-910 which are located at the connecting section of the power supply wiring of I/O slots 903-906 respectively. Peripheral devices of the conventional art 1 which are inserted in I/O slots 903-906, are supplied power from main device 901. Main device 901 opens and closes reed relays 907-910 respectively by program control. By opening and closing reed relays 907-910 respectively, I/O slots 903-906 can individually switch ON/OFF each power supply which is to be supplied to the inserted peripheral devices. Main device 901 can reduce its power consumption by switching off the power supply of peripheral device which is inserted in an I/O slot but needs not to operate.
Peripheral device of the conventional art 2 is disclosed in the Official Gazette of Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication 2001-209764. Peripheral device of the conventional art 2 is an IC card. Peripheral device of the conventional art 2 automatically selects a high internal clock in a case where main device is a stationary type apparatus, and automatically selects a low internal clock in a case where main device is a battery-operated type apparatus.
However, the higher the function of peripheral device becomes, the massive the scale of its circuit becomes, and hence power consumption of a single peripheral device increases. In such cases, there was a problem in which power control would be insufficient when main device of the conventional art 1 which has only the function to switch ON or OFF the power supply in unit of individual peripheral device.
Furthermore, multifunctional peripheral devices have come on the market recently, and there would be a problem in which the entire circuit of peripheral device would operate even in a case where there is a function that is not in use, and hence consumes unnecessary power, when main device of the conventional art 1 is used.
When main device which is a power supply source, is a device that operates on a limited power such as a portable information device and the like, the above-mentioned power consumption issue was much serious.
Peripheral device of the conventional art 2 can change the internal clock corresponding to the main device. An IC card of the conventional art 2 can effectively reduce power consumption when the card is connected to a specific main device. However, for example in regard to IC cards (peripheral device) that were standardized throughout the industry which includes a number of manufacturers, IC cards having various functions are manufactured, and each IC card may be connected to a wide variety of main devices. Depending on an IC card, there is a case where a factor suitable for reducing power of an IC card is a factor other than an internal clock. Depending on an IC card, there is a case where an internal clock cannot be changed. Even when main device is a battery-operated type, there is a case where IC card requires to work at a high-speed internal clock. Main device and peripheral device of the conventional art 2 had difficulty in appropriately controlling power in peripheral devices and main devices that are the connecting counterparts of main devices and peripheral devices, which were not envisioned when that main device and peripheral device were commercialized.
The present invention, in regard to connection with an arbitrary main device, aims to provide a peripheral device, control method thereof, and program thereof, in which the peripheral device does not consume unnecessary power by corresponding to suppliable electric power of the main device.
The present invention, in regard to connection with an arbitrary main device, aims to provide a peripheral device, control method thereof, and program thereof, in which the peripheral device automatically sets to the most appropriate environment by corresponding to functions and the like of the main device, for example giving priority to performance or giving priority to power consumption.
The present invention, in regard to connection with an arbitrary peripheral device, aims to provide a main device and control method thereof, in which the main device automatically sets the peripheral device to the most appropriate environment by corresponding to functions and the like of the peripheral device, for example giving priority to performance or giving priority to power consumption.
The present invention, in regard to connection with an arbitrary peripheral device, aims to provide main device and control method thereof, in which the main device lowers unnecessary power consumption of peripheral device by corresponding to suppliable electric power of main device.

Peripheral device and its control method its main body device and its control method and its program

Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.


In overview, the disclosed methods, devices, and systems enable the location of the first device to be verified. In particular, second location verification data is generated using a current location of the second device is provided to a first device by a second device which can be matched with first location verification data received by the first device from a server, the first location verification data is generated using a stored location of the first device. If the first and second location verification data match, the location of the first device is considered to have been verified.

Devices such as set-top boxes (STBs), smart devices, OTT devices, and gaming consoles are generally provided to a customer along with a subscription to services provided by a media content provider, such as video, audio, internet web pages, interactive video games, amongst other things. The device is configured such that it can only be used in conjunction with a valid subscription. This can be exploited by moving a device associated with a valid subscription to a different location either to facilitate access by friends and family, who do not have a valid subscription, to content, or for larger audience content consumption, again where members of the larger audience do not have a valid subscription. There is a need to prevent devices being used in such a way such that the likelihood of content being viewed without a subscription is reduced. Some methods to control access to content are based on the geographic location of the device. Some devices don't support back channel communications. Therefore, there is a need to validate use of the device even if a back channel is not available. In some cases, users do not want to share their location. Therefore, there is a need to validate use of the device without sharing the user's location.


An app for programmable personal mobile communications devices which is useful for people attending meetings, conferences, classrooms and the like is described. The app permits the device to operate as a microphone to address the audience through a local wireless network and the public address system and as an app for meeting functions, such as the queuing of speaker/questioners at the meeting, the handling of audience surveys and nondisclosure agreements, record-keeping at meetings and so forth. Furthermore, different aspects of the app allow a user to operate as a moderator/host of a meeting in one case or as an attendee/participant of the meeting in another.

The present invention relates to the fields of communications, particularly closed environment communication, local conferencing and the use of existing voice and data messaging systems in these fields of communication.
In meetings, conferences, classrooms and the like, a typical question-and-answer period allows attendees and participants to ask questions from the floor. In a large venue without amplification, others in the room often have trouble hearing the speaker. Commonly, a microphone is provided in one or more aisles or a portable microphone is passed to a person wishing to ask a question. This can force people to maneuver their seating towards the aisles where microphone access might be more easily available, or cause some significant and disturbing activity in audiences and lead to disruption of the underlying meeting. The movement of the microphones through the audience can be tedious, slow (e.g., from one extreme corner of a room to another) and cumbersome. There can also be such significant jousting for attention as to be disconcerting to participants and lead to a loss of audience control. The current system also may not work because a microphone is not available, does not work well, or there is no portable microphone handy near the participant who wishes to speak. Often, the participant speaker doesn't properly use a microphone—waving it about or placing it too far away from his or her mouth while speaking—thus negating the advantages of the microphone.
To address these issues, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/844,412, filed Mar. 15, 2013 by Kenneth N. Sherman and Andrew Livingston, and entitled, "Mobile Microphone System and Method," (which is herein incorporated by reference) and related patent applications (including U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,144,893 and 8,452,026) describe ways in which personal mobile communications devices, including smartphones, such as the Apple iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, and the like, cellular telephones, PDA's (Personal Digital Assistants), electronic tablets, such as the Apple iPad, the ASUS Nexus 7 and the like with mobile communication applications, WiFi and Bluetooth laptop processors (PC and Mac), and other hand-sized, computer-based communication devices, can be especially used at large meetings, gatherings, conferences, etc. as microphones. Wireless telephone networks and local wireless networks are used with the personal mobile communications devices of the attendees and participants of the meeting.
Programmable personal mobile communications devices, such as smartphones, can be adapted as microphones by applications, sometimes termed "apps." The present invention describes apps by which programmable personal mobile communications devices, such as a smartphone, can also be used into a portal for many other functions which are useful for meetings and the like, besides that of microphone. Such meeting functions allow for the easy management and operation of meetings and gatherings by the moderator/host and the straightforward participation and attendance by audience members for an enhanced experience.

Mobile microphone system portal app for meetings


The invention relates to a transparent, biaxially oriented polyester film which comprises at least 80% by weight of thermoplastic polyester and also comprises an amount in the range from 0.05 to 0.5% by weight of a specific pigment system. The invention further relates to a process for producing the film. The film can be used as a packaging film, or for metalizing or ceramic coating, and in applications in the industrial sector, as a substrate for stamping foils.

The invention relates to a transparent, biaxially oriented polyester film composed of a layer which comprises at least 80% by weight of thermoplastic polyester. The invention further relates to a process for producing the film and to the use of the film.
The polyester film of the invention also comprises a specific pigment system which provides improved winding of the film and gives a highly transparent film with high-gloss surfaces. The film has very high suitability for use as a packaging film, in particular for metallizing or ceramic coating, and for applications in the industrial sector, e.g. as a substrate for stamping films.
In the packaging industry there is a high level of demand for highly transparent and high-gloss plastic films, e.g. biaxially oriented polypropylene films or biaxially oriented polyester films. These highly transparent, high-gloss films have a characteristic appearance and give the packaging, for example, an appearance which is particularly attractive and therefore particularly effective for promotional purposes. The problem with films subject to high requirements for the optical properties of the film is, inter alia, their windability, which does not always meet the requirements set, in particular if the machine rolls are processed to give wide customer rolls of high running length.
The prior art shows how the optical properties, in particular the gloss and the haze, of biaxially oriented polyester films can be improved.
EP 347 646 describes a biaxially oriented polyester film which has at least one outer layer (A) which comprises a concentration of from 0.5 to 50% of a filler, the diameter of this filler being in a particular ratio to the thickness of the outer layer. The outer layer also has a certain thickness and a certain degree of crystallization, which is determined with the aid of Raman spectroscopy. The topography of the outer layer A makes the film particularly suitable for magnetic recording tapes. The specification gives no information concerning the transparency of the film or the gloss achieved on the outer layer A. A film produced as in EP-A 347 646, did not have the desired transparency, nor the desired glossy surface. The gloss of this surface and the haze of the film are outside the range claimed in this specification.
EP-A-0 514 129 describes a transparent multilayer film which encompasses a primary layer substrate made from polymer material which has, at least on one of its surfaces, a secondary layer made from polymer material and having glass beads and silicon dioxide particles at particular concentrations and in particular size distributions. The arrangement of the secondary layer may be on one side or on both sides of the primary layer substrate. The film improves haze and processing properties, but the specification teaches nothing concerning improvement of the gloss and of the windability of the film.
EP-A-0 604 057 describes a transparent multilayer film which encompasses a primary layer substrate made from polymer material and substantially free from fillers, and having, on one of its surfaces, a secondary layer which is made from polymer material and which comprises a concentration of from 100 to 1000 ppm of silicone resin with a median particle diameter of from 1.5 to 12.5 μm. A disadvantage of the silicone particles is that these are comparatively expensive and do not represent an acceptable solution for the packaging market. In addition, films equipped with pigments of this type tend to telescope on winding. Nor does that specification give any indication at all as to how the topography of such a film is to be adjusted for simultaneous improvement of gloss and windability.
DE-A-16 94 404 describes a laminate with a plurality of layers of an oriented crystalizable thermoplastic film, in which at least one of the outer layers comprises an additive. The additives are conventional inert inorganic or organic particles which, in the case of the inert particles such as SiO2, are added at a concentration of from 1 to 25% by weight to the outer layers. The particle size here is from 2 to 20 μm. The laminates may be metalized with aluminum for decorative purposes or used for magnetic tapes. Although the teaching of this specification enables the processing properties and the haze of the film to be improved, the specification gives no teaching concerning improvement in the gloss or in the windability of the film.
EP-A-0 502 745 describes a coextruded biaxially oriented polyester film with at least three layers, of which an outer layer A                a) comprises inorganic particles with a mean primary particle size D in the range from 1 to 100 nm and complying with the equation D<T<200D, where T is the thickness of layer A,        b) comprises particles B with a mean primary particle size D1 in the range from 0.3 to 2 μm and with a primary particle size distribution having a relative standard deviation of not more than 0.6, and        c) where the mean primary particle size D of the particles A is smaller than the mean primary particle size D1 of the particles B.
The teaching of this specification in particular improves the processing performance of the film. The specification gives no teaching concerning improvement of the gloss of the film, or of its haze or windability.
It was therefore an object of the present invention to provide a biaxially oriented polyester film which has very good optical properties and in particular has very high gloss and very low haze. The film should also be very easy to wind, in particular when the machine roll is processed to give wide customer rolls of high running length. In addition, the film is to be very easy to produce and to process, and is to provide a very good oxygen barrier after metalization or after coating with oxidic materials. In summary, the object was to provide a film with the following combination of features:                high gloss        low haze        good winding        low oxygen transmission of the film after metalizing or after coating with oxidic materials        low coefficients of friction.
The gloss of the film is intended to be greater than 150, and the haze lower than 4.0%. The film is intended to be very easy to wind, and this means in particular that there are to all intents and purposes no longitudinal corrugations in customer rolls produced from a machine roll. This applies in particular when these are wide customer rolls of high running length. It is intended that less than 1.0 cm3 of oxygen per square meter and per day will diffuse through the metalized film when it is subjected to air at a pressure of 1 bar. In respect of other properties, the quality of the film is intended to be at least equal to that of the known packaging films of this type. The film is also intended to be simple and cost-effective to produce, and to be very easy to process on conventional machinery. The coefficient of friction on both surfaces is intended to be less than 0.6.
A further intention is to ensure that cut material arising during film production can be reintroduced to the manufacturing process as regrind in amounts of up to 60% by weight, based on the total weight of the film, without any resultant significant adverse effect on the physical or optical properties of the film.

Transparent, biaxially oriented polyester film


A vehicular tandem type rotary electric machine is disclosed having first and second stator cores 23, 33 having first and second circumferentially spaced slots to accommodate therein first and second stator coils 24, 34, respectively, and first and second Lundell type rotor cores 21, 31 supported on a common rotary shaft 4 in an axially adjacent relationship to be rotatable within the first and second stator cores, respectively, on which first and second field coils 22, 32 are wounded, respectively. Both of the first and second stator coils 24, 34 comprise segments-sequentially-joined stator coils, respectively, each of which includes segment conductors.

1. Technical Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to electric rotary machines and, more particularly, to a vehicular tandem type rotary electric machine having a single rotary shaft and plural stator rotor pairs.
2. Description of the Related Art
Attempts have heretofore been made to provide rotary electric machines (hereinafter referred to as vehicular tandem type rotary electric machines) each of which includes two Lundell type rotors coupled in tandem for a doubled power output as disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication Nos. 1-157251, 5-137295, 5-308751, 5-500300, 6-22518, 11-98789 and 2005-117843. With these tandem type rotary electric machines, the rotary electric machines can be manufactured in a compact structure arranged to provide two output voltages at different levels independently controllable from each other. Stated another way, in contrast to a structure in which two rotary electric machines are individually installed, the tandem type rotary electric machine can remarkably reduce production cost and installation space. The possibility of individually controlling the two output voltages is particularly useful for a two-voltage type rotary electric machine that is operative to separately provide a high output voltage of, for instance, 42V in addition to a low output voltage of 12V.
Further, another attempt has heretofore been made by the same applicant as that of the present application to provide tandem type rotary electric machines each arranged to include a segments-sequentially-joined stator coil composed of U-shaped segment conductors inserted to a slot formed in a stator core as disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication Nos. 2004-048939, 2004-048941, 2004-064914, 2004-048967, 2004-032987, 2004-032882, 2004-032884 and 2004-032890.
With the tandem type rotary electric machines incorporating a plurality of Lundell type rotor cores disposed in an axial direction, an issue arises with a remarkable increase in an axial length in comparison to that of a commonly used vehicular alternator employing a Lundell type rotor core.
Such an increase in the axial length of the rotary electric machine leads to an increase in the occurrence of deflection of a rotary shaft in a radial direction thereof. This results in a need to increase an electromagnetic gap between the stator core and the rotor core in a radial direction thereof. However, Such an increase in the electromagnetic gap in the radial direction reflects an increase in magnetic flux reluctance of a magnetic flux circuit with the resultant drop in performance of the rotary electric machine. Further, the increase in the axial length of the rotary electric machine also causes an increase in a rotating mass and a need arises for the rotary shaft to be largely sized in diameter and for bearings and housing to be designed in increased strength with a view to minimizing vibrations of relevant component parts. This results in the occurrence of an issue with an increase in an overall weight of the rotary electric machine.
Consideration has been taken that the increased axial length of the tandem type rotary electric machine provides an insoluble issue inevitably caused in the tandem type rotary electric machine of the related art needed to array the two stator-rotor pairs in the axial direction. Therefore, such a factor reflects a major cause for the tandem type rotary electric machine not to be widely spread in the related art regardless of various advantages.

Vehicular tandem type rotary electric machine


Apparatus for isolating the wellhead equipment from the high pressure fluids pumped down to the producing formation during the well servicing procedures of fracturing and acidizing oil and gas wells utilizes a central mandrel for pumping the fracturing and acidizing fluids through the wellhead equipment and into well tubing or casing. The mandrel is run into the wellhead equipment while enclosed in a pressure containment protection which includes the operating cylinder. The mandrel is locked in position in the wellhead equipment and later extracted from the wellhead equipment while fully enclosed in the pressure containment. The pressure containment mandrel protection and operating cylinder are removed during the well servicing process to give a low profile to the overall wellhead array.

Many of the procedures of oilfield well servicing require that fluids and gases mixed with various chemicals and proppants be pumped down the oil or gas well (henceforth called the well) tubing or casing under high pressures during the operations called acidizing and fracturing. These operations serve to ready the well for production or enhance the present production of the well. The components which make up the wellhead such as the valves, tubing hanger, casing hanger, casing head and also the blow out preventer equipment generally supplied by the well servicing company, are usually sized for the characteristics of the well and are not capable of withstanding the fluid pressures at which these operations of fracturing and acidizing are carried out. There are wellhead components available to withstand high pressures, but it is not economical to equip every well with them. There are many tools which are in use in the field which allow these high pressure fluids and gases to bypass the wellhead components and these tools are generally referred to as wellhead isolation tools or in oilfield terms, tree savers, casing savers and top mounted packers. Some of the most popular in use today would include the inventor's tools; McLeod, a Wellhead Isolation Tool, Canadian Patent No. 1,217,128, U.S. Pat. No. 4,657,075 this tool being used to isolate the wellhead from pressure in the casing; McLeod, a Well Casing Packer, Canadian Patent No. 1,232,536, U.S. Pat. No. 4,691,770, this tool being used to isolate wellhead equipment from pressure in the casing or tubing, depending on which it is set into; McLeod, a Wellhead Isolation Tool, U.S. Pat. No. 4,991,650, this tool being used to isolate wellhead equipment from pressure in the casing or tubing, depending on which it is set into; Bullen, a Well Tree Saver, Canadian Patent No. 1,094,945, this tool being used to isolate the wellhead array from pressure in the tubing; Cummins (Assigned to Halliburton Co.) a Wellhead Isolation Tool and Method of Use Thereof, U.S. Pat. No. 3,830,304, this tool being used to isolate the wellhead array from pressure in the tubing. Oliver (Assigned to Halliburton Co.) Wellhead Isolation Tool, U.S. Pat. No. 4,111,261, showing a tool much like the Cummins Patent but including a nipple system for the mandrel; Sutherland-Wenger, a Wellhead Isolation Tool Nipple, Canadian Pat. No. 1,272,684. This shows a nipple on a mandrel which is moved into the wellhead by a concentric telescoping cylinder; Dallas et al, A Wellhead Isolation Tool and Method of Using Same, Canadian Patent No. 1,267,078, U.S. Pat. No. 4,867,243 which shows a removable cylinder moving a mandrel into the wellhead. There are many other tools operating on the same principle; to insert a mandrel with a sealing nipple on the lower end through the wellhead and into the tubing or casing below the wellhead, thus isolating the wellhead from the pressure and fluid being pumped into the tubing or casing.
The isolation tools in general use have the following drawbacks.
1. During the insertion of the mandrel into the wellhead with the isolation tools proposed by McLeod, Bullen, Dallas et al and others, the wellhead valves are open and if there were to be damage to the mandrel or a leak to occur in the mandrel packing of the isolation tool, there is the great possibility of the well blowing out with the attendant danger to personnel and environment.
Thus for example, referring to FIG. 2 of Canadian patent no. 1,267,078 of Dallas et al, when the mandrel 24 is inserted into the wellhead, the valves 11A and 11B will be open. If there is a leak in the mandrel packing (see FIG. 2b, element 22), well fluids could pass between the mandrel and the wellhead fittings, between the mandrel and the flange 20 and into the environment thus potentially causing an uncontrollable blowout.
2. The isolation tools described by McLeod (U.S. Pat. No. 4,991,650), Sutherland-Wenger and others, use a combination pressure chamber and hydraulic cylinder to protect the mandrel or confine any leaks through mandrel packing. (Those of Cummins and Oliver protect only a portion of the mandrel during operation.) This does confine any possible blowout, but due to the construction of the pressure chamber and hydraulic cylinder, the isolation tool assembly is very high and the attachment to the well servicing equipment is far above the ground.
For example, referring to FIGS. 2A, 2B and 3 of Oliver, U.S. Pat. No. 4,111,261, the lower extension 162 of a mandrel 38 is integral with the piston 180 and contained within a cylinder 36. An upper mandrel extension 164 which is connected to the upper end of the lower extension 162 of the mandrel extends upward through the cylinder 36 and terminates is a valve 210 through which high pressure fluids may be added to the well during servicing of the well. The resultant high structure remains on the well during the servicing.
The height of the structure leads to high bending and twisting loads on the wellhead when acidizing and fracturing services are being performed. This can lead to damage to the wellhead and problems with removal of the isolation tool.
It is desirable to have an isolation tool configuration which will protect the mandrel when it is being inserted in the wellhead, protect the personnel and environment from the dangers of a blowout if there is a catastrophic leak in the mandrel packing and also have the protective container and the insertion mechanism removable from the wellhead once the mandrel has been installed in order to have in place a low profile isolation tool.
The invention in one aspect may be viewed as an insertion apparatus for protecting and inserting a mandrel through the low pressure wellhead and associated equipment. The insertion apparatus attaches to the wellhead in a pressure sealing way and remains in place while the mandrel is being inserted through the wellhead and sealing in the tubing with one of the many available sealing nipples. The mandrel is locked in place and then the insertion apparatus is taken off.
The well servicing equipment is then attached and the servicing done. After the servicing, the insertion apparatus is sealed to the wellhead and the mandrel extracted. The wellhead valves are closed and the insertion apparatus removed.
In one aspect the invention comprises an improvement to a wellhead isolation tool having a mandrel and a packing which are protected and pressure sealed from the surroundings during insertion of the mandrel in the wellhead by the insertion system of the wellhead isolation tool.
In a second aspect the invention comprises an improvement to a wellhead isolation tool having a mandrel and a packing and the insertion and pressure sealing portion of the isolation tool being removable from the wellhead after insertion of the mandrel by the isolation tool.
More specifically there is provided a wellhead isolation tool for attachment to a wellhead, the wellhead including tubing, the wellhead isolation tool comprising:
a pressure tight cylindrical unit having a cylindrical bore; PA1 a rod forcibly reciprocatable within the cylindrical bore of the unit, the rod having a lower end and a latch attached to the lower end of the rod; PA1 a mandrel attachable onto and detachable from the latch, the mandrel having a sealing nipple; PA1 an isolation valve attachable to the cylindrical unit; PA1 means for attaching the wellhead isolation tool to the wellhead; PA1 the cylindrical unit, the isolation valve, and the attaching means defining a sealed bore for the mandrel and rod to move within; PA1 and the mandrel being movable from a first position out of the wellhead to a second position with the sealing nipple sealed against the tubing. PA1 The mandrel is preferably locked within the wellhead, using a locking spool separate from the attaching means and from the isolation valve. Valves are preferably also provided to equalize pressure across the sealing nipple while the mandrel is lowered into the wellhead. PA1 In another aspect of the invention there is provided a method of isolating a wellhead from high pressures, the wellhead having a wellhead valve which is initially closed and the wellhead having well tubing, the method comprising: PA1 inserting a mandrel into a sealed wellhead isolation tool, the mandrel having a sealing nipple on its lower end, the wellhead isolation tool having a cylindrical sealed hydraulic means for receiving and reciprocatably moving the mandrel, an isolation valve attached to the cylindrical sealed hydraulic means and means for attachment of the wellhead isolation tool to the wellhead; PA1 attaching the wellhead isolation tool to the wellhead; PA1 opening the wellhead valve; PA1 inserting the mandrel into the wellhead with the sealing nipple sealed against the tubing; PA1 closing the isolation valve; and PA1 removing the cylindrical sealed hydraulic means from the isolation valve.

Wellhead isolation tool and method of use thereof


A method of manufacturing bags that are rectangular when collapsed and which comprise two superimposed flat sides, sealed at the edges, and a handle member. The method comprises the steps of: laying out a web forming three parallel subordinate webs, one extending longitudinally in the middle and one on each lateral side thereof; folding two top flanks out of the middle subordinate web to create a handle-top portion; V-folding a center strip of the middle subordinate web to create a handle member; providing the handle member with a finger slot and with depressions that allow the middle part to be pulled apart along the handle member to form a gusset; bringing the two lateral subordinate webs together; and attaching the lateral subordinate webs together along seams to create bag edges and cutting off the bags along their edges.

The invention concerns a method of manufacturing packaging bags. The bags are rectangular when collapsed. They consist of two superimposed flat sides sealed at the edges and of a handle that protrudes from the top.
A method for manufacturing bags of this type is disclosed in the German Utility Model Patent No GM 1 929 964. The bags described in this patent are made of thermoplastic foil. A carrying handle with a stamped-out finger slot is associated with each blank. The handle is made of a material that is more rigid than the material forming the sides of the bag. The drawback of this method is that it does not leave what is called a "gusset" to close off the opening at the top of the bag.

Method of manufacturing packaging bags with a handle

M & W Verpackungen Mildenberger & Willing GmbH


The present invention provides a method for remedying minute seal leaks in downhole tools and equipment. The various embodiments of the present invention utilize pressure activated liquid sealants stored in local reservoirs to remedy such leaks.

When drilling, running completions, performing work-overs, or performing any number of oilfield operations, a final assembly of the tools or equipment is typically performed at the location of the well. To validate the proper assembly of the tools or equipment, pressure tests are often performed. The pressure tests verify that the various seals are functional after assembly.
Due to the pressure range necessary and the subsequent resolution of the pressure measuring equipment, minute leaks such as those sometimes seen in metal-metal seals, may remain undetected after the pressure tests. Additionally, minute leaks may develop over the course of the lifetime of the seals. Undetected or later developed minute leaks can be particularly calamitous for electrical hardware, where the presence of small amounts of conducting fluid can cause electrical shorts and subsequent failure of the devices. Such leaks can also be very detrimental to the functioning of fiber optic equipment. The invasion of hydrogen bearing or hydrogen generating fluids into fiber optic equipment can cause darkening of the fibers and an eventual loss of the optical signal.
In the past, once detected, such leaks have been repaired by methods such as flowing across them with liquid sealants. While effective, the leak must first be discovered, and then the liquid sealant must be pumped through the leak. In the downhole environment, the time within which the leak is discovered and subsequently remedied can be quite substantial. Thus, the downhole tools and equipment are subjected to extended periods of contamination that can have detrimental effects on the operation of the tools and equipment.
There exists, therefore, a need for remedying a downhole leak with liquid sealant that does not require pumping the liquid sealant subsequent to discovery of the leak.

Leak remedy through sealants in local reservoirs


A lock cylinder with a lock cylinder housing is provided. A knob shaft, rotatable by way of a knob, is mounted to rotate on one side or both sides of the lock cylinder. An authorization signal causes at least one electromechanically operating coupling device to connect a lock element to rotate in unison with the knob shaft and in order to operate a lock. The authorization signal is generated by evaluation electronics based on an input or input signal. It is proposed that at least one reading unit with an input unit to record the input and/or a receiving unit to receive the input signal is present, that the reading unit with the input unit and/or receiving unit is arranged in at least one knob and are spatially separated from the evaluation electronics, that the knob is connected electrically and mechanically releasable to the knob shaft, and that the reading unit generates, from the input or input signal, an access signal that can be evaluated by the evaluation electronics.

The invention concerns a lock cylinder with a lock cylinder housing, in which a knob shaft, rotatable by means of a knob, is mounted to rotate on one side or both sides, and with at least one electromechanically operating coupling device, which is connected to rotate in unison with the knob shaft based on a authorization signal of a lock element and/or releases the knob shaft, in order to operate a lock, said connection signal being generated by an evaluation electronics based on an input or input signal. As an alternative, the lock element of the lock cylinder can be operated on one side or both sides by a lock core, rotatable by means of a key. The invention also concerns a lock cylinder that can be operated on one side with a knob and on the other side with a key.
The lock cylinder, operable on one side, can be designed as a half-cylinder. In a lock cylinder operable on both sides a lock core or knob shaft can be connected or connectable purely mechanically always to the lock element. A purely mechanically operating knob with an electromechanical operating lock core can then be combined in a lock cylinder and vice versa.
Such lock cylinders are generally known. A frequent arrangement is that the input signal is recorded by means of an antenna, which excites a transponder in a key, a chip or a similar token, worn by the person granted access. The received input signal contains the access code, which is evaluated by the evaluation electronics. In the case of access authorization, an authorization signal is generated, which drives an electromechanical coupling device. The coupling device causes rotation-free connection between the lock element, for example, the lock tab, and the knob or key, or releases the knob shaft or the lock core. Activation of the lock or a switch or the like is then possible with the lock cylinder.
DE 199 30 054 A1 describes an electromechanical lock cylinder, which can be operated on one side with a key and on the other side with a knob. The specific arrangement is such that the key carries a transponder, whose signal is received via an antenna on the lock cylinder housing and evaluated by evaluation electronics in the knob. DE 198 51 308 C2 discloses a lock cylinder that can be operated on both sides by a knob. The evaluation electronics and the antenna to receive a signal transmitted in wireless fashion are arranged in the knob on the inside of the door. It is known from EP 1 256 671 A2 to arrange the evaluation electronics in a rosette.
A common feature of all known variants of electromechanical lock cylinders is that the evaluation electronics, the antenna and the coupling device, in particular, form a unit with respect to data flow and the signals being transmitted, which cannot be separated from each other. This means that for different reading systems or recording systems or different data transmission techniques between the token and lock cylinder with different cylinders and/or frequencies and/or ranges, a complete lock cylinder with evaluation electronics adapted to the recording system must always be produced and kept on hand. The same applies for other types of input, for example, the provision of a biometric sensor, a keypad or simple pushbutton in internal knobs. Here again, depending on the choice of the desired operating release, a complete lock cylinder with correspondingly adapted evaluation electronics must be kept on hand. If the technology for input or recording of the access code changes, the evaluation electronics must be adapted to it. It is obvious that high production, development and storage costs are required for this.


Systems and methods for providing an interactive electronic real estate web site. Buyers, sellers and a variety of different service providers are electronically and communicatively connected with each other to facilitate residential and commercial real estate transactions. Through the use of customized online forms, buyers and sellers are guided through the real estate transaction process through the use of a virtual real estate agent. Direct communication in the form of internal messaging and document sharing between buyers and sellers (and service providers) makes the transaction process more efficient and replaces the need for brokers and broker commissions. A timeline approach to the real estate transaction process affords efficiency and realistic expectations to the parties involved, user rewards are used as incentives for buyers and sellers to use preferred service providers.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for providing online realty services, and, more specifically, the present invention is directed to an online realty system in which a virtual advisor replaces a broker to provide comprehensive online realty services while maximizing user convenience and efficiency.
2. Description of the Background
Although ubiquitous in nature, real estate transactions are among the most complicated legal transactions that are undertaken by everyday people. Moreover, because the choice of where to live or where to set up a business is one of such high importance, it is often undertaken with a sense of insecurity that the seller is not reaching the buyer who is willing to pay the highest price, and the buyer is not locating the available property which most clearly satisfies his or her current needs and wants. Therefore, access to a high volume of property listings in an efficient manner is continually desired.
In addition to the question of access, the complicated nature of a real estate transaction is often a source of concern for both buyers and sellers of real estate. For example, many buyers/sellers have a general idea about the progression of a real estate transaction, but few have the low level, specialized knowledge about what events and actions happen at what time. This uncertainty leads to improper expectations on the parts of both buyers and sellers and often makes for an inefficient and difficult real estate transaction process.
In an effort to address the complicated nature of the transaction, most buyers and sellers utilize a real estate agent/broker that guides the buyer/seller through the process. Although most brokers are very knowledgeable and aide the process, this comes at a great price. At closing, sellers often pay at or around 6% of the sale price of the real estate property to brokers/agents for their services. Since the process is fairly standardized for these brokers, this transaction cost appears excessive, especially in more standard real estate transactions. There is a need, therefore, to provide a "virtual" real estate agent or coach that guides users through the transaction process and incorporates service providers (such as mortgage and title companies) into the process as necessary under the law and as circumstances dictate.
One way in which some of the above limitations have been addressed is through the use of online or web page-based electronic listings for residential homes. Typically, a single real estate company in a single geographic area will create bare listings about some of the properties that they are offering for sale. Potential buyers can view basic information about the properties or view a picture of the properties via a web browser. However, this traditional real estate web site provides only a very coarse initial search for a home from a limited pool of existing homes. There is no direct communication between buyer and seller. One or more brokers, being paid the requisite commissions, are utilized to facilitate the process, and the user is not much better off than in a completely "bricks and mortar" process.
There is, therefore, a great need in the art to replace the real estate agent/broker with an online realty web site incorporating a true virtual agent which manages a real estate transaction with no commissions. Moreover, service providers for everything from mortgage and title companies to movers, painters and storage companies can be incorporated into the system to provide needed moving-related services to buyers and sellers, all while providing user rewards and other advantages over the prior art to buyers and sellers.