The present invention relates to a method of compensating for the phase distortion that occurs in a power amplified output signal in response to the output power of a power amplifier. The invention also relates to a phase distortion compensating device. The device includes a phase-locking and upconversion loop (30-39) which is connected to the input of a power amplifier (40). Briefly, the solution involves feeding a part of the signal (e.sub.pha) to be amplified back to a circuit (35) which combines this first-mentioned signal with a part of the amplified signal (e.sub.out) fed back from the output of the power amplifier (40), so as to achieve a smooth transition in the dominance of one signal over the other signal when the two signals are combined to obtain a new feedback signal (e.sub.fdb) from the combining circuit (35).

The digital GSM system (Global System for Mobile Communication) utilizes TDMA (Time Division Multiple Access). In this technique, each carrier frequency is divided into eight time slots, therewith enabling eight calls to be served simultaneously on one and the same carrier frequency. Each terminal includes a power amplifier in the terminal transmitter part that feeds radio frequency modulated information to an antenna. The function of the power amplifier is to amplify the signals sufficiently for their reception in the nearest base station to be acceptable. This function shall be carried out with the smallest possible power addition from the terminal batteries, because of their limited capacity.
Power amplifiers tend to cause phase distortion in a delivered output signal. This distortion is dependent on output power and will increase with increased output power. This distortion can be expressed in a mathematical vector model: y(t)=re.sup.jwt+f(r). The amplification r, which in this case is the same as the amplitude, is included as a variable in the phase function f(r). The amplification/amplitude can thus be said to have a phase modulating effect on the output signal.
Some non-linear amplifiers exhibit pronounced phase distortion at high powers, although these amplifiers can nevertheless be used in some applications, since they have a greater efficiency than linear amplifiers.
Pulsed amplifiers are used in TDMA applications. The power is thus ramped up to an output power suitable for transmission, in accordance with a ramp function. When transmission is terminated, the power is ramped down in a corresponding manner, in accordance with a ramp function. Upramping and downramping of the output power takes place during very short time intervals. The phase modulation dependent on this upramping and downramping of the output power results in broadening of the frequency spectrum of the output signal, Phase modulation compensation enhances the possibilities of fulfilling given standard requirements (e.g. GSM).
It is known from published PCT Application WO-A1-95/23453 (Motorola) to counteract phase distortion with a feedback that is connected to the power amplifier output and encloses the power amplifier in a phase-locking loop. The power amplifier is fed with a phase modulated signal from a phase modulation control loop that includes a phase-locking loop with a feedback loop connected to the input of the power amplifier. The inclusion of a switching circuit in the phase modulation control loop enables a switch to be made between the two feedbacks. However, it is impossible in practice to achieve fast phase-locking to the correct phase by switching between the feedback loops in the known manner. Because respective upramping and downramping takes place very quickly, problems occur, particularly in the case of TDMA radio applications that use pulsed amplifiers. The overshoots that are generated in the envelope of the output signal are fed back and added to the transients caused by switching between the two feedbacks. Phase-locking therewith takes an unacceptably long time to achieve. Phase-locking may even fail to take place. These drawbacks and problems may result in the total or partial loss of important information stored in a signal. It can therefore be considered desirable to find a novel solution to these drawbacks and problems with which earlier known techniques are encumbered.

Device and method for compensating phase distortion


A one-piece grommet able to receive auxiliary wires without a sacrifice in sound-dampening properties contains: a main body having a primary passageway for receiving a wire harness; an annular body having an acoustic chamber formed in a front flange portion thereof and an annular panel-fitting groove formed between intermediate and back flange portions thereof; a secondary passageway formed between the annular and main bodies and disposed for receipt of an auxiliary wire; and a back annular rim section defined between the main and annular bodies and having one or more through-holes and one or more hollow protruding members having removable ends and covering the through-hole(s), the through-holes and protruding members being disposed in communication with the secondary passageway. The secondary passageway does not pass through the acoustic chamber, the annular panel-fitting groove or the primary passageway.

The present invention relates to grommets. More particularly, this invention relates to acoustic grommets for use in passing a wire bundle through a panel which separates two compartments, wherein the grommet prevents noise and water from being passed through the grommet and the wire bundle.
A grommet is typically used on a wire harness or bundle to prevent water intrusion from an environmentally exposed area (e.g., engine compartment in a vehicle) to an environmentally controlled area (e.g., inside of a vehicle). In addition to preventing water intrusion, grommets for use in the current automotive market need to have the flexibility and ability to perform two additional functions. First, grommets are increasingly required to dampen noise intrusion through the grommet. Second, grommets need to be capable of allowing additional wire content after the vehicle is manufactured, i.e., aftermarket applications. This latter function needs to be accomplished without compromising the first function, i.e., noise reduction.
Grommets which are said to provide both waterproofing and soundproofing benefits in automobiles are disclosed, e.g., in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,685,173; 4,797,513; 4,959,509; 5,270,487; and 5,981,877. A grommet assembly which is designed to allow both a main wire harness and an auxiliary wire harness to pass therethrough is described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,959,509.
Conventional grommets which contain air or acoustic chambers either use a two-part design or do not allow for secondary (aftermarket) applications.
A primary object of this invention is to provide a watertight grommet having sound-dampening characteristics, wherein the grommet is a one-piece structure containing an acoustic chamber and means for allowing for secondary (aftermarket) applications.
A further object of this invention is to provide the grommet of the preceding object wherein the grommet allows for secondary applications without sacrificing the sound-dampening characteristics of the grommet.
Another object of this invention is to provide the grommet of the preceding objects, wherein the grommet is cost-effective.
These and other objects are achieved in the present invention.
The present invention provides a cost-effective one-piece grommet that prevents water intrusion, has sound dampening properties and further has the ability to add aftermarket applications without compromising the sealing and/or acoustic performance of the grommet.
Broadly, the one-piece grommet of this invention contains:
a hollow main body having a front opening, a back opening, and central primary passageway extending between the front and back openings, the central primary passageway being disposed for receipt of a primary wire, wire harness or wire bundle;
an annular body surrounding a portion of the main body and being spaced from and integrally joined to the main body, the annular body having a cylindrical hollow central portion, a front flange portion, an acoustic chamber formed in the front flange portion, an intermediate flange portion, a back flange portion, and an annular panel-fitting groove formed between the intermediate and back flange portions;
a secondary passageway formed between the inner wall of the annular body and the main body, the secondary passageway being disposed for receipt of at least one auxiliary wire and being spaced inwardly from the acoustic chamber and the annular panel-fitting groove and outwardly from the primary passageway such that the secondary passageway does not pass through the acoustic chamber, the annular panel-fitting groove or the primary passageway; and
a back annular rim section defined between the back opening of the main body and the inner wall of the annular body, the annular rim section having formed therein one or more through-holes and one or more protruding members having removable ends and covering the one or more through-holes, the one or more through-holes and the one or more protruding members being disposed in communication with the secondary passageway.
In the grommet of this invention, the means for allowing auxiliary wire(s) or wire bundle(s) to be added after the grommet has been installed (i.e., the secondary passageway and the corresponding through-holes and protruding members formed in the annular rim section) does not compromise the sound dampening properties of the grommet because the secondary passageway does not pass through the acoustic chamber. In addition, the secondary passageway does not pass through the primary passageway of the main body and, therefore, does not compromise any sealant which may be applied to the primary passageway or the primary wire harness. Furthermore, the secondary passageway does not compromise the sealing of the grommet to a panel because the passageway does not pass through or otherwise interfere with the annular panel-fitting groove.
The grommet of this invention is particularly suitable for use in the automotive industry, where the grommet would typically be attached to a firewall located between the engine compartment and the passenger compartment.


A freestanding solar-powered charging system includes a baseplate, a substantially vertical frame member having a first end and a second end, the first end coupled to and extending from the baseplate, one or more panels coupled to the second end of the vertical frame member, each of the panels having an upper surface with a photovoltaic cell, an energy storage device electrically coupled to the photovoltaic cell, and one or more electrical connectors supported by the vertical frame member and electrically coupled to the energy storage device, the electrical connectors configured to engage any one or more of a plurality of consumer electronic devices for charging the consumer electronic devices.

This section is intended to provide a background or context to the subject matter. The description herein may include concepts that could be pursued, but are not necessarily ones that have been previously conceived or pursued. Therefore, unless otherwise indicated herein, what is described in this section is not prior art to the description in this application and is not admitted to be prior art by inclusion in this section.
It is generally known to provide solar panels that are configured to store energy in a battery, and an electrical connection from the battery for charging another battery. However, the conventional solar-powered charging systems are not readily adaptable for use as freestanding charging stations and workstations (e.g., for using the device while it is recharging) that may be deployed in any of a wide variety of locations independent of conventional electrical supplies.
Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide one or more freestanding solar-powered energy storage and charging systems that overcome these and other disadvantages.

Solar-powered lighting device and charging system


A wireless system broadcasts data in frames, each frame having F slots. Output from a matched filter is used to combine K slots to generate profile data, where K is less than F. N peak values respectively from n peak positions are selected from the profile data, where n is greater than one. A correlator is employed, together with the n peak positions and S slots subsequent the K slots, to generate n×S correlation values. Respective combination values for the n peak positions are generated by coherently combining the correlation values, and combining the coherent combination results with the non-coherent n peak values. The combination values are respectively used to generate SNR values for each of the n peak positions. The peak position having the best respective SNR value is then selected as a slot synchronization position.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to slot synchronization in a wideband code division multiple access (WCDMA) system. More specifically, the use of both matched filters and correlators to obtain more accurate slot timing results is disclosed.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Spread spectrum communication systems are becoming increasingly important in cellular networks. In particular, wideband code division multiple access (WCDMA) systems are entering the marketplace, and offer the potential of significantly increased performance and reliability.
To establish a network connection in a WCDMA system, the user equipment (UE) must first perform a cell search procedure. The cell search procedure enables the UE to obtain timing and code synchronization for the downlink channel. Various methods are known in the prior art for performing a cell search procedure. Attention is drawn, for example, to the article "Cell Search in W-CDMA" by Yi-Pin Eric Wang and Tony Ottosson in Vol.18, No.8 (August 2000 edition) of IEEE Journal on Selected Areas in Communications, which is included herein by reference.
A simple overview of cell searching is presented in the following. Please refer to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a downlink Common Control Channel (CCH) 10 in a WCDMA system. The CCH 10 is broken up into a series of frames 12. Each frame 12 contains fifteen slots 14. Each slot 14 holds ten symbols, each of 256 chips. Hence, each slot 14 is 2560 chips in length. Please refer to FIG. 2 in conjunction with FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a slot 14 in the CCH 10. The first 256 chips 16 in each slot 14 holds a primary synchronization channel (PSCH) 16p and a secondary synchronization channel (SSCH) 16s. The PSCH 16p and SSCH 16s are orthogonal to each other, and hence can be broadcast on top of each other. The PSCH 16p chip coding is the same for all base stations, and does not change. The SSCH 16s chip coding changes with every slot 14 according to a predefined pattern that repeats every frame 12. Please refer to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a common pilot channel (CPICH) 20 broadcast with the CCH 10. The coding used for the CPICH 20 is unique to the broadcasting base station. In a WCDMA system, a base station can use one of 512 different codes for the CPICH 20, which are broken into 64 code groups, each having 8 respective codes. The coding of the PSCH 16p is common across all base stations, and can thus be used for slot 14 synchronization. Although the coding of the SSCH 16s changes on a slot 14 by slot 14 basis, the sequence pattern of code change of the SSCH 16s is determined by the code group into which the code used for the CPICH 20 lies. That is, there are 64 code sequence patterns for the SSCH 16s to follow, each of which corresponds to a particular code group associated with the code used for the CPICH 20. By correlating the received CCH signal 10 with all possible SSCH 16s code sequences and identifying the maximum correlation value, it is possible to learn the code group of the CPICH 20, and to obtain frame 12 synchronization. This is due to the fact that the SSCH 16s changes according to a predefined sequence, the starting sequence of which is known and which is sent at the beginning of every frame 12, thus enabling frame synchronization. Once the code group of the CPICH 20 is learned, it is possible to obtain the primary scrambling code used by the cell by performing symbol-by-symbol correlation over the CPICH 20 with all eight of the codes in the code group identified for the CPICH 20. Once the primary scrambling code used by the base station has been identified, system and cell specific broadcast channel (BCH) information can be read.
Based upon the above, cell searching is thus typically broken into the three following steps:
Step 1: Slot synchronization.                Utilize the PSCH 16p to perform slot synchronization. This is typically done with a matched filter (or similar device) that is matched to the PSCH 16p that is common to all base stations. Slot timing is obtained from peaks in the matched filter output.
Step 2:Frame synchronization and code group identification.                The slot timing obtained in step 1 is used to correlate the SSCH 16s with all possible SSCH code sequences. The maximum correlation identifies the code group of the CPICH 20. The SSCH 16s having the first SSCH code sequence identifies the start of a frame 12.
Step 3:Scrambling code identification.                Symbol-by-symbol correlation is performed on the CPICH 20 for all eight codes within the code group identified in step 2. The maximum correlation value identifies the primary scrambling code of the base station.
Please refer to FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a simple block diagram that illustrates cell synchronization for a prior art UE 30. Of course, the UE 30 will contain many more components than those shown in FIG. 4, which is restricted to the present discussion. The UE 30 includes a transceiver 39 and a synchronization stage 38. The transceiver 39 receives broadcasts from a base station (not shown) and passes broadcast data to the synchronization stage 38 in a manner familiar to those in the art of wireless devices. The synchronization stage 38 includes a stage 1 31, a stage 2 32 and a stage 3 33. The stage 1 31 performs the slot synchronization of step 1 discussed above. Results from stage 1 31 are passed to stage 2 32, which performs the frame 12 synchronization and code group identification of step 2. Results from stage 2 32 are then passed on to stage 3 33, which performs the scrambling code identification of step 3. Stage 1 31 includes a peak profiler 34. The peak profiler 34 contains the primary synchronization code 35 that is common to all base stations, and generates peak profile data 36 that is obtained by matching the primary synchronization code 35 against the PSCH 16p received from the transceiver 39. The profile data 36 holds data for a predetermined number of chips, and as the PSCH 16p repeats with every slot 14, it is common to hold enough data to cover an entire slot 14, i.e., 2560 chips. The chip in the profile data 36 having the highest peak profile is assumed to mark the PSCH 16p, and is thus used as the PSCH path position 37. This is illustrated in FIG. 5, which is an example graph of peak profile data 36 (not to scale). Stage 1 31 notes that in the profile data 36 a maximum valued peak occurs at chip number 1658. The PSCH path position 37 would thus hold a value indicative of the peak path position at chip 1658. The PSCH path position 37 is forwarded to stage 2 32 as the slot 14 synchronization point. Utilizing the slot 14 position marked by the PSCH path position 37, stage 2 32 performs step 2 outlined above to generate a code group value 32g. Stage 2 32 will also generate a slot number 32s, which indicates the number of the slot 14 in its respective frame 12 that was marked by the PSCH path position 37. As there are fifteen slots 14 in a frame 12, the slot number 32s could be a value that runs, for example, between zero and fourteen. In this manner, frame 12 synchronization is performed. Finally, the results from stage 2 32 are passed on to stage 3 33, which subsequently performs step 3 to generate a primary scrambling code 33p for the CPICH 20.
The typical prior art method for performing the above step 1 is to pass the received signal from the transceiver 39 through a square-root raised cosine (SRRC) filter 34s. Output from the SRRC 34s is then fed into a matched filter 34m that matches against the primary synchronization code 35 to generate the profile data 36. As there are fifteen slots 14 per frame 12, the stage 1 31 will generally accumulate fifteen slots 14 for the profile data 36, and then select the largest peak in the profile data 36 as the PSCH path position 37. Hence, the matched filter 34m must operate on at least fifteen slots 14 to generate the profile data 36. The matched filter 34m, however, draws a significant amount of power, and thus is a source of reduced battery times for the UE 30. In addition, frequency uncertainty in the UE 30 can adversely affect the PSCH path position 37 selected by the prior art method of the stage 1 31.


The substage illuminator is in the form of a housing having therein an opening disposed to register with the underside of a workpiece that is being inspected by optical gaging apparatus which is disposed to overlie the workpiece and which has an image inlet aperture registering with the opening in the substage housing. A collimating lens is mounted in the opening of the housing beneath an anti-reflection filter, and a light source which is mounted in or connected to the housing, projects a circular beam of light successively through the collimator lens and filter toward the underside of the inspected workpiece. The light source may be in the form of a plurality of radially spaced, circular arrays of LED""s that can be selectively illuminated to control the diameter of the beam emitted thereby, or the source may comprise an L.C.D. aperture generator which may be energized to produce light beams of selectively different diameters. An adjustable iris aperture also can be mounted in the housing between the light source and collimating lens further to control the diameter of the light beam transmitted to the collimating lens. A light shaping diffuser may be mounted in the housing between the light source and the adjustable iris diaphragm to homogenize light transmitted by the light source.

This invention relates to an improved substage illuminator for use with optical inspection systems, and more particularly for use with variable magnification telecentric systems.
In a microscope system, as distinguished from gaging systems for inspecting workpieces, and the like, the object plane is essentially fixed, so that a substage collimator typically consists of an illumination source focused on the thin object that is being observed by the microscope. Usually a field stop aperture is provided near the object, while an adjustable iris at the lens serves to adjust the F-number of illumination to match the magnification in use. This can then provide the proper angular range of illumination for best imaging, while minimizing over-exposure and heating of biological specimens.
However, in gaging applications the location of the object that is being inspected is allowed to vary over a considerable range, and the effects of improper collimation are more problematical due to a condition referred to as xe2x80x9cwall-effectxe2x80x9d. For example, when viewing objects such as cylinders lying in the focal plane, the image of the sides of the object is confounded because of obstruction of the illumination and imaging cones of light, while distorted images of the substage illuminator reflected off of the object""s sides create inaccuracies. It has been discovered that these effects are minimized when the substage illuminator is designed to exactly fill the aperture of the magnification system in use, where a variety of magnifications and F-numbers are available. An improved substage illuminator of the type described would be particularly suitable for use in connection with inspection apparatus as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,668,665 which describes a system offering a variety of magnifications, and also the continuous zoom system disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,523,583, both of which patents are owned by the assignee of the instant invention.
In each of the two above-noted U.S. patents the work that is to be inspected or gaged is mounted on a work support beneath the objective lens and surface illuminator of the optical inspection apparatus and in registry with a central opening or transparent section of the work support. Positioned beneath the work support is a conventional substage light source which is disposed to project illumination through the work support onto the underside of the workpiece, while the upper side of the workpiece may also be illuminated by surface illuminator portions of the apparatus. As noted above, among the problems associated with conventional substage illuminators is the fact that imaging cones of light from the substage illuminator are reflected from the sides of the inspected object, particularly cylindrically shaped objects, thereby creating inaccuracies in the gaging thereof.
It is an object of this invention, therefore, to provide an improved substage illuminator, which is particularly suitable for use with optical inspection apparatus for any type which is adjustable to provide therefor a variety of magnifications and F-numbers.
A more specific object of this invention is to provide for adjustable optical inspection apparatus of the type described, an improved substage illuminator having means for controlling its light source diameter, thereby exactly to fill the aperture of the optical inspecting apparatus for any number of different magnifications and F-numbers thereof.
Other objects of the invention will be apparent hereinafter from the specification and from the recital of the appended claims, particularly when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
The substage illuminator contains or has connected thereto a light source for projecting a circular beam of light out of an opening in the housing to the underside of a workpiece, which is positioned beneath the inlet aperture of variable magnification apparatus that is employed for inspecting and gaging the workpiece. The diameter of the beam produced by the light source can be adjusted to compensate for any changes in the F/number or magnification of the associated gaging apparatus. The diameter can be made adjustable by employing as a light source a plurality of radially spaced circular arrays of light emitting diodes, the arrays of which can be selectively energizable to produce a circular beam of the desired diameter, or the source can comprise a circular L.C.D. aperture generator, which also can be operated to emit beams of light of selectively different diameters. In either case the beams of light are passed through a collimating lens which is secured over the light emitting end of the housing beneath an anti-glare filter. To permit even further adjustment of the diameter of the light beam emitted by the light source, an adjustable iris diaphragm is mounted in the housing between the light source and the collimating lens. The light source may also comprise a fiber optics conductor producing a circular beam of light which is transmitted successively through a light shaping diffuser and adjustable iris diaphragm, which are interposed between the light source and the collimating lens. In each embodiment the diameter of the light beam emitted from the housing can be adjusted to fill the inlet aperture of the optical gaging apparatus in order to compensate for any change in the magnification and F/number of the inspection apparatus.

Variable F/number substage illuminator for multiple magnification and zoom telecentric system


A method for manufacturing a dual damascene structure includes forming a wiring layer over a substrate, forming an inorganic insulating film over the wiring layer, forming a via hole in the inorganic insulating film using a first resist pattern with an opening as an etching mask, removing the first resist pattern, forming an organic insulating film on the inorganic insulating film and in the via hole, forming a hard mask on the organic insulating film, forming a hard mask pattern using a second resist pattern with an opening on the hard mask as an etching mask, forming a wiring groove by etching the organic insulating film using the second resist pattern and the hard mask pattern as etching masks until the organic insulating film inside the via hole is eliminated and simultaneously eliminating the second resist pattern, and implanting a conductive substance into the via hole and wiring groove.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device and a method for etching the same.
2. Description of the Background Art
Recently, the performance and function of semiconductor devices has been advanced. For example, the operating frequency of microprocessors has entered a new "GHz band" era, and a system that mounts a plurality of circuits with different functions on one semiconductor chip, a so-called a system-on-chip (SOC), has entered the field. This semiconductor device employs a multilayer wiring structure in which wirings are formed in a plurality of layers in the thickness direction of the semiconductor device in order to improve its degree of integration. In particular, a multilayer wiring structure referred to as a dual damascene structure has been developed in these years. A dual damascene structure is a further advancement of the damascene structure. In the damascene structure, Cu is used as a wiring material because of its low-resistance and high-electromigration resistance properties, and wiring is implanted with the chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) method. On the other hand, in the dual damascene method, a wiring groove and a via hole are formed in the interlayer insulating film, and a conductive substance such as Cu is simultaneously implanted in the groove and the hole. Thus, an upper layer wiring and a via plug are formed at one time. Therefore, the manufacturing cost of a semiconductor device is reduced in the dual damascene method, compared to a normal damascene method, a so-called single damascene method, in which a wiring groove and a via hole are separately formed.
In a semiconductor device with a multilayer wiring structure, the operation speed of the semiconductor device is highly influenced by not only the resistance value of the wiring itself, but also by the inter-wiring capacitance formed by an interlayer insulating film that is formed in a place between a lower layer wiring and an upper layer wiring. Therefore, the resistance of the wiring itself and the inter-wiring capacitance have to be reduced in order to realize an increase in the operation speed of a semiconductor device. To reduce the inter-wiring capacitance, it is required to reduce the dielectric constant of an interlayer insulating film by using a low dielectric constant film, a so-called a low-k film, as an interlayer insulating film. Also, it is required to take the wiring structure into consideration from the perspective of reducing the effective dielectric constant (keff). In general, the dual damascene structure is classified roughly into two structures. One is the so-called homogeneous structure. This is a unitary structure in which the same type of low-k film is used as the insulating film for a wiring portion and for a via hole portion. The other is the so-called hybrid structure. This is a heterogeneous structure in which different types of low-k films are used as the insulating film for a wiring portion and for a via hole portion. In the homogeneous structure, the depth of the wiring grooves is controlled. Therefore, it is required to use a film with a high dielectric constant, such as a silicon nitride film (relative dielectric constant: k=7.0) and a silicon carbide film (k=4.5) as an etching stopper layer. Because of this, the homogeneous structure has a disadvantage in that the value of the effective dielectric constant (keff) becomes high. On the other hand, in the hybrid structure, it is easy to set the etch selectivity between substances of different low-k film to be higher. Therefore, it is not required to use an etching stopper layer with a high dielectric constant, such as silicon nitride film and silicon carbide film. Because of this, the hybrid structure has an advantage in that the effective dielectric constant (keff) of the whole wiring structure can be reduced, compared to the homogeneous structure.
Japanese Patent Publication JP-A-2002-124568 (especially pages 6-7 and FIG. 2) describes a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device with the hybrid type dual damascene structure. Generally, in manufacturing a dual damascene structure of a semiconductor device, the corners of a hard mask used for forming a wiring groove and a via hole tend to be eliminated and inclined from the perpendicular during the process of etching an interlayer insulating film. This state is called the facet of a hard mask. If a facet state is produced, the wiring size of the hard mask will be wider than the design value. In some cases, this causes a short circuit between a wiring and its adjacent wiring. Because of this, there is a possibility that reliability will be lowered and the yield will be negatively influenced. In a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device described in Japanese Patent Publication JP-A-2002-124568, a facet of a hard mask is prevented in the process of etching by forming at least a layer of a dummy film, which does not exist in the structure at the end of the process of forming a semiconductor device, on the hard mask.
As described above, in manufacturing a dual damascene structure, there is a problem in that a facet of a hard mask is produced in the process of etching an interlayer insulating film. If a facet of a hard mask is produced, acceleration of etching will begin in the portion where the facet is produced, and this will cause a retrograde phenomenon in the hard mask. This phenomenon makes it difficult to form wiring sized at the desired design value. Because of this, there is a possibility that reliability will be lowered and the yield will be negatively influenced.
In the method for manufacturing a semiconductor device described in Japanese Patent Publication JP-A-2002-124568, a protective hard mask is further formed on a hard mask that is required to form a wiring groove and a via hole. Therefore, the number of processes to manufacturing a semiconductor device and the cost thereof are increased in the method.
In view of the above, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure that there exists a need for an improved method for manufacturing a semiconductor device. This invention addresses this need in the art as well as other needs, which will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this disclosure.

Method for manufacturing a semiconductor device and method for etching the same


The grinder mixer assembly includes a drum assembly with end plates rotatably supported on stub shafts. These stub shafts are secured to arms of a yoke assembly. The spindle of a first hydraulic motor is secured to one of the stub shafts. The housing of the first motor is connected to a center portion of the drum by a key. The spindle of a second hydraulic motor is secured to the other stub shaft. The housing of the second motor is to a center portion of the drum by a key. The keys transmit torque from drive rings attached to each motor to driven rings attached to the drum mid way between the end plates of the drum.

Stump grinders with drums with comminuting tools for pulverizing tree stumps in the ground and mixing the wood chips with soil can be used for many purposes other than tree stump eradication. They can for example grind hard material such as asphalt paving as well as breaking up sedimate in a settling pond and then mixing the sedimate with liquid to form a slurry. When the slurry is contaminated sludge, these drums can also mix materials with the slurry that will contain it or neutralize it. Another use for these drive drums with tools on their outer peripheries is the treatment of mine tailings.
My U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,158,126 and 5,355,918, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference, disclose drums driven by a single hydraulic motor. These drums both have relatively short comminuting tools and tool holders that work well for tree stump eradication. When using a drum to treat other materials, different tools and tool holders may be more efficient. A longer drum with additional tools and tool holders can also improve performance for some tasks. It may also be desirable to supply more power to rotate the drum.
The hydraulic motor that drives the drum for a grinder mixer assembly should be protected from the materials being treated and should be isolated from loads that are not directly associated with the transmission of torque to drive the drum. Loads that shorten hydraulic motor life are loads that change the shape of the drum and cause misalignment between the motor housing and the motor spindle. Pressure on one side of the drum can distort the drum if the drum has insufficient strength. The drum can be distorted by the transmission of torque to the tools mounted on its outer periphery. The heat required to attach tool holders to the outer surface of the drum can also cause substantial drum distortion. Tool holders or tool holder attaching brackets are usually welded directly to the outer drum surface. Due to the large loads that may be applied to the tool holders, high heat is applied to the drum to weld the tool holders or tool holder attaching brackets in place. This heat can distort the drum and cause misalignment between a hydraulic motor housing and the motor spindle.
The length of the drum needs to be increased for some uses. With a long drum, potential problems due to torsional deflection of the drum increase. This potential problem increases as the distance along the axis of a drum from tools to the drive torque input to the drum increases. This is due in part to the fact that the tools on the side of the drum that is advancing toward material to be treated absorb most of the torque from the motor. If all the tools and tool holders were loaded equally, the torque would be distributed around the circumference of the drum and distortion of the drum due to the torque load on the drum would be minimized.


Methods of adjusting output mapping in response to historical signal input data relative to a reference value, and apparatus to perform the methods. The methods are suited for use in adjusting rate-adaptive pacemakers in response to a patient""s demonstrated activity relative to a predetermined activity level. The methods include using historical physiologic sensor input to derive a patient""s activity. The methods further include tuning a rate-adaptive curve in response to a demonstrated exertion level and a demonstrated exertion time indicative of a breadth and frequency of a patient""s activity above some reference value. Pacemakers adapted to perform the methods include a processor, at least one physiologic sensor, a variable-rate pulse generator and a memory for storing historical physiologic sensor data.

The invention relates generally to a system for processing sensor input and modifying output mapping and particularly, but not by way of limitation, to methods and apparatus for rate-adaptive pacing responsive to physiologic sensor input.
Many control systems rely on an output mapping to convert a measured control input to a desired control output. The output mapping is a graphical, tabular or other mathematical function of control output versus control input. As an example, a burner system with fuel and oxygen feeds may measure fuel feed rate as a control input and utilize output mapping to define the desired oxygen feed rate as a control output. The output mapping of oxygen feed rate versus fuel feed rate may not be linear, e.g., requiring increasing levels of excess oxygen at higher fuel feed rates to provide efficient burning of the fuel. Another example of control systems utilizing output mapping are some cardiac rhythm management systems.
Cardiac rhythm management systems include, among other things, pacemakers, also referred to as pacers. Pacemakers deliver timed sequences of low energy electrical stimuli, called pace pulses, to the heart, such as via a transvenous leadwire having one or more electrodes disposed in the heart. Heart contractions are initiated in response to such pace pulses. By properly timing the delivery of pace pulses, the heart can be induced to contract in proper rhythm, greatly improving its efficiency as a pump. Pacemakers are often used to treat patients with bradyarrhythmias, that is, hearts that beat too slowly, or irregularly.
There exists a class of pacemakers known as variable rate or rate-adaptive pacemakers which include a physiologic sensor indicative of metabolic demand and a variable rate pulse generator responsive to changes in metabolic demand. Some physiologic sensors for determining metabolic demand include minute ventilation (MV) sensors for measuring trans-thoracic impedance variations and generating an output signal varying as a function of the patient""s minute ventilation, and accelerometers for measuring body vibration during physical activity and generating an output signal varying as a function of the patient""s movement. Accelerometers are typically filtered and processed such that the resulting output signal is indicative of the patient""s exercising activity, and not of external vibration sources or internal noise. Other physiologic sensors are known in the art, e.g., blood pH, blood temperature, QT interval, blood oxygen saturation, respiratory rate and others.
Rate-adaptive pacemakers attempt to pace a patient""s heart at a rate corresponding to the patient""s metabolic demand. They accomplish this by utilizing an output mapping to convert a given sensor input to a unique output signal level. It is difficult to predict an appropriate pacing function capable of generating a paced rate corresponding to a patient""s metabolic demand at the time of implanting the pacemaker in the patient. To compensate for this deficiency, rate-adaptive pacemakers may incorporate logic to adjust the output mapping by comparing the patient""s average maximum sensor-indicated heart rate (AMSIR) to a sensor target rate (STR) at a prescribed or predetermined level of exercise activity. If the patient""s actual or demonstrated activity level differs from the predetermined activity level, the adjusting logic may inappropriately adjust the pacing function, resulting in a paced rate that is too high or too low for a given metabolic demand. If the paced rate is too high, the patient may feel palpitated or stressed. If too low, the patient may feel fatigued, tired or dizzy.
As will be seen from the above concerns, there exists a need for an improved method of adjusting output mapping in response to demonstrated sensor input. The above-mentioned problems with matching pacing to a patient""s metabolic demand and other problems are addressed by the present invention and will be understood by reading and studying the following specification.
One embodiment includes a method of adjusting an output mapping of a control output versus a control input. The method includes obtaining signal input data and generating historical signal input data from the signal input data, wherein the historical signal input data is indicative of a breadth and/or frequency of the signal input data in excess of a reference value. The method further includes adjusting the output mapping in response to the historical signal input data. In another embodiment, the method includes increasing an area of the output mapping in response to increasing values of the breadth and/or frequency of the signal input data in excess of the reference value. In a further embodiment, obtaining signal input data includes obtaining data from the control input and/or from one or more auxiliary inputs.
A further embodiment includes a method of adjusting an output mapping of a control output versus a control input. The method includes obtaining signal input and generating historical signal input data. The method still further includes generating a first factor indicative of a breadth of the historical signal input data in excess of a reference value, generating a second factor indicative of a frequency of the historical signal input data in excess of the reference value, and adjusting the output mapping in response to the first and second factors. In a still further embodiment, adjusting the output mapping further includes increasing an area of the output mapping in response to increasing values of the first factor and decreasing the area of the output mapping in response to decreasing values of the first factor. In yet another embodiment, adjusting the output mapping further includes increasing an area of the output mapping in response to increasing values of the second factor and decreasing an area of the output mapping in response to decreasing values of the second factor. In a further embodiment, obtaining signal input data includes obtaining data from the control input and/or from one or more auxiliary inputs.
Yet another embodiment includes a method of adjusting a rate-adaptive curve for pacing a patient""s heart. The method includes sensing the patient""s activity, thereby producing sensed activity data, generating a demonstrated activity level from the sensed activity data, and adjusting the rate-adaptive curve in response to the demonstrated activity level relative to a predetermined activity level. In one embodiment, sensing the patient""s activity further includes receiving input from at least one physiologic sensor. In another embodiment, sensing the patient""s activity further includes receiving input from at least one physiologic sensor including minute ventilation sensors and/or accelerometers. In a further embodiment, adjusting the rate-adaptive curve further includes increasing the rate-adaptive curve when the demonstrated activity level exceeds the predetermined activity level and decreasing the rate-adaptive curve when the demonstrated activity level is less than the predetermined activity level. In a still further embodiment, the predetermined activity level corresponds to a prescribed exercise level and frequency.
One embodiment includes a method of adjusting a rate-adaptive curve for pacing a patient""s heart. The method includes sensing the patient""s activity having an exertion level, generating a factor indicative of a breadth of the patient""s exertion levels above a predetermined exertion level, and adjusting at least a portion of the rate-adaptive curve in response to the factor. In another embodiment, the factor increases for increasing breadth of the patient""s exertion levels above the predetermined exertion level.
Another embodiment includes a method of adjusting a rate-adaptive curve for pacing a patient""s heart. The method includes sensing the patient""s activity having an exertion time at an exertion level, generating a factor indicative of a frequency of the patient""s exertion levels above a predetermined exertion level, and adjusting at least a portion of the rate-adaptive curve in response to the factor. In another embodiment, the factor increases for increasing frequency of the patient""s exertion levels above the predetermined exertion level.
A further embodiment includes a method of adjusting a rate-adaptive curve for pacing a patient""s heart. The method includes sensing the patient""s activity having both an exertion level, and an exertion time at the exertion level. The method further includes generating a first factor indicative of a breadth of the patient""s exertion levels above a predetermined exertion level, generating a second factor indicative of the patient""s exertion time at exertion levels above the predetermined exertion level, and adjusting at least a portion of the rate-adaptive curve in response to the first and second factors. In one embodiment, the first factor increases for increasing breadth of the patient""s exertion levels above the predetermined exertion level. In another embodiment, the second factor increases for increasing frequency of the patient""s exertion levels above the predetermined exertion level.
A still further embodiment includes a control system. The control system includes a processor, a memory coupled to the processor and having first data stored thereon defining an output mapping, a regulator coupled to the processor, a control input coupled to the processor, and a control output coupled to the regulator. The processor is adapted to sample second data from the control input, store the sampled second data to the memory, thereby generating historical signal input data, and adjust the output mapping in response to the historical signal input data.
Yet another embodiment includes a control system. The control system includes a processor, a memory coupled to the processor, a regulator coupled to the processor, a control input coupled to the processor, at least one auxiliary input coupled to the processor, and a control output coupled to the regulator. The memory has instructions stored thereon capable of causing the processor to perform a method including storing first data to the memory defining an output mapping, sampling second data from the control input, storing the sampled second data to the memory, thereby generating historical control input data, sampling third data from the at least one auxiliary input, and storing the sampled third data to the memory, thereby generating historical auxiliary input data. The method further includes generating a first factor indicative of a breadth of the historical control input data above a first reference value and a breadth of the historical auxiliary input data above a second reference value. The method still further includes generating a second factor indicative of a frequency of the historical control input data above the first reference value and a frequency of the historical auxiliary input data above the second reference value. The method still further includes increasing the output mapping in response to increasing values of the first factor and decreasing the output mapping in response to decreasing values of the first factor, and increasing the output mapping in response to increasing values of the second factor and decreasing the output mapping in response to decreasing values of the second factor.
One embodiment includes a rate-adaptive pacemaker. The rate-adaptive pacemaker includes a processor, a memory coupled to the processor, a variable-rate pulse generator coupled to the processor, and at least one physiologic sensor input coupled to the processor. The memory has instructions stored thereon capable of causing the processor to perform a method including storing first data to the memory defining a rate-adaptive curve, sampling second data from the at least one physiologic sensor input indicative of a patient""s activity, storing the sampled second data to the memory, thereby generating historical activity data, and adjusting the first data defining the rate-adaptive curve in response to the historical activity data.
Another embodiment includes a rate-adaptive pacemaker. The rate-adaptive pacemaker includes a processor, a memory coupled to the processor, a variable-rate pulse generator coupled to the processor, and at least one physiologic sensor input coupled to the processor. The memory has instructions stored thereon capable of causing the processor to perform a method including storing first data to the memory defining a rate-adaptive curve, and sampling second data from the at least one physiologic sensor input indicative of a patient""s activity having an exertion level and an exertion time at the exertion level. The method further includes storing the sampled second data to the memory, thereby generating historical activity data. The method still further includes generating a first factor indicative of a breadth of the patient""s exertion levels above a predetermined exertion level, generating a second factor indicative of the patient""s exertion time at exertion levels above the predetermined exertion level, and adjusting at least a portion of the rate-adaptive curve in response to the first and second factors.
The invention further includes other apparatus and methods of varying scope.

Automatic rate-adaptive pacing with auto-lifestyle


An anode with an anode body with a first side and a second side opposite to said first side. First flutes are on the first side and second flutes on the second side. The first flutes and said second flutes are offset or have different depths.

There is an ongoing need to improve the electrical characteristics of capacitors. In particular, there is a need to lower ESR of capacitors.
The anode of a typical solid electrolytic capacitor consists of a porous anode body, with a lead wire extending beyond the anode body and connected to the positive mounting termination of the capacitor. The anode is formed by first pressing a valve metal powder into a pellet. Valve metals include Al, Ta, Nb, Ti, Zr, Hf, W, and mixtures, alloys, suboxides of these metals. The anode is sintered to form fused connections between the individual powder particles. There are several resistances to current flow in the anode portion of a solid electrolytic capacitor. The current must flow from the positive mounting termination to the lead wire attached to or embedded in the anode body. Current flows through the portion of the anode lead which extends outside the body of the anode. The current flow through the positive termination and the anode lead produce series resistances which contribute to the equivalent series resistance (ESR) of the finished device. Resistances inside the body of the anode generate parallel resistances which also contribute to the ESR of the finished device. The current travels from the point of lead wire egress to the anode body to all points of the anode body through the path(s) of least resistance. The current must pass from the lead wire into the anode body through points of contact between the lead wire and the particles which make up the porous anode body. The current must then travel through the porous anode body, through small necks of the sintered particles which make up the anode body.
Resistance in the lead wires and in the anodes body is governed by the general equation for resistance.Resistance=resistivity×path length/cross sectional area.
Increasing the cross sectional area available for current flow reduces the resistance as indicated by the equation above. The maximum diameter of the lead wire is determined by the dimensions of the anode. The lead wire diameter can not be greater than the thickness of the anode. Thus the maximum cross sectional area for current to flow through a single cylindrical lead wire is πd2/4 wherein d is the diameter. For a given wire diameter the maximum cross-sectional area for current flow increases proportionately to the number of lead wires connecting the anode body to the positive mounting termination. Thus by increasing the number of wires the resistance in the connection between the positive mounting termination and the anode body is reduced
Although the lead wire(s) can be attached to the anode body, for example by welding to the top of the body, imbedding the lead wire(s) in the anode body reduces the resistance for current to flow. For lead wires which extend into the porous anode body the cross sectional area available for current to flow from the lead wire to the body is proportional to the external surface area of the lead within the body of the anode. Maximum Area is proportional to π×d×l (for single cylindrical lead wires). The cross sectional area for this resistance term can be increased by increasing the number of lead wires. The path length for current to flow from the lead wire to points of the anode body which are the greatest distance from the lead wire is reduced by utilizing multiple lead wires or non-cylindrical lead wires, for example, flat or ribbon lead wire.
Fluted anodes comprising a furrow or groove on the otherwise monolithic capacitor body as described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,949,639 and 3,345,545 reduce the path length through the internal polymer and increase the cross-sectional area for current to flow through the external polymer. Capacitors utilizing fluted anodes as illustrated in FIG. 1 enjoy much success and this technique is still utilized in current capacitors. The preferred method for connecting a wire to the anode, is to have a wire in place when the compact is pressed. This allows the anode lead to pass through most of the length of the anode compact and maximize contact area between a solid wire anode lead, usually Ta wire for a Ta anode, and the Ta anode. The compact, after removal of binder, is sintered at ca. 1200–1600° C. The area of contact between wire and anode compact is limited by the diameter of the wire which is a function of the thickness of the compact. As the contact area between wire and anode compact decreases, the resistance at the point of contact is increased. As the wire gauge is increased, the internal resistance in the wire is increased. Both increases result in higher equivalent series resistance—ESR—which diminishes the performance of the capacitor.
Even though the use of fluted anodes has enjoyed much success the electrical properties achievable thereby have reached a plateau. Further improvement requires modifications of the anode or the process used to form the anode.
Through diligent research a limitation of radially compressed fluted anodes has been determined to reside in the variation in density created as a function of the process in which these anodes are formed. Density variations have been determined to be dependent on the type of compression. While not restricted to any theory it is postulated that variations in density cause variations in the impregnation of solid electrolyte that serves as the cathode of the electrolytic capacitor. It is also postulated that variations in density cause variations in the external coating coverage of the solid electrolyte. Referring to FIG. 1, the anode, 201, comprising an anode wire, 202, has flutes, 203. The anode is typically formed by radially pressing a powder perpendicular to the anode wire into the desired shape followed by sintering. Single stage compaction with formed punches induces a greater compaction ratio between the flutes than in the non-fluted regions whereby the density between flutes becomes higher than the density in the non-fluted regions. Alternatively, the anode is formed by axially pressing the powder parallel to the anode wire which causes surface burnishing which also inhibits external coating coverage.
By realizing this previously unappreciated phenomenon the present inventors have developed an improved fluted anode, and capacitor, which extends the properties of fluted anodes beyond that previously considered feasible thereby allowing for further improvements in electrical characteristics.
Yet another problem associated with fluted anodes is insufficient conduction between the anode and the cathode lead frame. A scanning electron microscope image of a cross-section of a partial capacitor is shown in FIG. 2. As shown, the cavity of deep, or wide, flutes causes difficulty when attempting to attach the anode over the entire surface of the cathode lead frame. Adequate adhesion is observed in the center of the lead frame with complete silver adhesive coverage of the center section. The two outer sections of the lead frame have inadequate contact seen as small portions of silver between the anode and the cathode lead frame. The loss in contact surface between the lead frame and the anode results in higher resistance at the interface resulting in higher ESR. Longer path lengths also increase ESR. As efforts to further improve the electrical characteristics of capacitors proceeds the ESR limitations caused by the poor surface contact rises to the fore as a limiting parameter in capacitor design. Increasing the conductive path length can also increase ESR and it is a desire to limit path length.
Through diligent research the present inventors have advanced the art of capacitor design, and more importantly the art of anode design and manufacture, beyond that considered feasible in the prior art therefore allowing for further improvements in electrical characteristics in the ongoing pursuit thereof.

Fluted anode with minimal density gradients and capacitor comprising same


The present invention relates to a system and method for retransmitting high definition contents broadcasted on a plurality of channels to IP-supported devices such as a digital media player (DMP), a mobile phone, personal computer (PC), etc. which are connected through a DLNA network. The method for retransmitting the broadcasted high definition contents includes the steps of generating a virtual item by converting channel information for a digital TV broadcast into an Extensible Markup Language (XML) file format, transmitting the virtual item to the DMP, determining whether there is a request for a personal TV service (PTS) from the DMP, tuning to a channel corresponding to the PTS if there is the request for the PTS, storing and packetizing a digital TV broadcast stream received through the PTS channel, and transmitting the packetized digital TV broadcast stream to the DMP.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a digital living network alliance (DLNA) network and, in particular, to a system and method for transmitting high quality contents broadcasted on a plurality of channels to Internet Protocol (IP) communication-supported devices such as a digital media player (DMP), a mobile phone, personal computer (PC), and etc. which are connected through the DLNA network.
2. Background of the Related Art
Home networking technologies are rapidly developed such that consumer electronics and mobile and PC devices are interoperating in a home to enhance and enrich a user experiences with various services. In order to allow for the interoperability of the household appliances, various middleware, such as Universal Plug and Play (UPnP), Home Audio/Video Interoperability (HAVI), Java Intelligent Network Infrastructure (JINI), Video Electronics Standard Association (VESA), Digital Living Network Alliance, etc., protocols have been developed and are in the process of being adopted.
Among the middlewares, the DLNA formerly called the Digital Home Working Group (DHWG), is an alliance of leading corporate members including, Microsoft (MS), IBM, HP, Intel, Sony, Matsushita, Samsung, etc., established in June 2003. The aim of the DLNA is to align the companies and have industry standards that will allow products from all companies to be compatible and to enable a network of electronic devices such as TV, VCR, digital camera, and audio components in the home. Also, the DLNA has focused on the interoperability between networked entertainment and media devices for personal media uses involving imaging, audio and video.
The DLNA further defines a PC Internet Network where PC and PC peripherals such as a printer may communicate; a Mobile Network of multimedia mobile phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), MP3 players, laptop computers, and other similar devices provides unparalleled connectivity and freedom of movement into and out of the home environment; a consumer electronic (CE) network of set-top boxes and traditional consumer electronics. Also, to deliver interoperability in the digital home, DLNA has focused on the industry collaboration, standards-based interoperability, and compelling products.
One of the key issues of the DLNA is media management and control that enable devices and applications to identify, manage, and distribute media contents across the stationary home network, or to transmit the identification, management and distribution to mobile device. UPnP Audio/Video (AV) technology addresses all of these needs for the home network and is the media management and control solution for devices developed according to the DLNA interoperability guidelines. Accordingly, DLNA has developed the physical media, network transports, media formats, streaming protocols and digital rights management mechanisms on the basis of UPnP.
The Internetworking for home network according to DLNA is based on Internet Protocol (IP), which provides underlying network communication for devices on the Internet and allows applications running over different media to communicate transparently.
For example, a PC or an advanced set top box (STB) may stream media contents to a TV in a master bedroom through an Ethernet cable to a 802.11 Access Point and then wirelessly to the TV. With IP, all the DLNA devices can communicate with other devices located anywhere around the world through the Internet.
DLNA is likely to be implemented with a wired fast Ethernet (802.11u) and wireless Ethernet (802.11a/b/g) as the physical layer. The wired Ethernet has a proven stability already and the use of wireless Ethernet, i.e., Wi-Fi for wireless home networking is already widely spread.
DLNA is implemented on the basis of UPnP AV architecture and UPnP Device architecture which is used for locating and controlling devices across the DLNA network, i.e., automatically configuring the IP address and recognizing other devices on the network with reference to the IP address, as well as checking and managing services to be provided.
In the meantime, the home network device category is made up of five Device Classes that share system usages in the home network with the same media format and network connectivity requirements. Among them, Digital Media Server (DMS) devices make roles, like the Media Server Device in the UPnP AV specification, for providing media acquisition, recording, storage, and sourcing capabilities, as well as content protection enforcement as required, and Digital Media Player (DMP) devices make roles, like the Media Render Device (MRD) and the Media Renderer Control Point (MRCP), for finding, selecting, and controlling to playback contents exposed by a DMS.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a conventional DLNA system to which the present invention is adopted. As shown in FIG. 1, the DLNA system includes a digital media server (DMS) 13 for providing multimedia contents and Digital Media Players (DMPs) 15 and 17 which playback the multimedia contents provided by the DMS 13. The DMS 13 and the DMPs 15 and 16 communicate through Ethernet or IEEE 1394 as wired connections or Bluetooth (BT), IEEE 803.11, or Ultra Wide Band (UWB) as wireless connections. The DMS 13 uses IPv4 or IPv6 for providing contents to the DMP such as mobile phone or personal media player (PMP) 12 and PC or laptop computer 16 through Internet 10 using wired and/or wireless connections. Typically, DMP is a device having both the wired and wireless communication modules. Also, the DMP can have a home gateway function and a control point (CP) function in the home network.
The DMP can be a PC or a mobile phone or the DMS can be a set top box or a network PC such that the DMS 13 retransmits the general broadcast contents to the DMP 15 and 17 through wired or wireless links inside the home or outside wherever IP communication is possible.
In case of retransmitting the TV broadcasting signal to the DMP 15 and 17, the analog TV signal can be retransmitted to the PC using a Sling box method or after converting the signal in a legacy AV device. In this case, the TV or set top box is controlled by the Infra Red (IR) signal.
However, the conventional contents retransmitting method has drawbacks in that it cannot support the high definition (HD) contents or degrades the quality even if it may support HD transmit. In addition, additional configuration for retransmitting the contents in IP environment is needed.
Also, the conventional method is inconvenient in that the DLNA compliant devices are continuously updated since all the AV devices are not compliant to the DLNA, and the devices can be manipulated in a range of IR control around the TV or set top box. Furthermore, in order to playback the retransmitted contents in the PC, a PC program dedicated to such contents should be installed previously.

System and method for transmitting broadcast contents over DLNA network

Maetan-dong, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do


An electronic device is provided including: a flexible display; a first housing member; a second housing member; a hinge module coupled to the first housing member and the second housing member; and a support body disposed between the flexible display and the first and second housing members, wherein the second housing member is adapted to pivot about the hinge module relative to the first housing member.

1. Field of the Invention
Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an electronic device having a flexible display and, more specifically, to an internal structure of an electronic device that can receive a bent portion of a flexible display when the flexible display is bent.
2. Description of the Prior Art
With the development of electronic technologies, various types of display devices have been developed. In particular, display devices, such as TVs, PCs, lap-top computers, tablet PCs, mobile phones, MP3 players, and the like, have been widely used in most homes.
Recently, in order to meet user demand for a variety of new functions, efforts have been made to develop new types of display devices. For example, there is a flexible display. The flexible display refers to a display device that may be deformed like paper, as opposed to the generally used flat panel displays.
The flexible display device may be used for various applications because the flexible display device can be bent and deformed under the force applied by a user. For example, the flexible display device may be implemented as a portable device such as a mobile phone, a tablet PC, an electronic picture frame, a PDA, an MP3 player, or the like.

Electronic device including flexible display


A system and a method for dynamically unlocking a mobile device are provided. The method includes displaying various lock images, where at least one of the parts is altered, when an attempt is made to unlock the mobile device, determining whether a lock image, detected according to a user input, matches a preset image, and unlocking the mobile device according to the result of matching between the detected lock image and the preset image. The system and method increases the level of security when an unlock attempt is made in a public place.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to unlocking a mobile device. More particularly, the present invention relates to a system and a method for minimizing exposure of a pattern used for dynamically unlocking a mobile device.
2. Description of the Related Art
Mobile devices refer to mobile communication systems supporting a call function and are widely used because they can be easily carried. Mobile devices allow users to record/input personal information or business-related information therein. In order to protect the information stored in mobile devices, they provide a lock function.
Mobile devices support various types of input modes with user convenience, e.g., touch screens each including a touch panel and a display unit. Mobile devices with touch screens support a lock function, cooperating with a touch function. For example, when a mobile device operating in a lock mode receives an unlock request, the touch screen displays a preset image to unlock the mobile device, such as a pattern, a text message, numbers, and the like. In that case, the user inputs his/her password to the touch screen, according to the contents of the image.
As such, mobile devices of the related art require users to input their preset passwords in order to be unlocked. However, inputting passwords to the mobile devices in environments, such as public places, means that the passwords may be easily exposed, which causes people, if they obtain mobile devices with passwords, to misuse them. Therefore, systems of the related art for unlocking mobile devices need to resolve the security of passwords in mobile devices.
Therefore, a need exists for a system and method for minimizing exposure of a pattern used for unlocking a mobile device, thereby providing a higher level of security to the mobile device.
The above information is presented as background information only to assist with an understanding of the present disclosure. No determination has been made, and no assertion is made, as to whether any of the above might be applicable as prior art with regard to the present invention.

System and method for dynamically unlocking mobile device


Provided are a vehicle periphery image display apparatus and a vehicle periphery image display method, which enable a driver to recognize a deviation between a parking frame and an own vehicle more easily at a time of a parking operation. The configuration includes: continuously inputting a periphery image of an own vehicle in a parking lot, which has been photographed by a plurality of photographing devices; storing the periphery image; compensating for, in the input periphery image, a lost image part with the stored periphery image to combine the compensated lost image part with the input periphery image; generating a top-view image seen from right above a top of the own vehicle based on the combined periphery image; generating a displayed image including the top-view image; and displaying the generated displayed image.

A related art disclosed in Patent Literature 1 given below relates to a vehicle periphery observation system configured to enable a driver to recognize situations of angles of tires and a frame line by transforming and displaying an image so that a video image displayed by a side-view camera achieves a natural angle for the driver, that is, so that the video image is viewed from the viewpoint of the driver.
A related art disclosed in Patent Literature 2 given below relates to a vehicle periphery image display apparatus configured to hold front-view and rear-view camera images as history information, and use an image of a part to be a blind spot when a vehicle moves backward, for example, which is included in the history information, to thereby display a specific position of the blind spot in a current image.

Vehicle periphery image display device and vehicle periphery image display method


A tool head using a scissor style pair of jaws is described. The jaws may be provided with cutting, pressing, crimping, or other functional surfaces. The tool head includes a linearly positionable member which is engaged with the jaws. Upon linear displacement of the member, the jaws are pivotally displaced.

Tools having scissor jaws are well known. For example, scissor jaw tools for cutting, crimping, and other applications have been used for many years. Such tools typically include a pair of jaws which are pivotally attached to one another. Applying a force on handle ends attached to a pair of jaws to bring the handle ends together, results in a corresponding displacement at the other end, i.e. the working end, of the jaws. As will be appreciated, depending upon the relative location at which the jaws are pivotally attached to each other, significant force multiplication can be produced at the working end of the jaws.
Scissor jaws have also been used in conjunction with press tools. Press tools typically utilize a linearly displaceable member such as a hydraulic piston which when extended, engages a scissor jaw assembly. Although relatively large closure forces can be expressed at the working end of the jaws, certain known assemblies are significantly limited in the extent to which the jaws can be opened. For example, for many such assemblies, a maximum opening angle is about 20 degrees. This in turn limits the size of workpieces such as items to be cut or pressed, which can be placed between the jaws.
Therefore, in order to cut, press, or perform work upon a relatively large workpiece, an even larger tool head must be provided. Larger tool heads require heavier and more robust members, are heavier and bulkier, and may be too large to use in certain applications in which space is limited.
Accordingly, a need exists for a tool head using a scissor jaw and engagement assembly in which the jaws can be opened relatively wide to thereby accept large workpieces.

Large angular displacement assembly for press tools


A network/portable computer (18) includes a modular bay (20) which can receive either a hard drive (22) or a data transceiver (24) for establishing a wireless network connection. When the network/portable computer (18) is in the local area covered by the network (10), the data transceiver (24) is installed to use the network (10) for storage and retrieval of data. When used in a remote area, where a network connection cannot be established, the hard drive (22) is installed in the modular bay (20) to provide a full featured computer.

1. Technical Field
This invention relates in general to computers and, more particularly, to a portable computer with enhanced capabilities for wireless networking.
2. Description of the Related Art
The personal computer revolutionized the manner in which business is conducted. Today, many workers are completely dependent upon their computer to perform their daily tasks. Many, if not most, businesses use computer networks to connect the various computers in the company.
Because of the large number of computers which may be used by a company, two facts are evident. First, a reduction in the price of a computer may greatly reduce costs for a corporation. Second, maintaining large number of computers can be very expensive, requiring a company to have one or more IS (information systems) personnel to configure, repair and upgrade computers.
One proposed solution to both problems is the network PC, commonly known as a NetPC. A NetPC differs from a normal personal computer in that it relies on the network server for most of its information. A NetPC may have no hard disk drive or have a small hard disk drive solely used as a virtual memory cache. All other information, including configuration files, applications and documents, is stored on the network server's hard drive.
The benefit of a NetPC is that the computer can be centrally administered by the IS department at the server location. The user is unable to change configurations or add programs, thereby reducing the introduction of conflicts within a system. A further advantage is that the individual NetPCs are less expensive than a normal personal computer, because they do not need a large hard drive for applications and documents.
For companies adopting the NetPC as a standard, the use of portable computers becomes problematic. One of the most important assets of a portable computer is its ability to operate in many different locations. Dependence on a wired network connection would severely limit the functionality of a portable computer.
One of the most important aspects of a portable computer is its size and weight, which in turn determine the ease with which the computer can be transported. Accordingly, manufacturers attempt to reduce the size of the components within a computer, without reducing the power of the computer. At some point, however, further reduction in size and weight is not possible without reduction in computer speed or capacity.
Therefore, a need has arisen for a portable computer which is lightweight and works efficiently within a network computer environment.

Network computer with interchangeable hard drive and data transceiver


An improved handheld electronic device and keypad include tactile features that help a user to identify certain keys of the keypad. In the present exemplary embodiment, the keypad includes keys in a predetermined region that can be employed during a telephone operation. The keypad additionally includes other keys outside the predetermined region. The keys in the predetermined region include tactile features that enable the user to identify and actuate the keys in the predetermined region during a telephone operation with the user directing minimal visual attention to the handheld electronic device.

1. Field
The invention relates generally to handheld electronic devices and, more particularly, to a handheld electronic device having a keypad that includes tactile features.
2. Background
Numerous types of handheld electronic devices are known. Examples of handheld electronic devices include, for instance, personal data assistants (PDAs), handheld computers, two-way pagers, cellular telephones, and the like. Many handheld electronic devices also feature wireless communication capability.
Handheld electronic devices are generally intended to be portable and thus are of a relatively compact configuration in which keys and other input devices often perform multiple functions under certain circumstances or may otherwise have multiple aspects or features assigned thereto. For instance, a handheld electronic device may include a keypad having a plurality of keys, with certain of the keys being usable for entering text during a text entry operation, and with the same keys being further usable for dialing a telephone number during a telephone operation. While such handheld electronic devices have been generally effective for their intended purposes, such devices have not, however, been without limitation.
Some handheld electronic devices are configured to include a keypad that includes keys in addition to such keys that can be employed both during a text entry operation and during a telephone operation. Additionally or alternatively, the keys that can be employed during the telephone operation may be disposed adjacent one another with minimal space therebetween. A user of such a handheld electronic device can experience difficulty dialing a telephone number while driving since the user's eyes desirably will not leave the road while dialing. Known keypads have provided few, if any, features that might enable a user to dial a telephone number without looking directly at the handheld electronic device. It thus would be desirable to provide an improved handheld electronic device and a keypad that provide features that help a user dial a telephone number.

Handheld electronic device and keypad having tactile features


Disclosed are methods and compositions for reducing coronary artery stenosis, restoring blood flow to infarcted myocardium, improving myocardial perfusion, reducing heart attacks or other adverse cardiovascular events, or treating symptoms of inadequate myocardial function in a mammal involving administering to the mammal (a) a compound that includes eicosapentaeneoic acid or docosahexaeneoic acid and (b) a cholesterol-lowering therapeutic, combined with dietary restrictions (resulting in aggressive loading of marine lipids), whereby a serum LDL concentration of less than 75 mg/dl (and preferably less than 55 mg/dl) is achieved. One particular method involves administering to the mammal a combination that includes (a) a compound that includes an eicosapentaeneoic or docosahexaeneoic acid (for example, a marine lipid) and (b) a cholesterol synthesis or transfer inhibitor, and which may also optionally include aspirin and/or niacin. The methods and compositions of the invention may also further include a bile acid sequestrant and/or buspirone. Also disclosed are methods for treating heart disease that involve administration of buspirone.

This invention relates to methods and compositions for rapid and enduring improvement in blood flow to the heart and for the prompt relief of inadequate myocardial function.
This invention is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 08/680,684, filed Jul. 17, 1996.
Angina pectoris, the syndrome of chest pain or tightness commonly elicited by exertion or emotional stress, and occasionally appearing in the absence of provocation (as unstable angina), is caused by inadequate blood flow through the coronary arteries. The subsequent deprivation of oxygen (ischemia) to the myocardium triggers pain and discomfort by an unknown mechanism. Appearance of angina in an otherwise well patient is of medical concern because it indicates the presence of an obstructive lesion or partial stenosis of one or more coronary arteries, usually as the result of the buildup of atherosclerotic plaque. Angina is often taken to be an indication for the initiation of one form or another of invasive cardiac revascularization, such as percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PCTA), or cardiac artery bypass grafting (CABG). Both therapies carry significant intraprocedural risk and the failure rate, as measured by the need for repetition, can be significant.
One benefit of revascularization is palliation of the symptoms of angina. Of considerable concern to the patient, the onset of chest pain and/or tightness reinforces an awareness of the fragility of their existence. The resulting concern about and avoidance of activities which may provoke further symptoms can lead to a debilitating preoccupation with morbidity and restriction of daily activities. In many cases the principal benefit of invasive revascularization may be relief of the symptoms of angina.
The proximate cause of angina, narrowing of the coronary arteries, is the outcome of a slowly evolving progressive stenosis of the artery lumen by atherosclerotic plaque and spasm of the artery in the vicinity of the plaque. Many factors contribute to the development of plaque and spasm, including high levels of certain plasma lipoproteins, cigarette smoking, hypertension, heritable risk factors, and the contributions of noncardiovascular diseases such as diabetes. An important constituent of plaque is cholesterol, and hypercholesterolemia is an important risk indicator.
Medical treatment of hypercholesterolemia over an extended period of time has been shown to result in objective widening of the lumen of arteries narrowed by atherosclerosis. The benefits of medical treatment are generally not rapid, however, and prompt and enduring improvement in myocardial function, with concurrent rapid symptomatic relief of the pain and discomfort of angina has not been reported in the medical literature.
At present, angina is treated medically by the use of nitrates, principally nitroglycerin and isosorbide dinitrate, which promote vascular perfusion by serving as a reservoir from which the endothelial relaxing factor, nitric oxide, can be formed. Although nitrates provide relief, their short duration of action and relatively constrained ability to prevent new episodes, in certain respects, limit their utility. Moreover, treatment of angina with nitrates does not induce an enduring improvement in cardiovascular status. Also, long term exposure to nitrates may result in thickening of coronary musculature and an increased tendency toward myocardial infarction.
Although the literature contains many references to the use of one or several of the medication components described herein, there has been no description to date of a treatment program which combines aggressive cholesterol lowering with marine lipid loading. This combination is shown here to promote rapid and enduring improvement in myocardial function.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Methods and compositions for the rapid and enduring relief of inadequate myocardial function


A circuit for canceling cross polarization interference has a first signal input and a second signal input. An adjustable cancellation network circuit is coupled to the first input and the second input. The adjustable cancellation network circuit has a first programmable vector modulator having a first weight and a second programmable vector modulator having a second weight. The first weight is correlated to the first input signal to obtain a first output signal. The second weight is correlated with the second input signal to obtain a second output signal. A performance measurement circuit is coupled to the cancellation network circuit and receives the first output signal and the second output signal. The performance measurement circuit generates a first correlated signal corresponding to the amount of interference in the first correlated signal and a second correlated signal corresponding to the amount of interference in the second correlation signal. A controller is coupled to the cancellation network and performance measurement circuit. The controller receives the first correlated signal and the second correlated signal. The controller calculates an updated first weight and second weight in response to the first correlated signal and the second correlated signal.

Adjacent transponders contained in satellites often use different polarizations. In many applications, vertical polarization is used on odd numbered transponders and horizontal polarization is used on even numbered transponders. Many satellites also use either right-hand or left-hand circular polarization for signal discrimination. By polarizing the signals of the satellite, the same frequencies may be reused. This is particularly important since signal traffic on satellites is increasing. One problem with reusing frequencies to increase the capacity of a satellite is that utilizing dual-polarization at K-band and higher frequencies is often plagued by attenuation and depolarization due to the transmission of the signals through rain or other atmospheric conditions.
One method for compensating for cross polarization is by increasing the effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP). By increasing the EIRP, the signal to noise ratio of the signal is increased. The approach would transmit higher EIRP on both channels. However, during a heavy rain event, the self interference caused by cross polarization becomes the limiting noise source. Increasing EIRP in one channel increases interference in the other channel. This solution has several drawbacks including high power consumption at both the receiving end and the transmitting end and that it work.
One method of canceling for cross polarization interference involves injecting pilot tones into one polarized wideband channel at the transmitter. The pilot tones are used to compute an estimate of the magnitude and phase of the interfering signal at the receiver. The phases and the amplitudes of the leakage tones are measured and used to compute the phase and amplitude at the mid-band point of the wide band channel. The computed quantity is then used to control a complex weighting circuit.
One problem with the pilot tone method for removing interference is that the method is only capable of removing average cross polarization interference across the transmitted bandwidth. The pilot tones are located at either side of the transmitted frequency band to avoid adding interference themselves. Thus, it is assumed that the dispersion is linear between the two pilot tones. Studies have shown, however, that cross polarization interference is frequency dependent and may vary widely across a frequency band. This can reduce the accuracy of the calculation.
The pilot tone method known for reducing cross polarization interference is only a "one-sided" device. That is, unless a second device is built and a second set of pilot tones is inserted into the primary channel, cancellation occurs only in the primary channel. The secondary channel, which is for the pilot tones, is used only to provide interference measurements to the primary channel. Thus, two independent devices are required and two sets of pilot tones must be injected, one in each channel
Other possible techniques for cross polarization interference cancellation rely on techniques similar to base band equalization. Such systems require demodulation of the received signal. Because the systems require demodulation, the system is not flexible to changes in data rate, modulation format, and the number of carriers.
What is needed is a method for integrating a cross polarization interference canceller that is independent of waveform, data rate, and the number of carriers on the system. Further, such a method would not have any additional reference data needs, such as pilot tones.

Method and apparatus for canceling cross polarization interference


A design supporting method having a specification edit function in an information processing system having a computer and an interactive terminal is disclosed. Items to be described in a specification are correlated among specifications so that when an item described in the specification is modified, a portion which is possibly affected by the modification can be analyzed.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a method for supporting computer software design in an information processing system having a computer and an interactive terminal, and more particularly to a design supporting method for guiding design and checking resulting design and design course.
2. Description of the Prior Art
As disclosed in JP-A-60-224021, it has been known in the prior art to automatically detect a portion which clearly need be modified due to affect of modification of a specification and retain information of the affected portion until any contradiction in the specification has been removed as the affected portion is modified.
In the prior art, the affected portion which clearly need be modified is automatically detected. When the specification is modified, the affected portions are not limited to the automatically detectable portions but there may exist ambiguous affected portions which might be affected depending on the intention of modification. As a result, a range of prevention for failure of modification is limited. Where design of large scale software is shared by a plurality of designers, one modification may affect to the portions assigned to other designers. In such a case, because of lack of means for communicating the modification, the failure of modification of the affected portions is likely to occur.

Software design supporting method for classifying portions possibly affected by a modification into those portions that can and cannot be automatically modified