A method or system establishes a packet network call over a transmission link extending between a mobile terminal device and an interworking function which comprises a gateway or bridge connection to a network, such as a packet network. The transmission link connects the mobile terminal device to a wireless communication device over a first interface and further connects the wireless communication device to the interworking function over a second interface via a wireless link to a base station. The packet network call, once established, comprises a first interface data link formed within a predetermined data link layer across the first interface and a second interface data link formed within the predetermined data link layer across the second interface. A flow control is asserted and deasserted on the mobile terminal device. During the flow control, the wireless communication device performs a link control protocol negotiation with the interworking function to establish the second interface data link with the interworking function. After the second interface data link is established, and during the flow control, the wireless communication device performs a network control protocol negotiation with the interworking function to establish a second interface network link carried by the second interface data link. This results in an IP address being assigned to identify the mobile terminal device. After the second interface data link is established, the mobile terminal device performs a link control protocol negotiation with the wireless communication device to establish the first interface data link with the wireless communication device. After the first interface data link and the second interface network link are each established, the mobile terminal device performs a network control protocol negotiation with the wireless communication device to establish a first interface network link carried by the first interface data link, using an IP address obtained from a network control protocol negotiation with the interworking function.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to protocols and systems for establishing a packet switched network model connection between a mobile terminal device and a packet network via a wireless connection formed between a wireless communication device and a base station.
2. Description of Background Information
Mobile computing generally involves the use of mobile terminal devices such as notebook computers connected to computing resources via a wireless communication device. As mobile computing becomes more prevalent, traveling users will be provided continuous connectivity, and thus full access, to their computing resourcesxe2x80x94data and files stored at their office LAN, email servers, etc. To make this a reality, efforts abound to develop and introduce new data services and technologies.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a simplified network reference model applicable to mobile computing data services. The model shows select network entities forming a communications subsystem 10. A mobile terminal device 12 is coupled to a wireless communication device 14, which is in turn connected to a base station/mobile switching center 16 via a wireless interface. Base station/mobile switching center 16 is connected to an interworking function 18. The simplified network reference model is described in the document entitled xe2x80x9cData Service Options for Wideband Spread Spectrum Systems,xe2x80x9d TIA/EIA/IS-707, Published Version (February 1998), (hereinafter referred to as xe2x80x9cIS-707xe2x80x9d) as well as in the newer version thereof, i.e., IS-707-A. The content of each of IS-707 and IS-707-A is hereby expressly incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
According to IS-707, mobile terminal device 12, wireless communication device 14, base station/mobile switching center 16, and interworking function 18 are respectively referred to as a TE2 device, an MT2 device, a BS/MSC, and an IWF. The interface between mobile terminal device 12 and wireless communication device 14 is called an Rm interface. The interface between wireless communication device 14 and base station/mobile switching center 16 is referred to as a Um interface. The interface between base station/mobile switching center 16 and interworking function 18 may be implemented with an L interface.
Mobile terminal device 12 may comprise, for example, a notebook computer, a personal digital assistant, or any other computing device capable of computer network communications, including packet-based communications or communications via a dial-up modem. Wireless communication device 14 may comprise, for example, a wireless terminal used by subscribers to access network services over a radio link. The wireless terminal may comprise a hand-held cellular telephone, or a unit installed in a vehicle. Wireless communication device 14 may also be fixed to a particular location.
Base station/mobile switching center 16 is shown in FIG. 1 as a single functional entity, although it need not be. The base station portion of the illustrated base station/mobile switching center allows wireless communication device 14 to access network services using a radio link or another type of wireless link. The mobile switching center portion handles the switching of traffic between the wireless link and a telecommunications network to which the wireless link is connected. The telecommunications network may comprise one or a combination of PSTN, ISDN, internet routers, and other network types and network entities.
Interworking function 18 represents the point at which a gateway or bridge connection is formed between mobile terminal device 12 and/or wireless communication device 14 at one end and an internetwork at the other end.
FIG. 2 is a simplified diagram of a protocol stack adhered to by many mobile computing environments, including those adhering to IS-707, RFC 1332, xe2x80x9cThe PPP Internet Protocol Control Protocol (IPCP)xe2x80x9d (May, 1992), RFC 1661, xe2x80x9cThe Point-To-Point Protocol (PPP)xe2x80x9d (July, 1994), and RFC 2002, xe2x80x9cIP Mobility Supportxe2x80x9d (October, 1996). The stack comprises one or more lower layer(s) 28, a data link layer 26, a network layer 24, and one or more upper layers 22. One or more lower layers 28 are provided, including, at the lowest layer, connections establishing a physical link. The relay layer disclosed in IS-707 is included in these lower layers above the physical layer.
Data link layer 26 is immediately above lower layer(s) 28. Data link layer 26 may utilize such protocols as PPP and/or SLIP. This layer deals with point-to-point communications between computers. It packages addressing data and manages the flow of transmissions. PPP (the point-to-point protocol) is described, for example, in RFC 1332 (May, 1992), the content of which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. PPP facilitates the transmission of datagrams between data communications equipment from different manufacturers over dial-up and dedicated serial point-to-point links. PPP can simultaneously transmit multiple protocols across a single serial link, without the need to set up a separate link for each protocol. PPP also allows the interconnection of dissimilar devices, such as host bridges and routers, over serial links. The PPP protocol is comprised of three main components, including an encapsulation scheme, a link control protocol, and network control protocols. These components are respectively responsible for creating the frame, controlling the link, and managing the network layer protocol.
Network layer 24 is just above data link layer 26, and may comprise such protocols as IP or CLNP. The network layer ensures that information arrives at its intended destination. That is, it is concerned with the actual movement of information from one network entity to another. The network layer is responsible for getting data from one computer to another. The internet protocol (IP) breaks up data messages into packets, routes the packets from a sender to a destination network entity, and reassembles the packets into the original data messages at the destination. The IP protocol contains an IP header which contains source and destination address fields that uniquely identify host computers respectively acting as the source and destination of the packets being transferred.
Upper layer(s) portion 22 comprises one or more protocol layers above network layer 24, including, for example, the TCP (transmission control protocol) protocol which is responsible for reliable, in-order delivery of data from one application to another.
Two types of mobile data calls may be placed by a mobile terminal device 12 through a wireless communication device 14: circuit switched (including fax calls) and packet switched. In a circuit switched mobile data call, a circuit switched connection is made between mobile terminal device 12 and a given target network. Mobile terminal device 12 makes this connection by establishing a dial-up modem connection directly over a circuit switched network to a modem-accessible target networkxe2x80x94e.g., to an internet service provider (ISP) or to an office network or LAN. In a packet switched call, a direct connection is established between mobile terminal device 12 at one end and a packet network at the other end through interworking function 18.
There are generally two modes of operation in which packet switched calls can be placed: the network model and the relay model. In a relay model packet call, a packet switched connection is made between mobile terminal device 12 and the network through interworking function 18, while wireless communication device 14 acts as a conduit, at the physical layer. Accordingly, if there is a change in the connection between interworking function 18 and wireless communication device 14 (e.g., the physical link therebetween is temporarily interrupted), the call may be dropped between mobile terminal device 12 and interworking function 18.
On the other hand, in a network model packet call, two separate PPP links are provided at the data link layer: a first interface data link is formed within the data link layer across the Rm interface, and a second interface data link is formed within the data link layer across the Um interface (as well as across the L interface). The separate PPP links help support xe2x80x9ctransparent mobility;xe2x80x9d that is, the mobile terminal device 12 does not need to know when its location changes so as to affect the link between wireless communication device 14 and interworking function 18. In other words, the network model mode of operation prevents changes over the Um link from affecting the Rm link, as the Rm link is isolated from the Um link. This helps with the support of transparent mobility. Another benefit is that the TE2 is protected from arbitrary PPP renegotiations.
The establishment of separate and isolated PPP links at the data link layer over the Rm and the Um interfaces is only part of what is necessary to support transparent mobility. A network layer connection must also be established between mobile terminal device 12 and interworking function 18 at the network layer in a way that still supports transparent mobility.
3. Definitions of Acronyms and Terms
The following term and acronym definitions are provided to assist the reader in obtaining an understanding of the invention as described herein.
Flow Control: Performed by the receiving entity to limit the amount or rate of data sent to it by a transmitting entity or to ignore messages it receives while keeping the transmitting entity unaware that it is being ignored.
Interworking Function (IWF): A point at which a gateway or bridge connection is form ed between a given network (e.g., a packet network) and mobile devices coupled to the network by way of a base station and/or a mobile switching center.
In view of the above, the present invention, through one or more of its various aspects and/or embodiments, is thus presented to bring about one or more objects and advantages. One such object is to provide mechanisms and protocols which facilitate the establishment of a packet link between a mobile terminal device and a network via an interworking function, while supporting transparent mobility so that changes over the Um link do not affect the Rm link. A further object of the present invention is to provide such mechanisms and protocols which also allow for IP mobility support.
The present invention, therefore, is directed to a system or a method for establishing a packet network call over a transmission link extending between a mobile terminal device and an interworking function. The transmission link connects the mobile terminal device to a wireless communication device over a first interface, and further connects the wireless communication device to the interworking function over a second interface via a wireless link to a base station. The packet network call, once established, comprises a first interface data link formed within a data link layer across the first interface and a second interface data link formed within the data link layer across the second interface. A flow control is asserted and deasserted on the mobile terminal device, and during the flow control, the wireless communication device performs a link control protocol negotiation with the interworking function to establish the second interface data link with the interworking function. After the second interface data link is established, and during the flow control, the wireless communication device performs a network control protocol negotiation with the interworking function entity to establish a second interface network link carried by the second interface data link, resulting in an IP address being assigned to identify the mobile terminal device. After the second interface data link is established, the mobile terminal device performs a link control protocol negotiation with the wireless communication device to establish the first interface data link with the wireless communication device. After the first interface data link and the second interface network link are each established, the mobile terminal device performs a network control protocol negotiation with the wireless communication device to establish a first interface network link carried by the first interface data link, utilizing the same IP address assigned during the network control protocol negotiation with the interworking function.
Other acts are performed after the first interface and the second interface network link are each established, when the wireless communication device receives a request for a static IP address from the mobile terminal device. A determination is made as to whether mobile IP is supported by the packet network, and when mobile IP is not supported, the other acts are not performed. During a flow control on the mobile terminal device, the wireless communication device performs a network control protocol renegotiation with the interworking function to reestablish the second interface network link carried by the second interface data link using the static IP address. A network protocol negotiation is thereafter performed between the mobile terminal device and the wireless communication device to establish the first interface network link using the static IP address.

Establishing a packet network call between a mobile terminal device and an interworking function


A product unpacking system includes a work surface at a first height and a product unloading position at a second height. An adjustable cutter is positioned adjacent to the work surface and configured to cut a plurality of sides of each case. A case movement device, such as a robot or manual mover, is configured to retrieve a case from a group of cases and move the case to the cutter to cut a plurality of sides of the case. The case movement device may then move the cut case to an unload position over a product container to allow products within the case to drop into the product container. A system of conveyors may be used to convey empty product containers toward the work surface and to convey filled product containers away from the work surface. The system may be automated to receive recipe information for each case to be unloaded and modify parameters of the system based on the case.

Consumer products are often packaged in cases, such as cardboard boxes, for shipping and conveying purposes. Packaging products in portable cases may aid in both shipping and counting the products. Commonly, products are unpackaged and repacked into different containers, such as totes, bins or the like, for purposes improving portability and conveyance. The new containers may hold products in different quantities than the original product cases and may be more conducive for transfer or storage.
The process of unpacking products from a packed case may be difficult and time consuming for several reasons. First, the case or initial product holder must be opened without any harm to the products inside. Second, the products must be removed and separated from the case without any harm to the products, and in some instances removed one by one, which can take additional time.
While some automated processes for unpacking products from a case exist, they suffer from similar drawbacks to the related manual processes and require numerous steps that lead to longer cycle times.
For at least these reasons, an improved product unpacking system and method are needed in the industry.


In an apparatus and method according to the present invention, image data is read and stored in a recording medium. If the size of the original image data is determined as being different from the display size of a monitor apparatus, the original image data is converted to change the size of the original image to the display size of the monitor apparatus. The converted image data (display image data) is also stored in the recording medium. Therefore, image data whose size corresponds to the display size can be read from the recording medium when displaying the image, thus reducing the time required to display the image on a monitor apparatus.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to an image file apparatus. More particularly, this invention relates to an image file apparatus that records and stores an image, which is recorded in a recording medium by a digital camera or the like, in another recording medium.
2. Description of Related Art
In general, a recording medium such as a memory card for use in a digital camera is relatively expensive, and it is not economical to have a number of memory cards. To address this problem, image data recorded in the recording medium by the digital camera is stored in another recording medium having a large recording capacity (such a medium is relatively inexpensive per bit) for use in an image file apparatus.
On the other hand, the number of pixels in an imaging device in the digital camera has been increasing recently, so that image data with a large number of pixels (high resolution) can be recorded in the recording medium. In order to read the image data with a large number of pixels from the recording medium and display the entire image on a monitor such as a CRT display in accordance with the read image data, the image data is reduced and interpolated to decrease the number of the pixels therein in accordance with a display size of the monitor.
If image data with a large number of pixels is read from the recording medium and is reduced and interpolated to decrease the number of the pixels therein according to the display size of the monitor every time an image is displayed on the monitor, a long time is taken due to the large amount of data accessed. Moreover, some amount of time is needed to reduce the data and the like, further adding to the amount of time required to display the image on the monitor.

Image file apparatus and method for storing display image data corresponding to a display size


The present disclosure provides a method of maintaining a target value of a melt flow index of a polyethylene polymer product being synthesized with a metallocene catalyst in a fluidized bed gas phase reactor. The method includes producing the polyethylene polymer product at the target value of the melt flow index with a metallocene catalyst in a fluidized bed gas phase reactor at a steady state in which the fluidized bed gas phase reactor is at a first reactor temperature and receives feeds of hydrogen and ethylene at a hydrogen to ethylene feed ratio at a first ratio value. When a change in reactor temperature is detected, the hydrogen to ethylene feed ratio is changed from the first ratio value to a second ratio value so as to maintain the melt flow index value of the polyethylene polymer product at the target value.

Polyolefins such as polyethylene polymers are typically produced in a low pressure reactor, utilizing, for example, solution, slurry, or gas phase polymerization processes. Polymerization takes place in the presence of catalyst systems such as, for example, a Ziegler-Natta catalyst, a chromium based catalyst, a metallocene catalyst, or combinations thereof.
During their production, different process control models are used for real-time control of polyethylene polymer product production. These control models use polymer properties that are measurable explicitly or analytically in a relatively short period of time. The two most common properties that meet these requirements are density and melt flow index (MI), both of which are controlled during the polymerization reaction. Density is a relative measure on the degree of branching in the polymer product, where the ratio of ethylene to co-monomer is a manipulated to control density. The MI is a relative measure of the polymer product chain length, where the ratio of hydrogen to ethylene is a manipulated parameter to control the MI.
One of the main challenges in polyethylene polymer product production on the industrial scale is controlling the reaction temperature. Polyethylene polymerization reactions are very exothermic and it is important to keep the reactor temperature constant to ensure a high production rate of a polyethylene polymer product with the desired properties. Changes in reactor temperature, however, can happen either unexpectedly or during a grade transition for the polyethylene polymer product. Regardless of the reason, changes in reactor temperature can result in difficulties in maintaining the MI of the polyethylene polymer product at a target value due to changing reaction rates and hydrogen to ethylene gas ratios inside the reactor. As such, there is a need in the art for the ability to maintain control over the hydrogen gas ratios to ethylene gas ratios inside the reactor during changes in reactor temperatures so as to better maintain the MI of the polyethylene polymer production at a target value.

Method of maintaining a melt flow index of a polyethylene polymer product


A transmission circuit (101) for transmitting data onto a transmission line, and a mask circuit (102) for generating a mask signal (105) for removing a reflected wave based on a transmission timing notification signal (104) supplied form the transmission circuit (101) are provided. For example, a timer circuit (301) causes the mask signal (105) to be effective only for a predetermined time immediately after transmission. A logic circuit (302) is used to remove a reflected wave from the received signal (106) based on the mask signal (105), and a resultant masked received signal (107) is input to a reception circuit (103).

In the conventional art, reflected waves are reduced by adjusting an output impedance to eliminate an impedance mismatch occurring in a sender circuit, for example. Specifically, an output circuit for varying an output impedance in accordance with a control signal, a dummy transmission line connected to the output circuit and equivalent to an actual load transmission line, a voltage detecting circuit connected to the other end of the dummy transmission line and for detecting an initial voltage amplitude from the output circuit, and an impedance control signal generating circuit for generating a control signal for controlling the output impedance based on the detected voltage value (see Patent Document 1).    Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. H11-17518


A method for making a stencil for screen printing with a thermal head printer and method of using the same for plate making, uses a dot matrix of thermal head which is heated to obtain an image for printing for required letters, drawings and/or patterns by melting. Both watercolor inks and oil inks can be used. This stencil is composed of a polyester film and a diffusion screen substratum which are firmly adhered together by a two-part adhesive agent of unsaturated polyester resin containing amine and polyisocyanate resin.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a process stencil for screen printing with a thermal head printer and a method of using the same for plate making, wherein a thermoplastic resin film and a diffusion screen substratum are stuck together as the stencil on which processed or etched images for required letters, drawings and/or patterns are prepared by melting process caused by heat treatment on a dot matrix of a thermal printer. This stencil can be used for both watercolor inks and oil inks.
2. Description of Prior Art
It is a matter of common knowledge to adopt a thermographic screen process stencil in a light and heat system to produce an image for printing as follows. A thermoplastic resin film and a diffusion screen substratum made of polyester, nylon or silk material are stuck by an adhesive agent as a process stencil. An original artwork is placed on the surface of the thermoplastic resin, and then a flash light or an infrared ray with a temperature of 180.degree..about.200.degree. C. is imposed thereupon from the face of the substratum. The imposed light or ray is absorbed into the artwork and it produces a heat temperature of 120.degree..about.130.degree. C. This produced heat melts the thermoplastic resin and the adhesive agent, and finally a processed or etched image for printing is obtained.
The Japanese Gazette No.48-82921 for publication of unexamined patent applications discloses a method of a thermograpy, wherein a thermographic process stencil which is a combination of a vinyl group thermoplastic resin film and a porous substratum through which ink freely passes, on which is placed an original artwork. When a heat beam having 0.7.about.1.5 .mu.m wave length is imposed the image of the original artwork is processed.
The Japanese Gazette NO. 59-115899 for publication of unexamined patent applications discloses a thermographic process stencil, wherein a polyester film having a thickness below 5 .mu.m and a porous substratum composed mainly of a synthetic fiber are stuck together by an adhesive agent having its main component of methoxymethylized poliamide resin. An image for printing is obtained by an infrared ray radiation.
The thermographic process stencils as explained above are in general usable for watercolor and oil inks. However, when an image for printing is formed on the stencil, the beam is radiated all over the surface of the stencil so that undesirable portions, such as a stain on the original artwork, dust originally stuck on the stencil and the crossing points of the fiber produced on the substratum might be conveyed by the beam and reproduced thereupon. This invites many pinholes, which is a serious defect.
Different from a light and heat system, a thermographic screen process stencil in a thermal head printer system is also provided, wherein the thermal head is heated at its dot matrix portion and is contacted onto a thermoplastic resin film to melt the film with a temperature of 70.degree..about.90.degree. C. for obtaining a processed image. This art is disclosed in detail by the Japanese Gazette No.60-180890 for publication of unexamined Patent Applications. A thermoplastic resin film in the thickness of 1.about.6 .mu.m and a porous substratum are stuck together by an adhesive agent, and the heat is supplied on the dot matrix of the thermal head, so that a processed or etched image can be prepared for printing.
The process stencil to be used for the above thermal system is generally sold in the market and is guaranteed for durability of the thermal head below 90.degree. C. temperature only. Therefore the thermoplastic resin film and the adhesive layer should be melted at a very low temperature, when compared with the stencil to be used for a light and heat system. Thus, it is necessary to use a very thin film and an adhesive agent which is to be melted in a low temperature. The adhesive to be melted in a low temperature has a quality of inferior heat resistance and also a quality of inferior oil resistance. After the very thin film and the agent to be melted in a low temperature are used together and the printing is finished, a mass of inks on the stencil should be removed by some removal agent. When the removal agent is used thereupon, the adhesive agent is easily melted, stripping the film from the substratum. Therefore repetitive printing cannot be performed. At the same time, as the adhesive to be melted in a low temperature is of inferior quality for oil resistance, this stencil cannot be used for oil inks. The stencil is used mainly for watercolor inks. The printings required on the acrylic plates, vinyl chloride plates and metal plates are available only with oil inks, and therefore, the present stencil method cannot be used on these printings.
If we try to process the light and heat system thermographic stencil with a thermal head system, it is impossible to prepare the image for printings. The heat of the thermal head cannot melt the thermoplastic resin film and the adhesive agent layer properly because the film is very thick and the temperature of this adhesive agent is higher.
Further, as explained before, in the light and heat system, many pinholes are unavoidable and, in the thermal head system, oil inks are not usable. Therefore, it is very difficult to adopt oil inks for screen printing. Accordingly, in the present situations, such printings are supplied by a photomechanical system which is very complicated and requires skilled manual labor.

Method for making a stencil with a two part adhesive and method of imaging with a thermal head and cleaning solvent


A method of fabricating an integrated circuit (IC) and ICs therefrom including a plurality of Metal Oxide Semiconductor (MOS) transistors having reduced gate dielectric thinning and corner sharpening at the trench isolation/semiconductor edge for gate dielectric layers generally 500 to 5,000 Angstroms thick. The method includes providing a substrate having a silicon including surface. A plurality of dielectric filled trench isolation regions are formed in the substrate. The silicon including surface forms trench isolation active area edges along its periphery with the trench isolation regions. An epitaxial silicon comprising layer is deposited, wherein the epitaxial comprising silicon layer is formed over the silicon comprising surface. The epitaxial comprising silicon layer is oxidized to convert at least a portion into a thermally grown silicon oxide layer, wherein the thermally grown silicon oxide layer provides at least a portion of a gate dielectric layer for at least one of said plurality of MOS transistors. A patterned gate electrode layer is formed over the gate dielectric, wherein the patterned gate electrode layer extends over at least one of the trench isolation active area edges. Fabrication of the IC is then completed.

One common isolation technique for electrically isolating transistors is based on trench isolation. The trench isolation process is generally more suitable for semiconductor chips having high packing density, as compared to local oxidation (LOCOS) processing. A trench region is formed in conventional semiconductor substrates (e.g. Si) with a depth deep enough for isolating the devices or different wells. In general, trenches are etched using a patterned hard mask material (e.g. silicon nitride) over a pad oxide for masking the active area. A thin liner oxide is generally thermally grown and the trenches are then refilled with a deposited dielectric material, such as deposited using a high-density plasma chemical vapor deposition (HDP-CVD) process.
As used herein, the term "trench isolation" applies for both conventional (e.g. bulk Si) substrates as well as silicon-on-insulator (SOI) substrates. Applied to conventional substrates, as used herein, trench isolation includes deep trench isolation which is typically 1-5 μm deep, and shallow trench isolation which is typically <1 μm deep, such as 0.3 to 0.7 μm deep. Applied to SOI substrates, as used herein, trench isolation includes the isolation regions between the active area islands. In the case of thin film SOI substrates, the trench isolation regions as in the conventional substrate case are generally filled with a deposited dielectric, but are typically shallower than their conventional substrate counterparts, being generally <0.5 μm deep, such as 0.01 to 0.3 μm deep.
Typically, after the trench isolation process is completed, the pad oxide (if present) is removed and a gate oxide is thermally grown on the active area. Sometimes a sacrificial (dummy) gate oxide is grown and stripped prior to the final gate oxide growth.
As known in the art, thermally grown gate oxide thinning occurs at the trench isolation/active area edge (or corner) when the gate oxide thickness is at least several hundred Angstroms or more. Such thinning results from the reduced diffusion controlled (parabolic) oxidation rate at the mechanically stressed relatively sharp trench isolation edge relative to gate oxide grown in the active area away from the trench isolation edge. Although steam oxidation, higher temperature, and high pressure oxidation can prevent or at least reduce thinning at the trench isolation edge if target thickness is relatively small by extending the linear oxidation regime, such as up to about 300 to 475 Angstroms, the thicker gate oxides needed for high voltage transistors, such as from 1,000 to 5,000 Angstroms thick (e.g. for max Vg of 75 V to 200 V), result in significant thinning at the trench isolation edge which can result in yield loss or reliability problems. Typically, the gate oxide thickness at the trench isolation edge is ≦75% of the gate oxide thickness in the active area away from the trench isolation edge. Accordingly, it is desirable to provide methods for fabricating an IC in which a relatively thick gate oxide, such as 500 to 5,000 Angstroms thick, can be grown with reduced or eliminated gate oxide thinning relative to the gate oxide thickness grown in the active area away from the trench isolation edge.

Epitaxial deposition-based processes for reducing gate dielectric thinning at trench edges and integrated circuits therefrom


A lens barrel has an immovable cylindrical member adapted to be detachably attached to a camera body, and a lens holder for holding a group of focusing lenses. The holder is disposed in the member so as to be movable along an optical axis of the focusing lenses for a focusing adjustment. A manual-focusing ring, rotatably mounted on the member, is manually movable along the optical axis between an auto-focusing (AF) position and a manual-focusing (MF) position, and has a plurality of recesses circumferentially arranged and formed on an inner wall surface thereof. A drive mechanism, provided between the member and the holder to convert a rotation into a translation of the holder along the optical axis, has at least a pin which is subjected to the rotation. The pin is engaged in one of the recesses of the ring when the ring is at the MF position, such that a rotation of the ring is transmitted to the drive mechanism. The pin is disengaged from the one of the recesses of the ring when the ring is at the AF position.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a lens barrel detachably attached to a camera body, in which either an auto-focusing (AF) mode or a manual-focusing (MF) mode is selectable.
2. Description of the Related Art
Such a lens barrel comprises an immovable cylindrical member adapted to be detachably attached to a camera body, and a movable cylindrical member concentrically disposed in the immovable cylindrical member. The movable cylindrical member serves as a lens holder for holding a group of focusing lenses, and is movable along an optical axis of the focusing lenses to perform a focusing adjustment in accordance with a distance between the camera and an object to be photographed.
A drive mechanism is provided between the lens holder and the immovable cylindrical member to move the lens holder along the optical axis, enabling the focusing adjustment to be performed, and is operatively joined to a drive motor, provided in the camera body, upon attaching the lens barrel to the camera body. The drive motor is driven in accordance with an auto-focusing system incorporated in the camera, and a rotational movement of the drive motor is converted into a translational movement by the drive mechanism, which is then transmitted to the lens holder, such that the focusing adjustment is performed.
On the other hand, the lens barrel is provided with a manual-focusing ring rotatably provided around the immovable cylindrical member, and the manual-focusing ring is engaged with the drive mechanism. Thus, a manual rotational movement of the manual-focusing ring is also converted into a translational movement, which is then transmitted to the lens holder, such that the focusing adjustment is performed.
Of course, the lens barrel is further provided with a focusing-mode changeover mechanism for changing from the AF mode to the MF mode and vice versa.
When the AF mode is selected by the focusing-mode changeover mechanism, the drive mechanism is only actuated by the drive motor provided in the camera body, whereby an auto-focusing adjustment is carried out. In this case, of course, the drive mechanism is disengaged from the manual-focusing ring such that the transmission of the movement of the manual-focusing ring to the lens holder is prohibited.
When the MF mode is selected by the focusing-mode changeover mechanism, the drive mechanism is driven by only the manual-focusing ring, whereby a manual-focusing adjustment is carried out. Of course, in the MF mode, the drive mechanism is disconnected from the drive motor such that the transmission of the movement of the drive motor to the lens older is prohibited.
Unexamined Japanese Patent publication No. S63-193119 discloses a type of lens barrel, in which an AF/MF changeover-operating ring for manually actuating the focusing-mode changeover mechanism is movably mounted on the immovable cylindrical member. Either the AF mode or the MF mode is selected by manually operating the AF/MF changeover-operating ring. This conventional type of lens barrel is relatively bulky because both the manual-focusing ring and the changeover ring are mounted on the immovable cylindrical member. Also, a camera using this lens barrel is troublesome to manipulate, because it is necessary to independently operate the manual-focusing ring and the AF/MF changeover-operating ring.
Unexamined Japanese Patent publication No. H04-344609 discloses another type of lens barrel having a single ring, which serves both as a manual-focusing ring and an AF/MF changeover-operating ring. In this type of lens barrel, the single ring is rotatably mounted on the immovable cylindrical member, but it is movable along a longitudinal axis of the immovable cylindrical member between an auto-focusing (AF) position and a manual-focusing (MF) position.
When the single ring is at the AF position, the AF mode is selected. In this case, the drive mechanism is only actuated by the drive motor provided in the camera body, whereby an auto-focusing adjustment is carried out. Namely, the drive mechanism is disengaged from the manual-focusing ring such that the transmission of the movement of the manual-focusing ring to the lens holder is prohibited.
On the other hand, when the single ring is moved from the AF position to the MF position, the MF mode is selected, i.e. the single ring serves as the manual-focusing ring. In this case, the drive mechanism is disconnected from the drive motor, and a resiliently-frictional engagement is established between the drive mechanism and the single ring or manual-focusing ring. Thus, a manual rotational movement of the single ring or manual-focusing ring is converted into a translational movement by the drive mechanism, which is then transmitted to the lens holder, such that the focusing adjustment is performed.
Nevertheless, the type of lens barrel, as disclosed in Unexamined Japanese Patent publication No. H04-344609, is unreliable, because a slippage in the resiliently-frictional engagement may occur between the drive mechanism and the single ring or manual-focusing ring. The severity of the slippage increases as the lens barrel ages, due to wearing of parts undertaking the resiliently-frictional engagement.
To ensure a proper resiliently-frictional engagement between the drive mechanism and the single ring or manual-focusing ring over a long service life period, it is possible to incorporate a highly resilient spring in the drive mechanism. Nevertheless, this approach is unadvisable, because a distortion or deformation may occur in the lens barrel due to the high resiliency of the spring.


An enclosed kneading apparatus which can smoothly knead and disperse kneaded products of various kneading conditions without the maintenance of a rotor moving mechanism for a first and second rotors and the operation which sacrifices the handling capacity of the kneading apparatus and at the same time, prevent an excessive increase in the temperature of the kneaded products. In the apparatus, the kneaded product of a desired kneading state is obtained by flowing a kneading object in tip clearances between the inner wall of a chamber and a first and second rotors while rotating the first and second rotors in the chamber, and by imparting a shearing force to disperse the kneading object. The respective first and second rotors are provided with three long wings in helical fashion each having a plurality of tip portions for providing a plurality of three tip clearances in the axial direction.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an enclosed kneading apparatus for kneading materials such as rubber, plastic and so forth by rotating rotors in a chamber.
2. Description of the Related Art
Batch-type enclosed kneading apparatuses manufacture a batch of kneaded products by a series of operations such that kneading materials such as rubber, plastic and so forth are pressed into a chamber by a floating weight, the materials are kneaded by a pair of rotors provided in the chamber to obtain a kneaded product of a desired state, and the kneaded product is discharged from the chamber through a drop door.
The above kneading is performed by allowing a rotation force of the rotors to act as a shearing force on the kneaded product. It has been known that the shearing force is maximum in a clearance between the rotors and the inner wall of the chamber (hereinafter, referred to as tip clearance), and the maximum shearing force increases with the decrease of the tip clearance. Therefore, it is apparent that decreasing the tip clearance accelerates the kneading due to the dispersive action caused by a large shearing force. However, if the tip clearance decreases, a large shearing force is locally imparted to the kneaded product, so that the temperature of the kneaded product increases.
Thus, in the case of manufacturing a kneaded product having a low allowable temperature, steps are taken such that the tip clearance is set to increase, the rotor speed is decreased although productivity decreases, and the input amount of materials is reduced in order to prevent an increase in the temperature over the allowable temperature even if kneading efficiency is low. In addition, in the case of manufacturing a kneaded product having a high allowable temperature, the tip clearance is sufficiently decreased and the rotor speed is increased in order to obtain a large shearing force while attaching importance to kneading efficiency.
According to the above conventional arrangements, however, the tip clearance is suitable only for a specific kneading condition. Thus, unless the rotors are replaced so as to provide a tip clearance responsive to the kneading condition when the type of the kneaded product is switched to change the kneading condition, an excessive tip clearance or a too small tip clearance is provided which exacerbates the problems of insufficient kneading and dispersion, and the increase in temperature of the kneaded product over the allowable temperature. However, it is impractical to replace the rotors in response to the kneading condition. When the temperature of the kneaded product increases over the allowable temperature, the quality of the kneaded product is actually ensured at the sacrifice of the handling capacity of the kneading apparatus, i.e., by decreasing the speed of rotors and reducing the input amount of materials.
When merely increasing the cooling efficiency, an enclosed kneading apparatus as disclosed in Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 63-47106 may be used in which two helical long wings extending in the axial direction are provided in the circumferential direction, scrapers are disposed at the back of the long wings, and a kneaded product layer attached to the inner surface of a chamber is scraped off by the scrapers, whereby the cooling efficiency through the chamber is increased. In the above enclosed kneading apparatus, however, only the long wings provide a specific tip clearance and perform a shearing function, and the technical idea of imparting the shearing function to the scrapers is not described, so that the apparatus is insufficient in the sense of a change of the tip clearance.
In addition, an enclosed kneading apparatus has been developed in which rotation axes of rotors can move so that the tip clearance can be arbitrarily changed in response to the kneading condition rather than impractical replacement of the rotors. In this case, however, checking and maintenance of a mechanism for moving the rotation axes of the rotors are required each time the axes are moved, the setup time increases, and the checking operation becomes complicated.


An apparatus and process for recovery of oil from submerged tanks is disclosed together with a specialized cutting tool for attaching to and cutting an entry aperture into a submerged tank. The apparatus includes a surface floating vessel having a conduit (preferably conventionally coiled tubing) for receiving oil at the submerged tank and discharging the oil into the vessel. The vessel includes a source of hydraulic power for the remote operation of hydraulic equipment at the site of the submerged tank. Two points of entry are made in each tank for the purpose of equilibrating pressure within the tank; in one point of entry fluid is pumped into the tank to replace the fluid that is removed. At the remaining point of entry, fluid is evacuated to a positive displacement pump, typically of the Moyno.RTM. variety. This pump discharges fluid received from the tank with sufficient pressure to overcome viscosity-induced friction. A specialized tool is used for gaining entry into the tank, including an electromagnetic spool for making initial attachment, and a hydraulically powered abrading cylindrical tool for cutting through the steel of the tank for attaining entry. The process of attachment includes use of a remote operated vehicle to locate the tool on the submerged tank, initial fastening utilizing the electromagnetic spool, cutting of the steel to make entry into the tank, followed by either injection or discharge of fluid to the tank from the point of entry.

The underwater recovery of fluids from submerged tanks is becoming of considerable commercial importance. Discussion of a single recent incident in January 1997 in the Sea of Japan can emphasize this importance.
As of this date, the Russian Tanker "Nakhdka" sank off the Japanese coast in the Sea of Japan. The tanker broke into sections, with a large section sinking in 6,000 feet of water some 200 kilometers off the Japanese coast. As of the date of the filing of this patent application, oil continues to leak from this submerged hull section and drift ashore in Japan.
Environmental and commercial damage has followed in the wake of this accident. By way of example, it has been necessary to prevent the entry of oil into cooling water intakes of atomic power plants in Japan to prevent the oil from interfering with the required heat transfer.
From a review of the applicable prior art, it appears that the evacuation of oil from such submerged tanks has not been carefully and methodically considered before. Accordingly, in setting forth the problems to be overcome, I claim invention insofar as the prior art does not recognize the problems to be solved.
First, and assuming that oil is in a submerged tank, it is to be understood that the undersea pressures are considerable. For example, the ordinary pressure existing at around 6,000 feet of depth in the ocean is on the order of 3,000 pounds per square inch.
Second, it will be understood that conventional tanks--such as those found in tankers--are not designed to withstand pressure anywhere near the ambient pressure of the ocean at any depth. Accordingly, the first problem to be overcome is to equilibrate the pressure inside the tank being evacuated with the pressure outside the tank. Lacking such equilibration, tank collapse with oil discharge can occur.
Third, most oil transported in tankers is extremely viscous. With high viscosity, pumping from the tank site with a positive displacement pump taking a short suction on the tank is required. Thereafter, discharge from the tank to a surface vessel can occur.
Finally, conventional oil removal equipment should at all times be utilized. The utilization of specialized equipment should be held to an absolute minimum.

Underwater recovery of fluids from submerged tank


A method for assisting window selection in a graphical user interface determines one or more current top-level windows to be displayed to a user for selection by the user. The user is then able to select a particular window of the one or more windows being displayed. In some embodiments, the one or more current top-level windows are displayed as translucent windows. Additionally, in some embodiments, a user is able to cycle through multiple sets of one or more windows in order to locate a particular window.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention pertains to computer systems with graphical user interfaces. More particularly, this invention relates to assisting window selection in a graphical user interface.
2. Background
Computer technology is continuously advancing, resulting in modem computer systems which provide ever-increasing performance. One result of this increased performance is an increased use of computer systems by individuals in a wide variety of business, academic and personal pursuits. The increased performance of computer systems, as well as reduced cost for certain hardware components (such as processors and memory chips), has allowed individual computer systems to execute multiple applications concurrently. "Windows" or "windowing" refers to a technique in which one or more of these multiple applications can be displayed to a user concurrently using portions of a display device. Each of these multiple applications may also have multiple document windows displayed on the display device of the computer system.
The benefits of concurrent display of multiple windows on a display device are numerous. Among these benefits is the ability of the computer system user to substantially simultaneously view data from different applications (or different aspects of one or more applications). For example, an individual may have windows displayed which correspond to a word processing document, a spreadsheet document, and a video conference in progress.
One problem with multiple-window displays, however, is that displaying a large number of windows concurrently may confuse the user. When a large number of windows are displayed concurrently, it is often difficult for a user to locate and activate a particular window, or indeed even remember if a particular window is currently open (for example, a window may be opened but covered by one or more other open windows). Displaying a large number of windows may lead to confusion and/or frustration for the user, especially in real-time applications such as audio, video, and/or data conferencing. Thus, it would be beneficial to provide a method to simplify locating and activating windows in a multiple-window display.
One solution to this problem is to provide a list of current windows, including, for example, both open and minimized windows. For example, the Windows.TM. 95 operating system includes a TaskBar, typically along the bottom of the screen, which lists the current windows. The Windows.TM. 95 TaskBar displays the name and/or icon for each current window. However, these names and/or icons may not be recognized by the user. Furthermore, the names of current windows are often truncated in the Windows.TM. 95 TaskBar, especially when there are a large number of windows. This truncation may lead to even further confusion on the part of the user in locating a particular window.
Another solution to the problem of locating windows in a multiple-window display is to allow the user to cycle through one or more dialog boxes with the icons and/or names of the current windows. For example, in the Windows.TM. 3.1 operating system, a user can cycle through dialog boxes, each of which provides an icon and name of a currently executing application, by depressing and holding the Alt key (or the Alt and Shift keys) and then repeatedly pressing the Tab key. By way of another example, in the Windows.TM. 95 operating system, depressing and holding the Alt key (or the Alt and Shift keys) and then pressing the Tab key displays a dialog box with an icon for each of the current windows, and repeatedly pressing the Tab key allows the user to cycle through the icons displayed in the dialog box. However, these solutions also require the user to recognize the icon and/or name of the window he or she is looking for, which hinders window selection if he or she does not recognize the name or icon. Thus, it would be beneficial to provide a method to simplify locating windows in a multiple window display that does not require recognition by the user of the name and/or icon of the window.
Some of the problems which can arise in a multiple-window display of a typical graphical user interface are illustrated in FIG. 1. As illustrated in FIG. 1, six windows 101-106 are currently displayed on a display 100. Each of the windows 101-106 also includes a title bar at the top of the window which provides the name of the window. For example, window 101 has "WINDOW(1)" displayed in its title bar. However, due to overlapping windows, the names of some of the windows are not visible, such as windows 104 and 106. Additionally, due to the size of the windows, some window names may be truncated, such as window 103. Furthermore, there may be additional windows that are not visible because they are completely overlapped by another window(s). For example, multiple windows may be overlapped by window 105 and therefore not visible to the user.
FIG. 1 also shows a TaskBar 110 which includes the names of multiple windows which are available for selection by a user. However, as shown in FIG. 1, the window names are truncated, thereby making it difficult for the user to determine which name of TaskBar 110 corresponds to a specific window. This is particularly true when the windows include open "folders" and the entire path name is displayed as the title, as in the case of Windows.TM. 95, which can result in multiple names being truncated to the same name (for example, "C:.backslash.WIND . . . ").
As will be described in more detail below, the present invention provides a method for assisting in window selection to achieve these and other desired results which will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the description that follows.

Method for assisting window selection in a graphical user interface


Method and circuitry for implementing high speed multiple-data-rate interface architectures for programmable logic devices. The invention partitions I/O pins and their corresponding registers into independent multiple-data rate I/O modules each having at least one pin dedicated to the strobe signal DQS and others to DQ data signals. The modular architecture facilitates pin migration from one generation of PLDs to the next larger generation.

The present invention relates in general to input/output (I/O) interface in integrated circuits, and in particular to method and circuitry for distributing clock signals in a programmable logic device (PLD) that employs a multiple data rate interface.
To address the data bandwidth bottleneck in the interface between integrated circuits, high speed interface mechanisms have been developed which have helped increase the speed of data transfer and data throughput. In a multiple data rate interface scheme, two or more bits of data are transferred during each clock period. One example of multiple data rate is the so called double data rate, or DDR, technology, which performs two data operations in one clock cycle and achieves twice the throughput of data. This technology has enhanced the bandwidth performance of integrated circuits used in a wide array of applications from computers to communication systems. The DDR technique is being employed in, for example, today's synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM) circuits.
The basic DDR implementation processes I/O data (also referred to as DQ signals) using both the rising edge and the falling edge of a clock signal DQS that functions as a data strobe to control the timing of data transfer. FIG. 1 shows the timing relationship between DQS and DQ signals. DQS is normally edge-aligned with DQ for a DDR interface operating in read mode (i.e., when receiving data at the I/Os). For optimum sampling of the data, internal to the integrated circuit, DQS is delayed by ¼ of the clock period to achieve a 90 degree phase shift between the edges of DQ and DQS. This ensures that the DQS edge occurs as close to the center of the DQ pulse as possible as shown in FIG. 1. It is desirable to implement this 90 degree phase shift as accurately and in as stable a manner as possible. However, typical phase shift techniques that use, for example, delay chains, are highly susceptible to process, voltage, and temperature (PVT) variations. In addition, typical DDR timing specifications require a wide frequency range of operation from, e.g., 133 MHz to 200 MHz. This places further demands on the performance of the phase shift circuitry. Another factor that affects DQS strobe timing is the skew between DQS and DQ. In general, for improved timing accuracy it is desirable to minimize this skew as much as possible.
The programmable logic technology has also seen an increased demand for this type of multiple data rate interface. Some of the above constraints, however, are exacerbated when implementing a DDR interface in a PLD. In a typical PLD configuration, the DQS signal is first applied to a phase locked loop (PLL) to generate the required phase shift and alignment. The DQ signals are applied directly to respective I/O registers whose clock inputs receive the phase-corrected DQS signal. There are inherent delays in the routing of the DQS signal from the DQS pin to the PLL and then to the I/O registers, where the I/O registers can be very large in numbers located at varying distances. These delays contribute to the undesirable skew between DQS and DQ. Also, the same PLD may be configured to operate at any frequency in the DDR frequency range and thus must accommodate the various clock speeds. Yet another concern is the ever aggressive increase in density and number of I/Os that is typical of the PLD technology as it moves from one generation to the next. To speed up the time-to-market cycles for future PLDs, it is desirable to devise an interface architecture that facilitates pin migration from one product family to the next.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Multiple data rate interface architecture


An ultrasonic welding machine having a tool in the form of, for example, a sonotrode. In order to allow for an optimal utilization of the working surfaces of the sonotrode, it is proposed to move or mount the sonotrode in a desired position with respect to the element that connects the ultrasonic welding machine to the sonotrode by rotating the sonotrode around its longitudinal axis as well as a transverse axis running perpendicular thereto.

The invention concerns an ultrasonic welding machine having a tool in the form of a sonotrode, a backplate electrode, or a side element with four working surfaces that delimits a compression chamber, wherein these surfaces can be selectively aligned on the material to be welded, for example, flexible wires or pipes made of metal, and extend across at least one end face of the tool passed through by the longitudinal axis of the tool, wherein the end face rests on an element such as a mounting, booster, or converter, via which the tool is connected to the ultrasonic welding machine, and wherein the tool is rotated around the longitudinal axis in order to align one of the working surfaces on the material in a desired position with respect to the element. The invention concerns also a tool of an ultrasonic welding machine in the form of a sonotrode having two mutually opposite end faces, as well as at least one surface running between the end faces and perpendicular or approximately perpendicular to the end faces, which is a working surface when aligned on a backplate electrode.
From EP-A-0 083 707 an ultrasonic welding machine with tools is known, which comprises a sonotrode with four working surfaces, and an anvil with four working surfaces. Thereby, the sonotrode as well as also the anvil can be rotated around its, or their respective longitudinal axis in order to make possible an alignment of the working surfaces on compression chambers having different cross sections.
From EP-A-0 286 975, as well as also from U.S. Pat. No. 4,782,990 ultrasonic welding machines are known in which the backplate electrode can be shifted by 180° in order to make available different working surfaces, which delimit a compression chamber.
An ultrasonic welding machine according to EP-B-0 723 713 comprises a sonotrode that generates ultrasonic vibrations, of which one section is a first boundary surface serving as working surface of a compression chamber, which is adjustable in height and width, preferably rectangular in cross section, and open on the face side. The remaining boundary and working surfaces are formed by sections of a multi-piece backplate electrode as well as a side shifting device.
From EP-B-0 761 370 an ultrasonic welding machine is known in which each of the mutually opposite end faces of the sonotrode is connected to a booster. The length of the sonotrode corresponds to the wavelength λ of the ultrasonic waves. In the antinode of the sonotrode, which has a cylindrical shape, several projections forming working surfaces are provided. In order to align each of the working surfaces on a backplate electrode (also called anvil), the sonotrode must be rotated around its longitudinal axis.
In WO-A-02/43915 an ultrasonic welding machine is described in which a side shifting device delimits a compression chamber. The side shifting device has several working surfaces. The side shifting device can be rotated and/or turned in order to align each one of the working surfaces on a compression chamber.

Ultrasonic welding machine, as well as tool for an ultrasonic welding machine


A method and device for lifting the epithelium from a selected area of the eye using an incision instrument for cutting the epithelium to define an area of the epithelium to be removed, and a fluid jet assembly for separating the selected area of the epithelium from the underlying layer. The incision instrument shown has a series of incision elements distributed about a peripheral pattern, arranged to cut the epithelium in the direction of its thickness without disturbing the underlying layer, to create a tear line. The jet assembly directs through the tear line a fluid jet in the manner that the fluid progresses inwardly from the tear line and effectively wedges the epithelium from the underlying layer. The device shown also has an epithelium support structure for engaging the exterior surface of the delineated area of the epithelium in order to support and maintain the structural integrity of the lifted epithelium. The lifted epithelium can be biologically preserved and repositioned after a medical procedure is conducted on the exposed surface of the eye. Isotonic fluids for maintaining the biological balance of the eye tissue and use of softening agents for aiding in the release of scarred or tenaciously held epithelium are also disclosed.

This invention relates to removal of the epithelium during medical treatment of the eye.
The cornea comprises transparent avascular tissue that forms the anterior portion of the eye. It resides in the sclera at the limbus. The cornea functions as both a protective membrane and a "window" through which light passes as it proceeds to the retina. The transparency of the cornea is due to its uniform structure, avascularity, and deturgescence, which is the state of relative hydration of the corneal tissue. The average adult cornea is about 0.65mm thick at the periphery and about 0.54 mm thick in the center. From anterior to posterior, the cornea has the following five distinct layers: the epithelium, Bowman's membrane, the stroma, Descemet's membrane, and the endothelium. The present invention concerns the epithelium, Bowman's membrane and the stroma. The epithelium consists of five or six layers of cells, and the underlying Bowman's membrane, a clear acellular layer, is a modified portion of the stroma. The corneal stroma accounts for about 90 percent of the corneal thickness. The stroma is composed of intertwining lamellar fibers that are about 1 .mu.m wide and run almost the full diameter of the cornea. They run parallel to the surface of the cornea and by virtue of their size and periodicity are optically clear.
The corneal epithelium encompasses a rich network of nerve fibers with bare ends. Whenever the nerve fibers are exposed, they produce a sensation of pain. Since the endings of the nerve fibers are located near the surface, severe pain results from even a minor abrasion of the corneal epithelium. The nutrition of the cornea including the epithelium is provided by the vessels of the limbus, the aqueous, and tears. The corneal epithelium also extracts most of its oxygen from the atmosphere.
Damage to the epithelium causes transient localized swelling of the corneal stroma that clears when the epithelium cells regenerate. The epithelium forms an effective barrier to the entrance of microorganisms into the cornea. If the epithelium is removed or traumatized, Bowman's layer and the avascular stroma become susceptible to a variety of microorganisms.
The epithelium layer consists of highly renewable cells which are capable of regrowth within a few days. Once formed, these cells define a highly organized light transparent unit.
Before any surgical procedure on the stroma can be conducted, the epithelium must first be removed. The surgical removal of the epithelium is currently performed by mechanically scraping the epithelium layer from the underlying layer. The precision and quality of this procedure depends upon the ophthalmologist's skill and also on the morphology of the eye surface, i.e., how firmly the epithelium is attached to Bowman's membrane and to the stroma and the health and condition of the epithelium. In particular, contact lens wearers and people who previously have undergone corneal sculpting often have the epithelium strongly attached to the underlying surface. Patients who have undergone prior injury or treatment might often have scar tissue. In such cases, mechanical epithelium removal is frequently non-uniform and requires considerable time to perform. Furthermore, since the procedure depends on the skill of the ophthalmologist, removal of the epithelium entails risk of damage to the Bowman's layer and to the stroma.
After eye surgery, it often takes 40 to 70 hours for the missing epithelium layer to regrow over the surface of the eye. It takes even longer for the epithelium cells to achieve coherent orientation and organization that allows full transparency and proper vision. This is not only a painful process, but the patient's vision is also impaired during this healing period.
It has been suggested that de-epithelization of the eye be performed using scraping or tearing by mechanical means, with or without the additional use of softening agents. However, with such techniques the epithelium is not removed uniformly and in any event the healing period and discomfort can remain a problem. It has also been suggested to replace removed epithelium cells back upon the eye after the eye surgery to assist in healing, but we are unaware that this has been done satisfactorily.
In summary, there continues to be a need for a surgical device and procedure which can remove the epithelium in a standardized manner, very quickly and without causing damage to the cornea and which enables rapid convalescence. In addition, there is a particular need for a device and procedure that enables removal of the epithelium which is strongly attached to the underlying layer, i.e., Bowman's membrane or stroma in cases wherein the Bowman's membrane was previously removed.

Medical treatment of the eye involving removal of the epithelium


An air pressure gun to shoot a projectile, such as a golf ball, long distances using pressurized air. A flapper makes an airtight seal with an air duct to prevent air from leaking out of an air chamber. When a triggering mechanism releases the flapper, pressurized air from the air chamber can then swing the flapper open, thereby shooting the golf ball out of a barrel.

1. Field of the Invention
The present inventive concept relates to an air cannon that shoots pressurized air, and more particular an air cannon that can accommodate a golf ball.
2. Description of the Related Art
Golf is a difficult sport which can only be enjoyed by experienced players that are able to hit reasonable shots on the course. Novices or parties that are not physically fit (e.g. the elderly) are typically unable to play golf on a typical golf course.
What is needed is a way for novices to play golf on a typical course, which can by accomplished by using pressurized air cannon that can shoot a golf ball a long distance.


To provide a disk unit with a reduced thickness, a motor substrate for mounting an inner rotor, outer rotor or belt drive type motor for rotating a magnetic recording medium, includes an extension portion which extends beyond the magnetic recording medium, to which electronic parts and a connector are mounted, so that they do not interfere with the magnetic recording medium.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to the electronic parts and connector mounting structure of a flexible disk unit having a reduced thickness.
2. Description of the Prior Art
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the positional relationship of the spindle motor, carriage assembly and stepping motor of a flexible disk unit of the prior art. FIG. 6 is a sectional view showing the positional relationship between the spindle motor and the carriage of the flexible disk unit. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the whole configuration of the flexible disk unit. In these figures, reference numeral 1 represents a spindle motor for rotating a magnetic recording medium (unshown) which is a flexible disk, 1a driving magnet, 1b stator, 1c coil, 1d spindle motor substrate, 1e chucking hub, 1f rotation axis, 1h IC, 1j connector, 1n magnetic case, 2 frame, 3 carriage assembly, 3a carriage for mounting a magnetic head 3c, 3b arm for mounting a magnetic head 3d, 4 stepping motor which seeks and positions the carriage assembly 3 in the radial direction of the medium, 4a lead screw directly connected to the rotation axis of the stepping motor 4, 6 slide cam, 7 cartridge holder, 8 lever, 9 substrate, 10 shield cover, and 11 front panel.
The operation of the flexible disk unit will be described next. In FIG. 7, when the magnetic recording medium (unshown) is inserted into the unit, the medium is loaded onto the read-write position by a loading mechanism consisting of the slide cam 6, the cartridge holder 7 and the lever 8. The detailed explanation of the loading mechanism is omitted here. When the medium is placed in the loading position, the hub of the medium is chucked by the chuking hub 1e of the spindle motor 1 fixed to the frame 2, and the medium rotates by the rotation of the spindle motor.
A projection (unshown) provided on the carriage assembly 3 is engaged with a groove in the lead screw 4a directly connected to the axis of the stepping motor 4 so that the rotary motion of the stepping motor is changed into the motion in the radial direction of the medium of the carriage assembly 3. Therefore, the magnetic heads 3c and 3d mounted on the carriage assembly 3 can move in the radial direction of the magnetic recording medium by means of the stepping motor 4, and are positioned above the target truck. The flexible disk unit of the prior art is configured as shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6. That is, an outer rotor type spindle motor wherein the driving magnet 1a is located outside the stator 1b and the coil 1c is used, and the carriage assembly 3 is located above the stator 1b, the coil 1c and the driving magnet 1a as shown in FIG. 6.
The rotation axis 1f is projected from the top of the spindle motor substrate 1d described above, and the chucking hub 1e which functions as a chucking member is rotated by this rotation axis 1f so that the flexible disk which functions as a magnetic recording medium is set on the chucking hub 1e and is rotated. Electronic parts such as the IC 1h and the connector 1j for connecting the substrate 9 of the main assembly are mounted on the rear of the spindle motor substrate 1d. In this case, the height (thickness) of the unit is determined by the total of the thicknesses of the carriage 3 and the substrate 1d of the spindle motor 1 and that of the tallest one of the driving magnet case 1n, the IC 1h mounted on the substrate 1d (the opposite side of the carriage assembly 3) and the connector 1j, and clearances between them.
Since the flexible disk unit of the prior art is configured as described above, the carriage 3 must be made thin to reduce the thickness of the flexible disk unit. However, the magnetic heads 3c and 3d can be made thin to a certain degree in connection with the unshown medium. Furthermore, there is a limit to a reduction in the thicknesses of the driving magnet 1a, the coil 1c and the case 1n of the spindle motor 1 in order to maintain performance. Similarly, the thickness of the IC 1h and the connector 1j on the motor substrate 1d cannot be reduced. Thus it is difficult to reduce the thickness of the disk unit of the prior art.

Electronic parts and connector mounting structure of disk unit


An audio signal processing method for repairing an anomalous state such as noise, a discontinuity, and a break of sound, comprising detecting the anomalous state of an audio signal, deleting the audio signal in the anomalous segment, deducing the correct audio signal by referring to the waveform of the audio signal before and after the deleted segment, generating a repair signal for repairing the signal in the deleted segment based on the deduced result, inserting the repair signal into the deleted segment, and connecting it to the audio signal before and after the deleted segment.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for processing an audio signal and apparatuses using the same. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method an apparatus for eliminating shot noise, discontinuity, and a data loss and repairing an audio signal and apparatuses using the same.
The present invention is applied to compensation for loss of sound occurring when performing high speed reproduction (special reproduction) etc. in a receiver of a broadcasted audio signal, a reproduction system of an audio signal recorded on a magnetic tape, an optical disk, an opto-magnetic disk, or the like, and a decoding system of a digitally transmitted audio signal, for example, a Hi-Fi video apparatus, a digital video apparatus (digital video signal recording and/or reproducing apparatus), and an 8 mm video apparatus.
2. Description of the Related Art
In a receiver of a broadcasted audio signal, a reproduction system of an audio signal recorded on a magnetic tape, optical disk, opto-magnetic disk, or the like, a decoder of a digitally transmitted audio signal, etc., there is sometimes shot noise, discontinuity of data, and data loss—frequently occurrences in a communication path, a recording apparatus, a reproducing apparatus, packet communication, etc.
Such noise is generated everywhere due to, for example, noise generated in the air or in the apparatus, scratches or dust on the magnetic tape, scratches or dust on the optical disk, scratches or dust on an analog record disk, and reading error of the reproducing apparatus. Such noise causes a remarkably incongruity in sound.
In the past, when such noise and discontinuity occurred, the method of reducing the noise component by a low pass filter, a high pass filter, or the like and the method of replacing segments of data loss by the signal before and after them (Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication (Kokai) No. 9-274772) have been tried. Further, particularly, when digital data is used, the noise and the discontinuity have been reduced by means of prevalue hold, mean value interpolation, attenuation interpolation, muting, or the like
However, a frequency filter distorts the normal signal portion as well and further is not that effective in elimination of short time and wide frequency band signals such as shot noise and discontinuity.
Further, prevalue hold and mean value interpolation are problematic in that a discontinuity newly occurs with the preceding and following data, so incongruity in sound is newly caused.
As concrete audio signal processing apparatuses, related art of Hi-Fi video apparatuses, digital video signal recording and/or reproducing apparatuses, 8 mm video apparatuses, etc. and problems thereof will be explained.
A Hi-Fi video apparatus using a magnetic tape has, as illustrated in FIG. 3, two tracks, that is, a fixed audio track and a Hi-Fi audio track, as tracks for recording an audio signal on the magnetic tape.
The fixed track is oriented parallel to the tape running direction and is provided at a position independent from the video signal track. It is scanned by a fixed head 17 illustrated in FIG. 2 and has a low dynamic range, a low frequency range, and a high noise level in structure. It is usually used for only monaural recording.
The Hi-Fi track is helically scanned by a rotary head drum 16 illustrated in FIG. 2 and records an audio signal by deep layer recording etc.* at the same position as the video track. It has a high dynamic range, a high frequency range, and a low noise level and is usually used for stereo recording.
In general, the Hi-Fi track is used for high quality sound reproduction at the time of normal reproduction, while the fixed track is used for low quality sound reproduction at the time of special (high speed) reproduction.
For example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication (Kokai) No. 5-292449 discloses a method of reproducing a video signal recorded on a video track at an (N+1)/N speed. However, the fixed track has to be used for reproduction of the audio signal. The reason for this is that, as shown in FIG. 4, at the time of special reproduction, the rotary head scans a plurality of Hi-Fi tracks by obliquely traversing them (helically scans them), so the video signal can be reproduced as one image by combining a plurality of fields, but, in contrast, noise due to discontinuity of the scanning of the rotary head frequently occurs in the audio signal to cause remarkable incongruity in sound, so the Hi-Fi track cannot be used. Therefore, the Hi-Fi track is not used. Instead, the fixed track is used using the fixed head 17—which is free from the problem of discontinuous scanning of the head.
In high speed reproduction for a head search or the like, in the case of high speed reproduction at 2× speed or more, a high quality of sound is not always required, so there is little problem.
However, when trying to save time while fully viewing and listening to the content by reproduction at a slightly high speed, for example, a 1.2× speed, the quality of sound when reproducing the audio signal recorded on the fixed audio track, which is fixed to such high speed reproduction, is insufficient. Therefore, utilization of the Hi-Fi audio track providing a high quality audio signal has been demanded.
In a digital video signal recording and/or reproducing apparatus using a magnetic tape, when giving as an example the format of for example a consumer digital video system, as shown in FIG. 24, a helical track inclined with respect to the tape running direction is divided into units of blocks. A compressed and encoded video signal is recorded at the center, while the audio signal and auxiliary signals are recorded on the two sides.
At the time of high speed reproduction in the digital video signal recording and/or reproducing apparatus, as shown in FIG. 25, a skip in the middle of a track is avoided by an auto-tracking mechanism. However, the discontinuity of the audio signal occurring due to the tracks not being read at the time of high speed reproduction causes a remarkable incongruity in sound at the time of reproduction in the same way as the case of a Hi-Fi video apparatus.
As the audio signal processing for reducing such incongruity in sound at the time of high speed reproduction in such a digital video signal recording and/or reproducing apparatus, various countermeasures have been considered heretofore. Examples thereof will be explained below.
(1) The method of permitting the discontinuity and connecting the signal as it is (Japanese Patent No. 2,687.706),
(2) The method of muting the discontinuous portion,
(3) The method of changing the speed of the rotary head to match the tape running speed and reading all data (Japanese Patent No. 2,766,065),
(4) The method of replacing the lost portions of the audio signal by the data before and after it (Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication (Kokai) No. 9-274772), and
(5) The method of connecting the audio signal before and after a lost portion by a cross fading (Japanese Patent No. 2,737,182).
With the methods of (1) and (2), however, discontinuity or muting periodically occurs, so the incongruity cannot be solved.
With the method of (3), the apparatus becomes complex and further the data becomes too large, so time compression and sampling rate conversion are necessary. As a result, a new incongruity in sound such as a rise in sound pitch is caused.
With the method of (4), although there is the effect of reduction of the incongruity without muting the frames from which data has been lost, discontinuity still occurs before and after the replaced data. Accordingly, there is a problem of how to repair the audio signal without incongruity.
With the method of (5), although the discontinuity is solved by a cross fading of the data before and after the discontinuity, this is done without considering waveform periodicity etc., so there is a problem in that incongruity due to mismatch of phase is newly caused.
An 8 mm video apparatus recording and reproducing an audio signal by a rotary head suffers from problems similar to those described above.
A magnetic recording apparatus using not magnetic tape, but a fixed disk is excellent in random accessability, so the problem such as the skip of a track due to the physical structure described above does not occur. However, a certain time is required for reading data. Therefore, at the time of high speed reproduction, it is sometimes necessary to deliberately reduce the number of read fields. At this time, the problem of discontinuity of sound similar to the above arises.

Audio signal processing method, audio signal processing apparatus, Hi-Fi video apparatus, digital video apparatus and 8 mm video apparatus


Systems and methods for assigning or computing a fire system safety score via data mining and for predictive analysis via data mining are provided. Some methods can include identifying one or more pieces of data information from an ambient condition monitoring system installed in a region, quantifying the one or more pieces of the data information, and identifying a safety score of the region based on the quantified one or more pieces of the data information.

In known fire systems, the occupation safety level, which indicates how safe a monitored region is in terms of fire detection and notification systems, is an unknown factor to managers and occupants of the region. Furthermore, known fire systems do not provide a user interface to visually communicate any such safety level in a way that can be interpreted by a user. Indeed, when the occupation safety level of a region needs to be enhanced, there are no known systems and methods for predicting operational and functional behaviors of the fire system to assist in such enhancement.
In view of the above, there is a continuing, ongoing need for improved systems and methods.

Assigning a fire system safety score and predictive analysis via data mining


There is provided a remote control wiring mechanism, which makes it easy to construct a system by facilitating a connection work and treatment of members constructing the system. A main unit includes signal terminals connected to signal lines and power supply terminals to supply power for driving a relay. A relay unit having a relay is detachably connected to a relay socket of the main unit and is integrally coupled to the main unit. When a transmission signal including on-off information of a switch is received through the signal lines, the on-off state of the switch is reflected in the switching of the relay.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a remote control wiring mechanism in which an on-off state of a switch is reflected in the switching of a relay by transmitting a transmission signal including on-off information of the switch through a signal line.
2. Description of the Related Art
Conventionally, in order to remotely monitor and control loads, there is known a technology of transmitting a transmission signal including on-off information of a switch through a signal line and switching a relay for turning on and off a load power in accordance with the transmission signal. The switch includes automatic switches for outputting a contact signal corresponding to sensed results of various sensors, as well as switches manipulated by persons.
As such a type of remote monitoring and control system, there is a known a central control system having a monitoring unit 11 having switches 13 and a control unit 12 fitted with relays 14 for turning on and off loads as terminal devices and having a transmission unit 10 as a central device, for example, as shown in FIG. 11 (see Patent Document 1). The transmission unit 10, the monitoring unit 11, and the control unit 12 are connected through two-wire signal lines 15. The transmission unit 10 identifies the monitoring unit 11 and the control unit 12 by using addresses set to the monitoring unit 11 and the control unit 12. The transmission unit 10, the monitoring unit 11, and the control unit 12 are all composed of a microcomputer.
The transmission unit 10 includes a memory storing a control table, which is a data table in which monitoring units 11 and control units 12 correspond to each other in accordance with the addresses. When the on-off information of switches 13 provided in any one monitoring unit 11 is sent to the transmission unit 10 by using a transmission signal (time-divisional multiple transmission signal), an instruction of switching the relay 14 using the transmission signal is transmitted to the control unit 12 corresponding to the monitoring unit 11 by the control table and the relay 14 of the control unit 12 is switched in accordance with the instruction. The instruction of switching the relay 14 reflects the on-off information of the switch 13. Accordingly, although the transmission unit 10 is interposed between the monitoring unit 11 and the control unit 12, the on-off state of the switch 13 is reflected in the switching of the relay 14 by transmitting the transmission signal including the on-off information of the switch 13 through the signal lines 15. One monitoring unit 11 can identify four switches 13 in maximum and one control unit 12 can identify four relays 14 in maximum. The control table provided in the transmission unit 10 makes it possible for the switches 13 and the relays 14 to correspond to each other in a unit of circuits. In the control table, the switches 13 and the relays 14 can be connected in 1:plural, as well as in 1:1.
When lighting instruments as a load are turned on or off using the relays 14, the transmission unit 10 can perform individual control that one lighting instrument is turned on and off with one switch and collective control that a plurality of lighting instruments is turned on and off with one switch. In other words, the individual control means that one circuit of load is controlled by one instruction and the collective control means that plural circuits of loads are controlled by one instruction. The collective control is classified into group control that the range of loads to be controlled is made to correspond to a switch and the loads in the range are turned on and off at a time by means of manipulation of the switch and pattern control that the range of addresses of the loads to be controlled and the on and off states of the loads are made to correspond to a switch and the loads in the range are individually turned on and off by means of the switch.
In order to perform the group control or the pattern control, the group number or the pattern number corresponding to the switch for performing the group control or the pattern control is made to correspond to the addresses of the loads in the range to be controlled in the control table provided in the transmission unit 10. When the switch for the group control or the pattern control is manipulated, the addresses of the loads to be controlled are developed by referring to the control table in the transmission unit 10, the on and off states of the loads are determined, and then an instruction is given to the control unit 12 having the address obtained by referring to the control table.
In the remote monitoring and control system, the transmission unit 10 periodically transmits the transmission signal to the signal lines 15, where a bipolar pulse width modulation signal of ±24V is used as the transmission signal. The monitoring unit 11 and the control unit 12 secure an internal power source by full-wave rectifying the transmission signal. The transmission unit 10 is supplied with commercial power. On the other hand, the control unit 12 controlling the relay 14 requires a power supply for driving the relay 14 and the relay 14 controlling the load such as a lighting instrument requires a remote control transformer 16 which is a step-down transformer in order to obtain the AC voltage of 24V for driving the relay from the commercial supply voltage (for example, AC voltage of 100V). That is, it is necessary to connect the control unit 12 and the relay 14 to the remote control transformer 16 through a driving power line 17.
Operations of the transmission unit 10, the monitoring unit 11, and the control unit 12 are briefly described. The transmission unit 10 performs normal polling that a transmission signal periodically converted from an address is periodically transmitted to the signal line 15. As the transmission signal, a start pulse indicating the start of signal transmission, mode data indicating a signal mode, address data including addresses (addresses of the monitoring unit 11 or the control unit 12) for individually calling out the monitoring unit 11 or the control unit 12, control data (including information for identifying circuits of loads) transmitting control data for controlling the loads, checksum data for detecting transmission errors, bipolar (±24V) signals including a signal returning period which is a time slot for receiving returned signals from the monitoring unit 11 or the control unit 12 are used.
When a monitoring instruction is input by means of manipulation of a switch in any one monitoring unit 11, the monitoring unit 11 transmits an interrupt signal synchronized with the start pulse of the transmission signal to the signal lines 15. The monitoring unit 11 generating the interrupt signal becomes a latch state in which an interrupt flag is set. On the other hand, when the transmission unit 10 detects the interrupt signal, the transmission unit 10 sends out the transmission data including the mode data of a search mode. When the monitoring unit 11 of the latched state receives the transmission signal of the search mode, the monitoring unit 11 sends back the address during the signal-returning period. The transmission unit 10 receiving the address identifies the monitoring terminal 11 generating the interrupt signal by transmitting the transmission signal requesting the return of the latched state to the monitoring unit 11 of the address and confirming the latched state. When the monitoring unit 11 generating the interrupt signal is identified, the transmission signal releasing the latched state is transmitted and the latched state of the monitoring unit 11 is released.
The transmission unit 10 receives the request from the monitoring unit 11 through the above-mentioned operations, the transmission unit 10 requests the control unit 12 corresponding to the monitoring unit 11 to control the load in accordance with the control table. Next, the transmission unit 10 sends out the transmission signal for confirming the operation state of the relay 14 provided in the control unit 12 and receives the operation state of the relay 14 from the control unit 12. The operation state of the relay 4 received from the control terminal is confirmed by the transmission unit 10. When the operation state of the relay 14 is an off state, the transmission unit 10 transmits the transmission signal indicating that the operation state is inverted to an on state to the monitoring unit 11 of which the switch 13 is manipulated and transmits the transmission signal indicating the same control details as described above to the control unit 12. It is intended to reflect the same control details of the control unit 12 in the display state of a display lamp for displaying an on or off state that the transmission signal indicating the same control details for the control unit 12 is transmitted to the monitoring unit 11. The control unit 12 receiving the transmission signal indicating the operation state sends back an echo back for confirming the reception thereof.
As described above, the switch 13 (the address of the monitoring unit 11 and the circuit of the switch 13) of the transmission unit 10 is combined into the control table and the transmission signal indicating the control of the relay 14 is transmitted to the control unit 12 having the relay 14 of which the correspondence with the switch 13. In this way, the on-off information of the switch 13 can be reflected in the switching of the relay 14.
[Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2000-10694
As described above, since the transmission unit 10, the monitoring unit 11, the control unit 12, the relay 14, and the remote control transformer 16 are required for constructing the remote monitoring and control system, there are problems that the number of constituent elements is large and that the work of selecting the elements at the time of constructing the remote monitoring and control system is troublesome and requires skill. Since it is necessary to connect the transmission unit 10, the monitoring unit 11, and the control unit 12 to the signal lines 15 and connect the control unit 12 and the relay 14 to the remote control transformer 16 through the driving power lines 17, the connection work of the signal lines 15 and the driving power lines 17 is troublesome. In addition, when the plural circuits of relays 14 are controlled by the control unit 12, the connecting relations among the control unit 12, the relays 14, and the remote control transformer 16 are complex, thereby making troublesome the connection work.


A semiconductor light emitting device includes a light-transmissive substrate, a light-transmissive buffer layer disposed on the light-transmissive substrate, and a light emitting structure. The light-transmissive buffer layer includes a first layer and a second layer having different refractive indices and disposed alternately at least once. The light emitting structure includes a first conductivity-type semiconductor layer, an active layer, and a second conductivity-type semiconductor layer sequentially disposed on the buffer layer.

A semiconductor light emitting device, generating light of various colors through electron-hole recombination, has many advantages, such as a relatively long lifespan, a low degree of power consumption, and the like. Thus, demand for semiconductor light emitting devices continues to rise. However, in a semiconductor light emitting device, when a semiconductor layer is grown, strain may be generated due to a difference in lattice constants and coefficients of thermal expansion between the semiconductor layer and a substrate, resulting in the generation of lattice defects.
Also, a difference in refractive indices between the semiconductor layer and an external material causes a considerable portion of light to be totally internally reflected, degrading light extraction efficiency. Thus, in the art, a method of improving a lattice defect and luminance efficiency of a semiconductor light emitting device is increasingly required.