An apparatus straightens vehicular structure, and comprises a U-shaped main frame, a pair of lift tower assemblies, and a pull tower assembly. The length of the main frame comprises spaced attachment structure for attaching the pull tower assembly. The lift tower assemblies are fastened to the main frame intermediate its length and function to fix the position of the vehicle relative to the main frame. The pull tower assembly is attachable to the main frame at a select attachment site and a tension member is attached to adjacent select vehicular structure. Thereafter tension may be applied to the select vehicular structure based from the attachment site to the main frame. Multiple tower assemblies may work in tandem with one another peripherally to the vehicle; a rear frame member may close the open end of the main frame; and vehicle support cross members may be included to support the framed vehicle.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention generally relates to an apparatus for straightening vehicular structure, and more particularly to an apparatus and method for straightening vehicular frames.
2. Description of the Prior Art
U.S. Pat. No. 2,717,020 ('020 Patent), which issued to Dobias, discloses a Vehicle Body Straightening Apparatus. The '020 Patent describes a straightening apparatus comprising a pair of elongated runways, cross braces disposed beneath and secured to the ends of said runways and supporting the runways in elevated substantially parallel positions, a base member extending transversely beneath said runways, means slidably connecting said base member to bottom portions of the runways for supporting the base member beneath the runways for sliding movement longitudinally thereof, a pair of uprights fixed to and raising from said base member, said uprights being disposed on outer sides of the runways, a pair of fluid pressure actuated rams, means detachably connected to and rising from said base member, said uprights before adjustably supporting said rams relatively to the uprights in desired positions to engage parts of a vehicle mounted on the runways between the uprights, a second base member disposed between corresponding ends of said runways and slidably supported on the cross brace supporting said runway ends for sliding movement of said second base member transversely of the runways, means retaining said second base member against swinging movement relatively to the runways, an upright fixed to and rising from said second base member and disposed beyond said runway ends, a third fluid pressure actuated ram, and means detachably and adjustably supporting said third ram on said last mentioned upright.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,626,747 ('747 Patent), which issued to Rouis, discloses certain Attachments for Frame-Straightening Machine. The '747 Patent describes a vehicle frame straightening machine which has a flat, rigid base formed of longitudinal side rails and transverse front and rear ends, the latter framed with parallel vertical slots. The side rails are formed with inward facing horizontal slots which receive the ends of transverse vertically slotted horizontal rails, fitting between the side rails and longitudinally movable with respect thereto. The attachment is formed with a vertical longitudinal slot. It may be attached to either the front or rear end by resting same upon the end and inserting bolts through the slot in the attachment and through different slots in the end. By sliding the bolts laterally of the base the lateral position of the attachment is adjusted and by swinging the attachment in an arc, permitting the bolts to slide in the slots and then tightening nuts on the ends thereof the attachment is fixed in diagonal position. Similarly, a bolt may be inserted through the attachment slot in the transverse rails slot and also a hook through the attachment slot to engage the side rail to locate the attachment at a diagonal. Means is provided to apply diagonal pulls to a vehicle frame on the base. Improvements in an apparatus for straightening automobile frames in that the new apparatus is mobile and collapsible. The apparatus is mounted on casters and also disassembles for ease in moving and storing. It also allows for pulling the automobile frame in any direction by locating slidable and rotatable brackets on both longitudinal and transverse beams, thus allowing the pulling device to be quickly and easily mounted to enable the application of straightening force in any position around the perimeter of the automobile.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,835,693 ('693 Patent), which issued to Majersky, discloses a Collapsible Straightener for Automobile Frames. The '693 Patent describes certain improvements in an apparatus for straightening automobile frames in that the new apparatus is mobile and collapsible. The apparatus is mounted on casters and also disassembles for ease in moving and storing. It also allows for pulling the automobile frame in any direction by locating slidable and rotatable brackets on both longitudinal and transverse beams, thus allowing the pulling device to be quickly and easily mounted to enable the application of straightening force in any position around the perimeter of the automobile.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,070,899 ('899 Patent), which issued to Venalainen, discloses a Metal Deforming Apparatus for Purposes such as Automobile Repairs. The '899 Patent describes a metal deforming apparatus in which a frame of the apparatus carries a vertically movable support structure which in turn carries a gripping structure for gripping a part such as a vehicle body which is situated over the vertically movable support structure, a suitable structure being provided for vertically moving the vertically movable support structure with respect to the frame. A horizontal telescopic beam assembly is carried by the frame and is capable of having its length changed by a beam moving structure. A clamp is provided for clamping a part which is to be deformed or for clamping a tool which is to act on such a part. A positioning structure carries the clamp and is connected with the beam assembly for adjusting the position of the clamp. The structure which moves the vertically movable support with respect to the frame is capable of applying vertical pushing or pulling forces to a part which is to be deformed while the structure which changes the length of the telescopic beam assembly is capable of applying horizontal pushing or pulling forces to the part which is to be deformed.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,151,737 ('737 Patent), which issued to Spektor, discloses an Apparatus for Repairing and Straightening. The '737 Patent describes an apparatus for use in repairing and straightening the body and frame of a vehicle. The preferred apparatus includes a tread member including left and right track members for supporting a vehicle thereon, a tram member movable along and between the right and left track members and including two elongatable pull towers pivotally mounted thereto, and an additional elongatable pull tower mounted adjacent an end of the apparatus. A flexible connector, preferably a chain, is arranged for connection between the pull towers and the vehicle. The track members further include regularly shaped apertures which vertically pass therethrough. Locking pins are also provided which extend through an aperture of the track members and abut with a portion of the pull towers to lock the pull towers at any desired angle to the tread member. Bolsters are further provided which extend through the regular apertures of the track member and abut with a portion of the vehicle frame for anchoring the vehicle to the apparatus to prevent the vehicle from moving when it is subjected to the counter forces during the repair and straightening operation.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,330,945 ('945 Patent), which issued to Eck, discloses a Vehicle Frame and Body Alignment Apparatus. The '945 Patent describes an alignment checking and measuring apparatus for vehicle frame and body portions includes two or more measurement scale carriers which have connectors on opposite end portions thereof for attachment transversely to the vehicle. One of the measurement scale carriers has targets movably mounted on the end portions and another of the measurement scale carriers has sighting instruments, such as laser beam emitting instruments, mounted on the end portions. The measurement scale carriers are longitudinally spaced from each other. Longitudinally aligning the sighting instruments with the targets facilitates determination and correction of any damaged or misalignment condition in the vehicle frame and body. Comparison is made of the deviation, if any, in the parallelism of the lines of sight created by the longitudinally aligned targets and sighting instruments. Angular deviation of the lines of sight to symmetrical points on the vehicle frame and body tends to indicate damage or misaligned conditions.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,794,783 ('783 Patent), which issued to Eck, discloses a Vehicle Repair and Alignment Rack. The '783 Patent describes a vehicle repair and alignment rack for correcting and aligning misshapened vehicle frame and body portions comprises a rack structure having a vehicle supportive upper surface and a lower surface with opposite side rack portions having inner and outer flanges joined together to form a central opening, whereby a vehicle straddles the opening for work access to the vehicle underside. Front and rear supportive legs are affixed to the rack structure for elevation above a floor surface and have power fluid rams operatively connected thereto for folding the legs and lowering the rack structure to the floor to facilitate positioning a vehicle on the rack. Force supplying members are affixed to the rack structure and are easily movable therearound so that they can be selectively positioned to exert pulls on substantially any part of the vehicle. A front end of the rack structure is removable and replaceable so that the repairman has easy access to the lower front side of the vehicle, a common location for vehicle damage.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,905,496 ('496 Patent), which issued to Venalainen, discloses a Procedure in Car Body Rectifying Work and Rectifying Means Arrangement. The '496 Patent describes a procedure in car body rectifying work. In the procedure the vehicle is driven onto the rectifying table of the car body rectifying unit and affixed to skirt attachments provided on the rectifying table. The vehicle is raised, while it is on the rectifying table, with the lifting unit of the vehicle rectifying unit to desired height for the rectifying work. Hereafter the lifting unit is removed from under the vehicle and out of functional connection with the rectifying table and the vehicle is left resting on supporting legs connected with the rectifying table. The invention also relates to apparatus conforming to the procedure.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,955,224 ('224 Patent), which issued to Field, discloses an Adjustable Height Vehicle Frame Straightening Apparatus. The '224 Patent describes a vehicle repair and straightening apparatus, including a lower framework forming a cage for receiving a damaged vehicle. Structure is provided for restraining the damaged vehicle within the lower framework and a tower structure is movably attached to the lower framework for applying a force on a portion of the damaged vehicle. An upper framework is movably attached to the lower framework and structure is provided for permitting the upper framework to be selectively movable with respect to the lower framework between a lowered transport position and a raised working position. A tower structure attached to the apparatus has hydraulics associated therewith for pulling damage from a damaged vehicle but this structure is also useful to selectively move the upper framework between the transport position and the raised position thereof.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,189,899 ('899 Patent), which issued to Hsu, discloses an Apparatus for Vehicle Straightening and Repair. The '899 Patent describes a vehicle repair and alignment apparatus for correcting and aligning misshapened vehicle frames and outer body panels comprises a frame having a pair of elongate track members with slotted rails provided along the outer edges thereof, vertical pull towers pivotably mounted on a respective semicircular platen slidingly engaged on each rail enabling selective angular orientation of the pull towers with respect to the track members, and two pairs of vertical bolster cylinders powerably positionable in both horizontal directions within the track members each having clamp elements provided on the upper ends thereof for anchoring the vehicle to the apparatus. Horizontal displacements of the bolster cylinder pairs are effected remotely by actuating electric motors while vertical motion of the clamp elements are accomplished by fluid lifters. Proximity sensors on each clamp element automatically signal the limits of vertical motion when a body portion on the underside of the vehicle is within grasp.
It will be seen from a review of the foregoing that the prior art is silent on a vehicular frame straightening apparatus whereby a main frame receives a vehicular body, and one or more repositionable pull tower assemblies are removably attachable to the main frame peripheral to the vehicular body for applying tension to select vehicular structure adjacent the selectively positioned pull tower assembly. Accordingly, the prior art perceives a need for such and apparatus and associated vehicular structure straightening methodology.


Systems and methods may provide for identifying web content and detecting an attempt by the web content to access a local data store. Additionally, a determination may be made as to whether to permit the attempt based on a context-based security policy. In one example, the context-based security policy is obtained from one or more of a user profile, a multi-user data source and a cloud service.

Embodiments generally relate to web based security management. More particularly, embodiments relate to the use of secure data containers for web applications.
Emerging markup languages such as HTML5 (Hypertext Markup Language 5, e.g., HTML5 Editor's Draft 8 May 2012, W3C), LLVM (e.g., LLVM 3.1, May 22, 2012, llvm.org), and other runtime or just in time (JIT) environment languages may support more robust multimedia related web platform development. The use of these advanced languages, however, may also expose end user platform components such as local graphics processors, memory, sensors, and so forth, to web applications, wherein the exposure of such components may lead to security concerns.

Secure data container for web applications


A method including:. providing a facility with at least one controlled access electronic printing machine; PA1 printing original documents with the controlled access electronic printing machine, wherein printed images formed thereby arise from marking materials containing at least one photoactive additive; PA1 equipping all uncontrolled access reprographic devices within the facility with a secure illumination source capable of exposing an object document with sufficient intensity to activate the photoactive additive; and PA1 illuminating the object document with the secure illumination source of the uncontrolled access reprographic device, wherein the object documents having original document images printed thereon cannot be copied or scanned in a normal copy or scan illumination interval.

The present invention is generally directed to methods for printing secure documents. More specifically, the present invention, in embodiments, is directed to methodologies for printing secure documents, that is, for example, documents containing confidential or context sensitive information or graphical content, within a secure or restricted access facility, for example, a building, office, information or computation processing center, military operations installation, law firm, corporate strategy office, and the like facilities, where enhanced control of printed documentation flow and document authenticity and confidentially is desired. The present invention provides, in embodiments, methods for printing secure documents which minimizes or precludes the ability to reproduce, such as reprographically copy or electronically scan, an original secure document. Specifically, the present invention comprises, in embodiments, providing a facility with at least one controlled access electronic printing machine; printing original documents with the controlled access electronic printing machine, wherein printed images formed thereby are generated from marking materials containing at least one photoactive additive; equipping uncontrolled access replication or reprographic devices, or machines, that is, printers, copiers, scanners, mopiers, and the like devices within the facility with a secure illumination source capable of exposing an object document with sufficient intensity to activate the photoactive additive; and illuminating the object document with the illumination source of the uncontrolled access replication or reprographic device, wherein the object documents having original document images printed thereon cannot be reproduced, that is, for example, copied or scanned in a normal copy or scan illumination interval.


The invention relates to a charged particle lithography system for transferring a pattern onto a target, said system comprising:

The invention relates to a charged particle lithography system with a sensor assembly.
Such a lithography system is for example disclosed in the International Patent Application WO2007/032670. The lithography systems disclosed in this International Patent Application is arranged for transferring a pattern onto the surface of a target, using a charged particle optical unit for generating a plurality of charged particle beams, modulating said charged particle beams, and directing said charged particle beams towards the surface of the target. The charged particle beams are scanned in one or more directions over the surface of the target, and during said scanning each charged particle beam writes a part of said pattern on said surface of the target.
In order to write a high-resolution pattern on a target, for example a wafer or a mask, the position of each beam at or near the surface to be exposed must preferably be known within a distance of a few nanometers. In order to determine the characteristics of a charged particle beam, and in particular of said plurality of charged particle beams, a sensor is used which is combined with a converter element for converting charged particle beams into a light beams. Said sensor comprises an array of light sensitive detectors located in line with said converter element for detecting said light beams. Preferably the converter element is provided with a blocking element which comprises sharp edges. The converter element, in particular the blocking element thereof, is arranged substantially at the same level as the surface of the target. By scanning a charged particle beam over the converter element in a direction substantially perpendicular to the sharp edges and monitoring the change of light intensity of the light beam corresponding to the charged particle beam, the position and diameter of the charged particle beam can be established.
As disclosed in WO2007/032670 the converter element is arranged directly above the array of light sensitive detectors, which provides a very compact assembly. The array of light sensitive detectors is provided with cabling for communicating the measured data to a control device comprising a processor for processing the measured data to determine the characteristics of a charged particle beam.
In order to position the blocking element substantially at the same level as the surface of the target, the assembly of sensor and converter element is arranged in or adjacent to the target holder. Preferably the assembly is integrated in the target holder.
The target holder is arranged on top of an assembly of stages for accurately moving the target with respect to the charged particle optical unit, and is arranged inside a vacuum chamber. A disadvantage of the integration of the assembly in the target holder inside the vacuum chamber, is that the assembly arranged on top of the assembly of stages must be connected to the control device outside the vacuum chamber, without hindering the accurate moving of the target.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a more convenient positioning of the sensor.

Charged particle lithography system with sensor assembly

Abstract: a target positioning device comprising a target holder having a first side for holding the target,

Abstract: a charged particle optical unit for generating a charged particle beam, modulating said charged particle beam, and directing said charged particle beam towards the first side of the target holder, and

Abstract: a sensor assembly comprising a converter element for converting charged particles which impinge on said converter element into light, wherein the converter element is arranged on said target positioning device, a light sensor for detecting the light, wherein the light sensor is arranged at a distance from said target positioning device, and a light optical lens which is arranged between the converter element and the light sensor for directing light originating from said converter element to said sensor.


Disclosed herein are systems, methods, and non-transitory computer-readable storage media for displaying a user interface for managing communication sessions on a communication device. A system configured to practice the method displays, on a first side portion of the user interface, a first set of user-configurable communication information. The system displays, a second side portion of the user interface, a second set of user-configurable communication information. The system displays, on a center portion of the user interface, a communication work space for managing communication sessions. In one embodiment including a touch sensitive display, this interface is used with a tablet device such that a natural position of user's thumbs are in an optimal position to interact efficiently with the user interface. The side portions can be user-configurable to display, for example, contacts, calendar events, tasks, memos, and so forth.

1. Technical Field
The present disclosure relates to communications and more specifically to intuitive user interfaces for managing communications.
2. Introduction
Manufacturers of touch tone telephones, such as phones meeting ITU-T standard Q.23, have supplemented the functionality of touch tone telephones over the years by adding feature buttons and menus. Users can activate simple features via buttons, and more complex features via hierarchical menus actuated by track balls, quadrant style pointers and the like. Some telephones, such as smartphones and other mobile phones, include touch sensitive displays are also known. However, these touch screen telephones simply replace touchtone buttons and feature buttons or menus with actuator buttons designated by an icon on the touch screen that is delineated as the equivalent functionality. Touch screen telephones have advanced the art a bit by allowing the user to touch an entry in a contact database to call that contact or touch a message to contact the caller who left the message. In addition, there is click to call capability within some IP Softphones.
User testing indicates that certain features make such a user interface more intuitive. Many people have trouble remembering and implementing specific button sequences for advanced functionality, such as a conference call, selectively drop a caller, place on hold, and answer new calls. In addition, the use of feature buttons and the appropriate sequences of feature buttons can also be confusing. This problem is exacerbated by innumerable user interface variations from brand to brand and from model to model. This unintuitive interface leads to mistakes such as dropped calls and, as a result, lost productivity.
These problems are made worse in mobile platforms. For example, when an individual holds a tablet sized phone, PC or other electronic device, the individual's fingers must simultaneously provide both the function of support and touch screen or key activation. Typically, such devices have borrowed from the desktop, i.e. mouse and keyboard driven, metaphor by utilizing drop down menus. Commonly, these drop down menus are located at the top of the screen. This results in a very non ergonomic arrangement for a handheld device.

User interface for managing communication sessions


One-to-many comparisons of callers' voice prints with known voice prints to identify any matches between them. When a customer communicates with a particular entity, such as a customer service center, the system makes a recording of the real-time call including both the customer's and agent's voices. The system segments the recording to extract at least a portion of the customer's voice to create a customer voice print, and it formats the segmented voice print for network transmission to a server. The server compares the customer's voice print with multiple known voice prints to determine any matches, meaning that the customer's voice print and one of the known voice prints are likely from the same person. The identification of any matches can be used for a variety of purposes, such as determining whether to authorize a transaction requested by the customer.

Preventing attempted fraud in telephonic or other transactions involving oral communications is typically important to many entities, particularly when the fraud involves financial transactions. For example, when a person loses a credit card and calls the credit card company to obtain a replacement, the credit card company often wants to ensure that the person calling is the true cardholder. If a person attempts to fraudulently obtain a replacement card of a different cardholder, then the person may use the replacement credit card to make fraudulent charges. The credit card company can often incur significant losses due to these fraudulent charges. Therefore, the credit card company typically desires to reduce or eliminate fraud.
In that regard, credit card companies often implement certain procedures and install technologies in an attempt to verify the identity of customers who call them. One such technology is the use of an Automatic Number Identification (ANI) service, which attempts to identify the telephone number of an incoming call. A credit card company can maintain a database of area codes from which it has historically received a high number of fraudulent callers. If the telephone number of the person calling is within one of those high fraud area codes, the credit card company can flag the call for additional procedures or investigation to verify the true identity of the caller.
However, the ANI service has certain limitations. For example, the ANI service does not easily permit one to pinpoint the exact geographic location of the caller. Also, it is possible that multiple persons can be associated with the same telephone number, which can make it difficult to identify which of those persons is the caller. Ultimately, the ANI service only provides a general indication of whether the caller is from an area known to be associated with a high number of fraudulent transactions. However, if the caller is not calling from one of those high fraud area codes, the ANI service provides no indication to provide additional screening, although the caller may actually be attempting to actually engage in fraud.
Aside from credit card companies, many other entities receive calls from customers and desire a way to verify the true identity of the callers. This verification can be useful, for example, in determining whether to execute a particular transaction requested by a caller. Accordingly, a need exists for a more reliable way to minimize fraud in telephonic transactions or other transactions involving oral communications, or to screen callers for other purposes during those transactions.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Speaker recognition in a multi-speaker environment and comparison of several voice prints to many

American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.


A shear stress sensor for measuring fluid wall shear stress on a test surface is provided. The wall shear stress sensor is comprised of an active sensing surface and a sensor body. An elastic mechanism mounted between the active sensing surface and the sensor body allows movement between the active sensing surface and the sensor body. A driving mechanism forces the shear stress sensor to oscillate. A measuring mechanism measures displacement of the active sensing surface relative to the sensor body. The sensor may be operated under periodic excitation where changes in the nature of the fluid properties or the fluid flow over the sensor measurably changes the amplitude or phase of the motion of the active sensing surface, or changes the force and power required from a control system in order to maintain constant motion. The device may be operated under non-periodic excitation where changes in the nature of the fluid properties or the fluid flow over the sensor change the transient motion of the active sensor surface or change the force and power required from a control system to maintain a specified transient motion of the active sensor surface.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to a shear stress sensor and, more particularly, the invention relates to a dynamic resonant wall shear stress sensor having high bandwidth, high spatial resolution, and high sensitivity capable of fluctuating wall shear stress measurements in all kinds of fluid flows on all kinds of surfaces.
2. Description of the Prior Art
The measurement of unsteady wall shear stress (also called surface shear stress or skin friction) remains one of the great unsolved problems in experimental fluid mechanics. This is in spite of the long history of development of wall shear stress measurement techniques by some of the greatest fluid mechanics and instrumentation experts. Shear stress sensors are required for military, biomedical, and industrial applications as well as for basic understanding of wall-bounded flows. For example, it has been shown computationally that skin-friction drag can be substantially reduced using closed loop control of an actuator with feedback provided by a shear stress sensor capable of fluctuating shear stress measurements. However, no rigorously calibrated wall shear stress sensors with such capabilities exist today.
Although the measurement of wall shear stress has been studied for more than one hundred (100) years, a robust, calibrated sensor capable of measuring fluctuating shear stress is still elusive. Even with new materials and manufacturing processes that have become available over the past fifteen (15) years that enable the fabrication of miniature sensors, the expected improvements have been offset by some of the same problems larger sensors experienced as well as some new difficulties associated with the small sensors.

Oscillatory motion based measurement method and sensor for measuring wall shear stress due to fluid flow


Novel transparent composites composed of single wall carbon nanotubes incorporated into the matrix of a polymer are utilized in services wherein the composites are exposed to ionizing radiation, including galactic cosmic radiation. Accordingly, the composites are useful in deep space applications like space vehicles, space stations, personal equipment as well as applications in the biomedical arts and atom splitting research. The composites can be modified with organic dyes containing at least one phenyl ring and the resulting doped composite is useful as a radiation detector. The preferred polymer is poly(4-methyl-1-pentene).

In the development of solutions for reducing the radiation risks associated with manned space flight, radiation shielding materials have been developed to protect personnel and equipment from the damaging effects of radiation, including galactic cosmic radiation (GCR). Polyethylene (PE) is a favorable material because it exhibits many high performance properties (i.e., strength, thermal, and optical). However, the use of PE is limited to low temperature applications and to those applications wherein visibility through the polymer is not required, because PE is an opaque polymer.
The incorporation of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into polymer matrices has resulted in composites that exhibit increased thermal stability, modulus, strength, electrical and optical properties (Shaffer et al. 1999; Jin et al. 2001; Haggenmueller et al. 2000; Jia et. al 1999; Ounaies et al. 2003, Park et al. 2005, Tatro et al. 2004; Siochi et al. 2003; Clayton et al. 2005). Several investigations have concluded that carbon nanotubes can also act as a nucleating agents for polymer crystallization (Ryan et al. 2004; Cadek et al. 2004, Ruan et al. 2003).
Various processing techniques have been employed to uniformly disperse the nanotubes in an attempt to increase interaction at the polymer/nanotube interface (Shaffer et al. 1999; Jin et al. 2001; Haggenmueller et al. 2000; Ounaies et al. 2003, Park et al. 2005, Tatro et al. 2004; Siochi et al. 2003; Clayton et al. 2005).

Polymer/carbon nanotube composites, methods of use and methods of synthesis thereof


A master cylinder designed to facilitate an operation of assembling and adjusting a check valve is provided. A supply passage for supplying operating fluid from a reservoir 2 to a pressure chamber 6 is formed in a cylinder body 3 connected to the reservoir 2. A bypass 37 for bypassing the supply passage connecting the reservoir 2 and the pressure chamber 6 is formed and provided with a check valve system 34 adapted to open when a pressure in the pressure chamber 6 is lower than that in the reservoir 2. A valve case 38 and a covering member 32 constitute a cartridge 39, which accommodates a valve body 41 and an urging spring 42, so as to form a check valve system 34. The cartridge 39 is placed in a valve chamber 33 of the bypass 37.

The present invention relates to a master cylinder used in a brake system of a motor vehicle or the like, a method of manufacturing the master cylinder, and a check valve system used in the master cylinder.
In the master cylinder, a piston is slidably fitted in a cylinder body to which operating fluid is introduced from a reservoir, the cylinder body defining therein a pressure chamber in which pressure is applied to the operating fluid according to an operation of the piston. The pressure chamber is connected via a pipe to a hydraulic instrument of a brake system or the like, such that the hydraulic instrument is operated according to an operation of the piston. The cylinder body is provided with a supply passage for supplying the operating fluid from the reservoir to the pressure chamber, so as to prevent a pressure in the pressure chamber from becoming negative during an operation of returning the piston or the like.
In recent years, development has been in progress for traction control systems for automatically applying brake forces to wheels according to vehicle wheel slip conditions. In such a system, a control pump, which is a part of a hydraulic instrument, sucks operating fluid from a pressure chamber of a master cylinder and supplies the operating fluid to a wheel brake unit during a traction control. During this operation, in the master cylinder, an amount of operating fluid corresponding to the amount of operating fluid sucked from the pressure chamber is supplied from the reservoir via the supply passage to the pressure chamber. However, the supply of operating fluid is likely to be insufficient when the control pump sucks a large amount of operating fluid.
Conventionally, known master cylinders directed to this problem have a structure adapted to open a separate passage connecting the reservoir and the pressure chamber when the pressure chamber does not contain enough operating fluid (refer, for example, to Japanese Patent Public Disclosure No. HEI 11-268629). Such a master cylinder is provided with a bypass in a cylinder body thereof, the bypass bypassing a supply passage and connecting a reservoir and a pressure chamber. The bypass is provided therein with a check valve that is adapted to open when the pressure in the pressure chamber becomes lower than that in the reservoir. The check valve comprises: a valve seat member having a valve hole; a valve body adapted to detachably make contact with a valve seat of the valve seat member; and an urging spring for urging the valve body toward the valve seat. These members are disposed in a valve chamber formed in the bypass.

Master cylinder, method for manufacturing a master cylinder, and check valve system of the master cylinder


A composite resistor includes a thin film resistor element having a first temperature coefficient of resistance and a metal resistor element having a second temperature coefficient of resistance. A portion of the metal resistor element overlaps a portion of the thin film resistor element such that the portion of the metal resistor element is in thermal communication with the portion of the thin film resistor element to compensate for a resistance drift arising during operation of the composite resistor.

Electronic components such as integrated circuit devices include resistors, in particular, thin film resistors formed by patterning thin films of materials, such as semiconductor materials. The temperature of the thin film resistors can increase during operation of the electronic components and can lead to a drift in the resistance value of the thin film resistors. The drift in resistance can be caused by a change in the overall temperature of an integrated circuit chip, such as by overall heat generation from the dissipated energy of the operation of the circuit as a whole, or by self-heating of the thin film resistors themselves. Such drift can lead to performance and reliability degradation of the integrated circuit devices.


A procedure and apparatus for the concentration of hydrophilic materials through flotation which consists of two devices operating in series. The first device performs the function of feeding the gas and the pulp, generate bubbles and produce contact with the hydrophobic particles to be concentrated. The second device performs the functions of separating and evacuating the froth carrying the hydrophobic materials and the evacuation of the aqueous pulp with the materials with water affinity. The gas-pulp mixing device contains inside it solid mixing means, preferably bead shaped and of a density lower than that of the pulp to be processed. The generation of bubbles and their contact with hydrophobic materials happen when the gas and the pulp transit through the interstices between the mixing media which have discrete freedom to move in the interior. The separation of the froth takes place in a tank without motorized agitation systems volume of which can permit the pulp's residence times within a range of 20 to 60 seconds. This tank has in its upper section overflow ridges and froth collecting troughs. The discharge of the tailings is effected through one or more outgoing pipes placed in the inferior section of the slanted bottom and flow of which is controlled by valves. The selectivity of the concentration is controlled by changing the depth at which the bubbler discharges into the froth separator tank.

Flotation is a physical-chemical process for the separation of materials which uses the water repellent or water affinity surface characteristics of the materials to be separated. It is the most commonly used method for the concentration of basic sulfides of metals such as copper, molybdenum, lead, zinc. etc. that have a natural hydrophobicity, which increased with the application of flotation reagents. It consists basically in placing the materials to be separated previously ground and treated with flotation reagents in an aqueous medium to form a pulp into which a gas has been introduced to generate bubbles. Hydrophobic materials adhere to the surface of the bubbles and hydrophilic materials remain within the pulp. The froth carrying the hydrophobic materials rises to the surface and overflows into the froth collecting troughs wherefrom it is removed from the flotation apparatus.
There is currently a large variety of flotation apparatus in various shapes, sizes and methods for the injection of gas into the pulp. Whatever their design however, they must perform the following basic functions:                introduce to the machine the gas and aqueous pulp containing the materials to be separated;        maintain the pulp and materials to be separated in suspension by avoiding sedimentation and the accumulation of solids in the apparatus;        generate gas bubbles and provoke their contact with the hydrophobic materials to be concentrated;        provide a system for the withdrawal of the froth loaded with the hydrophobic substances constituting the concentrate; and        maintain the materials with water affinity inside the pulp which constitutes the tailings and provide for a discharge system.
The machines performing these functions can be classified in two main group depending on how they perform these functions:                machines with motorized mechanic agitation, and        pneumatic machines without mechanical agitation.
Machines with motorized mechanical agitation are characterized in that they create contact of the bubbles with the solid hydrophobic and maintain the pulp in suspension by means of a rotor-stator assembly. The pulp is fed through the lower part of a tank in whose central axle the rotor-stator is installed. The rotor is activated by a motorized system installed at the upper end of its axle and is also used to introduce the gas. The tank has in its upper section ridges for froth overflows which are discharged by froth collecting troughs. The extraction of the tailings goes through the lower part opposite the feeding end with valves which control the flow and level of the pulp within the tank. Depending on whether the air is introduced to the flotation machine with an external system or is introduced by the rotor itself these machines are classified as forced aeration or auto aspiration machines. A number of flotation machines are used in mineral concentration operating in series and with residence times varying between 20 and 40 minutes.
Mechanical agitation machines are the leaders in the world mining industry markets and differ mainly only in the design of the rotor-stator system. Pneumatic flotation machines do not have a motorized mechanical agitation system and flotation columns are the ones in most widespread use in the mining industry. The columns have two clearly defined areas: one for collection and one for a cleaning area. The feeding of the pulp is effected under the interface of these two areas. The bubbles are generated by injecting gas through gas nozzles placed at the bottom of the column. As the hydrophobic particles descend they become exposed in the collection area to ascending bubbles, which they join and are then transported for cleaning to the upper area of the column where a thick layer of froth is formed to which wash water is added to obtain clean concentrates. The hydrophilic particles do not adhere to the bubbles and continue descending with the aqueous pulp and are finally discharged from the bottom through a flow control valve. Flotation columns have in common their tallness, normally more than 10 meters. For this reason the air injected at the bottom under the pressure of 30 psi. needed to overcome the pressure in the pulp column and the load loss in the bubbler. Additionally, because of their great height they also normally require pumps to supply the pulp. The differences between the columns is found in the design of the bubblers which inject the gas. Depending on the location of the gas bubblers they can be classified as internal bubbler columns and external bubbler generators. In columns with internal nozzles the bubble generator is in the lower part of the column and in direct contact with the pulp. The nozzles can be metallic, of porous ceramic, filter fabrics and perforated rubber. The drawback in these types of bubble generators is that the openings wherefrom the gas is issued gets clogged with pulp particles and/or encrustations due to the hardness of the water used in the mining industry. Replacing them requires withdrawing them from the column, something which causes a drop in the availability of these equipments. In columns with external bubble generators these are located outside the column. Part of the pulp tailing is recycled with pumps, combining static gas-pulp mixers discharge of which is injected into the lower portion of the column. The static generators generate a high load loss and accelerated wear. Another type of external bubble generator instead of recycling the tailings pulp injects water which is mixed with the gas in a static mixer. An example of this type of bubble generator is the one developed in the U.S. Pat. No. 4,752,383, where the static generator is a container holding small glass beads so packed as to impede their displacement. Water and air are mixed in their transit through the packed layer of glass beads, and the gas-water mixture is discharged at the other end of the apparatus and injected through the lower area of the column The layer of glass beads packed in this type of bubblers becomes encrusted with increasing rapidity by the hardness of the water used by the mining industry and ends up clogging the bubbler. The required pressure for water and air injection to this type of bubblers is normally above 50 psi, which must be increased as the bubbler becomes clogged by encrustations, a reason for which they are no longer used.

Procedure and apparatus of the concentration of hydrophobic materials


A tire pressure indicator carried on a tire being monitored for inflation pressure. The indicator includes a housing enclosing an indicating member bearing color coding corresponding to proper inflation. Preferably, additional color coding is provided corresponding to excessive tire pressure and to low or inadequate tire pressure. The indicating member occupies a chamber having a coil spring acting on the indicating member from one direction, and air pressure from the tire acting on the indicating member from the other direction. Differential in forces acting on the indicating member move the indicating member such that the appropriate color coding is revealed through a window formed in the housing. Optionally, the pressure indicator includes a conduit enabling inflation of the tire without requiring removal of the indicator. In alternative embodiments, the novel indicator threads to a conventional filling valve, and replaces the conventional filling valve.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to pressure gauges of the type carried on a vessel being monitored. More particularly, the invention is a mechanical indicator of pneumatic pressure which indicates by color coding whether the pressure being monitored is within specifications. In alternative embodiments, the novel indicator cooperates with or is an integral part of a valve enabling the vessel to be filled with compressed gas. A preferred application is pneumatic tires for transport vehicles. However, the invention is readily applicable to tanks, conduits, and other holders of gases under pressure, and could be employed in any environment wherein internal gas pressure is to be maintained in a predetermined range above atmospheric air pressure.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Pneumatic tires are designed to operate at pressures within narrow predetermined ranges. Typically, tires lose pressure and must be reinflated to specified values by the operator. This maintenance operation requires a pressure gauge. Many operators rely upon service facilities offering compressed air to supply the gauge. If the service facility does not supply a gauge, the operator of the vehicle is obliged to furnish the gauge. It is easy to neglect to bring a tire pressure gauge at all times, and the operator may therefore lack a gauge when desiring to restore or check tire pressure. Even if a pressure gauge is at hand, it is not always convenient to utilize typical tire pressure gauges. Pressure gauges are normally designed to operate when pressed against the valve of the tire sufficiently to release pressure so that it may be measured and indicated. Under conditions of severe temperatures, dust, rain, and other influences, it may prove difficult or unpleasant to check tire pressure.
One answer to this problem is to furnish a pressure gauge which is left in place on the tire, the gauge having an indicator which may be readily viewed to ascertain tire pressure. Such gauges have been proposed in the prior art.
In an indicator shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,569,849, issued to Craig Cummings on Oct. 29, 1996, a colored liquid flows around a solid member obstructing view of the colored liquid when tire pressure deviates from a predetermined setpoint. Visibility of the colored liquid indicates inadequate pressure. By contrast, in the present invention, a solid colored member aligns with a window formed in the indicator. In the novel indicator, air pressure from the tire acts directly on the solid member. No fluid apart from compressed air contained in the tire is employed.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,103,670, issued to Min-Yu Wu et al. on Apr. 14, 1992, shows an indicator having a bellows operated piston which, when appearing in a window formed in the indicator, aligns with indicia indicating pressure values. By contrast with this approach, the present invention exposes indicia, preferably in the form of a predetermined color, which enables immediate discernment of whether pressure is within specifications. There are no bellows in the present invention.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,503,012 and 5,606,123, issued to Masoud Rabizadeh respectively on Apr. 2, 1996, and Feb. 25, 1997, both are based on a ball visible through a window which aligns with indicia. Rabizadeh improves on prior art devices by providing a magnifying glass over the window. However, graduation indicia must still be read in order to determine pressure within the tire. In the present invention, mere discernment of color is required to obtain the same information. There is no magnifying glass required in the present invention.
The subject indicator shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,641,902, issued to Jung Un Hong on Jun. 24, 1997, incorporates an inflatable member which displays indicia indicating inflation pressure. By contrast, in the present invention, a color signal is visible through a window to indicate tire pressure. There is no inflatable member in the present invention.
None of the above inventions and patents, taken either singly or in combination, is seen to describe the instant invention as claimed.

Tire pressure indicator carried aboard a wheel


In the present disclosure, imidazole-derived materials including M-N-C catalysts, imidazole-derived MOFs and MOF-based M-N-C catalysts as well as methods for preparing the same utilizing mechanosynthesis and/or a sacrificial support-based methods are described.

Imidazole is an organic compound having the formula (CH)2N(NH)CH. Imidazole exists in two equivalent tautomeric forms, with the proton located as either of two nitrogen atoms, this also enables it to function as either an acid or a base. Imidazole is used extensively as a corrosion inhibitor Materials containing or derived from imidazole and members of the imidazole family are useful in a variety of applications including, but not limited to fuel cell catalysts, metal organic frameworks (MOFs), and MOF-derived catalysts.
MOFs are compounds formed from metal ions or clusters and organic molecules (usually rigid) to form one-, two- or three-dimensional porous structures. MOFs are commonly used as gas absorbents and for hydrogen storage, but may also be used as a platform for catalytic materials.
Fuel cells are receiving increasing attention as a viable energy-alternative. In general, fuel cells convert electrochemical energy into electrical energy in an environmentally clean and efficient manner. Fuel cells are contemplated as potential energy sources for everything from small electronics to cars and homes. In order to meet different energy requirements, there are a number of different types of fuel cells in existence today, each with varying chemistries, requirements, and uses.
As one example, Direct Methanol Fuel Cells (DMFCs) rely upon the oxidation of methanol on an electrocatalyst layer to form carbon dioxide. Water is consumed at the anode and produced at the cathode. Positive ions (H+) are transported across a proton exchange membrane to the cathode where they react with oxygen to produce water. Electrons can then be transported via an external circuit from anode to cathode providing power to external sources.
As another example, polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cells (also called proton exchange membrane fuel cells) use pure hydrogen (typically supplied by a hydrogen tank) as a fuel. A stream of hydrogen is delivered to the anode side of a membrane-electrode assembly (MEA), where it is catalytically split into protons and electrons. As with the DMFC, the positive ions are transported across a proton exchange membrane to the cathode where they react with oxygen to produce water.
Currently, one of the limiting factors in the wide scale commercialization of PEM and DMFC fuel cells is the cost associated with precious metals. Both DMFC and PEM fuel cells commonly use platinum as an electrocatalyst. Nobel metals such as platinum are needed to catalyze the sluggish oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) at the cathode. One of the major routes to overcome this limitation is to increase the platinum utilization in noble-metal based electrocatalysts. Another viable route is to use a less expensive, yet still sufficiently active catalyst in larger quantities. Several classes of non-platinum electrocatalysts have been identified as having adequate oxygen reduction activity to be considered as potential electrocatalysts in commercial fuel cell applications.
Generally, known non-platinum electrocatalysts are supported on high surface area carbon blacks. This is done to increase dispersion, active surface area, and conductivity of the catalytic layer. The synthesis procedure usually includes precipitation of the precursor molecules onto the supporting substrate and pyrolyzation of the supported precursor.
Metal-Nitrogen-Carbon (M-N-C) catalysts have been found to be very promising for electrochemical oxygen reduction applications in fuel cell membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs), stacks and fuel cell systems. Critical aspects of the materials include the presence of metallic particles, conjugated carbon-nitrogen-oxide-metallic networks, and nitrogen-bonded carbon. The metallic phase includes metallic, oxide, carbide, nitride, and mixtures of these states. The chemical states and bonding of the N/C/M networks and N/C networks influences performance, for example, increased overall nitrogen content improves ORR performance. However, these systems still suffer from several significant drawbacks including: low stability in acidic environments, low durability in acid and alkaline environments, high costs of nitrogen precursors and low activity in ORR compared with platinum. The problem of low stability in acid is connected to leaching of metal from carbon-nitrogen network. Low durability in acid and alkaline solutions is explained by the evolution of significant amount of H2O2 in these environments which is corrosive for both metal and carbon-nitrogen networks. The low activity is possibly due to the low metal loading, and as a result in low concentration of active sites in such catalysts due to using external carbon source (high surface carbons like Vulcan, KetjenBlack etc).
Despite the fact that there are several companies working on commercialization of M-N-C catalysts [32-34], the majority of non-PGM catalysts are being synthesized in the researcher's labs in sub-grams amounts. Furthermore, typical synthesis methods usually utilize solvent-based wet impregnation of a carbon support with precursors of a transition metal and a nitrogen-carbon source (complex-forming or chelating agent, polymer precursors or polymers). The estimation of the amount of solvent used for preparation of one kilogram of M-N-C catalysts by the method described is on the order of 200-300 liters, introducing the problem of waste management. In addition to this, some amount of the solvents may stay as a residue during the pyrolysis steps and, thus, contribute to the variability of the synthesis outcome. Furthermore, solvent-based methods necessarily require that the materials used be soluable, preventing the production and development of M-N-C catalysts formed from non-soluble materials.


Methods and compositions for bleaching the skin are provided. Compounds of the optical brightener family may be applied in an effective amount to bleach the skin. The present inventions also relates to compositions which contain of compounds of the optical brightener family and other cosmetic compounds, such as skin bleaching agents, screening agents, anti-wrinkle agents and moisturizers.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to the use of compounds of the optical brightener family in a cosmetic composition or for the preparation of a dermatological composition, for topical application. The composition imparts greater uniformity, greater homogeneity greater clarity, an alabaster-smooth appearance and greater whiteness to the complexion of the skin. Such compositions may also have shadow-concealing properties.
The invention also relates to the compositions which contain compounds of the optical brightener family in combination with other cosmetically useful compounds, such as skin bleaching agents, screening agents, anti-wrinkle agents and moisturizers.
Additionally, the present invention relates to a process for the immediate bleaching of the skin, by applying to the skin a cosmetic composition comprising at least one compound of the optical brightener family.
2. Description of the Background
It is common for people with colored or even dark skin to wish to lighten the skin, and, with this aim, to use cosmetic or dermatological compositions containing bleaching agents.
The substances most commonly used as bleaching agents are hydroquinone and its derivatives, kojic acid and derivatives thereof, azelaic acid, arbutin and derivatives thereof, alone or in combination with other active agents.
Such compositions comprising bleaching agents are also used by individuals whose skin displays dyschromias. These dyschromias are of diverse origin: age (age marks), exposure to UV radiation, pregnancy mask, skin pathology, etc.
However, these agents are not without drawbacks. In particular, it is necessary to use them for a long period and in large amounts in order to see a bleaching effect on the skin. No immediate effect is observed when compositions containing them are applied.
In addition, hydroquinone and its derivatives are used in an amount which is effective to observe a bleaching effect. In particular, hydroquinone is known for its cytotoxicity towards melanocytes.
Moreover, kojic acid and its derivatives have the drawback of being expensive and, for this reason, of not being able to be used in large amounts in products for mass marketing.
It is known practice to use cosmetic compositions which are capable of making the complexion uniform and optionally of giving an immediate white appearance, these compositions consisting of powders dispersed in a binder. The powders generally contain white or colored pigments depending on the desired effect, and fillers in lamellar form, or alternatively silica in the form of platelets. The uniforming effect on the complexion is obtained essentially by virtue of the covering power provided by the fillers in lamellar form.
The drawback of such compositions is that the smoothing out of the skin""s defects is provided by the covering power of the compositions. Skin bearing make-up in this way loses its natural appearance on account of the lack of clarity of these compositions.
Although it has been possible to consider using lamellar fillers as a means for increasing the clarity of these compositions (see for example U.S. Pat. No. 4,899,163), they have the drawback of acting by reflecting light and give the skin an unnatural shiny appearance.
There is, therefore, still a need for cosmetic and/or dermatological compositions for obtaining a homogeneous, uniform, white complexion of natural appearance, where these compositions having satisfactory clarity after they have been applied to the skin.
French patent application FR-2,741,261 describes cosmetic compositions comprising a brightening fluorescent agent, these agents also known as optical brighteners. These agents have the advantage of intensifying the radiance and brightening the colors of cosmetic compositions comprising them when they are applied to the skin or the hair. The effect of these agents is observed on a colored support (the hair) or in a colored composition (make-up such as mascara, nail varnish or lipstick). However, the effect of optical brighteners on the skin itself as described above is neither disclosed nor suggested therein.
It is an object of the present invention to provides methods and compositions for bleaching the skin.
This object, and others, may be accomplished with a method of bleaching skin by applying to the skin an effective amount of at least one compound belonging to the optical brightener family.
The object of the invention may also be accomplished with a composition containing at least one compound belonging to the optical brightener family and at least one second skin bleaching agent which is not an optical brightener.
A more complete appreciation of the invention and many of the attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
The subject of the invention is the use of at least one compound belonging to the optical brightener family, in a composition or for the preparation of a composition intended for bleaching the skin, in particular for the immediate bleaching of the skin. Such a composition gives the complexion greater uniformity, greater homogeneity, greater clarity and all alabaster-smooth appearance.
Such a use is particularly effective on Asian skin. Alternatively, Caucasian skin may be treated.
More particularly, this composition is a cosmetic composition. Use of the composition for dermatological applications is also within the scope of the invention.
The compositions according to the invention are preferably skincare compositions rather than make-up compositions or compositions intended to be applied to the hair.
A subject of the invention is also the use of at least one compound belonging to the optical brightener family in a composition or for the preparation of a composition which is effective on Caucasian skin.
Optical brighteners are compounds which are well-known to those skilled in the art. Such compounds are described in xe2x80x9cFluorescent Whitening Agent, Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology, Kirk-Othmerxe2x80x9d, Vol. 11, pp. 227-241, 4th edition, 1994, Wiley, incorporated herein by reference. Optical brighteners can be defined more particularly as compounds which absorb in the UVA range between 300 and 390 nm and re-emit essentially between 400 and 525 nm.
Among the optical brighteners, particularly preferred examples are stilbene derivatives, coumarin derivatives, oxazole and benzoxazole derivatives and imidalzole-derivatives. Such compounds are readily commercially available. For example, Tinopal SOP(copyright) and Uvitex OB(copyright) are sold by Ciba Geigy. The optical brighteners preferably utilized the present invention are sodium 4,4xe2x80x2-bis[(4,6-dianilino-1,3,5-triazin-2-yl)amino]stilbene-2,2xe2x80x2-disulphonate and 2,5-thiophenediylbis(5-tert-butyl-1,3-benzoxazole).
A subject of the invention is also the use of at least one compound of the optical brightener family in a composition or for the preparation of a composition as a skin bleaching agent, in particular as an immediate bleaching agent, and/or as an agent intended to give the skin at least one of the properties chosen from: uniformity, homogeneity, clarity and an alabaster-smooth appearance.
A subject of the invention is also the use of at least one compound of the optical brightener family in a composition or for the preparation of a composition as a concealer.
Thus, the shadows around the eyes, observed by the presence of a darker, or even grey or black, surface around the eyes and/or by the presence of bags under the eyes and/or by a withered appearance of the contour of the eyes, can be reduced or even disappear by applying the composition according to the invention thereto.
Optical brighteners are preferably used according to the present invention in an amount ranging from 0.1 to 15% by weight, and even more preferably from 0.5 to 10% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition. These weight % ranges include all specific values and subranges therebetween, including 0.2, 1, 2, 5, 8 and 12% by weight.
The optical brighteners are advantageously combined with other cosmetic agents with which they have a reinforced or complementary action.
Thus, a subject of the invention is a composition, more particularly a cosmetic composition, comprising at least one compound of the optical brightener family and at least one other bleaching agent and/or depigmenting agent conventionally used in cosmetics.
Among these bleaching agents and/or depigmenting agents conventionally used in cosmetics, it is preferred to use hydroquinone and derivatives thereof, such as hydroquinone monomethyl ether and hydroquinone monoethyl ether, kojic acid and derivatives thereof, lactic acid and salts thereof, ascorbic acid and derivatives thereof, azelaic acid, arbutin and derivatives thereof, L-2-oxothiazolidine-4-carboxylic acid (as described in patent EP 0,780,120, incorporated herein by reference), paracetamol, as described in the French patent application filed on Dec. 6, 1996, Serial No. 96/15046, incorporated herein by reference, and aminophenol derivatives containing a carbamate, urea or sulphonamide function of formula (I), as described in the French patent application filed on Aug. 8, 1997, Serial No. 97/10710, incorporated herein by reference. These aminophenol derivatives have the formula (I) below:
in which:
R represents a hydrogen atom or a radical xe2x80x94COR2,
R2, which may be identical or different, representing a radical chosen from a saturated or unsaturated, linear, cyclic or branched, optionally hydroxylated, C1 to C30 alkyl or alkoxy radical,
R1 is chosen from a radical of formula (a), (b) or (c) below;
(a) xe2x80x94COxe2x80x94NR3R4
(b) xe2x80x94COxe2x80x94Oxe2x80x94R5
(c) xe2x80x94SO2xe2x80x94R5
R3 represents a hydrogen atom or a linear or branched, saturated or unsaturated, optionally hydroxylated C1 to C6 alkyl radical,
R4 represents a hydrogen atom or the radical R5 defined below,
R5 represents a radical chosen from a saturated or unsaturated, linear, cyclic or branched, optionally hydroxylated, C1 to C30 alkyl radical.
Among these aminophenol derivatives containing a carbonate, urea or sulphonamide function of formula (I), the compounds more particularly preferred are N-ethyloxycarbonyl-4-aminophenol; N-ethyloxycarbonyl-O-ethyloxycarbonyl-4-aminophenol; N-cholesteryloxycarbonyl-4-aminophenol and N-ethylaminocarbonyl-4-aminophenol.
The invention also relates to the use of such a composition for the purpose of obtaining both short-term and long-term bleaching of the skin. Such a composition also preferably comprises at least one agent capable of screening out UV rays and/or at least one desquamating agent.
Another embodiment of the present invention is a composition, more particularly a cosmetic composition, comprising at least one compound of the optical brightener family and at least one agent capable of screening out UV rays and/or at least one desquamating agent. Among the agents capable of screening out UV rays, hydrophilic or lipophilic organic screening agents may be used effectively in the present invention.
The hydrophilic screening agents can be chosen in particular from benzophenone derivatives, p-aminobenzoic acid derivatives, camphor derivatives or benzimidazole derivatives. The hydrophilic screening agents can be present in the final composition according to the invention at a content which can range from 0.1 to 20%, preferably from 0.2 to 10%, by weight relative to the total weight of the composition. These weight % ranges include all specific values and subranges therebetween, including 0.2, 1, 2, 5, 8, 12 and 15% by weight.
The lipophilic screening agents which are particularly suitable for the present invention can be chosen from dibenzoylmethane derivatives, benzimidazole derivatives, cinnamic derivatives, salicylic derivatives, camphor derivatives, triazine derivatives, benzophenone derivatives, xcex2,xcex2-diphenylacrylate derivatives, p-aminobenzoic acid derivatives, and the screening polymers and screening silicones described in WO-93/04665 and WO-94/06404. Other examples of organic screening agents are given in EP-A-0,487,404. Each of these publications is incorporated herein by reference.
The lipophilic screening agent(s) can be present in the final composition according to the invention at a content which can range from 0.5 to 30%, preferably from 0.5 to 20%, by weight relative to the total weight of the composition. These weight % ranges include all specific values and subranges therebetween, including 0.2, 1, 2, 5, 8, 12, 15, 18 and 25% by weight.
The inorganic screening agents can be pigments or nanopigments (average size of the primary particles: generally between 5 nm and 100 nm, preferably between 10 and 50 nm) of coated or uncoated metal oxides, such as, for example, nanopigments of titanium oxide (amorphous or crystallized in rutile and/or anatase form), iron oxide, zinc oxide, zirconium oxide or cerium oxide, which are all photoprotective agents that are well known per se, which act by physically blocking (reflection and/or scattering) UV radiation. Conventional coating agents are, moreover, alumina and/or aluminium stearate, and silicones. Such coated or uncoated metal oxide nanopigments are described in particular in patent applications EP-A-0,518,772 and EP-A-0,518,773, each incorporated herein by reference.
The inorganic screening agents can be present in the final composition according to the invention at a content which can range from 0.1 to 20%, preferably from 0.2 to 10%, by weight relative to the total weight of the composition. These weight % ranges include all specific values and subranges therebetween, including 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 8, 12 and 15% by weight.
Among the desquamating agents, mention may be made of hydroxy acids, more particularly xcex1- and xcex2-hydroxy acids, salicylic acid or a derivative thereof, which may be salified, natural or synthetic retinoids, such as retinol, retinol esters, retinoic acid or retinal. As salicylic acid derivatives, mention may be made in particular of those described in FR-A-2,581,542 and EP-A-378,936, each incorporated herein by reference, and in particular 5-n-octanoylsalicylic acid, 5-n-decanoylsalicylic acid, 5-n-dodecanoylsalicylic acid, 5-n-octylsalicylic acid, 5-n-heptyloxysalicylic acid, 4-n-heptyloxysalicylic acid and quaternary ammonium salts thereof, such as the dimethylhydroxypropylammonium salts. The salicylic acid derivatives described in EP-A-570,230, incorporated herein by reference, can also be used.
Another embodiment of the present invention is a composition, more particularly a cosmetic composition, comprising at least one optical brightener and at least one moisturizer. Such a composition is particularly effective in preventing and/or treating shadows under the eyes.
Among the moisturizers which can be used in these composition, mention may be made in particular of urea or its derivatives and polyols such as, for example, glycerol, sorbitol or propylene glycol.
The invention also relates to a composition, preferably a cosmetic composition, comprising at least one optical brightener and at least one anti-wrinkle agent. Such a composition is, in this case also, particularly suitable for preventing and/or treating shadows under the eyes.
Among the anti-wrinkle agents which can be used in these compositions, mention may be made in particular of: hydroxy acids, more particularly xcex1- and xcex2-hydroxy acids, ascorbic acid or its derivatives, salicylic acid or one of its derivatives, which may be salified, natural or synthetic retinoids, such as retinol, retinol esters, retinoic acid or retinal. As salicylic acid derivatives, mention may be made in particular of those described in FR-A-2,581,542 and EP-A-378,936, and in particular 5-n-octanoylsalicylic acid, 5-n-decanoylsalicylic acid, 5-n-dodecanoylsalicylic acid, 5-n-octylsalicylic acid, 5-n-heptyloxysalicylic acid, 4-n-heptyloxysalicylic acid and the quaternary ammonium salts thereof, such as the dimethylhydroxypropylammonium salts. The salicylic acid derivatives described in document EP-A-570,230, incorporated herein by reference, can also be used.
Another aspect of the present invention is a process for the immediate bleaching of the skin, comprising applying to the skin a cosmetic composition comprising at least one optical brightener.
The compositions containing the optical brighteners used according to the invention can be in any pharmaceutical form normally used for topical application, for example in the form of solutions, gels, dispersions of the lotion or serum type, emulsions of liquid or semi-liquid consistency of the milk type, obtained by dispersing a fatty phase in an aqueous phase (O/W) or, conversely, (W/O), or suspension or emulsions of soft, semi-solid or solid consistency of the cream or gel type, or alternatively microemulsions, microcapsules, microparticles or vesicle dispersions of ionic and/or nonionic type. These compositions may be prepared according to well-known methods.
The compositions, more particularly the cosmetic compositions, of the invention can contain adjuvants that are common in the cosmetics field, such as emulsifiers, hydrophilic or lipophilic gelling agents, hydrophilic or lipophilic active agents, preserving agents, antioxidants, fragrances, fillers and dyestuffs. The amounts of these various adjuvants are those conventionally used in the cosmetics field, and, for example, from 0.01 to 20% of the total weight of the composition. This range includes all specific values and subranges therebetween, such as 0.02, 0.05, 1, 2, 5, 8, 10 and 15% by weight. Depending on their nature, these adjuvants can be introduced into the fatty phase, into the aqueous phase and/or into the lipid vesicles.
Water-in-oil (W/O) or oil-in-water (O/W) emulsifiers can be used as emulsifiers, depending on the desired final emulsion.
As emulsifiers, mention may be made, for example, of the mixture of glyceryl/stearate/PEG-100 stearate (Arlacel 165 sold by ICI), PEG-20 stearate (Myrj 49 sold by ICI), PEG-40 stearate (Myrj 52 sold by ICI) and sorbitan tristearate (Span 65 sold by ICI).
The emulsifier content can range from 0.1 to 15% by weight, and preferably from 0.5 to 5% by weight, relative to the total weight of the composition. These weight ranges include all specific values and subranges therebetween, including 0.2, 1, 2, 8, 10 and 12% by weight.
Co-emulsifiers can be added to the composition according to the invention, for example in an amount ranging from 0.05% to 10% by weight relative to the total weight of the composition, inclusive full specific ranges and subranges therebetween, such as 1, 2, 3, 5 and 8% by weight. Glyceryl stearate may be used as a co-emulsifier.
In the lipid vesicle dispersions, the emulsifier can consist of the vesicles themselves or of ionic and/or nonionic lipids.
As oils which can be used in the invention, mention may he made of mineral oils, plant oils (corn germ oil), synthetic oils (isohexadecane), silicone oils (cyclomethicone) and fluoro oils. Fatty alcohols (stearyl alcohol, cetyl alcohol), fatty acids (stearic acid) and waxes can also be used.
Hydrophilic active agents which can be used, for example, are proteins or protein hydrolysates, amino acids, urea, allantoin, sugars and sugar derivatives, and glycyrrhetinic acid.
Lipophilic active agents which can be used are tocopherol (vitamin E) and its derivatives, essential fatty acids, ceramides and essential oils.
These compositions in particular constitute treatment or care creams for the face, for the hands or for the body, protective or care body milks or lotions, gels or mousses for skincare or skin treatment.
For bleaching the skin, the compositions described above may be applied in an amount effective for skin bleaching to the surface of the skin. The compositions of the invention may be applied as often as necessary or desired to provide the skin with the desired complexion. For example, the compositions of the invention may be applied daily.


The invention relates to a gear train element in a gear train arrangement (5, 18), said gear train element (5) being driven on the drive side by a drive motor (1), on whose power take-off shaft (2) the gear train element (5) is mounted. The peripheral surface of the gear train element (5) is provided with a toothed gearing (7), and said element meshes with one or more toothed gearings of additional gear train elements (18). Axially displaceable and adjustable support elements (11, 12; 33, 34, 35, 36) and sleeve-type followers (13, 14; 30, 31) are mounted between the power take-off shaft (2) and a set of springs (8) and also between the set of springs (8) and the gear train element (5).

Drive elements having independent rotational axes are used in gear trains for transmitting torque. Coupling elements can be installed between these drive elements, or rather torsion elements can be provided. The positions of the respective axes of the gear train arrangement, such as sliding shaft coupling and motor drive, change their rotational axes to differing extents due to production tolerances, wear and temperature influences, also depending on the material used.

Gear train element for play-free torque transmission


A method for manufacturing electronic modules from a moulded module strip having a laminate including at least one conductive layer, and one or more dies and or surface mounted devices arranged on an upper surface of the laminate and embedded by a moulding compound, includes the steps of: cutting partway through the laminate reaching at least through the uppermost of the at least one conductive layers and thereby creating a cut of width in the laminate; applying a conductive coating covering the upper surface of the laminate, and further covering all surfaces of the cut, the conductive coating contacting the uppermost conductive layer in the laminate; singulating the moulded module strip into separate electronic modules by cutting all the way through the laminate by creating a second cut in said first cut, the second cut having a width d smaller than the width of the first cut.

The development of electronic products, such as cellular phones, computers and cameras, is towards smaller and smaller devices. The physical size of the devices should lessen as should their cost, which put high demands on, among other things, the layouts of integrated circuits required in the products, and the fabrication methods used for producing them.
The shielding of integrated circuit packages against electromagnetic interference (EMI) effects should also be made in as cost effective way as possible, while not compromising the quality requirements. Shielding is utilised for several reasons, a first reason being the fulfillment of government regulatory specifications, e.g. ETSI (European Telecommunications Standards Institute) specifications that for example put limits to allowed harmonics. Another reason for utilizing shielding is to provide immunity from other interfering wireless sources nearby, and yet another reason is to assure proper operation of a wireless transceiver itself by preventing transmission of non-intended radiation, such as from internal circuitry. Shortly, shielding is utilized in order to eliminate or at least minimize the effects of electromagnetic radiation.
There is a number of different ways to achieve shielding of an integrated circuit or electronic module. A commonly used solution is to mount a metallic hood to the module, for example by soldering. This however entails several drawbacks. A major drawback is the inflexibility of the fabrication process in that new tooling has to be provided in the production line for each change made to the module design. Another drawback is that the building height, i.e. the vertical height of the module increases, which of course is quite contrary to the wish of providing miniaturised modules and components. Further, the shielding efficiency is lessened due to holes in the metal, holes through which a moulding compound protecting the die is to be passed, or holes used for improving the inspectability of the module. Still further, the metallic hood constitutes an additional component to be manufactured and subsequently mounted on the module. Further yet, the mounting of the metallic hood also requires an extra space around the circuitry, for example in order to accomplish the soldering of the hood, again in contrary to the general goal towards smaller devices.
Another way to accomplish shielding of a module is to flip the package upside down and use the upper PCB copper plane as the shielding. However, this entails a more complex PCB (printed circuit board) and also an extra space requirement for accommodating solder balls of a ball grid array (BGA), if such surface-mount packaging is used. Further, this solution shows a very poor heat transfer performance and the heat dissipation for cooling the die is thus a major shortcoming.
Yet another way that has been contemplated for providing a shielding to a module is to integrate the shielding in the moulding compound, the moulding compound having a special composition containing absorbing/conductive fillers for absorbing and conducting the radiation, respectively. Further, the electrical performance of the device may also be affected by introducing such fillers. This solution would therefore probably be a very expensive solution involving substantial research and development costs.

Method for manufacturing electronic modules


An apparatus is provided for coupling a printed circuit board within a printed circuit board cage. The apparatus includes a first portion coupled to the printed circuit board cage. A second portion is rotatably coupled to the printed circuit board, and includes a cam surface formed on a first end portion thereof. The cam surface is engageable with an interior surface of a bore in the first portion to urge the second portion and the printed circuit board from a first position to a second position. The second portion also includes a latch formed on a second end portion thereof. The latch is engageable with a corresponding latch on the printed circuit board in response to the second portion being located in the second position.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to a mechanism for mounting a printed circuit board, and, more particularly, to a mechanism for latching a printed circuit board into an electrical connector.
2. Description of the Related Art
In the field of electronics, designers have been continuously reducing the size of components, such as semiconductor chips, to increase the speed and performance of the electronic circuits, and to more efficiently utilize semiconductor real estate. Typically, these semiconductor chips are mounted on a printed circuit board, which is, in turn, coupled to other printed circuit boards through various electrical connectors to form an electrical system, such as a personal computer.
As the semiconductor chips have become smaller, and electrical systems have become more complex, more chips are located on a printed circuit board. As more and more semiconductor chips and electronic circuits are packed onto a printed circuit board, more and more electrical signals are generated and delivered throughout the system, especially to the other printed circuit boards. Commonly, these signals are delivered "off-board" to the other printed circuit boards via an edge connector. That is, a series of metallic tabs are formed along at least one edge of the printed circuit board, and metallic traces interconnect the semiconductor chips with the metallic tabs. The metallic tabs are arranged to coincide with spring loaded metallic tabs in an edge connector. The edge connector is interconnected with other edge connectors and printed circuit boards so that the electrical signals can be transmitted therebetween.
In systems where the edge connector area cannot be increased in proportion to the number of signals, the individual metallic tabs are necessarily reduced in width to accommodate more metallic tabs. For example, state-of-the-art microprocessor printed circuit boards have over 300 metallic tabs that measure 50 thousandths of an inch wide. The tabs are arranged in a tiered configuration with three tabs every 100 thousandths of an inch. These densely packed contacts can become misaligned with their corresponding edge connector by a relatively minor displacement of only 20 thousandths of an inch. That is, the printed circuit board can become uncoupled or disconnected from its corresponding electrical connector relatively easily. Disconnection, of course, prevents the electrical signals from being properly delivered to other printed circuit boards in the electrical system, which prevents proper operation of the system. Moreover, this relatively minor displacement is difficult to visually detect, and, thus, faulty operation is difficult to diagnose.
The large size and relatively heavy weight of current microprocessor printed circuit boards further exacerbates the alignment problem because of the board's own inertia during minor g-force shocks. That is, even a minor bumping of the electrical system may be enough to cause the printed circuit board to shift and cease proper operation.
Further, the increasing complexity of electrical systems has also resulted in more printed circuit boards being packed into the same or smaller space. Thus, less and less room is available for the electrical system, which necessitates that the boards be closely proximate one another. This close positioning of the printed circuit boards reduces the available envelope for mechanisms useful in fixing the printed circuit boards against longitudinal movement. Accordingly, bulky latching mechanisms are not useful in compact, densely packed electrical systems.
Additionally, maintaining and upgrading electrical systems commonly requires that the printed circuit boards be readily accessible, easy to remove, and easy to install. Moreover, it is a significant disadvantage if special tools are required to access, remove, or install the printed circuit boards. Rather, it is highly advantageous if a user of the electrical system can replace a printed circuit board without the use of any special tools.
The present invention is directed to overcoming, or at least reducing the effects of, one or more of the problems set forth above.

Printed circuit board latching mechanism


To switch back a fax transmission in line with T.38 to a voice transmission over an IP network, the invention proposes transferring the transmission data stored in the media gateway controller at a first end to the media gateway controller at a second end over a signaling network. Thereby, causing the codecs in the media gateway at the second end and the media gateway at the first end to be switched back together.

Voice and fax transmissions are currently sent using two types of communication networks: the classical, circuit-oriented telephone network used primarily for transmitting voice, and the packet-oriented data network, which is set up for transmitting data. The circuit-oriented telephone network is referred to as a circuit network for short below, and the packet-oriented data network is referred to as a packet network.
The classical circuit networks are not just used for interchanging information between the parties to a call. Instead, information relating to the control of the circuit network itself is also interchanged. This information is not necessarily passed to the parties to a call on the terminals, but rather is evaluated by the network nodes or terminals. The interchange of this information is referred to as signaling. Since defined communication paths are generally reserved for the signaling in the circuit networks, signaling networks are also referred to. In principle, the signaling for a circuit network can also take place over a packet network.
In addition, there is the tendency to also use packet networks to transmit information which are typically routed via the classical circuit network. Since the corresponding information is routed not just via the classical circuit network, but also via packet networks, heterogeneous networks are referred to in this context.
Compressive codecs cannot readily be used for fax transmissions over a packet network, since the use of compressive codecs does not ensure error-free transmission of the fax tones. Although it is possible, in principle, to use a non-compressive codec for transmitting fax transmissions over packet networks, it is necessary to ensure that pauses between the signal tones are not removed from the data stream by the codec. It is thus possible, for example, to use the non-compressive codec from G.711 to set up a fax transmission over a packet network, particularly an Internet Protocol network. However, such a fax transmission requires a bandwidth of 64 kb/sec, even though the fax transmission itself has a data rate of only 14 kb/sec. For this reason the T.38 standard has been created for fax transmissions over a packet network on the basis of the Internet Protocol.
Following the end of a fax transmission, it is occasionally necessary to switch back to a voice transmission which preceded the fax transmission. This has not been possible to date for fax transmissions over a packet network. The subscribers have had to end the fax transmission and set up the desired voice transmission again.

System, method and computer program for changing over between a voice transmission and a fax transmission


The disclosure is directed to power supplies for audio amplifiers that focus on the importance of certain power supply characteristics in forming the overall qualities of a tube amplifier. The power supplies may use a power transformer with two dissimilar and selectable secondary windings to supply the voltages for a single vacuum tube power amplifier (B+ voltages). The power supplies may also apply different rectifier characteristics to complement the use of multiple differing secondary windings. The power supplies may also use different capacitor bank options to filter ripple voltage. The power supplies may also use of coordinated grid-bias voltage adjustment that coincides with secondary winding selection. The power supplies may also use coordinated preamp bias voltage adjustment that coincides with secondary winding selection.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention is directed to systems, processes and apparatus for selecting from between multiple power supplies for use with audio amplifiers. More particularly, the invention relates to the field of electronic musical instrument amplifiers that enable selection from between multiple power supplies to achieve differing sonic effects. Accordingly, the general objects of the invention are to provide novel systems, methods and apparatus of such character.
2. Description of the Related Art
The development of audio amplifiers from the early days of electronics has tracked the development in electronics components in many ways. For example, audio amplifiers, which originally used vacuum tubes as amplifying and rectifying elements, widely migrated to semiconductor elements soon after such elements became available. Nonetheless, the use of vacuum tubes persists in several niche applications such as hi-fi stereos, instrument amplification, recording pre-amplifiers, etc. due to a continuing and widespread belief that vacuum tubes produce superior results in such applications.
In the field of musical instrument amplifiers, certain "vintage" instrument amplifiers are much sought after for their ability to provide the sonic qualities of various well known and appreciated musical styles. Unfortunately, such vintage amplifiers typically have deteriorated with age and have become unreliable to the extent that use of such vintage devices is unacceptable. Even in those instances where the performance is satisfactory when measured against the original specifications for the equipment, musicians frequently find that such equipment is extremely limited by today's standards of versatility. There has, therefore, been a need for equipment capable of producing a range of tones of quality vintage equipment while at the same time providing the versatility and reliability more commonly associated with modern equipment. In order to meet this long standing and accelerating demand, vacuum tube amplification continues to progress around the periphery of a handful of basic designs in an effort to provide more economical, reliable, versatile and user-friendly amplifiers that offer musicians a choice of familiar sonic qualities.
Among the areas that have been the subject of such development has been preamp switching design, amplifier switching design, digital amplifier modeling technology, and power tube substitution schemes for vacuum tube guitar amplifiers. However, the sonic contribution of power supply design has only recently come under scrutiny among musicians and amplifier designers. In particular, the sonic contributions of such factors as, preamp bias voltage, power amp bias voltage, type of power amp biasing, the effects of various component types and sizes are being explored more closely.
This renewed interest in power supply design has yielded some efforts to provide more versatile power supplies to achieve varying musical effects. One such effort is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,168,438, entitled Selectable Dual Rectifier Power Supply For Musical Amplifier, which describes a simple switching method for selecting from between either a solid-state rectifier or a vacuum thermionic rectifier within a single power supply. This approach offers a reasonably economical way of approximating the desirable characteristics of tube-based rectifiers with the desirable characteristics of solid-state rectifiers in a single amplifier. Unfortunately, this design trades certain subtle sonic qualities in favor of economy and simplicity in its approximation of both styles of power supplies. For example, since this design uses the same secondary power transformer coil and the same ripple-voltage filter regardless of the type of rectification selected only a limited range of changes are possible.
Another effort of this general type is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,091,700 and entitled Amplifier With Mains Voltage Reduction. This patent describes the use of a switch to adjust the mains voltage such that it is possible to reduce the voltages in an amplifier for a different musical effect. This switch adjusts the mains input voltage by selecting a primary winding tap on the primary side of a power transformer to thereby change all the voltages in the amplifier. While this design does appreciate that some transformer characteristics are important in creating the overall amplifier characteristics, its simplistic approach is incapable of changing a limited set of voltages while leaving others unaffected (or changed in the opposite direction). Thus, once again, this design offers economy and simplicity at the expense of some of the finer elements of the several vintage amplifiers it tries to approximate. For example, this design also uses the same secondary power transformer coil and the same ripple-voltage filter regardless of the type of rectification selected.
Yet another effort to offer a more versatile amplifier power supply for a vacuum tube amplifier is embodied in an amplifier known as the FENDER® PROSONIC®. This amplifier uses a switching system slightly more complicated than those noted above to offer a number a rectification options. Once again, however, this design also uses the same power transformer and the same ripple-voltage filter regardless of the rectification circuit selected. It, thus, also fails to appreciate the important role of transformer design in the overall amplifier characteristics.
All of the designs noted above suffer from the deficiency that they all sacrifice some degree of sound quality in an effort to provide approximations of the sonic qualities of multiple amplifiers. Thus, after many years, no amplifier design has been able to faithfully emulate the essential characteristics of several different vintage amplifiers in one simple, economical, reliable and user-friendly amplifier.
There is, accordingly, a need in the art for novel methods, systems and apparatus that faithfully emulate the desired characteristics of several vintage amplifiers in one simple, economical, reliable and user-friendly package. Such methods and apparatus should go further than prior efforts in capturing various subtle qualities of various amplifier designs without presenting users with undue additional complexity, weight size and/or expense.

Selectable power supply for audio amplifier