According to the invention, computerized methods, computer-readable medium containing computer-executable instructions, and apparatus are disclosed for presenting, manipulating, and serving immersive (i.e., panoramic) images. A browser or other display mechanism presents various views of the immersive image comprised of one or more sub-images received from a server, memory, or stored device. Additionally, a server is able to discriminate which type of Web page is provided for efficiently presenting views of an immersive image based on the capabilities of the viewing browser. In this manner, a user is able to efficiently view an immersive image without requiring a Java or other enhance capability browser. Moreover, the invention also provides for determining and presenting a reference indicator which identifies the portion of the immersive image. The reference indicator can also be manipulated to display new perspective views of the immersive image.

This invention relates to computer programming and systems; and more particularly, to computerized methods, computer-readable medium containing computer-executable instructions, and apparatus for presenting, manipulating, and serving immersive (i.e., panoramic) images.
The Internet and the World Wide Web (xe2x80x9cWebxe2x80x9d) have changed the landscape of information delivery and affected numerous faculties of life, including electronic commerce and entertainment. One area that has benefited from this technological development is the ability to deliver and display multimedia experiences across a network, such as the Internet. In particular, these multimedia experiences may include presenting immersive images.
Today, immersive images can be viewed using a Java capable browser or an enhanced browser having an appropriate plugin. A example of an immersive image 100 viewable using a Java capable browser or an enhanced browser having an appropriate plugin is illustrated in FIG. 1.
However, there is a large portion of the Internet community which cannot view immersive images today. To view these immersive images, these users would need to expend additional time and expense to replace or upgrade their browser. Moreover, a segment of the Internet community (e.g., WebTV users) cannot upgrade their system to be able to view immersive images using available technology. Needed is a system for presenting immersive images received from a server using generic browsing capabilities.
Moreover, current programs, including Java reviewers, for displaying immersive images do not provide a mechanism to alert a viewer of the currently displayed perspective of the immersive images. This results in the loss of viewing context. Needed is a mechanism for allowing a user to readily orient oneself and determine the perspective of the current view of the immersive image.
According to the invention, methods and apparatus are disclosed for presenting immersive images (i.e., panoramic images) and/or supporting the presentation of immersive images. Embodiments of the present invention include various elements and limitations, with no one element or limitation contemplated as being a critical element or limitation. Each of the claims individually recite as aspect of the present invention in its entirety. Moreover, embodiments of the present invention include methods, computer-readable medium containing instructions for performing the methods, and computer systems for practicing the present invention. The embodiments described hereinafter embody various aspects and configurations within the scope and spirit of the present invention.
According to a first embodiment of the present invention, a method and computer-readable medium containing executable instructions by a browser are provided for presenting an immersive image comprising a plurality of sub-images. Preferably, the first embodiment comprises: receiving a first set of instructions for presenting a first view of the immersive image, the first view including a first subset having one or more neighboring sub-images from the plurality of sub-images; receiving the first subset of sub-images from one or more local or remote memories, storage devices, or servers; remote memories, storage devices, or servers; and presenting the second view of the immersive image.
In an embodiment, the immersive image consists of a number N sub-images, and the first and second views each consist of non-overlapping portions of the immersive image. In alternative embodiments, the n sub-images may contain overlapping portions of the immersive image. Preferably, the value of n is eight and the value of m is two.
In an embodiment, one or more sub-images with the second subset not residing in a local memory or storage device are received from a remote server. An embodiment further comprises: requesting a second set of instructions for presenting the second view from a remote server; and receiving the second set of instructions for presenting the second view. Preferably, the first and second sets of instructions are HyperText Markup Language (HTML). In an embodiment, the first set of instructions are in HyperText Markup Language (HTML) and include a Java Script code; wherein, in response to the received signal, the Java Script code causes the presentation of the second view to be performed. In an embodiment, the signal is received in response to a selection by a user of the computer system. In an embodiment, the signal is received in response to a timing signal generator. An embodiment further comprises presenting a reference indicator having a plurality of views, wherein a first view of the reference indicator corresponds to the first view of the immersive image, and a second view of the reference indicator corresponds to the second view of the immersive image. Preferably, the second view is determined from a location indicated by the signal and a position of, or a point within, the reference indicator.
According to a second embodiment of the present invention, a method and computer-readable medium containing computer-executable instructions are provided for presenting an immersive image, where the immersive image includes a plurality of sub-images. Preferably, the second embodiment comprises: receiving a first view instructions, the first view instructions referencing a first and second sub-images of the plurality of sub-images; receiving the first and second sub-images; presenting a first view of the immersive image based on the first view instructions and including the first and second sub-images; receiving a signal indicating a request for a second view of the immersive image; requesting a second view instructions from one or more local or remote memories, storage devices, of servers in response to the received signal; receiving the second view instructions, the second view instructions referencing the second sub-image and a third sub-image; receiving the third sub-image; and presenting the second view of the immersive image based on the second view instructions and including the second and third sub-images.
In an embodiment, the first and second view instructions are in HyperText Markup Language (HTML). Preferably, the first, second and third sub-images, the first and second view instructions are received from one or more remote servers. In an embodiment, the signal is received in response to a selection by a user of the computer system. In an embodiment, the signal is received in response to a timing signal generator. In an embodiment, the first and second sub-images consist of non-overlapping neighboring portions of the immersive image. An embodiment further comprises presenting a reference indicator having a plurality of views, wherein a first view of the reference indicator corresponds to the first view of the immersive image, and a second view of the reference indicator corresponds to the second view of the immersive image. Preferably, the second view is determined from a location indicated by the signal and a position of, or a point within, the reference indicator.
According to a third embodiment of the present invention, a method and computer-readable medium containing computer-executable instructions are provided for presenting an immersive image using a browser, wherein, the immersive image including a plurality of sub-images. Preferably, the third embodiment comprises: receiving a first view instructions, the first view instructions including a browser executable code; receiving a first and second sub-images of the immersive image; presenting a first view of the immersive image based on the first view instructions and including the first and second sub-images; receiving a signal indicating a request for a second view of the immersive image; determining by the browser executable code the second view of the immersive image based on the received signal, the second view including the second and third sub-images; requesting a third sub-image of the immersive image from one or more local or remote memories, storage devices, or servers; receiving the third sub-image; and presenting the second view of the immersive image.
In an embodiment, the first view instructions are in HyperText Markup Language (HTML), and the browser executable code is in Java Script. An embodiment further comprises presenting a reference indicator having a plurality of views, wherein a first view of the reference indicator corresponds to the first view of the immersive image, and a second view of the reference indicator corresponds to the second view of the immersive image. Preferably, the second view is determined from a location indicated by the signal and a position of, or a point within, the reference indicator. In an embodiment, the first, second and third sub-images and the first view HTML source are received from one or more remote servers.
According to a fourth embodiment of the present invention, a method and computer-readable medium containing computer-executable instructions are provided for presenting an immersive image. Preferably, the fourth embodiment comprises: presenting a first immersive image view of the immersive image; presenting a first reference indicator indicating a first viewing perspective of the first immersive image view within the immersive image; receiving a signal indicating a request for a second view of the immersive image; determining the second view of the immersive image representing an angular displacement from the first immersive image view of the immersive image based on the received signal; presenting a second immersive image view of the immersive image; and presenting a second reference indicator indicating a second viewing perspective of the second immersive image view within the immersive image.
In an embodiment, the signal is received in response to a selection by a user of the computer system. Preferably, the second immersive image view is determined from a location indicated by the signal and a position of, or a point within, the reference indicator. In an embodiment, the immersive image is presented with a browser using Java executable code. In an embodiment, the immersive image is presented with a browser using Java Script executable code. In an embodiment, the immersive image is presented with a browser using a first HyperText Markup Language (HTML) page for presenting the first immersive image view of the immersive image, and a second HTML page for presenting the second immersive image view of the immersive image.
According to a fifth embodiment of the present invention, a method and computer-readable medium containing computer-executable instructions by a server are provided for providing a client with a plurality of sub-images of an immersive image. Preferably, the fifth embodiment comprises: receiving from the client a request to view the immersive image; sending to the client a first view HyperText Markup Language (HTML) source identifying at least a first sub-image of the immersive image; sending to the client the first sub-image of the immersive image; receiving a request from the client to view a second view of the immersive image; sending to the client a second view HTML source identifying at least a second sub-image of the immersive image; and sending to the client the second sub-image of the immersive image.
An embodiment further comprises generating the plurality of sub-images from the immersive image, the generated sub-images including the first and second sub-images. Preferably, generating the plurality of sub-images is performed in response to the receipt of the request to view the immersive image. Preferably, the embodiment further comprises determining whether or not the plurality of sub-images already exist; wherein the step of generating the plurality of sub-images is performed after determining that the plurality of sub-images do not already exist. Preferably, the first and second sub-images consist of non-overlapping neighboring portions of the immersive image. Preferably, the first and second sub-images contain overlapping portions of the immersive image.
An embodiment further comprises sending to the client a reference indicator. An embodiment further comprises: sending to the client a first view reference indicator corresponding to the first view of the immersive image; and sending to the client a second view reference indicator corresponding to the second view of the immersive image.
According to a sixth embodiment of the present invention, a method and computer-readable medium containing executable instructions by a server are provided for providing a client with a plurality of sub-images of an immersive image. Preferably, the method comprising: receiving from the client a request to view the immersive image; sending to the client a HyperText Markup Language (HTML) source containing a Java Script code identifying a first and second sub-images of the immersive image; sending to the client the first sub-image of the immersive image; receiving a request from the client for the second sub-image of the immersive image; and sending to the client the second sub-image of the immersive image. An embodiment further comprises generating the plurality of sub-images from the immersive image, the generated sub-images including the first and second sub-images.
According to a seventh embodiment of the present invention, a method and computer-readable medium containing executable instructions by a server are provided for supporting a browser to present an immersive image. Preferably, the method comprises receiving from the browser a request to view the immersive image; receiving an indication of an operational mode of the browser, the operational mode identifying a present mode to be used by the browser in presenting the immersive image; sending HTML code including a Java script and the immersive image to the browser if the present mode indicates Java enabled; and sending a first view HTML source and a first and second sub-images of the immersive image to the browser if the operational mode indicates not Java enabled. An embodiment further comprises dynamically generating the first and second sub-images directly from the immersive image in response to the receipt of the request to view the immersive image and operational mode of the browser.

Presenting manipulating and serving immersive images


An improved induction heating apparatus is provided for attaching membrane roofs. A top membrane layer is attached to attachment disks that hold sheets of thermal insulation to the top of roof substrates. The heating apparatus emits a magnetic field that raises the temperature of the disks and a heat-activated adhesive on top of the disks which, after cooling, becomes adhered to the bottom surface of the top membrane layer. The disks in turn are attached via fasteners to the substrate portion of the roof structure. The apparatus includes a set of bottom guides that allow a user to find the attachment disks mechanically, without actually seeing those disks beneath the top membrane layer. A fine locator circuit is provided, using a magnetic field, and the apparatus allows a user to stand upright while operating the apparatus.

Induction heating devices have been available for use with membrane roofs in the past. One such device is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,229,127. The induction heating device in this patent used four sensing coils with indicators to help the user find the correct position of the induction tool over one of the attachment disks that is to be heated by the induction coil of the tool. This conventional tool was fairly small in height, and the user had to generally be in a kneeling position to use it.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Method and apparatus for attaching a membrane roof using induction heating of a susceptor


A software architecture is used to control an apparatus with one or more hardware units that each perform one or more corresponding functions. The software architecture includes a device group data structure for each hardware unit and one or more device data structures for each hardware unit function. In a preferred, but an example embodiment, one or more device set data structures are defined in the software architecture. Each device set data structure is associated with the device group and includes one or more device data structures. The data structures defined in the software architecture are used to control the apparatus functionality physically performed by the hardware units.

Many types of apparatus are constructed using modular components that perform certain apparatus functions. Each module may be viewed as a hardware unit that is responsible for performing one or more functions. The functions to be performed by each hardware unit can vary from minor to complex.
An example of such an apparatus is a radio base station used in, for example, a radio telecommunication system. FIG. 1 shows a simplified radio communication system 10 including a radio network controller 12 coupled to plural base stations 14a and 14b. The radio network controller 12 is typically coupled to other networks such as circuit-switched and packet-switched networks. In this example, both base stations are "macro" base stations meaning that all of the hardware units used to perform each base station's functions are located in one physical location. Base station 14a includes a number of replaceable hardware units that contain electrical and/or electronic circuitry, components, power supplies, software, etc. Example base station hardware units include: one or two timing unit boards 16, one or two base band transmit boards 18, one or more random access/receive boards 20, one or more transceiver boards 22, one or two radio frequency interface boards 24, one or more antenna interface boards 26, one or more multi-carrier power amplifier boards 28, a power control board, and a controller board 32 responsible for controlling the base station in general and each of the function boards 16–30. In operation, the base station 14a effects radio communication with one or more mobile stations 34.
Accordingly, base station 14a is an example of a modular apparatus equipped with various types of hardware units that perform different functionalities. Different types of base stations from the same base station family often support the same functionality, although different members of the base station family may use different hardware units to implement that functionality. For example, as electronic and integrated circuit manufacturing and miniaturization techniques advance, more functionality will likely be integrated into a single hardware unit. In the base station 14a shown in FIG. 1, it may be desirable to combine the baseband transmit board 18 and the random access/receive board 20 into a single board. Alternatively, it may be desirable to modify an individual board or the board configuration. For example, it may be desirable to add additional transceiver boards 22 to increase the capacity of the base station 14a. Another possibility is that the processing capacity of a random access/receive board 20 is increased, which can either be used to increase the capacity of the base station or to provide the same capacity with fewer random access/receive boards. Indeed, one may foresee that each board shown in base station 14a may require modification or elimination in the integration example explained above.
As base station technology evolves, new base station configurations and functionality will be produced. An example of a new base station configuration is a main-remote base station configuration where the main unit includes hardware units that perform baseband functions for the base station and a physically remote unit performs radio functions for the base station. At the same time, older base station configurations should still be supported. In other words, a radio communications system may well contain both old and new base station equipment that needs to be integrated.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a mechanism that supports and controls a wide range of hardware units without being tied to the implementation details of each hardware unit.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a mechanism that readily and flexibly accommodates changes to individual hardware units, changes to configuration of the hardware units, and changes to the functionality that needs to be performed.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a mechanism that supports integrating functions previously performed by multiple hardware units into a single hardware unit.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a mechanism that supports different (e.g., increased) capacities of hardware units of the same type.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a mechanism that supports integrating new functionality into the apparatus.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a mechanism that permits a standardized approach for handling all the hardware units in the apparatus.
The present invention addresses and meets these and other objectives. A software architecture is used to control an apparatus with one or more hardware units that each perform one or more corresponding functions. The software architecture includes a device group data structure for each hardware unit and one or more device data structures for each hardware unit function. In a preferred, but an example embodiment, one or more device set data structures are defined in the software architecture. Each device set data structure represents one or more device data structures. The data structures defined in the software architecture are used to control the apparatus functionality physically performed by the hardware units.
The software architecture is independent of the specific hardware unit actually implementing a function and of how the hardware unit actually performs the function. For example, the device data structure is independent from the hardware unit responsible for actually implementing the device function. As a result, an identity, configuration, or implementation of a hardware unit may be changed without having to change the associated device data structure. To achieve this independence, the hardware unit stores a "mapping" between each function it is responsible for performing and the device data structure corresponding to that function.
Each device group data structure is associated with device data structures of a certain type in one hardware unit and device set data structures if employed. A device set data structure can be introduced to manage a set of individual device data structures. For purposes of illustration only, it is assumed that one or more device set data structures are employed. A device group can be associated with both different types of device set data structures and multiple instances of the same device set data structure. Each device group data structure is used by a software architecture manager to bring each device set associated with that device group into service and coordinate each device set with the device group. The device group manages the device set, and the device set in turn manages the individual devices associated with that device set. If a hardware unit is changed to support a different function, the hardware unit is associated with a new device group.
The software architecture manager manages the hardware units and the apparatus using the device group, device set, and device data structures in the software architecture. In addition, a device group software interface is defined for each device group, and a device set software interface is defined for each device set/device. These software interfaces define how the software architecture manager communicates with and manages the hardware units using the software architecture and include common procedures and signalling formats.
One of the advantages of the present invention is that functionality implemented by plural hardware units may be readily and flexibly integrated into a single, new hardware unit simply by defining a new device group data structure for the new hardware unit. That new device group data structure includes the device set and device data structures already established and associated with the "old" hardware units. Although a new device group software interface is defined, the device set/device software interface already defined for the device set/devices associated with the "old" hardware units are employed for the new, integrated configuration.
A non-limiting, example application of the present invention is to radio base stations. In this context, the manager uses the software architecture to start up and control the base station hardware units. The manager may also use the software architecture to flexibly expand the capacity of one or more of the base station hardware units simply by increasing the number of device data structures associated with a corresponding device set or device data structure. Moreover, the software architecture may be used to enhance one or more capabilities associated with one or more devices in the radio base station. Still further, the software architecture may be used to reconfigure a macro base station as a main-remote base station or a hybrid macro/main-remote base station.

Software architecture for controlling an apparatus with one or more hardware units


Systems and methods for designing and fabricating carbon nanotube based detectors are disclosed. In some embodiments, one or more sensor elements can be formed from a film of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs). Bolometric properties of such detectors are disclosed. In some embodiments, the film can be thermally isolated in various ways, such as suspending the film and providing a vacuum environment, to provide the bolometric properties. Various properties of the SWNT films, such as resistivity-dependence on temperature and spectral response, can be obtained by adjusting the dimension and/or composition of the film. Examples of SWNT film formation, detector element fabrication, and array fabrication are disclosed.

1. Field
The present disclosure generally relates to carbon nanotubes, and more particularly, to systems and methods for designing and fabricating detectors using single-walled carbon nanotubes.
2. Description of the Related Art
Applications for infrared detectors and their 2-dimensional arrays have undergone a dramatic expansion over the past several decades in the areas of thermal imaging. Night vision and other military applications, spectroscopy, infrared astronomy, and failure analysis are some of the applications where infrared detectors are used.
Currently, HgCdTe is a widely used variable band gap semiconductor for infrared (IR) photodetectors. Aside from its toxicity, HgCdTe and corresponding systems have various undesirable properties. For example, processing problems can occur due to weak Hg—Te bonds, and can give rise to bulk, surface and interface instabilities that make it difficult to develop large area uniform imaging arrays. Moreover a typical HgCdTe detector operates at 77K which under certain circumstances may not be desirable.
Extrinsic doped Si detector is another type of common IR photodetector. A typical Si photodetector requires even lower temperatures (about 4.2K) for successful operation. Thus, such IR sensors (such as IR focal plane arrays (FPA)) for cryogenic imagers are typically expensive to manufacture and operate. Consequently, their uses are limited to specialized applications such as military applications.

The Regents of the University of California


An apparatus includes a bearing housing, a shaft assembly that extends through the bearing housing along a shaft axis, an annular groove formed on the shaft assembly, and a piston ring assembly that is engaged with the bearing housing and extends into the groove of the shaft assembly. The piston ring assembly includes a first ring portion and a second ring portion. The first ring portion has a first contact face that is oriented at a non-perpendicular with respect to the shaft axis, and the second ring portion has a second contact face that is oriented at a non-perpendicular angle with respect to the shaft axis and is engageable with the first contact face.

In the field of internal combustion engines, turbochargers are forced-induction devices that are utilized to increase the pressure of the intake air provided to the engine. Exhaust gases from the engine are routed to the turbocharger and are utilized to drive a turbine wheel. The rotational force generated by the turbine wheel is utilized to drive a compressor wheel, which pressurizes ambient intake air and supplies the pressurized intake air to the engine. By pressurizing the intake air, the amount of air and fuel that can be forced into each cylinder during an intake stroke of the engine is increased. This produces an increased power output relative to a naturally-aspirated engine.
The turbine wheel is connected to the compressor wheel by a shaft, with the turbine wheel being joined to a first end of the shaft and the compressor wheel being connected to a second end of the shaft. The shaft passes through a bearing housing and is supported by a plurality of bearings that allow the shaft to spin with respect to the bearing housing at extremely high rotational speeds. The bearings are lubricated by oil, for example, via an oil line that delivers pressurized engine oil to the bearing housing from the oil pump of the engine.
At each end of the bearing housing, the shaft exits the bearing housing and enters either the turbine housing or the compressor housing. Piston rings are utilized at each end of the housing to prevent oil from exiting the bearing housing along the shaft. In particular, the piston rings are seated against the bearing housing or a component within the bearing housing in a manner that restrains rotation of the piston rings with respect to the bearing housing. The piston rings extend into respective grooves that are formed on the shaft.
The grooves on the shaft are formed such that they are wider than the piston rings. This axial clearance between the piston ring and the groove helps to prevent excessive contact between the piston ring and the groove. The axial clearance is typically between 20 microns and 100 microns.
The term "blow by" refers to oil that travels past the piston rings. Axial clearance is a primary controlling factor for blow by for a given pressure differential across a piston ring. As axial clearance increases, blow by increases.

Multi-piece piston ring for a turbocharger shaft assembly


A system and method for controlling an engine control an EGR cooler bypass valve to divert at least a portion of EGR flow around an EGR cooler when operating under cooler fouling/plugging conditions, such as during idle, off-idle, exhaust system warm up and DPF regeneration or other post injection operation with EGR gas temperature below a corresponding threshold or with EGR low-temperature coolant temperature below a corresponding threshold. The system and method reduce exhaust gases passing through the EGR cooler that contain a high concentration of unburned or partially unburned fuel when the temperature in the EGR system is lower than the fuel condensation temperature.

1. Technical Field
The present disclosure relates to exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) systems having EGR coolers and preventing fouling of the EGR cooler by bypassing flow around the EGR cooler.
2. Background Art
One known approach to reduce the amount of NOx produced during combustion in an internal combustion engine is to mix in exhaust gases with the fresh air, commonly called exhaust gas recirculation (EGR). In diesel engines, very high levels of EGR can be tolerated. NOx is further reduced when EGR gases are cooled in the EGR loop, as NOx formation is highly sensitive to temperature. EGR cooling also reduces boost required as the EGR gases are more dense. Thus, an EGR cooler (or heat exchanger) is commonly disposed in the EGR duct.
Deposits form on the interior surfaces of the EGR cooler, first causing the EGR cooler to be less efficient and finally leading to plugging of the EGR cooler. To address that problem, EGR catalysts/filters have been provided in the EGR duct upstream of the EGR cooler. In some prior art systems, a catalyst is employed to oxidize unburned fuel and some particulate matter in the exhaust gases. In other prior art systems, a particulate filter is employed to remove the particulate matter from the exhaust gases. The requirement of a catalyst and/or filter in the EGR duct presents an additional cost and additional system complexity. In addition, EGR catalysts/filters provide a flow restriction that may adversely impact the available EGR flow rate.
Prior art engine control strategies may also control an EGR cooler bypass valve to partially or completely redirect EGR flow around the EGR cooler when exhaust gas temperature is below a threshold to reduce or eliminate formation of water condensation or to maintain charge temperatures in the intake manifold to a desired level at low speeds and loads. However, the prior art fails to recognize other conditions that contribute to accelerated fouling or plugging of an EGR cooler, particularly those associated with fuel condensation.


Plug-in connection in particular a sleeve for high-voltage plastic cables, comprising an electrical insulator fitting closely onto cable ends (1), said cable insulator having an electrically conducting stress-controlling body (8) for screening cable conductor connecting elements received herein, an insulating body (9) surrounding the stress-controlling body (8) and an electrically conducting sheath (10) surrounding the insulating body (9) completely or partially. The insulator is provided with axial close-fitting passages (11 ) merging into the space in the stress-controlling body (9) for the cable conductor connecting elements. According to the present invention the cable conductor connecting elements comprise at least one plug part (14) and at least one counter-plug (15) part and means for mutually locking the plug part (14) and the counter-plug part (15).

The invention relates to a joint for high-voltage and very high-voltage plastic cable having a conductor and at least one surrounding insulating sheath, this joint comprising an elastic stretchable electrical sleeve insulator having an electrically conducting stress-controlling body, for screening cable conductor connecting elements received in an inner space defined by the stress-controlling body, an insulating body surrounding the stress-controlling body, and an electrically conducting sheath surrounding completely or partially the insulating body, the sleeve insulator having at least one axial close-fitting passage merging into the space in the stress-controlling body for receiving a cable end.
A joint of this type is used for connecting a high-voltage and a very high-voltage plastic cable to at least one other cable, a high-voltage switch or a high-voltage transformer, and is known from DE-B-1,665,222.
In connections of high-voltage plastic cables, in particular in high-voltage sleeves, it is important that they can be assembled in the field rapidly and, if possible, by untrained personnel. A sleeve connection having preferably a minimum number of components, which have all been completely inspected electrically beforehand and which can be placed rapidly in each other with a limited number of man-independent operations, offers the maximum operating reliability and safety. In connections of plastic cables for very high voltages it is very important that, after assembly of the connection, the mutual positions of the components are precise so that the necessary electrical insulation values are complied with. Furthermore, the cost price must be kept low.
In the case of joints for high-voltage and very high-voltage plastic cable according to the state of the art, i.e. DE-B-1,665,222 mentioned above, the cable conductor connecting elements are made up as a connecting clamp for fixedly connecting the cable conductors. Assembly in the field is time-consuming and man-dependent and a good inspection of the electrical characteristics of the connection is not readily possible and only to a limited extent, and the operating reliability of these connections is less well guaranteed.

Plug-in connection for high-voltage plastic cable


Methods and apparatus are described by which media player functionality such as, for example, adaptive bitrate selection may be supported in media players on iOS, tvOS, or MacOS devices for video content encoded using the HEVC codec. Each video segment reference in the manifest includes two associated HLS-compliant tags, a discontinuity tag followed by a map segment tag.

HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) is a widely used media streaming protocol for delivering audio and video content over the internet. Apple's iOS, tvOS, and MacOS devices employ HLS to stream video content. As part of acquiring a stream of video content, an iOS, tvOS, or MacOS device requests a manifest (also referred to as a playlist) that includes descriptions of the video content, including URLs at which segments of the content can be obtained.
Video segments encoded according to the Advanced Video Coding (AVC) codec (also referred to as H.264) typically include all of the initialization metadata and parameter sets necessary for a decoder on a client device to properly decode the segments for playback. This information enables media players on client devices to support functionality such as adaptive bitrate selection because the decoder can be reconfigured on the fly using the available initialization metadata and parameter sets at any point within a media presentation.
By contrast, video segments encoded according to the more recent High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC) codec (also referred to as H.265) do not include the initialization metadata and parameter sets. Instead, this information is provide using an out-of-band mechanism (e.g., a separate initialization segment in the manifest). iOS, tvOS, or MacOS devices employing HLS configure their decoders for HEVC content using the information in the separate initialization segment. What this means is that the media services from other providers can no longer support features such as adaptive bitrate algorithms for HEVC content based on the assumption that initialization metadata and parameter sets will be available with each video segment.

Supporting high efficiency video coding with HTTP live streaming


An electrosurgical bipolar treating apparatus comprising a handpiece to which is connected a first active electrode and a second return electrode having exposed distal ends which define a bipolar tip for electrosurgically treating tissue at an operational site on a patient, which tip is structured so that both distal ends simultaneously contact said tissue and wherein the active electrode has a higher tissue to electrode impedance than the return electrode.

This invention relates to an electrosurgical apparatus for treating tissue and, more particularly, to an electrosurgicai bipolar treating apparatus.
The use of electrosurgery for cutting tissue is known in the art. A typical electrosurgical cutting apparatus comprises a handpiece having an active monopolar electrode which conveys high frequency electrical energy from a generator to tissue at an operational site. The electric circuit is completed through a return electrode attached to the patient.
A monopolar electrosurgical device gives satisfactory performance as long as the circuit is efficiently completed through the return electrode. However, because of possible dangers of electrical current flowing through the patient's body in undefined paths as it is conducted to the return electrode, there has been a growing demand for a bipolar cutting device. A bipolar device is defined as a device which has two electrodes in close proximity to each other as well as to the surgical site and which does not require a patient return electrode for the performance of safe and efficacious electrosurgery.
In a bipolar device, one of the electrodes is defined as the active electrode and the other as the return electrode. The active electrode must be capable of setting up a steam barrier with the tissue and be capable of performing the same operations of cut, blend and coag as a monopolar device. As used herein the term "treating" means the operations of cut, bland and coag.
The return electrode must be capable of returning the current delivered by the active electrode with minimal to no tissue desiccation or destruction at its contact point with the patient's tissue.
Although bipolar instruments are known in the prior art, heretofore manufacturers have focused attention on the generator output stage of units used with monopolar devices and a satisfactory and safe bipolar treating device has not been produced.
It has now been found that a safe and efficacious bipolar treating electrosurgical apparatus is obtained by suitably controlling the configuration and characteristics of the bipolar electrodes.

Electrosurgical bipolar treating apparatus


A semiconductor apparatus and system including a semiconductor apparatus may include: a main pattern block having a plurality of main patterns formed to be coupled to a power source and one or more dummy pattern blocks formed around the main pattern block. Any one of the one or more dummy pattern blocks may include a protection part formed to protect the main pattern block.

Recently, as designed to better meet the demand for higher integration and high-speed operation of semiconductors and semiconductor related products, the dimensions of a given transistor forming a unit cell in a semiconductor memory apparatus have been reduced.
According to such a trend, the gate length of a transistor has been shortened. To better accommodate shorter gate lengths, the gate of the transistor may be directly coupled to a power supply voltage VDD or ground voltage VSS in some cases.
As discussed here, when the power supply voltage VDD or ground voltage VSS is directly coupled to the gate of the transistor, a gate oxide may be broken by power noise. In such an event, the overall reliability of the semiconductor memory apparatus may be degraded and/or compromised.

Semiconductor apparatus including dummy patterns


This pegboard is injection molded of plastic yielding a unitized flat panel, and rearwardly projecting peripheral flanges and cross webs terminating along a single plane, suited to provide clearance for a cooperating hook between a panel rear face and a flat mounting surface. The pegboard has rows and columns of holes of both nominal ⅛ inch and ¼ inch diameters on one inch centers, to accommodate both conventional nominal size hooks. The respective rows and columns of the different size holes are alternately arranged offset from one another vertically and horizontally, allowing either size hook mounting virtually anywhere on the panel. Locating structures on the rear side of the pegboards provide accurate back to back squared registry positioning of two like pegboards, for cool-down after molding without shape distortion and for stable twin-pack packaging for retail sales.

Pegboard systems are commonly used for storing tools or varied items, spaced off a vertical wall of a garage, workshop or the like. A conventional pegboard system is comprised of a flat sheet or panel with many holes arranged in equally spaced crossing rows and columns, and rigid hooks each suited to be easily inserted through one or more hole(s) to be secured to the panel at almost any location. Each hook will have a forward portion shaped to receive and hold the item to be stored, and a shank and upturned rear tab that can be inserted into or through the hole(s) to become interlocked on the panel.
As the rear hook tab protrudes beyond the rear face of the panel, the panel must be supported slightly forward of the wall, conventionally by separate furring stripes located around the perimeter of the panel. This makes fabrication and/or installation of the pegboard panel more difficult, such as merely screwing a flat panel against a wall surface.
The pegboard Systems come in two common sizes: the panels of one system having holes of nominal ⅛ inch diameter to receive hooks of nominal ⅛ inch diameter wire gauge, and the panels of the other system having holes of nominal ¼ inch diameter to receive hooks of nominal ¼ inch diameter wire gauge. Depending on the source of the pegboard systems, the nominal sizes of the hooks, hole diameters and panel thickness will actually vary, where for example a ⅛ inch hook wire gauge might be between 0.12–0.16 inch diameter, the nominal ⅛ inch hole might be up to 0.20 inch diameter, the nominal ¼ inch hook might be between 0.20–0.24 inch diameter, and the nominal ¼ inch hole might be up to 0.30 inch diameter. The panels of each system also might vary, but nominally might be ⅛ inch and ¼ inch thick.
Of interest to this invention, the panel holes of either hook size system are all of the same size, meaning that a separate panel is required for the use of each hook size. Although ⅛ inch hooks can generally be fitted on the ¼ inch panels, excessive free play can result in unstable support of the hook which can be easily dislodged and/or drop its supported item. However, ¼ inch hooks typically cannot be fitted on the ⅛ inch boards.


A print press system and a method are described herein that print an electronic circuit onto a material (e.g., glass substrate, plastic film, plastic film-glass substrate laminate). In exemplary applications, the print press system can print an electronic circuit onto a material to form, for instance, a flexible Liquid Crystal Display, a retail point of purchase sign and an e-book.

Manufacturers have been trying to improve the performance of the current printing technology to enable electronic circuits with small features to be printed on a piece of material. In particular, manufacturers would like to improve the current printing technology which uses a sequence of print cylinder stations to enable higher resolution and higher precision for layer to layer registration so that electronic circuits with small features can be effectively printed onto a material. For instance, the current printing technology which uses print cylinder stations can print features onto a material with a layer to layer registration of approximately ±125 μm. Thus, any enhancement in the current printing technology would be desirable to help improve the printing of electronic circuits with small features onto a material.

Roll mechanics for enabling printed electronics


The invention provides an array substrate and a display device, wherein the array substrate comprises a peripheral line in a frame region of the array substrate through which ultraviolet light is capable to pass.

The forming process of a liquid crystal cell of a liquid crystal display device comprises: forming a box-shaped sealant on the four sides of a color filter substrate, wherein the sealant has an opening for the subsequent injection of a liquid crystal; fixing the array substrate and the color filter substrate together correspondingly by a sealant; injecting a liquid crystal through the opening of the sealant; sealing the opening by the sealant; and curing the sealant to strengthen the bond strength and sealing between the array substrate and the color filter substrate, thereby completing the manufacture of the liquid crystal cell.
Wherein, the curing of the sealant generally comprises two processes, i.e., ultraviolet curing (UV Cure) and heat curing (Heat Cure). As the name implies, the ultraviolet curing refers to a process in which a sealant is cured by irradiating via ultraviolet light.
With demanding and developing of narrow frame technologies, the sealant overlaps with a black matrix on the color filter substrate, thus the ultraviolet curing can only be performed on the side of the array substrate. However, during practical application, it is found that sealing effect of the liquid crystal cell manufactured by the ultraviolet curing on the side of the array substrate is not ideal. The periphery liquid crystal of display device will be contaminated, and image sticking on the periphery of display device will be caused.

HEFEI XINSHENG OPTOELECTRONICS TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.


A bonnet for a vehicle having rotary fulcrums provided at the rear side thereof to lock the front side of the same and for containing a battery at the front thereof. Side plates are provided at both sides of the battery. A connecting arm is vertically, pivotally mounted to the side plates. Catch arms are fixed at both sides of the connecting arm so as to reliably lock the front side of the bonnet. The connecting arm is L-like-shaped when viewed in plan and surrounds the outer periphery of the battery so that the locking device is not positioned in front of or above the battery. The bonnet is lower at the front of the vehicle to facilitate maintenance or exchange of the battery without interference with the locking device.

Conventionally, it is well known that a bonnet for covering an engine and a battery disposed in the front side of a tractor can be made to open or close around the front side of the vehicle. Alternatively, a rear fulcrum and a locking device can be provided at the side opposite to the rotary fulcrum of the bonnet. For example, Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open Gazette No. Sho. 57-88858 discloses that the bonnet can open or close using the front portion as the fulcrum. At the rear of the bonnet, a one-sided control member, connected to a left and a right retaining member by a left and a right link, can release the lock. Also, Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open Gazettes Nos. Sho 61-90672, Sho 63-51064, Hei 3-24978 and Hei 5-80973, disclose that the front of a bonnet can be made to open or close using the rear portion as the fulcrum. A controlling knob can be provided with an engaging portion provided under or inside thereof, above the center of the front of the bonnet or at the center of the front surface, so that the controlling knob is operated to release the lock.
However, where the rotary fulcrum is provided at the front of the bonnet, and the battery is disposed at the front of the engine space, when the battery is changed or maintenance work is performed, in order to remove the battery, a worker must raise the bonnet while avoiding contact between the battery and the bonnet, or he must put his head into a restricted space while working, thereby making the work difficult to carry out. Where the rotary fulcrum is provided at the rear of the bonnet, the radiator must be raised and removed in order to perform maintenance of the battery. Also, where the lock control member or the locking device is positioned at the center of the front of the bonnet, the front of the bonnet is raised, to ensure that there is space to dispose the locking device around a headlight, thus narrowing the field of view and causing the bonnet to be larger.


A switch measurement system is disclosed for measuring characteristics of a switch while the switch is mounted to a product adjacent a product surface. The switch types may include linear, pivot and rotary types. The switch measurement system preferably has a control unit for driving a motor and receiving and storing input from a force or torque sensor. A fixturing setup preferably includes a mounting base, and three legs extending from the mounting base. Each of the legs is selectively adjustable in length and includes an end adapted for mounting against the product surface where the legs can vary the location and orientation of the mounting base relative to the product. Also, a measurement unit includes a motor fixed relative to the mounting base and includes a motor shaft extending therefrom, and a force sensor or a torque sensor, depending upon the switch measurement arrangement, interposed between the motor shaft and the switch. The motor and the sensor are in electronic communication with the control unit.

The present invention relates to measuring human/mechanism interfaces, and more particularly to such measuring systems that relate to the measurement of relatively small one degree of freedom mechanisms, such as switches.
As the market for sales of products becomes more competitive, a manufacturer must distinguish its products from the competition. Thus, a product design may require more than providing the proper function—it may also require providing a certain feel or image for the product. For example, a small mechanism, such as a switch, may need to not only perform its function of adjusting the operation of a product, but also provide a certain feel to the switch operator while being actuated. Such a switch feel may give an impression of quality or distinctiveness to the product, and one may wish to have this particular feel for all of the switches on a given product. Thus, the feel of a switch may be almost as important as the function the switch performs. In order to define and achieve this feel, the human/machine interface for that particular switch must be defined and one must be able to test a switch to determine if it meets the desired definition. Consequently, an accurate and repeatable way to define and measure switches is needed.
Conventionally, measurements for determining characteristics of switches were accomplished by mounting the switches in laboratory type fixtures and connecting them to a switch measurement device. Typically, these measurement devices measured the peak force that was applied during switch actuation and possibly also the range of motion. Mostly, though, the feel of such switches is determined by consensus in panel studies. This conventional approach, however, does not produce a quantitative and repeatable means for completely defining the feel of a switch.
As a result, some of the more advanced systems will employ a laboratory type fixture with a more advanced measurement device that can measure the force applied to the switch as the switch moves through its range of motion. This force/displacement profile (or torque/displacement for a rotary switch), then, provides a more complete definition of the switch properties. And, since the fixtures are tailored to the switch being measured, the accuracy and repeatability can be high.
However, the laboratory type fixtures have drawbacks. This measurement will not take into account the effect of the switch being mounted in the actual product where it will be used—so the affect of the mount on the switch force/displacement characteristics is not taken into account. Thus, the switch, in service, may not have the same feel to an operator as was intended. Moreover, extra time must be taken to disassemble the switch from the product and mount it in the fixture. And, if one wishes to measure the switch after installation on the product at the factory, as a form of quality control, disassembling the switch from the product will defeat this purpose. This is particularly undesirable for measuring switches used in large products, such as vehicles. If one wishes to test switches after installation in a vehicle to make sure they meet their design specifications, then removing the switches for measurement would be very undesirable.
Some have attempted to develop small devices that can be used for such purposes, but they are simple, actuated by hand, and only measure force information, and no position or velocity date, during the switch actuation. But even these simple measurements can regularly have errors as high as thirty percent due to misalignment problems that are common and the non-repeatable nature of human powered actuation. Since, within or on the product, it can be very difficult or impractical to employ a laboratory type fixture that will assure very accurate alignment of the switch relative to the measuring apparatus, the misalignment of these small devices can regularly produce results with significant errors. This makes these small devices unsuitable for meeting the requirements of future products.
Thus, it is desirable to have a small portable switch measurement device that overcomes the drawbacks of prior portable devices, yet provides the complete and accurate results of more advanced laboratory type fixtures and measurement systems.


A calibrated magnetic random access memory (MRAM) current sense amplifier includes a first plurality of trim transistors selectively configured in parallel with a first load device, the first load device associated with a data side of the sense amplifier. A second plurality of trim transistors is selectively configured in parallel with a second load device, the second load device associated with a reference side of the sense amplifier. The first and said second plurality of trim transistors are individually activated so as to compensate for device mismatch with respect to the data and reference sides of the sense amplifier.

The present invention relates generally to magnetic random access memory devices, and, more particularly, to a method and apparatus for current sense amplifier calibration in MRAM devices.
Magnetic (or magneto-resistive) random access memory (MRAM) is a non-volatile random access memory technology that could potentially replace the dynamic random access memory (DRAM) as the standard memory for computing devices. The use of MRAM as a non-volatile RAM will eventually allow for "instant on" systems that come to life as soon as the system is turned on, thus saving the amount of time needed for a conventional PC, for example, to transfer boot data from a hard disk drive to volatile DRAM during system power up.
A magnetic memory element (also referred to as a tunneling magneto-resistive, or TMR device) includes a structure having ferromagnetic layers separated by a non-magnetic layer (barrier), and arranged into a magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ). Digital information is stored and represented in the memory element as directions of magnetization vectors in the magnetic layers. More specifically, the magnetic moment of one magnetic layer (also referred to as a reference layer) is fixed or pinned, while the magnetic moment of the other magnetic layer (also referred to as a "free" layer) may be switched between the same direction and the opposite direction with respect to the fixed magnetization direction of the reference layer. The orientations of the magnetic moment of the free layer are also known as "parallel" and "antiparallel" states, wherein a parallel state refers to the same magnetic alignment of the free and reference layers, while an antiparallel state refers to opposing magnetic alignments therebetween.
Depending upon the magnetic state of the free layer (parallel or antiparallel), the magnetic memory element exhibits two different resistance values in response to a voltage applied across the tunnel junction barrier. The particular resistance of the TMR device thus reflects the magnetization state of the free layer, wherein resistance is "low" when the magnetization is parallel, and "high" when the magnetization is antiparallel. Accordingly, a detection of changes in resistance allows a MRAM device to provide information stored in the magnetic memory element (i.e., a read operation).
In a 1-transistor, 1-MTJ type MRAM device, a column selector circuit is used to connect the device's regular (data) bit lines and reference bit lines with the input of a current sense amplifier (SA). During sensing, the SA maintains the voltage at the selected bitlines constant, and measures the current at the selected bitlines/reference bitlines. The magnitude of current at the selected bitlines is dependent on the programming state "0" or "1" of the selected memory cells. In order to keep the voltage at the selected bitlines approximately constant, a bitline voltage clamp is used. A comparator within the sense amplifier compares the voltage at a load device of the data cell being read with the voltage at a load device(s) of a reference bitline (or bitlines) and creates a digital output signal dependent on the programming state of the selected memory cell.
Unfortunately, a basic shortcoming of sense amplifiers, such as those used in MRAM devices, is the input offset current (or voltage) created by individual device mismatch within the sense amplifier. The device mismatch in turn creates a slight imbalance in the comparator input, with respect to the differential between the data signal and the reference signal, thus slightly biasing the sense amplifier toward a "1" state or a "0" state. Accordingly, it would be desirable to be able to compensate for any such imbalance/mismatch in the sense amplifier devices in order to improve the yield that would otherwise be lost due to the lack of signal margin.

Method and apparatus for current sense amplifier calibration in MRAM devices

International Business Machines Corporation


Method and system to provide users with access to authoritative sets of various collectable items and to permit users create and manage their own sets based on the respective authoritative sets are described. An authoritative set may be a collection of images representing collectable items. Access to an authoritative set may be provided via a web site that facilitates a community space where users can compare their collected sets to the authoritative set and determine what products may be missing for their user's set.

The approaches described in this section could be pursued, but are not necessarily approaches that have been previously conceived or pursued. Therefore, unless otherwise indicated herein, the approaches described in this section are not prior art to the claims in this application and are not admitted to be prior art by inclusion in this section.
The Internet has spawned a host of busy social networking platforms. A typical social networking website graphical user interface (GUI) has a personal profile page with personal information and interests of a user, and is used to browse the social network member's information and contacts. Another user can initiate a communication by leaving messages or comments on the user's profile page.


Methods and compositions for a foamed treatment fluid in a wellbore. A method of treating a lost circulation zone comprising: introducing a foamed treatment fluid into a lost circulation zone in a subterranean formation, wherein the foamed treatment fluid comprises: a cement; a viscosifying agent; a thixotropic additive; a foaming surfactant; a gas; and water; allowing the foamed treatment fluid to set in the lost circulation zone to seal the lost circulation zone. A foamed treatment fluid comprising: a cement; a viscosifying agent; a thixotropic additive; a foaming surfactant; a gas; and water.

A natural resource such as oil or gas residing in a subterranean formation can be recovered by drilling a well bore into the formation. A well bore is typically drilled while circulating a drilling fluid through the well bore. Among other things, the circulating drilling fluid may lubricate the drill bit, carry drill cuttings to the surface, and balance the formation pressure exerted on the well bore. One problem associated with drilling may be the undesirable loss of drilling fluid to the formation. Such lost fluids typically may go into, for example, fractures induced by excessive mud pressures, into pre-existing open fractures, or into large openings with structural strength in the formation. This problem may be referred to as "lost circulation," and the sections of the formation into which the drilling fluid may be lost may be referred to as "lost circulation zones." The loss of drilling fluid into the formation is undesirable, inter alia, because of the expense associated with the drilling fluid lost into the formation, loss of time, additional casing strings and, in extreme conditions, loss of well control and potential well abandonment. In addition to drilling fluids, problems with lost circulation may also be encountered with other fluids, for example, spacer fluids, completion fluids (e.g., completion brines), fracturing fluids, and cement compositions that may be introduced into a well bore.
One method that has been developed to control lost circulation involves the placement of lost circulation materials into the lost circulation zone. Conventional lost circulation materials may include fibrous, lamellated or granular materials. The lost circulation materials may be placed into the formation, inter alia, as part of a drilling fluid or as a separate lost circulation pill in an attempt to control and/or prevent lost circulation. For a number of reasons, use of lost circulation materials may not provide a desirable level of lost circulation control in all circumstances such as severe and total lost circulation.
Another method that has been developed to control lost circulation involves the placement of a settable composition into the well bore to seal the lost circulation zone. To be effective, the settable composition should ideally maintain a low viscosity while under shear, but, when allowed to remain static, the composition should develop gel strength quickly with the ability to thin and flow when shear is re-applied. Rapid development of compressive strength is also desired after placement into the lost circulation zone. Conventional low-density cement compositions can be used, but typically do not exhibit the properties to successfully seal the zone. Faster setting compositions that can be used include, for example, mixtures of clay and aqueous rubber latex or hydratable polymers, which can become semi-solid upon contact with the drilling fluid, sealing the lost circulation zone. Cement can be added to these systems where additional strength is desired.

Foamed treatment fluids for lost circulation control


Super miniature TFF and TFP active modular optoelectronic components are based on an optical interface that is three times less than the size of SFF/SFP components and about six times smaller than an SC based component and thus provides a density that is three times higher than LC interfaces. The invention provides substantially smaller photonic devices that can be used with substantially smaller optoelectronic components and combines the new optoelectronic components with the new smaller miniature interconnect systems such as the Push-Release type using the same interface. The new interface can be used with sub-millimeter or larger diameter ferrules. Photonic devices are mounted in a close proximity of the active end of a fiber stub thereby avoiding the need for lenses and active alignment and enabling use in active hermetic or non-hermetic subassemblies.

1. The Field of the Invention
The invention relates to the field of communication along a fiber optic channel. More specifically, the invention relates to active fiber optic components or photonic devices such as transceivers, transmitters and receivers that can be used with sub-millimeter diameter interconnect systems.
2. The Relevant Technology
Fiber optic transceiver modules, also known as optoelectronic transceivers, transmit and receive data by the means of optical signals. Such transceivers provide for the bi-directional communication of signals between an electrical interface and an optical interface. A fiber optic transceiver includes a circuit board that contains at least a receiver circuit, a transmitter circuit, a power connection and a ground connection.
Transceivers and other active fiber optic modules are miniaturized in order to increase the port density associated with the network connection with respect to switches, routers, cabling patch panels, wiring closets, computer I/O and the like. Form factors for miniaturized optical modules such as Small Form Factor Pluggable ("SFP") that specifies an enclosure about 9.05 mm in height above the PC board by about 13.2 mm in width and having a minimum of 20 electrical input/output connections. In order to maximize the available number of optical transceivers per area, multiple transceiver modules are arranged in rows and columns. Each SFP transceiver module or other active photonic module is plugged into a socket or receptacle.
As the need for bandwidth has increased, high speed optical transceivers have been developed to satisfy this need. The primary markets for this demand for increased bandwidth has been both the local area network (LAN) and the storage area network (SAN) markets. The predominant LAN standard is Ethernet, while the predominant SAN standard is Fibre Channel. Transceivers from speeds of 155 Mb/s up to 10 Gb/s have been introduced that meet these requirements and it is expected that even higher speeds will soon be required.
The initial transceivers were based on 1×9 modules (shown on FIG. 2A) which were soldered onto a host printed circuit board ("PCB") and utilized duplex SC optical connectors. The need for reconfigurability led to the development of the first hot-pluggable transceivers, known as GBIC (Gigabit Interface Converter), having a footprint on the front panel of a host system that is similar to the 1×9 module, which could be plugged into a powered circuit board in a router, switch, or other such piece of equipment (thus, the term "hot-pluggable.")
Arrays of these modules could be placed on the edge of a circuit board such that the SC outputs were presented at the output of a switch or router. The dual SC port arrangement limited the minimum size of the ports that could be stacked together. The ferrule of the SC connector is 2.5 mm in diameter. The center-to-center spacing of the dual SC port is 12.7 mm, and the width of the dual SC port is 26 mm. The height is 9.4 mm above the PC board surface.
Shortly thereafter, the need to increase the density of optical ports resulted in the introduction of both the Small Form Factor soldered (SFF) and Small Form Factor pluggable (SFP) transceivers. The SFF and SFP transceivers reduced the size of the modules in half in the horizontal direction by replacing the optical interface with duplex LC connectors, which are half the size of SC connectors, as shown in FIG. 2B. The ferrule of the LC connector is 1.25 mm in diameter. The center-to-center spacing of the duplex LC port is 6.1 mm, and the width of the dual LC port is 13.2 mm. The height of the dual LC port is 9.05 mm above the PC board surface.
The large success of fiber optic networks based on these described active fiber optic transceivers has increased the demand for even higher port density that can only be met by transceivers and other active components that are even smaller than those currently available. Until now, no known optical interface has been able to successfully address this need for transceivers of smaller size. In such high density applications, the components are too small to connect and disconnect with one's fingers. The present invention solves that problem with its new transceiver, as shown in FIG. 1, which is based on a new fiber optic interface which is about 3 times smaller than the standard SFF/SFP form factor, as shown on FIG. 2C. In turn this interface is built around the ferrule with diameter substantially less than 1.25 mm.
To convert electronic data to optical data for transmission through a fiber optic cable, a transmitter optical subassembly ("TOSA") is typically used. A driver integrated circuit converts electronic data to drive a laser diode or an LED in a TOSA to generate the optical signal or data.
To convert optical data to electronic data, a receiver optical subassembly ("ROSA") is typically used. The ROSA typically includes a photo diode that, in conjunction with other circuitry converts the optical data to electronic data. To communicate through fiber optic cables, usually both a TOSA and a ROSA are needed. Combining both a TOSA and a ROSA into a single assembly along with electronic devices and circuits, results in a transceiver. Typical transceiver designs combining discrete TOSAs and ROSAs cannot have their footprint further reduced in size because of the standard LC connector interface. Further, even if a smaller optical connector interface were available, TOSAs and ROSAs using standard packaging technology would not be able to be substantially reduced in size because smaller transistor outline (TO) packages which contain the optoelectronic die (lasers and photo detectors) are not available. It is difficult to reduce the size of these TO cans further as the glass feed throughs for the electrical leads cannot be further reduced in size.
Accordingly, there is a need for super miniature active fiber optic modules designed for high density applications especially in data and telecommunication electronic equipment. Generally, three major technical challenges in achieving this goal are: (1) providing substantially smaller passive interconnect systems that provide the needed functionality, (2) developing the substantially smaller active fiber optic modules that provide the necessary function, and, (3) achieving compatibility of the new active modules with the new passive interconnect system.

High density active modular optoelectronic device for use with push-release mechanism and method for using same


An improved heavy vehicle chassis for recreational vehicles, busses and trucks is provided. According to the invention, the chassis has a front frame chassis subcomponent and a rear chassis subcomponent. The front chassis subcomponent contains appropriate chassis subcomponents such as wheels, axles, a suspension unit, braking and steering apparatus. In the preferred embodiment, the engine is disposed between the front chassis subcomponent axles allowing better handling, turning, and maneuverability, while not significantly reducing overall vehicle ground clearance. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the rear chassis configuration has increased storage capacity to accept items as large as additional recreational vehicles such as a personal water craft, golf cart, dirt bike, and the like. A drop deck can be added to assist in delivering the small recreational vehicle to ground level.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a heavy vehicle chassis configuration, and more particularly, to a mid-engine chassis configuration suited for use in a recreational vehicle, bus, or truck that can also include a large rear storage space with a drop deck for carrying small recreation vehicles.
2. Background and Description of the Prior Art
A xe2x80x9cheavyxe2x80x9d vehicle typically refers to a vehicle weighing more than 10,000 pounds. These vehicles usually have an engine mounted forward of the front axle. Rear engine configurations (where the engine is mounted behind the rear axle) are also known, in fact common, in large recreational vehicle chassis designs and are often referred to as xe2x80x9cpushers.xe2x80x9d The chassis in heavy vehicles house mechanical workings such as suspension, engine, drivetrain, and braking systems. Recreational vehicle construction includes a chassis, a superstructure, and a body. See Generally, U.S. Pat. No. 5,863,070, Williams, et al., and U.S. Pat. No., 5,314,205, Glesmann.
Heavy vehicles, not surprisingly, require heavy engines to propel them. Front and rear mounted engines create a relatively unbalanced vehicle. Further, in recreational vehicle applications, front end engine placement creates a large engine housing extending into the recreational vehicle body as well as subjecting occupants to excessive engine noise. This significantly reduces driver and passenger space and comfort in the front of the vehicle. The popular rear engine chassis configuration also results in a large engine housing that usually occupies most of the rear of the chassis extending upwards into the rear body of the recreational vehicle. In either case, the recreational vehicle designer is faced with restricting space in the front or rear of the recreational vehicle to accommodate the engine housing.
Engine placement between the heavy vehicle chassis"" axles, xe2x80x9cmid-engine,xe2x80x9d is desirable and would eliminate both space restrictions. Small mid-engine vehicles are known in the prior art. These vehicles"" center of gravity between the front and rear axles allows improved handling performance. Further, the distribution of load to the front and rear wheels is more uniform and provides well-balanced performance when the vehicle is in motion. This is due to a reduced inertial force about a yaw axis, as compared with either a front or rear mounted engine. See generally, U.S. Pat. No. 6,070,689, Tanaka, et al.
Mid-engine placement in a heavy vehicle chassis is unknown by this inventor, but would deliver the same benefits as smaller mid-engine vehicles. A mid-engine configuration would also allow more design flexibility and conveniences previously unknown. For example, a conventional recreational vehicle can only tow one vehicle behind it.
Often, an automobile or sport utility vehicle is towed for local travel once a destination is reached. Towing these vehicles restricts options to bring an additional recreational vehicle such as a personal water craft, golf cart, dirt bike, and the like.
When the engine is not placed in the rear of the chassis (such as a mid-engine or even a front engine configuration) the rear chassis could be used to develop a large storage area to house and support an additional recreational vehicle. A hinged drop deck could even be attached to the chassis to assist in delivering the small recreational vehicle to ground level.
Thus, there is a desire and need for an improved heavy vehicle chassis to improve vehicle balance, handling, ride, and maneuverability while adding additional design flexibility.
Accordingly, the present invention provides an improved heavy vehicle chassis that improves vehicle balance, handling, ride, and maneuverability.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved vehicle chassis that improves the vehicle center of gravity over existing methods of construction.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved heavy vehicle chassis.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved recreational vehicle chassis that allows design flexibility to the vehicle chassis, superstructure, and body.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved recreational vehicle chassis that allows the addition of a large rearward storage space.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved recreational vehicle chassis that allows the addition of a large rearward storage space that also has a drop deck to assist in delivering the small recreational vehicle to ground level.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved vehicle chassis that does not significantly lower ground clearance.
Another object of the present invention is to provide an improved vehicle chassis that is economical to produce.
Other objects of the present invention will become more apparent to persons having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures.


A structure for cooling an electronic component includes a heat sink attached to the component, an inner air duct extending into a central portion of the heat sink, and an outer air duct extending into an outer portion of the heat sink. In inner fan, within the inner air duct, moves air in one direction, while an outer fan, in the outer air duct, moves air in the other direction. The fans may be built as separate rotors, or as separate portions of a single rotor.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to apparatus for cooling electronic components, and, more particularly, to such apparatus including one or more locally mounted fan units directing air to move along surfaces of a heat sink.
2. Summary of the Background Art
Many electronic devices, including laptop computers and workstations, are being designed with structures including heat sinks and fans for cooling individual circuit modules. Such a conventional cooling structures typically includes an axial-flow fan attached to extend horizontally along the top of a heat sink, which is in turn mounted to extend upward from the circuit module being cooled. The airflow from the fan is directed downward among cooling fins of the heat sink to make a 90-degree turn upon impinging upon the body of the heat sink, from which the fins extend upward, with heated air then flowing outward around the periphery of the heat sink. Problems associated with this conventional approach include a pressure drop that is created when the airflow impinges on the body of the heat sink, due to an associated reduction in the rate of airflow, and due to the fact that heated air is exhausted outward from the periphery of the heat sink. Often, additional critical components cannot be placed on the circuit board near the heat sink because of the presence of heated air. Thus, what is needed is a component cooling system that takes air from a space above the components and that returns heated air to the space above the components.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,664,673 describes a cooler for electronic devices comprising a heat exchange element, a rotor including an axial-flow fan and a blower with a radial impeller, and an electric drive rotating the rotor. Cooling air is driven downward by the axial flow fan past a number of heat sink surfaces, extending upward as pillars from the heat sink body. Then, from this central area, air is driven outward by the radial impeller, past a number of heat sink surfaces extending around the radial impeller, and outward from the periphery of the heat sink. Certain versions include a duct extending around this periphery, so that air is directed outward only from one end of the heat sink. One problem associated with this method is the space taken up along the circuit board, with space being provided for the radial impeller. Additionally, what is still needed is a component cooling system that returns heated air to the space above the components.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,367,542 describes a cooling assembly including a heat sink, an internal fan, a fan frame, and an external fan. The heat sink includes a base and a fin member attached to the base. The fin member includes a central portion and a plurality of fins extending radially from the central portion. A central cavity is defined in the fin member, surrounded by the fins. The internal fan is received in the central cavity to be supported by the central portion at the bottom of the cavity. The fan frame has an opening defined therein, and is mounted on the heat sink, with the external fan being mounted on the fan frame to cover the opening. Cooling air enters the external fan and is into the cavity. The internal fan accelerates airflow from upper portions of the fin member to lower portions thereof. The air then exits around the periphery of the heat sink. Again, what is needed is a cooling system that returns heated air to the space above the components.
U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 2003/0021679 describes a fan structure used with a heat sink, with the fan structure including an axle having first and second fan members at opposite ends, with blades of the two fan structures being angled in opposite directions. The first fan member is installed to extend along the top of the heat sink, while the second fan member is embedded into the heat sink. The heat sink includes an outer portion, in which fins extend, and an inner portion, connected to the outer portion through slots at the bottom at the inner portion and through an opening at the top of the inner portion, between the first and second fans. Heated air is pushed outward through a slot extending around the outer portion. Again, what is needed is a cooling system that returns heated air to the space above the components.
Other examples of the patent literature describe pairs of cooling fans installed in line with one another so that the output air from a first fan is directed to the input of a second fan. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,537,019 describes such a pair of fans rotating in opposite directions, with blades being angled in opposite directions, and with axes of rotation being aligned or slightly offset. U.S. Pat. No. 6,343,014 describes such fans as being mounted on a heat sink, separated by a spacer, and connected in series. U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 2002/0170703 describes such a pair of fans in which the fans are controlled in series, with the first fan being controlled by a first control circuit, and the second fan being controlled by a second control circuit, so that the second control circuit increases the speed of the second fan when the first fan fails. U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 2002/0167798 describes a heat-dissipating assembly including a heat sink having a base in contact with a surface of a heat-generating device and a plurality of fins extending upwards from the base, and a first fan and a second fan respectively disposed on a first position and a second position of the heat sink.
Other patents describe cooling fans being mounted in a side-by-side configuration. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,953,209 describes a pair of fans mounted side-by-side on a heat sink mounted in turn on an electronic cartridge, with one of the fans pushing air into the heat sink while the other fan pulls air out of the heat sink. U.S. Pat. No. 6,172,416 describes apparatus including a plurality of fans mounted to blow air along a heat sink substrate to cool a plurality of electronic devices. Adjacent fans may move air in the same direction or in opposite directions, with the heat sink substrate additionally providing electromagnetic shielding. U.S. Pat. No. 6,181,556 describes a thermally coupled heat-dissipation apparatus surrounding a solid-state electronic device or a thermal transfer column extending upward from a main board socketed device. What is needed is a relatively small cooling system for cooling a single electronic device while occupying a minimum space on the circuit card.
Japanese Patent No. 2001291983 describes a low cooling system for use within a notebook computer, where space above a circuit board is particularly limited. The cooling system includes two fans having rotary impellers, mounted side by side within a duct of limited thickness, producing airflow in a common direction, particularly in an area between the fans.
The patent literature includes other examples of devices including fans and heat sinks to solve problems that are more specific. For example, U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. describes apparatus for cooling electronic components on a plug-in circuit board within an enclosure. Air is drawn from along an edge of the card by a single fan, to be driven past a high-energy power dissipating device, such as a graphical processor unit and over arrays of memory chips. U.S. Pat. App. Pub. No. 2003/0030980 describes a thermo-electro subassembly including a gas supply, a first duct, a first heat sink adjacent a first device, a second duct, and a second heart sink adjacent a second device. The gas supply may be realized as a fan, a blower, or a source of compressed gas.

Coaxial air ducts and fans for cooling and electronic component


A flat IC tag contains memory means capable of data storage and transmission means capable of data transmission. The IC tag has on a surface thereof an unvulcanized rubber having identical properties to the unvulcanized rubber used for an article to which the IC tag is mounted. The opposite surface of the IC tag is mounted to the article before vulcanization. The article is vulcanized in this state to mount the IC tag to the article. Hence, the IC tag is not damaged if attached to tires and other articles in harsh operating environment.

In the management of manufacture, delivery, distribution, maintenance, etc. of tires for automobiles and other vehicles, one needs to know quickly the unique information of individual tires: e.g., model number, serial number, specifications, properties, process history, and usage history.
Especially, the Product Liability law (PL law) provides that if a product inflicts any harm or damage on a person's life, body, or property due to a defect of the product, the manufacturer is responsible for compensating for the damage caused whether or not the incident is accidental. The provision makes it essential for the manufacturer to manage individual tires.
In addition, the American Department of Transport, or DOT, stipulates that the serial numbers of an individual tire and the vehicle identification number (VIN) must be included in the warrant of the tire so that identification and storage is possible.
Conventional methods for marking the tire with the unique information are disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Publications 7-266811/1995 (Tokukaihei 7-266811; published Oct. 17, 1995) and 2000-084681 (Tokukai 2000-084681; published Mar. 28, 2000), among others. The former describes a method of attaching a bar code sticker to the surface or inside a tire. The latter describes a method of engraving the tire surface with an ID code.
However, these two bar code and engraving methods have the amount of information limited by display area. In addition, the bar code and engraving may fade and become unrecognizable due to peeling, abrasion, or like causes. The bar code, in particular, can be smeared and illegible after use in severe environment. This problem is partly addressed by attaching the bar code sticker inside the tire; the information on the bar code sticker cannot be utilized after the tire is mounted to a vehicle.
Other methods propose mounting a non-contact data communications device.
An example is found in Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication 11-102424/1999 (Tokukaihei 11-102424; published Apr. 13, 1999). There is provided a buffer layer composed of a resin film containing gel resin. The layer covers a portion including the joint of a circuit board and an antenna coil. All these parts are in turn enclosed in packaging material. This is intended to prevent external mechanical shock and the stress developed by deformation of an article itself from damaging internal components.
Another example is found in Published Japanese Translation of PCT Application 2001-525283 (Tokuhyo 2001-525283; published Dec. 11, 2001). An elastomeric material is provided to a circular part of a pneumatic tire. A device capable of data processing and transmission, enclosed in the elastomeric material, is mounted to the tire.
A further example is found in Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication 2002-214060 (Tokukai 2002-214060; published Jul. 31, 2002). The invention is intended to protect sensors and electronic parts from degradation and destruction under pressure in vulcanization. The sensors and electronic parts are mounted on a circuit board and sealed in a housing, forming a transponder. A green tire with the transponder embedded between the inner liner and the carcass ply is vulcanized. After the vulcanization, the tips of protrusions of the housing are removed together with part of the surface of the tire's inner wall, so as to form openings on the tips of the protrusions through which the sensor in the housing communicate with an air reservoir of the tire.
A still further example is found in Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication 2004-90775 (Tokukai 2004-90775; published Mar. 25, 2004). The invention is intended to prevent fracturing of an inexpensive film-shaped electronic device if it is mounted. The film-shaped electronic device, freely slidable in sheet-shaped members provided on both surfaces of the film-shaped electronic device, is attached inside the tire or on the surface of the tire.
Still another example is found in Japanese Utility Patent Publication 7-42514/1995 (Jitsukaihei 7-42514; published Aug. 4, 1995). The invention is intended to provide a sealed structure for a data carrier by a simple molding step which yet gives sufficient strength without degrading the performance of the data carrier. The data carrier has a rubber- and/or gel-like substance covering at least around a coil. The entire data carrier is sealed with a sealing resin.
A further example is found in Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication 11-85935/1999 (Tokukaihei 11-85935; published Mar. 30, 1999). The invention is intended to prevent an antenna coil from breaking due to deformation of an article itself containing a non-contact data carrier package. The antenna coil used is made of a metal line folded like a bellow before being wound.
Another example is found in Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication 2003-302290 (Tokukai 2003-302290). The invention is intended to provide a temperature measuring data carrier which is capable of precisely measuring the continuously changing temperature of a heated object in real time. The data carrier contains a base consisting of at least a temperature sensor section, a memory section, a wireless communications section, and a control section. The base has a surface covered with a thermally insulating protection layer.
These methods and devices however give rise to problems if, for example, the devices are mounted to automobile tires or like articles which expand, shrink, and deform repeatedly in use. The non-contact data carrier package may break in harsh operating environment. The tire or like article itself may be damaged. Cost may increase.
In view of the problems, the present invention has an objective to provide a method of securing a wireless IC tag which does not break if it is attached tires and other articles which are used in harsh operating environment. It is also an objective of the invention to provide an article carrying such a wireless IC tag and a vehicle to which such an article is attached.

Wireless IC tag joining method, wireless IC tag-carrying article, and vehicle