A piracy protection system incorporates tamper detection capabilities into a protected copy of an application by disassembling a statically linked binary of the application, modifying some of the instructions in the application, and then rewriting all of the modified and unmodified instructions to a new executable file, a protected copy. The piracy protection system comprises an offline tamper detection technique in which the software itself detects the tampering and causes the program to fail, therefore protecting itself from malicious attacks. The system further comprises a dynamic software-watermarking process that incorporates code obfuscation to prevent reverse engineering.

Software piracy costs the software industry billions of dollars in lost revenue every year. One attack that often results in considerable lost revenue occurs when an adversary is able to remove a license check. Once the license check has been circumvented, the attacker is able to freely redistribute the software. Of further concern is protecting client-side software running on a potentially hostile host. Since the host has full control over the execution of the software, a sufficiently determined attacker can completely break any piece of software given sufficient time, effort, or resources.
The problem of protecting software from malicious tampering and reverse engineering has been the focus of considerable research. A variety of techniques have been proposed such as software watermarking, code obfuscation, and tamper detection. Each of these techniques addresses the issue of piracy in a different way and often these techniques can be combined to provide an even stronger defense. For example, software watermarking is generally vulnerable to semantics-preserving transformations. Incorporating tamper-proofing techniques can thwart such an attack. Certain tamper-proofing techniques require outside resources to detect that a violation has occurred. In the case of software watermarking, a suspected illegal copy is obtained and a recognizing tool applied to the software to extract the watermark.
The issue of software protection can be addressed from either a software or hardware-based approach. Hardware-based techniques generally offer a higher level of protection but with the cost of additional expenses for the developer and user inconvenience. Additionally, software is often purchased and distributed over the Internet, making the use of hardware-based techniques (i.e., dongles or smartcards) infeasible. The use of tamperproof CPUs is another hardware-based solution. However, this type of hardware is not widely in use.
Software-based approaches address the issues of cost and user convenience. However, an adversary can often easily circumvent software-based approaches to protection. Two of the most well known software-based techniques are code obfuscation and software watermarking. Code obfuscation transforms the code of a software product in such a way that it is harder for the attacker to understand and reverse engineer. Software watermarking discourages the adversary from illegally copying and redistributing the software by embedding a unique identifier in the code of the software product. Depending on the type of identifier embedded, the watermark can further be used as proof of authorship or purchase. The proof of purchase is used as a "fingerprint" to uniquely identify a purchaser with one copy of a software product. Embedding a proof of purchase, a fingerprint, has the advantage that the source of the illegal distribution can be identified.
Software-based techniques further comprise tamper detection and tamper proofing. Many conventional tamper-detection or tamper-proofing techniques require accessing outside resources such as a periodic connection to a clearinghouse. One conventional technique makes use of an event log that is periodically transmitted to the clearinghouse. Integrity checks are imbedded throughout an application or program. The event log records the results of the integrity checks. When the clearinghouse detects tampering, the user can be blocked from receiving future content such as updates. While this technique has proven to be effective, the use of the clearinghouse is awkward for the user and can be circumvented. Detection of tampering requires the attacker to contact the clearinghouse. Further, even if the tampering is detected, the attacker may still have a functioning application.
Other conventional tamper-detection or tamper-proofing systems comprise self-contained software-based tamper proofing. One conventional technique comprises an algorithm based on integrity verification kernels (IVK). Integrity verification kernels are units of code responsible for performing critical program functions. Each integrity verification kernel is split into smaller blocks of code that are individually encrypted. Execution of each block of code comprises the following steps: decrypting the block of code, executing the block of code, then re-encrypting the block of code. To detect tampering, the sum of the hash of all previously executed blocks of code is checked at each step to verify that the blocks of code were executed correctly and in proper order.
Another conventional technique establishes a network of guards. These guards establish a check and balance system such that each guard monitors or repairs a different section of code. For example, one guard verifies the integrity of a block of code while another guard repairs the block of code when the block of code has been compromised.
The growing concern regarding software piracy can be attributed to a variety of factors such as the distribution of software in architectural-neutral formats that are easy to manipulate and the ease of sharing over the Internet. In previous years piracy was limited by the necessity to physically transfer a piece of software on a floppy disk or CD-ROM. With the increases in bandwidth of the Internet, physical transfer is no longer necessary.
In the event that a software program is illegally redistributed or an important algorithmic secret is stolen, an owner may wish to take action against the theft. This requires demonstration of ownership or identification of the source of the piracy through the use of techniques such as software watermarking. Software watermarking is used to embed a unique identifier in a piece of software to encode identifying information. While this technique does not prevent piracy, it does provide a way to prove ownership of pirated software and, in some cases, identify the original purchaser prior to the piracy. However, software watermarking is required to be resilient against a variety of attacks such as semantics-preserving code transformations and program analysis tools in order to be useful.
Another conventional approach to limiting piracy and theft of software is fingerprinting; i.e., providing within the software a proof of purchase uniquely tied to a purchaser. However, fingerprinting software to trace piracy has not been a viable option for many software developers. One drawback to fingerprinting is that current techniques require companies to alter distribution methods. Using conventional fingerprinting techniques, the fingerprint mark cannot be tied to a purchaser using conventional watermarking techniques and pre-packaged software.
Software watermarking discourages piracy through the attachment of an identifying mark. An authorship mark is a watermark embedded in every copy of the application to identify the author. A software developer uses the authorship mark to prove ownership of pirated software. Both the watermark and the authorship mark are required be robust against tampering in order to be effective. However, only the fingerprint mark requires invisibility. In specific instances, it may be desirable for the authorship mark to be visible, e.g. the authorship mark conveys a level of quality. In instances where the mark is used in a potentially hostile environment to protect a secret or for tracing piracy, invisibility may increase the strength of the mark.
Conventional watermarking techniques comprise any one or more of: a blind watermarking algorithm, an informed watermarking algorithm, a static watermarking algorithm, and a dynamic watermarking algorithm. For both blind and informed watermarking algorithms, the watermarked program and a secret key are required to extract the watermark. However, with an informed watermarking algorithm, a version of the program that is not watermarked or the embedded mark are also required to extract the watermark. A static watermarking algorithm uses the static code and data of the program to embed and recognize the watermark. A dynamic algorithm makes use of information gathered from the execution of the program to embed and recognize the watermark.
Embedding techniques used in conventional software watermarking can be categorized based on how the application is manipulated to encode the watermark. In one embedding technique, semantics-preserving transformations are applied to reorder the code. The particular order chosen represents the watermark. In another embedding technique, the watermark is encoded in a section of code injected in the application that does not contribute to the functionality of the application. In a further embedding technique, the frequency of instructions is altered to encode the watermark.
One conventional static watermarking technique embeds a watermark through an extension to a control flow graph. The watermark is encoded in a sub-graph that is incorporated into the original control flow graph. Another conventional static watermarking technique modifies the instruction frequencies of the original program to embed the watermark. A further conventional static watermarking technique comprises a very stealthy, but fragile, algorithm that makes use of a graph-coloring problem to embed the watermark in a register allocation. However, the watermark of conventional static watermarking techniques can typically be destroyed by basic code optimization or obfuscation techniques.
One conventional dynamic watermarking technique embeds a watermark in the structure of a graph that is built on the heap at runtime as the application program executes on a particular input. Another conventional dynamic watermarking technique makes use of an abstract interpretation framework to embed a watermark in the values assigned to integer local variables during program execution. A further dynamic watermarking technique is path-based and relies on the dynamic branching behavior of the program. To embed the watermark, the sequence of branch instructions taken and not taken on a particular input is modified. Variations for this algorithm were developed to target the varied capabilities of Java bytecode and native executables. Yet another dynamic watermarking technique leverages the ability to execute blocks of code on different threads. The watermark is encoded in the choice of blocks executed on the same thread.
Some conventional watermarking techniques protect software watermarks through tamper proofing. One conventional approach includes a checksum with the watermark. However, an adversary who is able to discover the checksum algorithm can easily attack this technique. Another conventional approach protects a static watermark by encoding a portion of the code of the application in the static watermark. This encoded static watermark is then stored in some portion of the data of the program such as an image. Consequently, an attacker risks altering behavior of the application if the watermark is damaged.
Another conventional approach utilizes constant encoding to tamper proof a dynamic data structure watermarks. Constants in the application are replaced with a function dependent on a dynamic data structure that encodes the watermark. A further conventional approach utilizes error-correcting codes to repair minor damage to the watermark incurred through semantics-preserving transformations.
Although conventional tamper detection and watermarking technology has proven to be useful, it would be desirable to present additional improvements. Conventional software tamper detection techniques often require the use of special hardware or a periodic connection to a clearinghouse. Conventional watermarking techniques can be easily attacked through simple semantics-preserving transformations. Conventional watermarking techniques further require a software developer to choose between providing proof of ownership or tracing the source of the illegal redistribution. Further, a fingerprint mark cannot be tied to a purchaser using conventional watermarking techniques and pre-packaged software.
What is needed is a tamper detection technique that allows an application or program to self-diagnose improper manipulation. Further, a tamper detection technique is desired that causes an application to fail once a license check, watermark, or fingerprint has been removed or the application has been improperly manipulated in any other way. Furthermore, a watermarking technique is desired that allows a developer to concurrently prove authorship and fingerprint an application by tying the application to an individual purchaser through any distribution method such as, for example, as pre-packaged software, over the Internet, etc. What is therefore needed is a system, a service, a computer program product, and an associated method for detecting improper manipulation of an application. The need for such a solution has heretofore remained unsatisfied.

System, method, and service for detecting improper manipulation of an application

International Business Machines Corporation


Disclosed is a convertible top assembly for a vehicle, which comprises a pair of reinforcing plate members 20 each attached to an inner surface of a lower region in a corresponding one of right and left lateral edges of a convertible top 3, and connection means X (plate spring 28) for connecting between a main link 6 and each of the reinforcing plate members 20, whereby the rigidity of the lower region in each of the right and left lateral edges of the convertible top 3 is increased to ensure a sufficient sealing between the convertible top 3 and a vehicle body 2 in a closed position of the convertible top 3 in a simplified structure.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a convertible top assembly for a vehicle, and more particularly to a vehicle convertible top assembly having a convertible top adapted to be moved between a closed position where the convertible top is closed to cover an upper portion of a passenger compartment and a retracted position where the convertible top is retracted in a storage space at a rear end of a vehicle body.
2. Description of the Background Art
Heretofore, it has been well known a vehicle convertible top assembly having a convertible top adapted to be moved between a closed position where the convertible top is closed to cover an upper portion of a passenger compartment and a retracted position where the convertible top is retracted in a storage space at a rear end of a vehicle body. For example, as shown in Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 08-207595 (Patent Publication 1), the convertible top assembly includes one type which has a pair of frame members disposed, respectively, along right and left lateral edges of a convertible top and swingably pivoted relative to a vehicle body in such a manner as to be swung in a rearward inclined direction when the convertible top is retracted and to be swung in a standing direction when the convertible top is closed.
In the convertible top assembly comprising the convertible top adapted to be moved between the closed position and the retracted position and the pair of frame members disposed, respectively, along right and left lateral edges of the convertible top and swingably pivoted relative to the vehicle body, as disclosed in the Patent Publication 1, a lower region in each of the right and left lateral edges of the convertible top which is essentially designed to be foldable is apt to be insufficient in rigidity. This is likely to cause a problem about difficulty in ensuring a sufficient sealing between the convertible top and the vehicle body in the closed position of the convertible top.


A zero-power electrically erasable and programmable memory cell is implemented in CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) technology. A P-channel sense transistor has a source coupled to a first voltage generator, and an N-channel sense transistor has a source coupled to a second voltage generator. The drains of the P-channel and N-channel sense transistors are coupled together to form an output of the memory cell, and the gates of the P-channel and N-channel sense transistor are coupled together to form a floating gate of the memory cell. In an example embodiment of the present invention, each of the first and second voltage generators are variable voltage generators that apply a positive voltage at the respective source of each of the P-channel and N-channel sense transistors during the erase operation and/or that apply a ground or negative voltage at the respective source of each of the P-channel and N-channel sense transistors during the program operation. In another embodiment of the present invention, a magnitude of the respective threshold voltage of each of the P-channel and N-channel sense transistors is higher than a magnitude of a threshold voltage of standard process P-channel and N-channel transistors. With such a higher threshold voltage, the P-channel and N-channel sense transistors do not erroneously turn on to dissipate power during the read operation, to ensure that the memory cell is a zero-power memory cell.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to non-volatile memory devices, and more particularly, to zero-power electrically erasable and programmable memory cells, such as EEPROM cells.
2. Discussion of the Related Art
Referring to FIG. 1, an example programmable logic device is a programmable AND gate 100 of the prior art. The programmable AND gate 100 includes a first input node 102 for inputting a first input signal, A, and a second input node 104 for inputting a second input signal B. The first input signal, A, is coupled through a first inverter 100 and a second inverter 108 to the gate of a first NMOSFET (N-channel metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor) 110. The complement of the first input signal, designated as A*, (i.e., the output of the first inverter 106) is coupled to the gate of a second NMOSFET (N-channel metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor) 112.
Similarly, the second input signal, B, is coupled through a third inverter 114 and a fourth inverter 116 to the gate of a third NMOSFET (N-channel metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor) 118. The complement of the second input signal, designated as B*, (i.e., the output of the third inverter 114) is coupled to the gate of a fourth NMOSFET (N-channel metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor) 120.
A first programmable switch 122 is coupled between the drain of the first NMOSFET 110 and an output node 130, and a second programmable switch 124 is coupled between the drain of the second NMOSFET 112 and the output node 130. Similarly, a third programmable switch 126 is coupled between the drain of the third NMOSFET 118 and the output node 130, and a fourth programmable switch 128 is coupled between the drain of the fourth NMOSFET 120 and the output node 130. In addition, a current source 132 is coupled to the output node 130 for charging the output node 130 when the output signal at the output node 130 turns to a logical high state.
For operation of the programmable AND gate 100 of FIG. 1, the first, second, third, and fourth switches 122, 124, 125, and 128 are programmable to be switched open or closed. One of the first and second programmable switches 122 and 124 is programmed to be open, and the other is programmed to be closed. Similarly, one of the third and fourth progammable switches 126 and 128 is programmed to be open, and the other is programmed to be closed.
The output node 130 of the programmable AND gate 100 provides an AND operation (of one of the first input signal, A, or the complement of the first input signal A*, and one of the second input signal, B, or the complement of the second input signal, B*. If the first switch 122 is programmed to be closed with the second switch 124 being programmed to be open, then the programmable AND gate 100 provides an AND operation with the complement of the first input signal, A*, instead of the first input signal, A. On the other hand, if the first switch 122 is programmed to be open with the second switch 124 being programmed to be closed, then the programmable AND gate 100 provides an AND operation with the first input signal, A, instead of the complement of the first input signal, A*.
Similarly, if the third switch 126 is programmed to be closed with the fourth switch 128 being programmed to be open, then the programmable AND gate 100 provides an AND operation with the complement of the second input signal, B*, instead of the second input signal, B. On the other hand, if the third switch 126 is programmed to be open with the fourth switch 128 being programmed to be closed, then the programmable AND gate 100 provides an AND operation with the second input signal, B, instead of the complement of the second input signal, B*.
Thus, in the example illustration of FIG. 1, since the first switch 122 is programmed to be closed while the second switch 124 is programmed to be open, the programmable AND gate 100 provides an AND operation with the complement of the first input signal, A*, instead of the first input signal, A. Also, since the third switch 126 is programmed to be open, while the fourth switch 128 is programmed to be closed, the programmable AND gate 100 provides an AND operation with the second input signal, B, instead of the complement of the second input signal, B*.
Thus, the output node 130 provides an output signal=A*·B. Referring to FIG. 1, only in the case when the first input signal, A, is a logical low state and the second input signal, B, is a logical high state, all of the first, second, third, and fourth NMOSFETs 110, 112, 118, and 128 do not conduct current away from the output node 130. Thus, the current from the current source 132 charges up the output node 130 to a logical high state in that case. For any other logical states of the first and second input signals, A and B, at least one of the first NMOSFET 110 and the fourth NMOSFET 120 conducts current out of the output node 130 to couple the output node 130 to ground such that a logical low state is formed at the output node 130.
In the prior art programmable AND gate 100 of FIG. 1, a constant amount of current from the current source 132 is dissipated when at least one of the first NMOSFET 110 and the fourth NMOSFET 120 conducts current out of the output node 130 to couple the output node 130 to ground. Such constant current flow results in disadvantageous power dissipation. In addition, device dimensions are constantly scaled down with advancement of IC (integrated circuit) technology. However, as supply voltages are further scaled down along with device dimensions, the noise margin of the prior art programmable AND gate 100 of FIG. 1 disadvantageously decreases to deteriorate the performance of the AND gate 100. In addition, the steady state current of the current source 132 does not necessarily scale down with device dimensions such that the prior art programmable AND gate 100 of FIG. 1 still has disadvantageous steady state power dissipation even with scaling down of device dimensions.
Thus, a mechanism is desired for implementing programmable logic devices such as programmable AND gates and programmable OR gates with minimized static power dissipation and with further scalability of device dimensions and supply voltages.


A composition for chemical soil improvement includes a synthetic fluid or base oil, a pour point depressant, polyisobutylene, and synthetic fibers, and various combinations thereof.

1. Technical Field
This invention relates to a method of soil improvement and dust control utilizing synthetic fluids and other non-synthetic base oils and various combinations of polyisobutylene, carboxylic acids, pour point depressants, esters, soil/ash, biodegradable fibers, wood chips, and/or synthetic fibers.
2. Background
Many methods of chemical dust and erosion control, and soil stabilization have been utilized over the years, with various detrimental effects on environment, health, and safety and varying degrees of success. Traditional products used for dust control and soil stabilization consist of used or recycled oil, virgin oils, chlorides, lignins, and emulsifications made with low-grade petroleum resins, asphalt, oil, and pitch.
The use of used or recycled petroleum oils has long been employed as a dust control agent. In recent years legislation by most states has curtailed the use of these oils for dust control because of concerns with environment, health, and safety. This legislation has spawned an interest in virgin oils, some highly refined and very safe. The highly refined products may contain low or no aromatics but are generally cost prohibitive for most applications. In addition, petroleum oils have limited value as dust suppressants and virtually no value as soil stabilizers. They act as particle weighting agents by the processes of adsorption or absorption and do not have any significant cohesive action for soil stabilization and control of fine dust.
Magnesium chloride, calcium chloride, and sodium chloride used in solution or solid form act as humectants when added to soil. These products work well in areas of sufficient moisture or require watering for humectants action. The problems with these products are their solubility in water and effects on ground water and plant life. In addition, as strong electrolytes they are highly corrosive to metal equipment.
Lignins have been employed as a low-cost means of dust control for several decades. Recently lignins have come under considerable attack by environmental, health, and safety organizations that have identified dioxin and dioxin forming compositions in lignin. This problem is compounded by lignins solubility in water and its ability to contaminate ground water. Lignins also have a limited working life because they are water soluble they tend to be washed away with rain, melting snow, or other moisture.
Many types of emulsions of tall oil, petroleum resins, and asphalts and combinations can be prepared and have been exhibited in prior art. Typically these products are emulsified to reduce viscosity to sprayable levels and to aid in penetration of the product into the soil. One of the problems created is the use of excess liquid, which is sprayed onto the ground and can migrate into ground water. In addition, emulsions can also be severely damaged by rain and moisture when the moisture event occurs prior to the emulsion breaking and the active ingredients curing. When cured properly these products produce a bound soil layer, which is effective for dust control for short periods and under conditions where there is little mechanical disturbance. Examples of tall oil pitch emulsions that produce these results can be found in prior art. Doyle U.S. Pat. No. 5,895,347 discloses chemically stabilized emulsions of tall oil pitch, hydrochloric and stearic acids, and emulsifiers in water where temperature and pH are controlled during preparation. Additionally, Burch U.S. Pat. No. 4,822,425 discloses an emulsion comprising tall oil pitch, rosin, emulsifier, and water.
Different soil types are classified under the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS) with a two letter code. The first letter choices are G—gravel, S—sand, M—silt, C—clay, O—organic, and the second letter choices are P—poorly graded, W—well graded, H—high plasticity, L—low plasticity. The group symbols are GW, GP, GM, GC, SW, SP, SM, SC, ML, CL, OL, MH, CH, and OH.
Binders are defined as additives to the material being agglomerated that produce bonding strength in the final product. A binder can be a liquid or solid that forms a bridge, film, or matrix filler or that causes a chemical reaction. Binders can be classified into four types. The first type is a matrix binder which is a solid or semi-solid, such as tar, pitch, asphalt, wax, or cement. Another type is a film binder, which includes water, solutions, dispersions, powders, silicate, gel, oil, alcohol, clay, and starch. The third type is a chemical binder, which reacts chemically with the material being agglomerated; these include silicate, acid molasses, lime, and lignosulphonate. The fourth type is a lubricant, which is used to reduce friction and induce flow of the material. Lubricants include oil, glycerin, stearate, and wax.


A semiconductor device includes a system-on-chip (SOC) and at least one wide input/output memory device. The SOC includes a plurality of SOC bump groups which provide input/output channels, respectively, independent from each other. The at least one wide input/output memory device is stacked on the system-on-chip to transmit/receive data to/from the system-on-chip through the SOC bump groups. The SOC bump groups are arranged and the at least one wide input/output memory device is configured such that one of the wide input/output memory devices can be mounted to the SOC as connected to all of the SOC bump groups, or such that two wide input/output memory devices can be mounted to the SOC with each of the wide input/out memory devices connected a respective half of the SOC bump groups.

1. Technical Field
The inventive concepts generally relate to 3D stacked semiconductor devices. More particularly, the inventive concepts relate to a semiconductor device in which a multi-channel interface type wide input/output memory device is stacked on a system-on-chip (SOC) and to a semiconductor multi-chip package including the same.
2. Description of the Related Art
Recently, a semiconductor device has been developed in which multi-channel interface type wide input/output memory devices have been stacked on a system-on-chip (SOC). The device is provided with through-silicon vias (TSVs) to facilitate the connection of the memory devices to the SOC.
The number of wide input/output memory devices may be increased when the bandwidth of a memory of an SOC needs to be expanded or when a greater integration density is required. However, in those cases it would be considered necessary to expand the region in which the TSVs are provided. Accordingly, SOCs are separately designed for according to each specified bandwidth or integration density.

Semiconductor device and semiconductor package


An organic light emitting display including a back plane including an active area on which an image is displayed, and a bezel area outside the active area; a pixel array on the active area and configured to display the image; an encapsulation plate encapsulating the pixel array; a transparent adhesive film free of a moisture absorption filler, formed on the active area and disposed between the encapsulation plate and the back plane; and a dam including a sealant with a moisture absorption filler formed in the bezel area and adjoining the adhesive layer so as to limit moisture from penetrating into the pixel array.

Field of the Invention
Embodiments of the invention relate to an organic light emitting display encapsulation technology.
Discussion of the Related Art
Each pixel in an organic light emitting display includes an organic light emitting diode (OLED) having a self-emitting structure. As shown in FIG. 1, the OLED includes a stack of organic compound layers including a hole injection layer HIL, a hole transport layer HTL, an emission layer EML, an electron transport layer ETL, an electron injection layer EIL, etc., between an anode and a cathode. The organic light emitting display displays an image using a phenomenon, in which the OLED emits light when electrons and holes are combined in an organic layer through a current flowing in a fluorescence or phosphorescence organic thin film.
In addition, the organic light emitting display may be variously classified depending on kinds of emission materials, an emission method, an emission structure, a driving method, etc. The organic light emitting display may be classified into a fluorescent emission type and a phosphorescent emission type depending on the emission method. Further, the organic light emitting display may be classified into a top emission type and a bottom emission type depending on the emission structure. Further, the organic light emitting display may be classified into a passive matrix OLED type and an active matrix OLED type depending on the driving method.
However, characteristics of the organic compounds are sharply degraded when organic compounds of the OLED are exposed to moisture. Thus, the moisture penetrating into the pixels decreases the reliability and lifespan of the organic light emitting display. An encapsulation method is used to limit the degradation of the OLEDs resulting from the penetration of moisture and oxygen. One example of the encapsulation technology is disclosed in Korean Patent Laid-open Publication Nos. 10-2013-0055544 (May 28, 2013) and 10-2013-0058711 (Jun. 4, 2013) corresponding to the present applicant, and which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.
In more detail, an encapsulation technology illustrated in FIG. 2 attaches a back plane BPL and an encapsulation plate ENC using an adhesive film ADH. The back plane BPL includes a pixel array OLED & TFT formed on a substrate. The pixel array OLED & TFT includes data lines, scan lines crossing the data lines, and pixels each including an OLED and a thin film transistor (TFT). The pixels are also arranged in a matrix form.
Further, the pixel array OLED & TFT are covered with a passivation layer PAS and are formed in an active area AA, on which an image is displayed. In FIG. 2, "PAD" denotes a data pad or a scan pad connected to an output terminal of a drive integrated circuit (IC) formed at an end of the data line or the scan line; "BZ" denotes a bezel on which the image is not displayed at an edge of a display panel; and "CAT" denotes a cathode of the OLED. In the encapsulation technology illustrated in FIG. 2, there is no barrier capable of blocking moisture (H2O) penetrating into the pixel array OLED & TFT. Thus, the reliability and the lifespan of the organic light emitting display adopting the encapsulation technology illustrated in FIG. 2 is reduced.
Another encapsulation technology is illustrated in FIG. 3 and includes a back plane BPL and an encapsulation plate ENC attached using an adhesive film ADH. Moisture absorption fillers GT are also added to the inside of the adhesive film ADH to help absorb and prevent the moisture from penetrating or exposing the pixel array OLED & TFT.
However, even though the moisture absorption fillers GT may increase the reliability and the lifespan of the organic light emitting display, the fillers GT are also distributed in the active area AA in FIG. 3. Thus, light emitted from the active area AA is scattered by the moisture absorption fillers GT, and the display image is blurred due to a haze effect. Therefore, it is difficult to apply the encapsulation technology illustrated in FIG. 3 to the top emission type organic light emitting display, in which light of the display image is emitted through the encapsulation plate ENC.


A computer implemented method for categorizing neighborhoods based on cardholder transactions is provided. The method is implemented using a computing device having a processor communicatively coupled to a memory. The method includes receiving a plurality of payment transactions from a plurality of cardholders, generating a list of cardholders based on the plurality of payment transactions, determining one or more life stage segments for each cardholder based on the plurality of payment transactions, determining one or more geographic regions based in part on the plurality of payment transactions where each geographic region contains a plurality of cardholders, determining a lifestyle category for at least one geographic region of the one or more geographic regions based on the one or more life stage segments of each of the cardholders associated with the corresponding geographic region, and providing a lifestyle report for the at least one geographic region.

The field of the disclosure relates generally to categorizing a neighborhood of persons, and more specifically to method and systems for modeling payment card transactions for a group of cardholders residing within a predefined neighborhood such that the neighborhood can be categorized within a life stage.
A life stage segment is a group of consumers who are classified based on shared demographics and/or certain differentiating spending behaviors. Determining the life stages of neighborhoods can be important. For example, realtors may like to know the demographics of a neighborhood to be able to point potential buyers to a desired neighborhood. Knowing the demographics also helps landlords and realtors to better direct their advertising materials. For example, if a potentially buyer has small children, then that buyer probably wants to be shown houses in neighborhoods with other families having small children.
Generally, people in different life stages have different spending behaviors. However, a lack of detailed consumer information coupled with an inability to access private information makes it difficult to determine the life stage of a neighborhood without thoroughly investigating that neighborhood. At least one result is that realtors and landlords waste resources on poorly targeted promotional campaigns. Further, potential buyers and renters may get frustrated with being directed to places to live that don't fit their life stage.
Realtors and landlords would like to focus their efforts more effectively to make their buyers and renters happy. In addition, it is desired that the categorizing of neighborhoods, apartment complexes, and/or apartment buildings, be accomplished without continuous gathering, storing, and updating of consumer data. A system that is configured to categorize a neighborhood with different life stages would help direct potential buyers and renters to places to live that are more relevant to them.

Systems and methods for categorizing neighborhoods based on payment card transactions


A method, system, and apparatus are provided for converting dates between calendars and languages. When a string of text is entered into an application program, the string is analyzed to determine whether the string of text includes a date. If the string of text includes a date, the date is semantically labeled with schema information that identifies the calendar and language used to express the date. When a selection is received of the date or an indication that the date is labeled with schema information, a list of actions may be provided identifying conversion options available for the date. One of the conversion options may then be selected resulting in the conversion of the selected date to the calendar and language identified by the selected action. The converted date may then be inserted into the string of text to replace the selected date.

Modern desktop operating systems are provided with various localization features for improving usability for users throughout the world. For instance, some desktop operating systems provide support for multiple user interface languages. Through this type of support for multiple user interface languages, users can configure the user interface of the operating system to operate in any of a number languages supported by the host operating system.
In addition to operating system support, many application programs also support the use of multiple languages for international users. For instance, a word processing program may allow a user to create documents in English, Thai, Vietnamese, or any other language installed in the operating system and enabled by the user. Documents may also be created that contain text or other information in a combination of languages. In fact, international users of such applications frequently create documents that include text in more than one language.
When creating foreign language documents, users may express dates in more than one language and possibly in more than one calendar type. For instance, a user may refer to a date expressed in the English language and the Gregorian calendar. Similarly, a user may express a date in the That language and the Buddhist calendar.
When creating electronic documents having dates expressed in different languages and calendar types, users may need to convert dates between languages and calendars. For instance, a user may want to convert the English Gregorian date to a That Buddhist date. However, converting between languages and calendars in this manner has heretofore been difficult for a user to accomplish easily. Previously, if a user wanted to convert a date between calendars and/or languages, the user would have to copy the date to be converted to a clipboard and then paste the date into an external program or World Wide Web ("Web") site capable of converting the date.
Once the external program or Web site had completed the conversion, the user would copy the converted date to the clipboard and then paste the converted date back into their document. Although systems such as these permit a user to convert a date between calendars and/or languages, these systems can be difficult for a user to use because of the large number of steps required to complete the conversion. Moreover, these previous solutions require the user to perform the conversion using the user interface language of the conversion program or Web site. This can be extremely frustrating for a user that does not understand the language of the conversion program or Web site.
Therefore, in light of the above, there is a need for a method, system, and apparatus for easily converting dates between calendars and languages that do not require a user to utilize an external application or Web site to convert dates between calendars and languages. Moreover, there is a need for a method, system, and apparatus for converting dates between calendars and languages that can present conversion options to the user in a user-selected user interface language.

Method, system, and apparatus for converting dates between calendars and languages based upon semantically labeled strings


A binding (2) which retains a boot (11) on a snowboard (1) includes a base member (4). Rear walls (8a, 8b) and a rear arch (9) with a rear portion (21) of the base member support a heel of the boot. A front support piece (18) to which a toe strap (16) is pivotally mounted (24a, 24b), is adjustably mounted to a front part (20) of the base member. The front support piece is longitudinally adjustable and a length of the toe strap is adjustable to enable the binding to receive boots of different length and style.

The present invention concerns ski bindings, particularly bindings for snowboards.
For the practice of snowboarding, the skier uses ski boots with relatively supple or flexible bindings. Known bindings include a base plate and a back piece for receiving the boot. Moreover, the boots are supported by bindings. The sole of the boot is received directly on the base plate, as is shown, for example, in U.S. application Ser. No. 09/972,455, filed Oct. 5, 2001, or only on the front piece such as is described in European Patent No. EP1 053 769 A1. Of course, all boots are not the same length due to being different sizes, as well as due to being boots of different types and brands. Besides, the manufacturer's define their own shapes for the front of the boot. Previously, the position of the support and binding straps are not particularly adapted to the boot of the user. Consequently, this results in poor retention for certain boots which do not have the dimension or the optimal shape for the front support.


Disclosed herein is a capacitance estimation apparatus of a DC-link capacitance in an inverter. The apparatus according to the present invention may estimate a DC-link voltage, and compare it with a ripple size of the measured DC-link voltage to estimate a DC-link capacitance. According to the present invention, the capacitance of the DC-link capacitance contained in the inverter may be estimated in real time to detect the fault status in real time.

1. Field of the Invention
The present disclosure relates to a capacitance estimation apparatus, and more particularly, to an apparatus for estimating a capacitance of a DC-link capacitor used in an inverter.
2. Description of the Related Art
Multi-level medium voltage inverter is an inverter with a line-to-line RMS voltage of greater than 600 V, which outputs a multi-level output phase voltage. The medium voltage inverter may used to drive a high capacity electromotor having a capacitance of several hundreds of kW to several tens of MW, and mainly used in the field of fans, pumps, compressors, tractions, hoists, conveyors, or the like.
Among the multi-level medium voltage inverters, series H-bridge inverters can be easily extended due to their modular structure, and thus mainly used for a medium voltage inverter. The series H-bridge inverter includes a high capacitance DC-link capacitor, but the DC-link capacitor has a problem of most likely causing a fault state.

Apparatus for estimating capacitance of DC-link capacitor in inverter


A switching power supply converts DC to DC voltages. The switching power supply has multiple phase time delayed voltage generating circuits and a single switching power supply regulator circuit. The multiple phase time delayed voltage generating circuits are then synchronized with a pulse period of the switching power supply regulator circuit to achieve the conversion.

Switching power supply or converter topology using a boost circuit is known in the art and is a basic technology for many applications. However, certain limitations are encountered when practical designs are implemented. For example, although it is common to use boost circuits to generate voltages, the resulting limited power output capacity prevents the most efficient use of the boost circuits. Typically, then, concerns relating to power density, component stresses, and efficiency are compromised.
An inductor boost circuit is usually operated in one of two regions or modes of operation. These regions are commonly known as discontinuous and continuous modes. These terms relate to the type of current present in the inductor during operation. With the continuous mode, there is continuous current (DC) in the inductor; whereas with the discontinuous mode, there are times when there is no current passing through the inductor. The continuous mode necessitates a larger inductor and more inductor core losses than would be necessary if the discontinuous mode were used. However, the discontinuous mode causes higher peak ripple currents through components at a given power output. The power output of a single boost circuit is typically limited to 100 watts in practical designs.
There are advantages and disadvantages to both the continuous and discontinuous modes. For example, an advantage to using the continuous mode is that it can produce a greater output power. However, the continuous mode is disadvantageous in that it is less efficient than the discontinuous mode, and is subject to subharmonic oscillations, depending on the current duty cycle and the inductor size. While the discontinuous mode is more efficient, it causes higher peak current and has a lower output power, as compared to the continuous mode. If the power output of a discontinuous mode is increased, the peak or ripple currents become increasingly stressful to the circuit components.
In the prior art, a multi-stage technique is used to control or enhance the power factor of the AC input power, as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,982,148 and 4,600,982. Unfortunately, the techniques described in the prior art do not sufficiently address the enhancement of efficiency and the reduction of relative peak or ripple currents in components.
It is seen then that there exists a need for a means of reducing ripple current which overcomes the problems of power output loss and decreased efficiency encountered in the prior art.


The present invention relates to metal oxide coating materials that can be used as thin film thin film coatings on various substrate surfaces. The invention also concerns a method of making metal oxide material which are stable in aqueous phase and that can be deposited on a substrate by liquid phase deposition, such as spin-on deposition. The new materials can be patterned lithographically or non-lithographically and are applicable for building up various electronic and opto-electronic device structures, such as anti-reflection layers, high-k interlayer and gate oxide structures for ICs, etch stop layer, CMP stop layer, solar cells, OLEDs packaging, optical thin film filters, optical diffractive grating applications and hybrid thin film diffractive grating structures.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to metal oxide coating materials that can be used as thin film coatings and lithographically or non-lithographically patternable thin film coatings on various substrate surfaces. Furthermore, the invention concerns materials that can be used for building up various electronic and opto-electronic device structures. The invention also deals with methods of making metal oxide materials.
2. Description of Related Art
As known in the art, organo-modified silicon dioxides can be employed for forming optically transparent and electrically well insulating layers by using them as organo-siloxane polymers, also known as "sol-gel polymers". For example, in the simplest case, silicon tetraethoxide or silicon tetrachloride is hydrolysed and condensation polymerisation of the hydrolysed monomer results in a siloxane polymer that can be converted to a silicon dioxide material under thermal treatment. Furthermore, organo-siloxanes can be made lithographically patternable by attaching photo-crosslinking moieties covalently to the silicon oxide backbone. A silicon oxide material based on pure silicon dioxide or even organo-modified silicon dioxides exhibit, however, a relatively low refractive index. Refractive indices of these materials are typically around 1.5 and their dielectric constants are in the range from about 4.2 to 2.5 depending on their structure and on the moieties attached to silicon. When silicon is replaced by other elements of the periodic table of elements that have a higher number of electrons, such as germanium, titanium, tin, antimony, tantalum, hafnium or zirconium, much higher refractive indices as well as dielectric constants can be obtained. However, if these metal oxides are hydrolysed and co-condensed from pure metal alkoxide or metal chloride precursors, very unstable material systems are obtained which results in a gel type and fully cross-linked (non-dissolvable) polymer after a while.

Method of synthesizing hybrid metal oxide materials and applications thereof


The present invention discloses a free-space quantum communication device with atomic filters which are used in the field of quantum cryptography. The free-space quantum communication device of the present invention includes a beam splitter (2), two λ/2 wave plates (3,10), a λ/4 wave plate (4), two polarization beam splitters (5,11), two atomic filters (6,12), two light couplers (7,13), two optical fibers (8,14) and two single-photon detectors (9,15). In the present invention, the interference filter used in the conventional quantum communication device is replaced by ultra-narrow line-width atomic filters. As the pass-band width of atomic filter is narrower than that of the interference filter in magnitude order of 3 and a light noise rejection ratio of 10−5 can be obtained, error rate generated by background light noise can be reduced by magnitude order of 2-3. Further, the distance for carrying out free-space quantum communication can be increased. Moreover, the free-space quantum cryptography communication device can normally operate in a good manner under background light noise with sunlight or moonlight.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a quantum communication device, more particularly, to a free-space quantum communication device with atomic filters.
2. Description of the Related Art
It is known that cryptographic communication is directed to an information transmission mode in which information can be exchanged between two communication parties under a top-secret way. And many countries are paying more attention to the study of the cryptographic communications. Nowadays, cryptography has become an important means for safeguarding information exchange and is widely used by governments, banks, enterprises and individuals. With the rapid development and spread of the computer network and the electronic commerce, people have attached more and more importance on the security of the cryptographic communication system. Due to dramatically rapid development of the computer technology, it is more and more easier for a cryptography to be decoded by an intruder. Accordingly, the classical cryptography has been proven to have its limitation in use. Recently, quantum cryptography has been proposed as a new technology of cryptography in which the security of the information transmission is based on the Heisenberg uncertainty principle in the filed of quantum mechanics. There is no doubt that the quantum communication has become a novel technology in the field of information exchange. In view of the rapid development and wide application of it, people have paid more and more attention on the quantum communication.
Quantum communication uses single photon as carrier of transmission information. Under the condition of free-space communications, birefringence phenomenon for optical spectrum does not occur in the atmosphere. Consequently, photons in polarization states can be transmitted through the atmosphere so that fidelity of transmission of photon states can be achieved.
However, there are two problems that has not been solved until now. One is the signal turbulence of single photon in the transmission medium. The other one relates to detection of single photon under strong background light. During experimental demonstrations of free-space quantum communication based on photon polarization coding, the background light noise is normally filtered by narrow line-width interference filter or by use of an optical-fiber space filtering method. In this way, the above problems are partially solved, thus the above quantum communication can be performed well either at night or daytime.
For example, quantum keys were successfully distributed across the bordering area between Germany and Austria in October of 2002. The transmission rate of the raw key reaches 1.5-2 kHz while error rate is 5%. Further, the quantum keys were distributed across a distance of 23.4 kilometers which is the farthest distance in experimental demonstrations of free-space quantum key distribution. It is proven that there is great possibility for quantum communication to be put into practice.
Free-space quantum communication gains broad perspective on distribution of security keys between earth and satellite or among satellites by using near-earth orbiting satellites and on establishing a global quantum key distribution network. It has achieved a successful distribution with a transmission loss of 27 db. If detection efficiency is further improved and the background light noise is reduced so that transmission loss of 33 db can be endured by the signal channels, it is possible to carry out quantum key distributions across 500-1000 kilometers between the near-earth orbiting satellites.
In usual quantum communication device, the background light noise in free space is filtered generally by an interference filter before faint laser pulse sequence of random polarization coding is incident onto a beam splitter. Because the interference filter usually has a relatively wide pass-band width, noise rejection ratio of the background light is low. Therefore, error rate generated by background light noise in the free-space quantum communication is relatively high.
The atomic filter has the characteristics of high transmission rate, ultra-narrow pass-band width, large acceptance angle and quick response time. Further, the operational frequency is able to be tuned in a predetermined range. As such, the method of atomic filtering is widely used in laser communications, lidar and high-speed modulation of light. Atmosphere laser communication experiment is carried out under the condition that a relatively strong incident laser light with light power of magnitude order of mW/cm2 or μW/cm2 is used. In free-space quantum communication, however, the signals are transmitted in a manner of fidelity transmission by means of faint laser pulse on the single photon level.

Free-space quantum communication device with atomic filters

Wuhan Institute of Physics and Mathematics, the Chinese Academy of Sciences


A method is provided for forming a precursor layer of aluminum oxide on a cold-rolled ferritic stainless steel substrate having an aluminum content of less than five weight percent, and more preferably as low as 1.5 weight percent, by exposing the stainless steel to a hydrogen atmosphere containing controlled quantities of water vapor to provide a controlled hydrogen-to-water vapor ratio of less than about 1400. The aluminum can be provided either as a constituent of the ferritic stainless steel chemistry, or it can be provided as a coating on a ferritic stainless steel which contains essentially no aluminum itself. The resulting oxidation environment is extremely oxygen-poor, having a partial pressure of oxygen between about 2.7.times.10.sup.-23 and 1.9.times.10.sup.-18 atmospheres. In addition, the environment has a relatively high water vapor content of up to about 10,000 ppm. The water vapor serves to replenish the environment's oxygen content, through disassociation of the water vapor, as the oxygen becomes depleted as a result of oxidation of the aluminum in the stainless steel. The above process serves as a pretreatment of the ferritic stainless steel's surface, enabling a subsequent growth of a fully developed layer of aluminum oxide whiskers that provides a surface which promotes adhesion of a catalytically active material to the stainless steel substrate.

In the automotive industry, catalytic converters typically utilize a metal foil monolith structure which supports the catalytically active materials that convert the noxious exhaust gases of an internal combustion engine to harmless gases. Conventionally, the metal foil monolith has a metal foil substrate which is extremely thin, generally on the order of about 0.05 millimeters thick. The hot exhaust gas environment of an internal combustion engine is very severe, and subjects the metal foil to continued thermal cycling which is detrimental to the bond between the metal foil and the catalytically active materials adhered to its surface. To survive in this harsh environment, the metal foil must have excellent oxidation resistance at temperatures exceeding 1000.degree. C. In addition, the metal foil must have suitable surface properties which promote adhesion of the catalytically active materials to its surface.
Currently, the standard foil material used in the automotive production of these monoliths is an Fe-20Cr-5Al alloy. This alloy is extremely oxidation resistant particularly at elevated temperatures because it forms a protective aluminum oxide scale on its surface. As is known in the art, upon exposure to an appropriate atmosphere at elevated temperatures, the relatively high level of aluminum (about five weight percent) within alloys of this type promotes the formation of a protective layer of aluminum oxide crystals, or "whiskers", on the exposed surfaces of the metal foil. Once a suitable layer of aluminum oxide whiskers is obtained, the metal foil is further coated with a catalytically-active gamma alumina washcoat material and this coating is impregnated with a noble metal catalyst. The aluminum oxide whiskers, when present in sufficient quantities to form a dense coverage over the exposed surfaces of the metal foil, provide a suitable surface to which the gamma alumina washcoat can readily adhere.
Preferably, the layer of aluminum oxide whiskers is characterized by being continuous, slow growing and adherent, covering at least about 80 percent, and more preferably at least about 90 percent of the exposed surface. Furthermore, it is preferable that the whiskers are characterized as having a length of at least about 1.5 .mu.m and possessing an aspect ratio (the ratio between the length and width of the whiskers) of at least about 2 to 1. Notably, metal foils formed from alloys having low levels of aluminum (e.g. below 5 percent weight) are generally unable to produce aluminum oxide having adequate whisker characteristics and adequate surface coverage when oxidized in an O.sub.2 - rich atmosphere. Furthermore, oxidation of Fe-Cr-Al alloys containing 3% or less of aluminum are known to cause growth of Fe- and Cr-rich oxides which are unsuitable for adhering a catalytic washcoat.
In an effort to promote the growth of aluminum oxide whiskers on a cold-rolled Fe-2OCr-5Al alloy, U.S. Pat. No. 4,318,828 to Chapman, assigned to the assignee of the present invention, proposed a process for forming a precursor layer of aluminum oxide in an oxygen-poor environment, and then further developing a dense layer of aluminum oxide whiskers in a subsequent oxygen-rich environment, such as atmospheric air at an elevated temperature.
The oxygen-poor environment taught by Chapman contained oxygen at partial pressure (P-O.sub.2) levels of between 0.75 and 1.5 torr (0.1 and 0.2 volume percent O.sub.2, or less than about 2000 parts per million (ppm)), with the balance of the environment being inert and consisting of nitrogen, hydrogen, carbon dioxide, argon or other noble gases. Chapman maintained that the precursor aluminum oxide layer could not be formed if an atmosphere containing more than about 0.2 volume percent (2000 ppm) of oxygen was present. However, in practice oxidation atmospheres having an oxygen content of 1000 ppm or more have produced little or no whisker growth. In addition, Chapman taught that the oxygen could be introduced by the disassociation of water at the furnace temperatures taught. However, Chapman noted that test results were erratic when using a pure hydrogen environment with a trace of water vapor and having a dew point of about -600.degree. C.--equivalent to a hydrogen-to-water vapor (H.sub.2 /H.sub.2 O) ratio of approximately 100,000. Such an atmosphere is extremely dry, having a water vapor content on the order of 10 ppm or less, and has an extremely low level of available oxygen for formation of the precursor layer of aluminum oxide, corresponding to a partial pressure of oxygen (P-O.sub.2) of approximately 4.9.times.10.sup.-27 atmospheres.
Though Chapman was not directed to the problem of forming aluminum oxides with alloys having an aluminum content of less than about 3 weight percent, the automotive industry is continually seeking alternatives to the use of the Fe-20Cr-5Al alloy typically used, primarily in an effort to reduce costs. The high cost of this alloy is principally due to its relatively high aluminum content within the alloy, which significantly reduces the ductility of the material, making the alloy more difficult, and thus more expensive, to process than alloys having an aluminum content of less than about 5 weight percent.
Because of the low ductility of the Fe-20Cr-5Al alloy, relatively inexpensive processing methods such as continuous slab casting, cannot be used in manufacturing the alloy because thermally induced stresses caused by rapid cooling during the continuous casting would cause the alloy slab to crack. Therefore, to avoid cracking, the alloy is almost always ingot cast. However, this is not a preferred alternative, since the tops and bottoms of the cast ingots generally contain gross inhomogeneities and therefore must be removed prior to hot working of the material, resulting in unacceptably poor yields.
Also, the poor ductility of the material due to its high aluminum content further complicates the preparation of the cast ingot surface for subsequent hot working. In order to remove casting defects, so as to obtain a high surface quality, surface grinding must be performed on the material. It is preferred that the surface grinding operation occur at room temperature, where ingot handling and inspection are easier, which results in a markedly better surface finish. Unfortunately, this Fe-20Cr-5Al material must be surface ground at high temperatures in order to avoid ingot cracking which would result from the thermally induced stresses during cooling. High temperature grinding invariably results in a surface finish of poorer quality as compared to a surface which is ground at room temperature.
In addition, the poor surface quality of the cast ingot material coupled with its low ductility cause excessive strip breakage during cold rolling of the alloy. Typically, after final rolling of this material to produce the desired foil, only about 40-60 percent of the original cast ingot is retrieved.
Therefore, what is needed is a method for forming a suitable layer of aluminum oxide whiskers on a metal foil characterized by having an aluminum content of substantially less than five weight percent, such that the material will be capable of providing the requisite adhesion for the catalytic washcoat.

Hydrogen-water vapor pretreatment of Fe-Cr-Al alloys


A catalyst composition and a process for converting a C.sub.9 + aromatic compound such as, for example, 1,2,4-trimethylbenzene to a C.sub.6 to C.sub.8 aromatic hydrocarbon such as a xylene are disclosed. The composition comprises a zeolite, a metal oxide, and optionally a selectivity modifier selected from the group consisting of silicon, sulfur, phosphorus, boron, magnesium, tin, titanium, zirconium, germanium, indium, lanthanum, cesium, oxides thereof and combinations of any two or more thereof. The process comprises contacting a fluid which comprises a C.sub.9 + aromatic compound with the catalyst composition under a condition sufficient to effect the conversion of a C.sub.9 + aromatic compound to a C.sub.6 to C.sub.8 aromatic hydrocarbon.

It is well known to those skilled in the art that aromatic hydrocarbons are a class of very important industrial chemicals which find a variety of uses in petrochemical industry. It is also well known to those skilled in the art that catalytically cracking gasoline-range hydrocarbons produces aromatic hydrocarbons such as, for example, benzene, toluene, and xylenes (hereinafter collectively referred to as BTX) in the presence of catalysts which contain a zeolite. The product of this catalytic cracking process contains a multitude of hydrocarbons including unconverted C.sub.5 + alkanes, C.sub.5 + alkenes, C.sub.5 + cycloalkanes, or combinations of two or more thereof; lower alkanes such as methane, ethane, and propane; lower alkenes such as ethylene and propylene; and C.sub.9 + aromatic compounds. Recent efforts to convert gasoline to more valuable petrochemical products have therefore focused on improving the conversion of gasoline to more valuable aromatic hydrocarbons in the presence of zeolite catalysts. For example, a gallium-promoted zeolite ZSM-5 has been used in the so-called Cyclar Process to convert a hydrocarbon to BTX. The aromatic hydrocarbons can be useful feedstocks for producing various organic compounds and polymers. However, heavier, less useful, aromatic compounds having 9 or more carbon atoms per molecule (hereinafter collectively referred to as C.sub.9 + aromatic compounds) are also produced by the conversion process.
Accordingly, there is an ever-increasing need to develop a catalyst, a process for producing the catalyst, and for converting these heavier and less useful aromatic compounds to the more valuable BTX hydrocarbons by a hydrodealkylation process or a transalkylation process in which the feed stream comprising C.sub.9 + aromatic compounds also comprise benzene, toluene, a xylene, or combinations of two or more thereof. Such development would also be a significant contribution to the art and to the economy.

Hydrotreating catalyst composition and processes therefor and therewith


An approach to rapid failover of a communication path between computers that are linked by redundant virtual links in a virtual private network (VPN) features detection of communication link and device failures through an active monitoring approach and re-routing of communication through a redundant link of the VPN when a failure is detected.

This invention relates to recovery from device and communication link failures in a virtual private network (VPN).
Virtual private networks are used to provide virtual communication links, called "tunnels," between different sites that are coupled by a communication network. Typically, the communication network separating the sites is a public network, such as the Internet, which may not provide secure communication. The tunnels are then established to provide secure communication paths between the sites. One approach to establishing secure tunnels is according to the IPSec standard (see IETF RFCs 2401-2411 and 2451).
Network based services are often configured to have more than one gateway to the public network to provide high availability and communication capacity. For example, a service may have two separate gateways that make use of different communication links to different points-of-presence (POPs) for network service providers on the public network. In this way, if one of the communication links fails, then traffic may be able to pass over the other link. By connecting the gateways to different POPs, this approach also provides redundancy in case a POP fails, or a particular network service provider's network infrastructure (e.g., backbone network) fails. Multiple gateways also provide a basis for balancing communication load, and to reacting to performance degradation, such as congestion, that does not necessarily result in complete failure of a communication path.
Internet Protocol (IP) based networks can make use of dynamic routing protocols to maintain routing information at routing hosts and devices (routers) in the network in order to route IP packets through the network to their destination based on destination address information in packet headers. Two standard protocols for dynamically maintaining routing information are RIP (see RFC 1058) and OSPF (see RFC 2328). One characteristic of these protocols is that if a router determines that a neighboring router is inaccessible, for example because is does not receive responses to a number of requests for routing information from that neighbor, that router updates its routing tables and propagates an indication that the neighbor is inaccessible to its other neighboring routers.
In some virtual private networks, routing information passes between devices over the tunnels such that the tunnels act as virtual links and the devices at each end of the tunnels act as routing devices that are coupled by the virtual links. In this way devices at different sites can dynamically update routing information for paths that use those virtual links.


A method and device are provided for connecting a triaxial or coaxial cable to a substrate by surface mount technology wherein the substrate has a plurality of contact pads located on the surface thereof. The connector includes a signal wire connector element connected to the signal wire of the cable and a drain wire connector element connected to each of the drain wires of the cable. The connection also includes resilient connector element, including a flexible circuit having a plurality of spaced electrical conducting lines thereon. One set of lines is for connection to the signal wires of the cable and the other set for connection to the drain wire(s) of the cable. The opposite ends of the signal line and drain line of the flexible circuit element are connected to electrical connection pads on the substrate to provide signal and drain connections between the cable and the substrate. A support element is configured and positioned to mount a plurality of the connectors on the substrate with the resilient element being resiliently urged into contact with the electrical connection pads on the substrate.

The current trend in the design of external electrical connections to circuit boards is to surface mount technology with increased densities of these connections. This trend toward high density connections is necessitated by virtue of the fact that circuit boards and the like have an ever increasing number of circuits and functions which must be connected externally, thus requiring an increased number of connections on the board; hence, a higher density of reliable connections or connectors is required in order to adequately service the various signal and other electrical requirements of the printed circuit boards.
In one type of circuit board environment, the connections are designed to bring signal lines and drain lines to the circuit board from coaxial or triaxial cables. In the past, these connections have typically taken the form of either soldered connections directly between the wires of the cables and pads on the boards or compliant pins inserted into holes in the circuit board or circuit card (pin-in-hole). In the case of pin-in-hole connections, these have tied up valuable internal wiring planes as well as necessitating relatively wide spacing between adjacent connections, thus limiting the density of connections that can be made on the surface of the card or board. In the case of soldered connections, these also require significant spacing between connections, as well as requiring very accurate solder joints, all precisely placed and well made. These joints are also subject to failure due to stress on the cables.

Method and apparatus for connecting cable to the surface of printed circuit boards or the like

International Business Machines Corporation


An analog-to-digital converter (ADC) exhibiting an uncorrected non-linear transfer function receives measured analog voltage amplitudes and outputs uncorrected digital values. A calibration circuit receives each uncorrected digital value and outputs a corrected digital value. The measured analog voltage amplitudes received by the ADC and the corresponding corrected digital values output by the calibration circuit define points approximating an ideal linear transfer function of the ADC. The calibration circuit performs piecewise-linear approximation of the uncorrected transfer function and associates each uncorrected digital value with one of N linear segments that join at inflection points on the uncorrected transfer function. The inflection points are determined using the second derivative of the uncorrected transfer function. The calibration circuit calculates each corrected digital value using no more than 2N+2 stored calibration coefficients. Calibration coefficients that are not stored in non-volatile memory are calculated upon power up using stored calibration coefficients.

Analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) are widely used to convert analog voltage signals into digital output signals. ADCs are often embedded with other components in integrated circuits, for example, in microcontrollers. The performance of. ADCs that are embedded in integrated circuits is often worse than the performance of standalone ADCs with the same specification. The presence of noise on signal lines and power supply lines often results in higher signal interference and output errors in embedded ADCs. Another source of errors in ADCs is the nonlinearity of the transfer functions of the ADCs. Thus, calibrating embedded ADCs to correct for errors can significantly enhance performance.
Ideally, the Vin versus Dout transfer function of an ADC is a straight line. A linearly increasing voltage amplitude is ideally converted by the ADC into a linearly increasing digital value. The extent to which an ADC receives an analog input signal with a linearly increasing voltage amplitude and outputs digital values that do not linearly increase in value is referred to as "integral non-linearity error" (INL error). An ADC exhibits differential non-linearity (DNL) error, the derivative of INL error, where it outputs discontinuous digital values in response to a smoothly changing voltage input. DNL error is the extent to which the digital values output by an ADC do not increase by steps of 1 LSB as the analog input voltage increases gradually. An ADC ideally converts an input of the minimum voltage into a digital value of all zeros. The extent to which the digital output value deviates from digital zero is referred to as "dc offset error." An ADC ideally converts an input of the maximum voltage into a digital value of all ones. The extent to which the digital output value output deviates from all digital ones is referred to as "gain error."
There are various known methods for calibrating ADCs to correct for gain error, dc offset error, INL error and DNL error. In one method, the uncorrected digital output of an ADC with a nonlinear transfer function is mapped to the ideal linear transfer function. The calibration method determines a correction factor for each uncorrected digital value output by the ADC and stores the uncorrected value and its associated correction factor in a lookup table. A calibration circuit outputs a corrected digital value on the ideal linear transfer function by adding the appropriate correction factor to each uncorrected digital value output by the ADC. Valuable memory resources must be allocated to the lookup table. A calibration method that consumes less memory resources for a lookup table would be particularly advantageous in an ADC that is embedded in a microcontroller.
Another calibration method involves piecewise linear segmentation. The entire dynamic range of the uncorrected output of an ADC is divided into equally-spaced ranges of digital values. A best-fitting linear segment is then mapped to the distribution of digital values within each range. Each uncorrected digital output value is associated with a point on a linear segment. Correction factors are then calculated for each point along each linear segment. The output of the ADC is corrected by adding to each uncorrected digital value the correction factor associated with the closest point on the appropriate linear segment.
A calibration method that divides an uncorrected nonlinear transfer function into segments of approximately equal length is less accurate for segments where the uncorrected transfer function is most nonlinear. Moreover, depending on the shape of the uncorrected transfer function, calculating correction factors with additional segments does not necessarily render the calibration more accurate. For an uncorrected, hockey-stick-shaped transfer function, for example, approximating the uncorrected transfer function with successive linear segments along the handle does not provide a better fit than would a single linear segment. Calculating correction factors for the successive linear segments does not significantly improve the resolution of the ADC.
A method is sought for calibrating an analog-to-digital converter that reduces the memory used to store correction factors and that also reduces any calculations that do not significantly improve the resolution of the analog-to-digital converter.

Error correction in an oversampled ADC using few stored calibration coefficients


A multi-speed power transmission includes a countershaft portion and a planetary gearset portion. The countershaft portion is controlled by synchronizer torque-transmitting mechanisms, and the planetary gearset portion is controlled by selectively engageable friction-type torque-transmitting mechanisms. The selective operation of these torque-transmitting mechanisms permit eight forward speed ratios and three reverse speed ratios.

Today's vehicles have powertrains that are seeking an increased number of speed ratios within the power transmission. Historically, these transmissions have had speeds ranging from two to six forward speed ratios. The transmissions employing two through five forward speed ratios have been automatic shifting planetary gear power transmissions, while transmissions providing two through six forward speed ratios have been countershaft-type transmissions. In heavy trucks, of course, there are more speed ratios available than six, many of which go as high as twenty with a large number of gear members to provide those ratios.
In planetary transmissions, two through four speeds can generally be found with two planetary gearsets and a plurality of torque-transmitting mechanisms. Five-, six-, and seven-speed power transmissions can generally be provided using three planetary gearsets and four through seven torque-transmitting mechanisms. Eight-speed planetary transmissions have been proposed using four planetary gearsets and seven torque-transmitting mechanisms.
Multi-speed countershaft transmissions generally include a synchronizer clutch or mechanical clutch for each of the forward speed ratios and one for reverse. While the forward speed ratio synchronizer clutches can generally be coupled to be double acting, it still requires a number of mechanisms to provide the speed ratios within a power transmission. For example, a four-speed countershaft transmission would require two double synchronizers for the four forward speeds and one half synchronizer or single synchronizer for the reverse speed. Thus, a great deal of mechanical devices are needed within a power transmission to provide the forward speeds required.


Methods and systems for processing a video for stabilization are described. A recorded video may be stabilized by removing at least a portion of shake introduced in the video. An original camera path for a camera used to record the video may be determined. A crop window size may be selected, a crop window transform may accordingly be determined, and the crop window transform may be applied to the original video to provide a modified video from a viewpoint of the modified motion camera path.

Video stabilization techniques may be used to improve recorded videos. With video cameras, camera shake can cause visible frame-to-frame jitter in a recorded video. For example, a handheld recorded video may be perceptibly shakier than a video recorded using a tripod-mounted camera (or other stabilization equipment, such as camera dollies or steady-cams) due to motion of the operator holding the camera during recording. However, recording videos using handheld video recording may enable more opportunities for filming.
Video stabilization techniques may be used to create a stable version of a casually shot video (e.g., a video recorded on a device with little or no stabilization equipment). Video stabilization techniques generally attempt to render the recorded video as if the video would have been recorded from a smooth or stable camera path.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Methods and systems for processing a video for stabilization using dynamic crop


A method and system for train inauguration over an internet protocol (IP) based communication network. The present invention describes a method of train inauguration that includes identifying a leading car of a plurality of cars that form a train. The train includes at least one unit of cars such that a first unit includes the leading car. Network and configuration information is discovered for cars in the train using a discovery protocol. The network and configuration information is broadcast to units in the train. Car and unit topology of the train is generated based on the network and configuration information and the leading car that is identified. NAT translation addresses are generated for fixed IP addresses of devices in the plurality of cars. Routing information is exchanged between routers to enable communication between devices in the train using the NAT translation addresses.

1. Field of the Invention
Embodiments of the present invention relate to the field of internet protocol communication. More particularly, embodiments of the present invention relate generally to train inauguration over an internet protocol (IP) based communication network.
2. Related Art
Communication systems within a train can be used to perform various functions throughout the train. For instance, management of various control features of cars within the train is performed over a physical communication network throughout the train. As an example, door control on either side of the train can be managed over the communication network.
Train inauguration is necessary to provide a train topology of each of the cars and units of cars within the train. Multiple cars can be arranged into a unit of cars that are intended to remain as a unit. Communication within the unit can be implemented through a unit wide physical network. Multiple units can be coupled together through couplers. Communication between units is implemented through electrical connections at the couplers.
Before control over the train can be implemented, it is necessary to determine, as an example, the numbers of cars in the train, the orientation of each of the cars on the train, and the order of cars in the train. Once the topology features are determined, direct communication to targeted cars is enabled for proper implementation of control features. This allows for control of specific features on specific cars. For example, on a train-wide basis, a control signal can be sent to each of the cars to open or close its doors on the left side of the train. Control signals can also be sent to a subset of individual cars on the train.
In the conventional art, the Train Communication Network (TCN) protocol is used for train inauguration. TCN is a standard for providing compatibility between cars manufactured by different companies to include communication through the physical network on a train. The TCN is a bus based technology that operates at 1 mega bits per second (Mbps). However, TCN is not easily scaleable. As more and more feature capabilities are added to a train, additional wires are needed to service the feature capabilities. That is, dedicated physical networks are provided for each feature. However, the connections at the couplers are limited. As such, TCN can only adequately service up to a particular number of cars during the inauguration process.

Method and system for IP train inauguration


The present invention provides a non-aqueous electrolyte secondary cell that has good high-temperature cycle characteristics and good high-temperature standing resistance, and that is highly safe enough to prevent overcharge. The non-aqueous electrolyte secondary cell of the invention utilizes a non-aqueous electrolyte that includes a vinylene carbonate derivative, a cyclic sulfite derivative, and both/either of a phenylcycloalkane derivative and/or an alkylbenzene derivative having a quaternary carbon directly bonded to a benzene ring.

(1) Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an improvement of non-aqueous electrolyte secondary cells.
(2) Description of the Prior Art
Non-aqueous electrolyte secondary cells represented by lithium ion secondary cells have high energy density and high capacity, and thus are widely used as the driving power sources of mobile information terminals.
Generally, non-aqueous electrolyte secondary cells use a positive electrode made of transition metal compound oxide containing lithium, a negative electrode made of carbon material such as graphite, and a non-aqueous electrolyte containing a lithium salt dissolved in a non-aqueous solvent that is made of chain carbonic acid ester or cyclic carbonic acid ester. In such cells, although there is migration of lithium ions between the positive electrode and the negative electrode upon charge and discharge, an internal short circuit caused by dendrite lithium does not occur because there is no generation of metal lithium. Therefore, such cells excel in safety.
However, such non-aqueous electrolyte secondary cells can be problematic in that decomposition of the non-aqueous solvent caused by a reaction between the non-aqueous solvent and the electrodes upon charge and discharge results in insufficient cycle characteristics. A particular problem is that in the case of overcharge, lithium ions are released excessively from the positive electrode and stored excessively in the negative electrode. This increases the reactiveness of the electrodes to the non-aqueous solvent, resulting in deterioration of cell characteristics.
In view of these problems, when using such cells, there is employed an overcharge preventive means that utilizes a current-cutting device. However, it takes long before conventional current-cutting devices operate because they operate only when the internal pressure of the cell increases, and thus there is a doubt as to ensuring safety in the case of an intense increase in internal cell temperature.
Proposed methods to solve the above problems include techniques of adding various additives that are capable of improving safety in the non-aqueous electrolyte. The following methods are those proposed to improve cycle characteristics:
(1) Forming a coating film on the surface of an electrode plate with the use of a non-aqueous electrolyte having vinylene carbonate and ethylene sulfite (see, for example, Patent Reference 1);
(2) Forming a coating film on the surface of an electrode plate with the use of a non-aqueous electrolyte having ethylene carbonate and ethylene sulfite (see, for example, Patent Reference 3, where the ethylene sulfite is referred to as glycol sulfite); and
(3) Forming a coating film on the surface of an electrode plate with the use of a non-aqueous electrolyte having a tert-butylbenzene derivative (see, for example, Patent Reference 4).
Proposed methods to prevent overcharge include the following technique (4):
(4) Speeding up the response of the current-cutting device by adding in the non-aqueous electrolyte a phenylcycloalkane derivative provided with the ability to generate a gas by rapidly decomposing at the time of overcharge (see, for example, Patent Reference 5, where the phenylcycloalkane derivative is referred to as a cycloalkylbenzene derivative).
Patent Reference 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. H11-121032 (pp. 2 to 3)
Patent Reference 2: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2002-25611 (page 2)
Patent Reference 3: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. H9-120837 (pp. 2 to 3)
Patent Reference 4: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2001-167791 (pp. 2 to 3)
Patent Reference 5: Specification of Japanese Patent No. 3113652 (p.p 2 to 3)
However, the techniques (1) and (2) cannot satisfactorily inhibit the decomposition of the electrolyte solution when the cell is exposed to a high temperature (approximately 100° C.) or when charge and discharge are repeated at around the upper limit (40 to 60° C.) of normal use temperature of a cell. As a result, sufficient cycle characteristics cannot be obtained, and there is a danger of solution leakage caused by an increased internal pressure resulting from solvent decomposition, when the cell is exposed to a high temperature (approximately 100° C.). Furthermore, there is a problem of smoking or the like when the cell is heated abnormally by overcharge.
The technique of (3) is not sufficient in the effect of enhancing cycle characteristics because the coating film formed on the electrode plate is coarse, and there is a problem of smoking at the time of overcharge.
The technique of (4), although capable of preventing overcharge, allows gradual decomposition and polymerization of additives upon charge and discharge at around the upper limit (40 to 60° C.) of normal use temperature of a cell, so that the internal resistance of the cell is increased. This presents the problem of high cycle deterioration.


An instrument for accurately measuring mass flow rate of a fluid pumped from a hermetically sealed container, through attainment of a steady state mass flow rate, having a check valve positioned between a vacuum pump and a mass flow rate sensor.

Perishable products, such as packaged foods, have a shelf life which must be ascertained so that stale product is not sold to consumers. The shelf life of such products is commonly imprinted upon the package as the "expiration date" or "freshness date". Manufacturers, distributors and retailers of perishable products commonly prioritize the shipment, distribution and display of such products based upon the expiration date or freshness date of the product to reduce the amount of expired product which must be discarded.
One example of efforts taken to increase the shelf life of perishable products is flushing of the hermetically sealed packaging with an inert gas, such as nitrogen, to reduce the oxygen concentration within the packaging.
The shelf life of a perishable product can be determined by several methods depending upon the particular product involved (i.e., potato chips v. soft drinks). One of the variables often involved in determining shelf life is the amount of gas in the container.
Currently available instruments for measuring or estimating the amount of gas in a hermetically sealed container are unacceptably inaccurate, prohibitively expensive, difficult to conduct and/or slow.
Accordingly, a need exists for an inexpensive, quick, easy and accurate method and instrument for measuring the gaseous content of a hermetically sealed container.

Instrument for accurately measuring mass flow rate of a fluid pumped from a hermetically sealed container


An electronic device includes an ESD protection device with implanted regions that extend around a finger shape with a straight portion and elongated turn portions, and contacts that extend only in the straight portion, where the turn portions include elongated lightly doped implanted regions to mitigate turn on of a curvature PNP transistor for uniform device breakdown performance. Adjacent finger structures are spaced apart from one another to mitigate thermal transfer between device fingers.

Electrostatic discharge (ESD) events can be triggered by human interaction with a circuit board or an included electronic device, such as an integrated circuit (IC), causing high voltages on one or more pads of the IC. If the IC is unprotected, the high pad voltage can lead to undesired current flow through internal circuitry, which can damage or degrade circuit components of the IC. Accordingly, many ICs include protection devices or circuits to provide discharge paths between one or more pads and a ground terminal, power terminal, or other reference node. ESD protection devices or circuits may be provided to protect power supply terminals, as well as to protect I/O terminals and other external connections that may be subjected to ESD events. Ideally, the breakdown voltage (BV) rating or triggering threshold of an ESD protection device is tailored to the voltage rating of the protected circuitry and is stable for different operating conditions of the electronic device. Early latch-up of ESD protection devices is desired as it lowers silicon temperature and enhances current conduction. ESD protection devices operate and conduct max current in latch-up in response to ESD events that meet or exceed the breakdown voltage. A high ESD current rating is desired to reduce the size and cost of an ESD protected product, but non-uniform latch-up can lead to creation of hot spots, very low ESD current rating and poor reliability. SOI ESD structures are built above an oxide-isolated substrate and are susceptible to thermal hot spots. In addition, thermal spreading is mostly limited to top surface and conventional circuit layouts do not ensure uniform latch-up or prevention of thermal spreading.

Breakdown uniformity for ESD protection device