Nanoparticles which contain noble metals alone or noble metals in combination with base metals. The nanoparticles are embedded in an aqueous solution of a temporary stabilizer based on a polysaccharide.

The present invention provides noble metal-containing nanoparticles for producing membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) for fuel cells, in particular for low temperature fuel cells, for example polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEM fuel cells) and direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC). New types of colloidal solutions which contain the noble metal alone or in association with other metals are described, wherein the metals are in the form of nanoparticles embedded in a temporary stabilizer. The nanoparticles are used to produce electrocatalysts and catalysed components for fuel cells. Using these nanoparticles, catalyzed ionomer membranes, catalyzed gas diffusion electrodes (so-called "backings") and membrane electrode assemblies can be produced.
Fuel cells convert a fuel and an oxidizing agent which are spatially separated from each other at two electrodes into electricity, heat and water. Hydrogen or a hydrogen-rich gas may be used as the fuel, and oxygen or air as the oxidizing agent. The process of energy conversion in the fuel cell is characterized by a particularly high efficiency. For this reason, fuel cells in combination with electric motors are becoming more and more important as an alternative to traditional internal combustion engines. The PEM fuel cell is suitable for use as an energy converter in motor vehicles because of its compact structure, its power density and its high efficiency.
The PEM fuel cell consists of a stacked arrangement ("stack") of membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs), between which are arranged bipolar plates for supplying gas and conducting electricity. A membrane electrode assembly consists of a solid polymer electrolyte membrane, both sides of which are provided with reaction layers which contain catalysts. One of the reaction layers is designed as an anode for the oxidation of hydrogen and the second reaction layer is designed as a cathode for the reduction of oxygen. On these reaction layers are mounted so-called gas distributor structures or gas diffusion layers made of carbon fibre paper, carbon fibre woven fabric or carbon fleece, which facilitate good access by the reaction gases to the electrodes and effective removal of the cell current. The anode and cathode contain so-called electrocatalysts which catalytically support the particular reaction (oxidation of hydrogen at the anode and reduction of oxygen at the cathode). Metals from the platinum group in the periodic system of elements are preferably used as the catalytically active components. In the majority of cases, so-called supported catalysts, in which the catalytically active platinum group metal has been applied in highly dispersed form to the surface of a conductive support material, are used.
The polymer electrolyte membrane consists of proton-conducting polymer materials. These materials are also called ionomers for short in the following. A tetrafluorethylene/fluorovinylether copolymer with acid functions, in particular sulfonic acid groups, is preferably used. Such materials are sold, for example, under the tradenames Nafion® (E.I. DuPont) or Flemion® (Asahi Glass Co.). However, other, in particular fluorine-free, ionomer materials such as sulfonated polyetherketones or polyarylketones or polybenzimidazoles but also ceramic materials can be used.
The performance data for a fuel cell depends critically on the quality of the catalyst layers applied to the polymer electrolyte membrane. These layers usually consist of an ionomer and a finely divided electrocatalyst dispersed therein. Together with the polymer electrolyte membrane, so-called three-phase interfaces are formed in these layers, wherein the ionomer is in direct contact with the electrocatalyst and the gases (hydrogen at the anode, air at the cathode) introduced to the catalyst particles via the pore system.
To prepare the catalyst layers, ionomer, electrocatalyst and optionally other additives are generally blended to form an ink or a paste. To produce the catalyst layer, the ink is applied by brushing, rolling, spraying, doctor blading or printing either to the gas diffusion layer (e.g. carbon fleece or carbon fibre paper) or directly to the polymer membrane, dried and optionally subjected to a secondary treatment. In the case of coating the ionomer membrane with a catalyst layer, the non-catalyzed gas diffusion layers are then mounted on the membrane on the anode and cathode faces and a membrane electrode assembly is then obtained. Alternatively, the catalyst layers may also be applied to the gas diffusion layers. These gas diffusion electrodes (gas diffusion layers plus catalyst layers) are then laid on the two faces of the ionomer membrane and laminated with this, wherein a membrane electrode assembly is also obtained. The prior art in this area is described in patent documents U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,861,222, 5,211,984 and 4,876,115.
The present invention provides noble metal-containing nanoparticles which can be used for the production of catalyzed components and membrane electrode assemblies for low temperature fuel cells (PEMFC, DMFC, AFC or PAFC). The object of the invention are new types of preparations, or colloidal solutions, of noble metal-containing nanoparticles which are embedded in a suitable temporary stabilizer.
Colloidal nanoparticle solutions have been known for a long time. For example, they are used to produce noble metal supported catalysts. Thus, U.S. Pat. No. 3,992,512 describes a process in which colloidal platinum oxide nanoparticles are prepared by decomposing platinum sulfite acid, fixing these to a supporting carbon black and then reducing to platinum. The process is complicated and expensive and provides only electrocatalysts which are contaminated with sulfur due to using sulfur-containing precursor compounds for the platinum. Stabilizers are not used.
DE 197 54 304 A1 describes platinum-containing nanoparticles which are embedded in a polymeric betaine. Polymeric carbobetaine, phosphobetaine and sulfobetaine, which are built up from a non-branched polymethylene main chain and side chains with different types of betaine groups having degrees of polymerization of 50 to 10,000, are described. The method for decomposing these stabilizers is not described. It has been shown that these stabilizers adhere firmly to the noble metal surface, due to their long polymethylene main chains, and thus contaminate the catalytically active catalyst surfaces. For this reason, these nanoparticles are not very suitable as catalytically active species for membrane electrode assemblies in fuel cells. Nothing is reported about the further processing of these in order to produce catalyzed systems (catalysed ionomer membranes, gas diffusion electrodes, etc.).
Furthermore, DE 44 43 705 A1 discloses noble metal colloids which are stabilized with surfactants (such as, for example, fatty alcohol polyglycol ethers or amphiphilic betaines) and can be used for preparing supported electrocatalysts. After attaching these noble metal colloids to the support material, aftertreatment is required in order to remove the surfactants used for stabilizing purposes. During this aftertreatment (generally thermal pyrolysis at temperatures above 400° C.) the colloid particles sinter so that coarse crystallites are produced.
Furthermore, DE 197 45 904 A1 describes a polymer-stabilized metal colloid solution which contains a cation exchange polymer for stabilizing purposes. Here, the noble metal nanoparticles are precipitated in the presence of an ionomer solution (e.g. Nafion®) and isolated as a dry powder. Investigations by the inventors of the present invention have shown that this process does not lead to stable liquid colloid preparations because the ionomer has no surfactant properties and in addition is itself present as particles in the size range 5 to 20 nm (see also X. Cheng et al., J. Power Sources 79 (1999) 75-81). In addition, our work has shown that this process has considerable disadvantages because it provides nanoparticles which are heavily contaminated with foreign ions such as, for example, chloride or sodium. The presence of chloride in particular leads to corrosion and reduced resistance to ageing of the catalyst components prepared using this metal colloid preparation.
Therefore it is the object of the present invention to provide noble metal-containing nanoparticles which form stable solutions over a long time due to the use of a suitable, temporary, stabilizer and contain only marginal amounts of impurities (halogen ions, alkali metal ions, borate, etc.), which are insignificant for use in fuel cells. They are intended to be used directly for catalyzing ionomer membranes and gas diffusion layers for PEM fuel cells, which means that the temporary stabilizer (or protective colloid) has to be completely removable by means of a gentle process without damaging the polymer electrolyte membrane. Furthermore, the nanoparticles are intended to be capable of being prepared in aqueous medium without the addition of organic solvents.

Noble metal nanoparticles, a process for preparing these and their use


A ball grid array (BGA) package incorporating a heat dissipating member which includes a thin die attach portion mounted between an integrated circuit chip (die) and a package substrate, a heat sink portion surrounding the die attach portion, and tie bars connected between the die attach portion and the heat sink portion. The die attach portion is thinner than the heat sink portion such that a recessed area is formed for receiving an integrated circuit die. Heat generated by a die mounted on the die attach portion is transmitted to the heat sink portion along the tie bars, thereby providing enhanced thermal characteristics. Inductive effects on signals passing between the integrated circuit die and a host printed circuit board are reduced by connecting the heat dissipating member to a ground potential. A Faraday cage is formed around the integrated circuit die by mounting a metal plate on the upper peripheral surface of the heat sink portion.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to integrated circuit packages and to electronic devices incorporating integrated circuit packages.
2. Description of the Prior Art
An integrated circuit (IC) package is a structure used to electrically connect an IC die (chip) to a printed circuit board (PCB) or other host structure. Each die typically includes input/output (I/O) terminals which are arranged along a peripheral edge of the die. After the die is mounted on a package, the I/O terminals are electrically connected to bonding pads formed on the package using, for example, wire bond techniques. The package typically includes conductive lines which are electrically connected to external contacts such as, for example, pins, leads or solder bumps. When the package is mounted onto a PCB, electrical signals are transmitted between the PCB and the die through these external contacts.
Recent develops in IC fabrication have resulted in dies with increasingly-large numbers of I/O terminals, and which generate increasingly-large amounts of heat. In addition, certain electronic devices, such as those used in wireless or telecommunication applications, are increasingly sensitive to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI).
To keep pace with the developments in IC fabrication, there is an on-going need for IC packages having improved electrical characteristics and thermal characteristics. The term "electrical characteristics" is used herein to refer to a package's effective inductance and to the package's ability to shield electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI). "Improved" electrical characteristics refers to reduced effective inductance and greater EMI/RFI shielding. The term "thermal characteristics" is used herein to refer to a package's ability to dissipate a large amount of heat generated during operation of the die such that the die is maintained at an optimal operating temperature.
Present integrated circuit packages capable of handling a large number of interconnections include ball grid array (BGA) packages.
FIG. 1(A) is a cross-sectional view of a standard plastic BGA (PBGA) package 10 including an integrated circuit die 12 mounted on an upper surface of a substrate 14. Substrate 14 includes inner bonding pads 16 formed on the upper surface and outer bonding pads 18 formed on the lower surface of substrate 14. Conductive vias 19 are formed through substrate 14 and are electrically connected to the outer bonding pads 18. Conductive leads (not shown) are formed on the upper surface of substrate 14 which connect each inner bond pad 16 with one of the conductive vias 19. Wires 20 are connected between die bond pads 22, located on die 12, and inner bond pads 16. Die bond pads 22 are electrically connected to the integrated circuit fabricated on die 12. Solder balls 26 are connected to outer bond pads 18 for electrical connection to a host PCB (not shown). A plastic cover 24 is molded over die 12 and wires 20 for protection.
Beneficial electrical characteristics of standard PBGA package 10 arise from the short signal paths between die 12 and solder balls 26. That is, the effective inductance of standard PBGA package 10 on the performance of die 12 is relatively low due in part to the short signal path distances between die 12 and solder balls 26.
A problem with the electrical characteristics of standard PBGA package 10 is that it provides inadequate EMI/RFI protection in many wireless and telecommunication devices. This problem arises because the only protection from EMI/RFI is plastic cover 24. Of course, a shield may be placed over the plastic cover 24, but the shield would require a ground connection to be effective, and may not adequately shield EMI/RFI.
Another problem with standard PBGA package 10 is that it has relatively poor heat dissipation capabilities. Typically, heat generated by die 12 is transmitted through substrate 14 and solder balls 26 to an underlying PCB. However, in peripheral array PBGA packages in which the solder balls are placed around a perimeter of the substrate (that is, not underneath the die), heat generated by the die becomes trapped within the package, thereby causing a substantial increase in die temperature. This is a particular problem with peripheral PBGA arrays when a plastic substrate is used because the die is completely encapsulated in plastic, which is a poor heat conductor.
It is therefore highly desirable to provide a BGA package which has improved electrical and thermal characteristics.
FIG. 1(B) shows a known BGA package which addresses some of the above-mentioned problems associated with standard PBGA package 10. The BGA package shown in FIG. 1(B) is referred to as a "super", "cavity", or "cavity down" BGA package (hereafter referred to as a "super BGA package").
Referring to FIG. 1(B), super BGA package 100 includes a substrate 101 provided with a recessed central cavity 102. A heat-conducting copper plate 103 is mounted on a first surface of substrate 101, and a die 104 is mounted on copper plate 103. Die 104 is thermally connected to copper plate 103 and electrically connected to first bonding pads formed on a second surface of substrate 101 by wires 105 using conventional wire bonding methods. A resin dam 106 is formed on the second surface of substrate 101 to contain a resin-based encapsulation material 107 formed over die 104 and wires 105. Finally, solder balls 108 are mounted on the second surface of substrate 101 such that each solder ball 108 contacts one of a plurality of second bonding pads. The first and second bonding pads are connected by conductive leads formed on the upper surface of substrate 101.
Super BGA package 100 has better thermal characteristics than the standard PBGA package 10 because die 104 is directly attached to copper plate 103, which is an excellent heat conductor. Therefore, heat generated by die 104 is effectively transmitted away from die 104 by copper plate 103. Further, wires 105 and solder balls 108 are located on the same side of super BGA package 100. Therefore, die 104 is partially protected from EMI/RFI by copper plate 103 while maintaining an overall thickness which is typically less than standard PBGA package 10.
A problem arises with the electrical characteristics of super BGA package 100 because signals passing from die 104 to solder balls 108 must traverse relatively long conductive paths. These long conductive paths cause the effective inductance of super BGA package 100 to be significantly greater than the effective inductance of standard PBGA package 10.
Further, super BGA package 100 differs from standard PBGA package 10 (see FIG. 1(A)) in that the bonding pads (not shown) of die 104 and solder balls 108 face in a common direction Y (that is, upward in FIG. 1(B)). Therefore, wire bonding and solder ball attachment are performed on the same side (the upward-facing side in FIG. 2(B)), which is the side facing a PCB when super BGA package 100 is mounted on the PCB. This "cavity down" arrangement creates a problem in that it is not possible to apply test probes to die 104 after die attach to test for incomplete or faulty connections to the package. During probe testing, BGA packages are typically placed onto a flat test fixture such that solder balls 108 electrically contact a series of test pads formed on the test member. The test probe is then contacted onto the bonding pads of the die to test the wire bond connections. Probe testing is easily carried out on standard PBGA package 10. However, it is impossible to use this testing procedure with super BGA package 100 because, as mentioned above, die 104 and solder balls 108 face in the same direction (toward the test fixture), thereby making it impossible to apply the probes to the die bonding pads when solder balls 108 are contacting the test fixture.
It is therefore highly desirable to provide a PBGA package which provides enhanced electrical and thermal characteristics.

Ball grid array package with enhanced thermal and electrical characteristics and electronic device incorporating same


Architecture for processing a record of burst information in a transmission link. A waveform sampler samples a received waveform containing a record of symbols imposed on a carrier signal. Symbol phase of the record symbols is determined utilizing one or more metrics. Any residual carrier error is corrected, and the carrier signal is removed. The phase and time-of-arrival of the burst information associated with a maximum positive correlation value are then determined.

1. Technical Field of the Invention
This invention is related to communication receivers, and more specifically to receivers utilizing burst processing.
2. Background of the Art
As the demand for telecommunication bandwidth has grown dramatically in recent years, it has become increasingly problematic to provide cost-effective, continuous connections in many applications that require high, instantaneous throughput due to the inherent presence of bursty information transmissions. Thus, the implementation of multiple-access systems has realized significant growth. These multiple-access systems share channel bandwidth by providing access to users only when they need it.
Burst processing is utilized in a variety of digital cellular communications such as GSM (Global System of Mobile Communications), IS-136 cellular phones and packet data networks. In the data packet regime, accommodating such a technology requires the introduction of a specialized kind of modem called a burst modem that can receive and transmit modulated data packets in short bursts.
An MF-TDMA (Multiple Frequency-Time Domain Multiple Access) architecture is a frequency-hopping access technique where users may transmit on any carrier. An incoming packet is fragmented into cells and transmitted in the user-assigned TDMA slots, or in designated random-access slots. Dependent on how the return link bandwidth is allocated, these TDMA slots could be on different carriers requiring a Very Small Aperture Terminal to "hop" between carriers on a slot-by-slot basis.
In the return link MF-TDMA structure of a satellite transmission system, multiple users each require, essentially, a continuous connection on a common channel, however, the connection is provided by assigning each user a periodic time slot in which to insert data on a channel whose bandwidth is substantially greater than that required by any single user. Each user can then send bursts of data at a specified frequency and during a specific time slot.
In continuous modem applications, the user typically waits a few seconds while the receiver acquires the transmitted signal. However, in a burst modem, where the user times contribute to an unacceptable amount of overhead to the system, and substantially reduce the system capacity. From the modem designer's perspective, it is the channel that substantially alters the received signal from the transmitted signal. Therefore, the burst modem requires an acquisition architecture that quickly filters out channel noise in the incoming signal by rapidly estimating the appropriate receiver gain, the carrier phase and frequency, the sample timing frequency, and phase. For example, in a star return link, transmission bursts of 512 QPSK (Quadrature Phase Shift Keying) symbols are sent. The actual carrier frequency of each burst can vary by as much as 10% of the symbol rate, and the burst arrival time can be early or late by up to eight symbol times.
What is needed is a burst-reception architecture capable of processing records of burst information in the presence of significant channel noise.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.


A method for editing image data includes segmenting input image data into a plurality of discrete objects, wherein each of the objects is defined by a plurality of input pixels that are spatially grouped and that relate to a common content type and feature of the input image data so as to define an objectized input image from the input image data. The objectized input image and a holding area image are generated and simultaneously displayed. Editing input is received from a user by user selection of an object of the objectized input image that the user desires to be moved from the objectized input image to the holding area image based upon the user's visual inspection of the objectized input image. The objectized input image and the holding area image are updated based upon the received editing input so that the selected object is deleted from an original location in the objectized input image and inserted into the holding area image as a temporary object at an insertion location that spatially corresponds to the original location of the objectized input image. The method further includes receiving replacement input data from the user that indicates a selected replacement object in a replacement object database to be inserted into the original location of the objectized input image. The objectized input image is updated to include the selected replacement object in the original location to define an objectized output image.

In is often necessary to modify digital image data derived from one or more scanned documents or other sources, in order to generate a new digital image for storage, display, printing and/or further processing. Examples of such modifications include the need to substitute a new image such as a digital photograph or a computer-generated graphics object such as a graph, chart, etc. into the digital image data derived from the scanning operation in order to generate a new, updated digital image data file for display, printing, storage and/or other use. Such editing is sometimes referred as repurposing, because the original image data derived from the scanned document is updated and/or revised in order to serve a new purpose.
Known image processing systems have been found to be sub-optimal for editing image data derived from a scanned document. With known systems, it is technically possible to modify image data derived from a scanned document, but known systems have not allowed such modifications to be performed in an objectized fashion by simple point-and-click operations by unsophisticated users using a graphical user interface. For example, with commonly used image processing software, a user can manually define a group of pixels to be cut from an input image, using the cursor to pull a box around or otherwise encircle the group of pixels to be cut from the image. A group of replacement pixels can then be manually moved into the resulting void in the original image using a paste operation. This process is obviously time consuming and prone to errors and requires a relatively skilled user. Known image processing systems have not provided for segmentation and classification of the scanner-derived digital image data in combination with an intuitive graphical user interface that allows a user to manipulate the segmented objects of the scanner-derived image data relative to a database of available replacement objects and that allows the replacement object database to be updated to include objects from the scanner-derived data. In short, known systems are labor-intensive, time consuming and have not been found to be suitable or desirable for large jobs or other cases where high productivity is required, and where user training and knowledge might be limited.
A system and method for editing image data in accordance with the present development overcomes the deficiencies of known image processing systems and provides other enhancements and features that simplify and improve productivity for image editing operations.

System and method for editing image data


This invention relates to the partitioning of a communications network. The idea of the invention is to divide the logical connections of a communication network into several partitions, each partition representing a certain type of transmission traffic, such as access or regional traffic. The partitioning is based on simple criteria: capacity of an endpoint of a logical connection, representing a node; distance between a pair of endpoints, and traffic category representing the stability of the traffic. By using the partitioning, it is possible to separate a certain type of traffic (a certain type of logical connections) from the whole traffic picture of the network.

A network planning process involves several competing targets. The network should be compact and flexible to operate, and easy to expand. The network capacity and investments are planned to follow the expected transmission needs and the actual sales of transport services. There exist many alternative architectures to realize the network.
The first network investment of the operator must be reasonable in size, but big enough to ensure credibility and the near future growth of the network. In other words, a certain minimum coverage of the network is needed, and the growth of the network must be secured technically and economically at the same time.
Usually, these matters mean the need of building the network gradually, to add and modify network nodes and transmission lines. The changes in the network nodes can be frequent, which means repetitive additions of equipment, changes in the use of existing equipment, the increase of capacity, and adding more line interfaces. Usually, the changes also mean changes in synchronization paths and in network management channels.
Problems arise when the required changes are not possible to do in the existing nodes, or they can be done, but the existing resources are not used efficiently. For example, more capacity is needed in a node and thus new equipment must be added into the node, but there is no free space inside the rack. Or the added transmission capacity is for low capacity access traffic, but the node is capable of handling high capacity regional traffic, when the node is too big and expensive to handle just access traffic. In other words, the changes and the existing equipment must match with each other. Frequent changes in the future should be taken into account. The traffic in the network can be high or low capacity traffic, and dynamic or stable traffic in relation to the time period. The objective of the invention is to alleviate the above-mentioned drawbacks. This is achieved in a way described in the claims.

Partitioning of a communications network


Diagnostic tool for eye disease detection using a smartphone. At least some of the example embodiments are methods including capturing, by way of a camera lens on a device, an image of an eye to create a raw specimen; processing the raw specimen to create a processes specimen; performing edge detection on the processed specimen to detect a boundary of a cornea; extracting a region of interest of the cornea; identifying a boundary of the region of interest using a boundary tracing technique to identify a second boundary; analyzing the second boundary of the region of interest, by measuring a slope of the second boundary; and classifying the region of interest as including an eye disease, based on the analyzing the second boundary.

All too often, as we age, our eyesight deteriorates. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in a population of Americans over 40, 16% have cataracts and 2% have glaucoma. A more rare disease is keratoconus, which is an irregularity of the shape of the cornea. Keratoconus is treatable in early stages, however, keratoconus is often detected using bulky and expensive machines operated by trained technicians. For example, eye diseases can be detected by OCT, UBM, corneal topography, Scheimpflug camera, laser interferometry, and computerized videokeratoscopy. As topography devices are large, expensive, and not portable, keratoconus may not be detected in early stages, and therefore go untreated, in a poor population or a population that lacks access to healthcare.

Diagnostic tool for eye disease detection using smartphone


Fine particle coal is beneficiated in specially designed dense medium cyclones to improve particle acceleration and enhance separation efficiency. Raw coal feed is first sized to remove fine coal particles. The coarse fraction is then separated into clean coal, middlings, and refuse. Middlings are comminuted for beneficiation with the fine fraction. The fine fraction is deslimed in a countercurrent cyclone circuit and then separated as multiple fractions of different size specifications in dense medium cyclones. The dense medium contains ultra-fine magnetite particles of a narrow size distribution which aid separation and improves magnetite recovery. Magnetite is recovered from each separated fraction independently, with non-magnetic effluent water from one fraction diluting feed to a smaller-size fraction, and improving both overall coal and magnetite recovery. Magnetite recovery is in specially designed recovery units, based on particle size, with final separation in a rougher-cleaner-scavenger circuit of magnetic drum separators incorporating a high strength rare earth magnet.

Coal is a widely used, but limited, fuel for generating electricity in the United States and around the world. However when burned, coal can emit significant amounts of pollutants which create environmental problems. Environmental concern is exemplified by the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 creating new emissions limitations for coal of 2.5 pounds of sulfur dioxide per million BTU effective in 1995 and 1.2 pounds of sulfur dioxide per million BTU effective in the year 2000.
A utility that burns high sulfur coal currently has the option of switching to a low sulfur coal or scrubbing flue gases to remove sulfur dioxide. Scrubbing sulfur dioxide requires significant capital investment and is operationally expensive. For many utilities, switching to low sulfur coal would be very expensive due to transportation costs for delivering coal from a distant source and capital costs associated with plant modification to accommodate coals with different combustion characteristics. Substantial deposits of high sulfur coal currently fuel many electrical power generation plants. A need exists to improve the cleaning of sulfur from such coals prior to combustion so that they may be efficiently used without producing excessive pollutants.
Beneficiation of coal refers to the removal of non-coal material from raw coal to produce a relatively clean coal product. Raw coal is composed of high purity coal material and non-coal material. Non-coal material in coal, commonly referred to as ash, normally includes pyrite, clays, and other aluminosilicate materials. The presence of large amounts of these ash materials can create problems during combustion, such as slagging and fouling. Sulfur is present in raw coal in two forms, organic sulfur and inorganic sulfur. Organic sulfur is chemically bound as part of the coal matrix. Inorganic sulfur is all sulfur not chemically bound in the coal matrix. Pyrite sulfur is the predominate form of inorganic sulfur. Sulfate sulfur is another form of inorganic sulfur associated with ash forming materials. Physical beneficiation effectively removes only inorganic sulfur. Processes for beneficiating coal are varied, but commonly utilize dense medium separation, jigs, or froth flotation to separate clean coal from non-coal material. Because of its versatility, high efficiency and ease of operation, dense medium separation is perhaps the preferred separation technique.
In dense medium separation, raw coal is introduced into a medium having a specific gravity intermediate between that of coal and non-coal material. The dense medium may be a homogeneous liquid, but is more often composed of water and magnetic particles, such as ferromagnetic particles. Magnetite is a commonly used magnetic particle. Separation can be carried out in a dense media bath or tank, or in a cyclone. When a cyclone is used, coal is generally removed as the overflow product while refuse becomes the underflow product. After separation of coal and refuse, it is advantageous to recover the magnetic particles from the coal and from the refuse for reuse.
Raw coal feed, typically known as run-of-mine coal, is a mixture of three components, namely organic material, rock and pyrite. In raw coal, some particles are liberated, meaning that they constitute relatively pure components. Other particles are locked, meaning that these particles contain two or more of the three components locked together. Such locked particles are referred to as middlings.
Each of the raw coal components has a characteristic specific gravity. To illustrate, organic material has a specific gravity of about 1.25, rock has a specific gravity of about 2.85 and pyrite has a specific gravity of about 5.0. A raw coal feed contains particles with many specific gravities as a result of the differing specific gravities of the three separate components and the combination of components which are locked together.
While dense medium beneficiation has been effective for large size coal feed particles, those greater than approximately 0.5 mm in size, it has typically not been used for smaller-size coal particles. In this regard, the separation efficiency for small particle coal feeds has not been satisfactory. As a result, small coal particles are often discarded.
One way to improve the separation of coal from non-coal material is to crush or otherwise comminute the raw feed to liberate high purity coal and non-coal material in the middlings. Generally, as the average size of the particles in the raw coal feed becomes smaller, more coal and non-coal material are liberated and the percentage of particles constituting middling decreases, potentially allowing the recovery of more coal product. Crushing or grinding a coal feed to liberate coal locked with non-coal material in middlings has not been practical because there was no process for treating fines which efficiently separates coal from non-coal material. Middlings material, therefore, either reports to the clean coal, which introduces pyrite and other unwanted minerals into the fuel, or reports to the refuse resulting in an undesirable loss of coal. Comminution of an entire coal feed is, however, costly and not commercially practical. The expense of comminution is significant and it would be desirable to minimize the costs.
As indicated above, in order to recover coal from middlings to produce a high purity coal product, it is necessary to comminute the middlings and then to separate the coal from refuse. If middlings are not processed for further coal recovery, a substantial quantity of useable coal in the middlings will be discarded along with non-coal material. Accordingly, to maximize recovery of a clean coal product, it is essential to develop beneficiation processes designed to handle small particle raw coal feed.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,364,822, by Rich, issued Dec. 21, 1982, describes a coal cleaning process involving two-stage cyclone separation that produces three products, clean coal, refuse, and middlings. Middlings are then crushed and recycled through the cyclones with the raw coal feed. Rich, however, specifically teaches away from a dense medium process using magnetic particles based on problems with the recovery of magnetic particles.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,908,912 by Irons, issued Sep. 30, 1975, describes a process whereby refuse is initially separated out at high density, followed by a lower density separation to yield clean coal and middlings. Middlings are then crushed for further cleaning. However, in Irons small size coal is not removed from the coal feed prior to the initial high density separation which results in additional refuse in the clean coal product. Moreover, Irons discloses that cyclone separations of small coal fines are inefficient in that particles are frequently misplaced. As such, Irons teaches the use of secondary cyclones followed by flotation to eliminate refuse in the coal.
Many attempts have been made to clean fine particle coal, with varying results. In dense medium cycloning, separation efficiency drops as coal feed particles become smaller. In particular, considerable difficulty is encountered in cleaning a coal feed made up of particles less than about 0.5 mm in size. Also, recovery of the magnetic particles from the dense medium after beneficiation becomes more difficult as coal feed particles become smaller.
Accordingly, there is a need for an effective and efficient means for beneficiating coal feed particles less than about 0.5 mm in size where the separation efficiency is sufficient such that the coal product meets desired specifications. The separation efficiency of a coal cleaning process is frequently illustrated through probability curves known as partition curves. These curves describe the probability that a given particle in the feed will report to the clean coal rather than refuse. The measure of the slope of the vertical portion of a partition curve is the separation's probable error, or Ep. The more vertical the center portion of the partition curve, the more efficient the separation and the smaller the probable error.
In order to avoid the difficulties associated with cleaning small size particles, many methods for processing fine coal particles discard particles below a threshold size prior to beneficiation, typically referred to as desliming. Desliming has traditionally been based on limitations of the beneficiation process. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,794,162 by Miller et al., issued Feb. 26, 1974, discloses a heavy medium beneficiating process for particles down to 150 mesh (0.105 mm). Particles smaller than 150 mesh are screened-out prior to beneficiation by dense medium cyclone. U.S. Pat. No. 4,282,088 by Ennis, issued Aug. 4, 1981, discloses a process where particles smaller than 0.1 mm are separated out in a cyclone classifier and discarded prior to beneficiation by dense medium cyclone. When all particles below 0.1 mm or 0.105 mm in size are discarded, pure coal is also discarded both as small coal particles and as coal locked in small middling particles.
The ability to deslime by screening or sieving is limited by available screen and sieve construction. Screening or sieving large quantities of material below a size of about 150 mesh is not practical. Classifying cyclones, which separate particles based on different particle settling velocities, have been used to classify coal feeds, but have not been effective for making a size classification of coal feed at 0.015 mm. Rejecting only the smallest coal particles in raw coal feed, on the order of 0.015 mm and smaller, presents a major problem. Particles smaller than this size are predominately refuse material which should be discarded.
One parameter in cyclone design which has received relatively little attention is the size of the inlet orifice through which feed enters the cyclone. Arterburn, in a paper entitled, "The Sizing of Hydrocyclones" (Krebbs Engineers 1976), notes that feed orifices usually have an area between 6 percent and 8 percent of the area of the cyclone feed chamber. The modification of inlet diameters has not been identified as a factor to improve a classifying cyclone separation capability.
Multiple classifying cyclones arranged in a countercurrent flow circuit have been used for size classification of starch. U.S. Pat. No. 4,282,232 by Best, issued Aug. 11, 1981, describes a countercurrent cyclone circuit designed primarily to wash starch. As far as the inventor knows, a countercurrent arrangement of classifying cyclones is not practiced in the coal cleaning industry and has not been used to separate particles of the magnitude of 0.015 mm and smaller.
Attempts have been made in the coal industry to eliminate the need for desliming by improving the beneficiation process. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,802,976, by Miller, issued Feb. 7, 1989, discloses a process in which froth flotation is used to recover coal particles smaller than 28 mesh (0.595 mm) downstream of a dense media cyclone. But this process is not appropriate for all coals. A raw coal feed often contains oxidized coals which do not float. Also, pyrite tends to float, along with clean coal, thereby contaminating the clean coal product. Devising a process to treat all types of fine particle coal and to effectively remove pyrite from the smallest size fractions, has been problematic.
Cyclones for use in connection with dense medium beneficiation have varying size parameters and can be subject to varying operating conditions. In general, cyclones do not operate as effectively when used to beneficiate small size particles. A problem with the use of cyclones for the beneficiation of small coal particles is the need to assure that the particles correctly report to either the underflow as refuse or overflow as coal. Small particles often become misplaced, thereby decreasing the separation efficiency of the cyclone.
One cyclone parameter is the area of the inlet orifice through which raw coal feed enters the cyclone. U.S. Pat. No. 2,819,795 by Fontein, issued Jan. 14, 1958, discloses a cyclone design where the area of the inlet is calculated to equal between 0.1 and 0.4 times the area available for overflow. Fontein also specifies a cyclone diameter between two and three times the diameter of the overflow. Fontein does not discuss the inlet diameter as related to the cyclone diameter or particle velocity. U.S. Pat. No. 4,341,382 by Liller, issued Jul. 27, 1982, discloses a design for an eighteen inch diameter cyclone where the inlet tube diameter is calculated to equal between 0.25 and 0.35 times the cyclone diameter.
Fourie et al., "The Beneficiation of Fine Coal by Dense-Medium Cyclones", Journal of South African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, pp. 357-361 (October 1980), discloses the use of magnetite particles in beneficiating minus 0.5 mm coal by dense medium cycloning where at least 50 percent of the magnetite is finer than 10 microns (0.010 mm). Finer size magnetite is, however, more difficult and costly to recover from clean coal and refuse. Fourie discloses the recovery of magnetite in a rougher-cleaner-scavenger arrangement of wet drum magnetic separators and reported serious problems with magnetite loss. There is a need for a process which employs magnetite small enough to separate fine size coal and refuse effectively, but allows for sufficient recovery of magnetite after beneficiation.
Magnetite used in Fourie was prepared by milling magnetite ore. But milling ore to ultra-fine sizes is very expensive, and milling gives little control over particle size distribution. Magnetite for use in dense media separation can also be produced by chemical reduction of hematite. U.S. Pat. No. 4,436,681 by Barczak, issued Mar. 13, 1984, discloses a process Whereby hematite prepared by spray roasting of iron chloride is reduced to magnetite. However, Barczak does not discuss magnetite particle size or recognize problems encountered during magnetite recovery following dense medium separation.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,777,031 by Senecal, issued Oct. 11, 1988, discloses a process whereby magnetite is produced by pyrohydrolysis of iron chloride at temperatures between 1000.degree. C. and 1600.degree. C. However, Senecal is directed to producing magnetite particles between 0.02 and 0.2 microns (0.00002 mm to 0.0002 mm) in size that are well suited for binder systems such as those used in magnetic recording media. Senecal's process results in magnetite particles too small to be used effectively in dense medium separation of coal due to problems with recovering such small particles following dense medium separation.
Magnetite used in dense medium separation has traditionally been recovered for reuse by first draining the medium from the separated product over screens and then rinsing the product over screens to remove the remaining magnetite. Magnetite is then separated from the rinse water, dilute medium, by magnetic separation. However, when cleaning fine size coal particles, screens are not effective to keep coal and refuse particles from passing through with the medium and rinse water. These fine particles of coal and non-coal material contaminate the dense medium and are difficult to separate from the magnetite in conventional magnetic drum separators.
Another problem with the recovery of small magnetite particles is that it is difficult to separate the magnetite from rinse water by magnetic separation. U.S. Pat. No. 4,802,976 by Miller, issued Feb. 7, 1989, proposes recovering magnetite as the sink from froth flotation cells, thereby avoiding the problem of fine coal and non-coal particles entrained with magnetite during magnetic separation. Froth flotation systems are, however, complex and difficult to operate. The use of a magnetic separator incorporating a high density gradient magnet in a matrix design could be employed. However, high density gradient magnets are expensive and matrix separators complicate operation compared to traditional magnetic drum separators. There is a need for an effective separation process using easier to operate magnetic separators and more economical designs for magnetic separation.
In order to satisfy utility combustion requirements, the clean coal product from beneficiation must be dewatered to reduce its moisture content. Fine particle coal is more difficult to dewater than larger-size coal because of its greater surface area.
In light of the foregoing, what is needed is an improved process for beneficiating fine particulate coal such that desired specifications, such as sulfur content, can be met. Many of the problems impeding development of such a process have been described, and they are formidable. A need exists for a process that maximizes the recovery of coal without the expense of comminuting the entire coal feed. Also, methods of classifying coal particles based on size must be improved, particularly methods using classifying cyclones. Improved separation efficiency of fine particle coal in high throughput dense medium cyclones is desired. Methods to effectively recover ultra-fine size magnetic particles for reuse following dense medium separation are needed to improve the viability of dense medium separation of fine particle coal. Improved methods are also needed for producing magnetic particles of optimum size to effect good dense medium separation while maximizing magnetic particle recovery.


A biodegradable device for facilitating healing of structural voids in bone, cartilage as well as soft tissue is disclosed in the most preferred form including a porous macrostructure made from a biodegradable polymer and a chemotactic ground substance in the form of an RGD attachment moiety of fibronectin formed as a porous microstructure. For repair of articular cartilage, harvested precursor cells are secured to the biodegradable carrier which is shaped for press fitting into the articular cartilage lesion. In the most preferred form, the chemotactic ground substance enhances the attractiveness of the biodegradable device for cellular attachment at the site of repair and also facilitates the attachment of free, precursor cells such as chondrocytes and bone marrow to the biodegradable device. In the most preferred form, biological modifiers such as transforming growth factor B and basic fibroblastic growth factor is incorporated in the biodegradable device to mediate cellular activity and regulate cellular functions.

The present invention relates generally to techniques and devices for repair of cartilage defects, and specifically to techniques and devices for repair of articular cartilage defects, and particularly to techniques and devices for repair of articular cartilage defects utilizing cell grafts secured in the articular cartilage deficiency utilizing a carrier formed from biodegradable material such as polylactic acid.
The successful repair of articular cartilage defects has eluded clinical medicine and has motivated the investigation of the use of organic and inorganic materials such as collagen matrices (see U.S. Pat. No. 4,846,835), carbon fibers, polyvinyl alcohol sponges, and acrylateamide sponges for the repair of osteochondral defects. The biological acceptability rates resulting from the use of these materials have remained low; however, some promising results have emerged and have encouraged further investigation into the use of synthetic materials for the repair of osteochondral defects.
Polylactic acid, a high-molecular-weight polymer of the cyclic diester of lactic acid, has been utilized as suture material, as surgical dressing following dental extraction, and as surgical rods, plates, and screws. Polylactic acid has several advantages as a biodegradable prosthetic material. It is a nontoxic workable material which can be manufactured into a spectrum of forms with different physical characteristics; it elicits minimal immunological or inflammatory response and has good tissue compatibility; it allows the gradual ingrowth of fibrous connective tissue; and it undergoes hydrolytic deesterification to lactic acid, a normal metabolite of carbohydrate metabolism. The use of polylactic acid by itself has been investigated for the repair of articular defects in rabbits such as reported in Reconstruction of Rabbit Knee Articular Defects with a Polylactic Acid Matrix, R. D. Coutts et al., Orthopedic Research Society, Feb. 5-8, 1990.
It has also been found that the repair of articular cartilage lesions can be enhanced by the transplant of cells having the ability to differentiate into cartilage cells, i.e. marrow, periosteal or perichondrial cells and that will proliferate and produce a matrix that will replace hyaline articular cartilage. Specifically, periosteal grafts have been sutured to the end of a polylactic plug such as reported in The Use of Polylactic Acid Matrix and Periosteal Grafts for the Reconstruction of Rabbit Knee Articular Defects, H. P. von Schroeder et al., Journal of Biomedical Materials Research, Volume 25, 329-339 (1991). The source of cells is carried by and locked into place in the lesion by the polylactic plug which serves as a template for bone formation if it is in contact with bone tissue. The biodegradable device utilized in the investigations reported above was formed of polylactic acid and was of the type shown and described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,186,448 (which is hereby incorporated herein by reference).
The cells carried by the biodegradable device are the mediators of repair tissue and must become attached at the site of repair in order to effect that repair. Thus, a need exists for enhancing the attractiveness of the biodegradable device for cellular attachment at the site of repair. Further, a need exists for facilitating the attachment to the biodegradable device of free cells which act as the source of precursor cells for the production of connective tissue.

Method and device for reconstruction of articular cartilage


Provided are an electronic mail server manager, and a system and method for coordinating operation of multiple electronic mail servers to efficiently store, process, and forward a high volume of electronic mail. The system for managing operation of multiple email servers in accordance with one embodiment may comprise an email message queue; a plurality of receiving email servers; a plurality of sending email servers; and an email server manager having a memory and a processor configured by the memory to perform the steps of storing received email messages in an email message queue; extracting destinations from the email messages; and delivering the email messages to the destinations by way of the sending email servers in correspondence to feedback received from the sending email servers and/or the destinations.

Most electronic mail (hereinafter "email") systems employ only a single email server. For example, the computing resources available at only a single personal computer or other such machine (hereinafter "machine") might be utilized to provide electronic mail sending and receiving capabilities. Unfortunately, such a single-machine or single-server email system can easily get bogged down and become overloaded.
For example, an email system acting as relay between a source email server and a destination email server may contain a single machine that serves as receiving email server for receiving incoming email and that serves as sending email server for sending outgoing email, with little more than a "straight pipe" being present between the receiving email server and the sending email server specifically, the output of the receiving email server is essentially the input of the sending email server.
A somewhat more advanced email system may employ a machine dedicated for use as a receiving email server and another machine dedicated for use as a sending email server. Here again it is common for the two machines to be connected in straight-pipe fashion such that the output of the receiving email server is essentially the input of the sending email server.
In a more advanced email system, while arrays of multiple receiving email servers and/or multiple sending email servers may be employed to increase capacity, where output from the receiving email server array is more or less dumped directly into the input of the sending email server array, the full capacity of the system will often go unutilized. This is all the more true in light of the various inefficiencies that can result from random, disorganized, or haphazard attempts at delivering email messages to a wide variety of destination email servers. Furthermore, many of these destination email servers will likely be unavailable at any given time, which fact will only become known in many cases after much time has been spent waiting for a server to timeout. Moreover, this problem will be further compounded if repeated delivery attempts are made to the same unavailable destination email server, for example. Inefficiencies such as the foregoing may arise from inability to make coordinated use of distributed or redundant resources.
There is therefore an unaddressed need in the industry for an email system capable of efficient use of multiple machines and/or multiple servers to provide increased capacity and/or throughput in sending and/or receiving of email.

Intelligent electronic mail server manager, and system and method for coordinating operation of multiple electronic mail servers


A linear position indicator which converts the position of a magnet to an analog voltage. The illustrative sensor incorporates a velocity adaptive noise window to improve sensor performance in the presence of noise.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to linear position transducers of the magnetostrictive type. More particularly, the exemplary transducer; permits the user to arbitrarily assign set points defining the active measurement stroke of the transducer; permits the user to assign analog output voltages to the set points. The exemplary transducer also incorporates a velocity dependant inhibit window to improve transducer performance in the presence of noise.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Magnetostrictive linear position transducers, are robust, high resolution position indication instruments which have proven to be useful in many measurement and control applications. Commercial magnetostrictive transducers have been available with 0-10 Volt, and 4-20 mA, analog signal outputs. Transducers with timed TTL pulse outputs have also been available. In these devices, the analog signal level or analog time interval indicates the measured distance. It is expected that magnetostrictive devices will become more commonly used in applications which currently rely on other technologies to transduce position into an analog output voltage. Adoption of magnetostrictive transducers will be facilitated by providing sensors which emulate or mimic industry standard voltage output interface protocols, as taught by the present invention. Examples of pertinent prior art include:
U.S. Pat. No. 3,898,555 to Tellerman, which discloses a basic magnetostrictive linear position measurement system. A position indicating magnet is positioned along the length of a tubular magnetostrictive waveguide. A pulse generator is used to generate a current pulse in the waveguide. The position magnet interacts with the magnetic field generated around the waveguide by the current pulse. The interaction generates an acoustic reaction wave in the waveguide at the location of the position magnet. This acoustic or sonic pulse is propagated along the waveguide. The time of flight of the acoustic wave, indicates the position of the magnet with respect to a "mode converter" which is attached to the waveguide and which translates the energy of the acoustic echo pulse into an electrical signal. In Tellerman the time intervals between excitation of the waveguide to the detection of the echo controls the application of a DC reference voltage to an analog filter system which generates an averaged DC level indicating position. In this fashion the location of the magnet is converted into an output DC voltage level which indicates the magnet position.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,721,902 to Tellerman, teaches, inter alia, a method of increasing the resolution of the position indication by a technique now called "recirculation". In operation the echo pulse is used to initiate the next interrogation or excitation pulse which is applied to the waveguide. In this sense the return echo are recirculated. The time measurements of multiple recirculations can be averaged to enhance resolution.
This Tellerman patent also teaches the use of a counter based time interval measurement system. In general, the interrogation pulse starts a counter which collects counts from a clock source. The counting process is stopped with a return echo. In this fashion, the time of flight of the sonic pulse is translated into a representative "raw" count. This "raw" count is then transcribed into a corresponding analog voltage.
This Tellerman patent also teaches a time domain filtering technique which sets the duration of an "inhibit timer" based upon the historical output of the transducer. In general, the raw count data is used to set an "inhibit" time interval which is slightly shorter than the expected echo delay time. The output of the mode converter is ignored until the inhibit time has elapsed. This inhibit time is not velocity dependent although it does vary as a function of magnet position. In practice this time domain filtering technique limits the maximum slew rate of the magnet.
However these representative magnetostrictive transducers do not exhibit the ability to arbitrarily assign the output signal voltage to an arbitrary selected portion of the waveguide. The ability to select the active stroke of the transducer is important in many applications. The ability to assign output voltages improves the adaptability of the transducer and permits it to emulate transducers which it replaces. The velocity adaptive inhibit window allows the transducer to accommodate its noise window to the particular application.

Emulated analog output magnetostrictive position transducer with set point selection


Method for joining components of metals and alloys, particularly components of light metals, including alloys of light metals and possibly hybrids/composites containing light metals. Oxide on the surfaces to be joined is removed immediately prior to joining, and the groove is filled with a metallic filler material by means of extrusion while the supply of oxygen to the groove is restricted. The invention is also directed to a device for conducting the method, which may optionally include means for heating, means for measurement of temperature and pressure during extrusion as well as controlling means for automation of the joining process.

Traditionally techniques for joining metal components have come as a result of adapting techniques initially developed for joining of ferrous materials.
Joining of metals has largely been connected with fusion welding, where both the base metal and any filler material is melted by an electric arc, electron beam or laser beam, allowing metal to metal bonding to be achieved in the trailing part of the weld pool during crystallisation. In fusion welding only a fraction of the energy supplied contributes to the melting and thereby to bonding. Most of the energy supplied leads to a local heating of the base metal and the formation of a so-called heat-affected zone (in the literature commonly referred to as HAZ) around the weld joint. This zone represents a problem, because the resulting microstructural changes lead to a permanent mechanical degradation of the parent material. The properties of the weld zone will thus become the limiting factor in engineering design and, in practice, determine the load-bearing capacity of the component. In addition, the excess energy (i.e. heat) supplied leads to high residual stresses in the weld region as well as to global deformations and distortions. These problems are greater in aluminum welding than in steel welding, since the possibilities of taking the necessary precautionary actions, e.g. by modifying the HAZ microstructure through adjustment of the base material chemical composition, is more difficult in the former case.
In general, the use of more effective welding processes like laser welding and electron beam welding provides a much narrower HAZ, which in this respect represents a significant improvement. These techniques, however, introduce other problems related to the hot cracking resistance and pore formation in the fusion zone. In addition, they suffer from the disadvantage of more costly and less versatile equipment. Furthermore, the tolerance requirements are much more severe due to the fact that a filler material is usually not added.
In the past several attempts have been made to develop alternative techniques for joining of light metals, of which friction welding or a variant known as friction stir welding (FSW) probably is the most promising one. In FSW the two plates to be joined together are pressed firmly against each other while a rotating tool is moved along the interface (edge) between them, removing the oxide layer that—at least for aluminium—always will be present on the surface. Even though considerable frictional heating occurs at the interface between the rotating tool and the parent aluminium plates, the energy supplied, and thereby the heat generated, is less than in fusion welding, so that the base material near the joint will not melt and reach a liquid state. Friction stir welding is thus an example of a solid state joining technique, which represents a significant improvement compared to fusion welding, as several of the common problems are thereby reduced, namely development of high residual stresses and hot cracks, pore formation and a low corrosion resistance. On the other hand, this novel technique is encumbered with several disadvantages, one being the requirement that the surfaces to be joined need to exactly match each other, as there is no possibility of using a filler material. Another disadvantage is that the components to be joined must be pressed against each other with a considerable force, which means that the method requires heavy and rigid equipment. Finally, even this type of friction welding gives rise to the formation of a wide HAZ, where the resulting microstructural changes lead to permanent softening of the precipitation strengthened material.
Among other methods of joining brazing, riveting and adhesive bonding should be mentioned. One or more of these methods may be convenient for some areas of application, but, in general, they provide a low safety against failure and are therefore not realistic alternatives to welding in load or weight carrying constructions.

Method and device for joining of metal components, particularly light metal components


A reinforced shelf filing folder having front and rear panel members connected along a fold line and a tab member connected to a first side edge of the rear panel member. Reinforcement is applied to both sides of the tab member and to the outer surface of the fold line extending onto the adjacent surfaces of the front nd rear panel members. Finally, additional reinforcement means is optionally applied to the outer surfaces of the front and rear panel members, disposed along a side portion of the rear panel member opposite the first side edge and over the fold line to a corresponding portion on the front panel member. Alternatively, the additional reinforcement can be applied to the outer and inner sides of the front panel member along the first side edge. These reinforcements increase the wear resistance and life of the folder.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to paper office supplies, and, in particular, to shelf filing folders having reinforcement along the bottom and side edges to make the folders stronger and more durable.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Shelf filing folders are a necessary tool in the modern office or business for filing and storing documents. These folders are usually formed from a file folder blank which is cut from a web of file folder stock. The folders typically comprise front and rear panel members joined along a fold line and a tab member which is connected to the right edge of the rear panel member. The tab member is typically coplanar with the rear panel member and usually extends away from the edge of the rear panel member for a distance of approximately one inch.
Shelf filing folders are normally placed on a storage shelf such that their fold lines contact the shelf and their tab members project outwardly from the shelf. Thus, the contents of the file may be easily ascertained by reading the exposed tab member, and the folder may be easily retrieved by pulling the folder off the shelf by the tab member.
This type of file folder has become most advantageous, especially in larger filing systems, because the filing and finding of folders is faster and easier than with drawer filing systems. Also, shelf filing systems save floor space because the folders may be stored in shelves that extend up to the ceiling, thereby allowing more folders to be stored in the same amount of office space.
Shelf filing folders usually remain in a filing system for many years and during their lives are subjected to rough handling and abuse. This rough handling and abuse is similar to that described in the above-mentioned related applications, which are incorporated herein by reference. Specifically, the folders are usually overstuffed, thereby causing the fold line to stretch and experience excessive stress. Further, when the folders are placed on and removed from the storage shelf, they are usually slid along the fold crease. This sliding causes the paper along the fold line to fray and wear away, thereby weakening the folder and making it susceptible to premature tearing or bursting.
Moreover, when the folders are removed from the shelf, they are usually grasped at the tab member and pulled. This finger contact deposits oils and acids on the paper which breaks down the fibers in the paper, thereby subjecting the folder to premature tearing. The oils and acids also soil the paper, giving the folder an unsightly appearance. Very often, folders that are handled repeatedly will be discarded merely because the tab members have become soiled and unattractive.
After the folders have been removed from the shelf, they are usually transported from the file room to office workers in holding carts. During this transportation, the folders are often roughly handled and dropped into the carts. This rough handling will additionally cause the fold crease to wear away and will increase the chances of premature bursting. Further, the projecting tab member usually rubs against the side of the cart, thereby subjecting the tab member to creasing and tearing. This disfigurement adds to the unsightly appearance of a frequently used shelf filing folder.
Accordingly, there is a need for a shelf filing folder of superior strength that is stronger, more durable, is not susceptible to premature wear and tear.


A data card drawer for installing a data card, such as a compact flash card, into a device that uses data cards. Devices that use data cards include, for example, medical devices, and more particularly defibrillators. The data card drawer electrically isolates the data card from the user when the user is installing or removing the data card from the device. The data card drawer may also be formed to provide a closure to the opening in the device housing provided to receive the data card. Further, the data card drawer may be formed to prevent damaging pins located on a pin connector within the receiving device which communicate data with the data card. The data card drawer preferably mates with the device to prevent ingress and egress of foreign matter and moisture.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a data card drawer used to install a data card, such as a compact flash card, into a device that uses data cards. The data card drawer electrically isolates the data card from the user when the user is installing or removing the data card from the device. Further, the data card drawer prevents transfer of electrostatic discharge (xe2x80x9cESDxe2x80x9d) from the user to the device. The data card drawer may also be formed to provide a closure to the opening in the device housing provided to receive the data card. Further, the data card drawer may be formed to prevent damaging pins located on a pin connector within the receiving device which communicate data with the data card. The data card drawer preferably mates with the device to prevent ingress and egress of foreign matter and moisture.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Many electronic devices today use data cards, such as compact flash cards, (referred to as xe2x80x9ccardsxe2x80x9d) for data storage. In order to maximize data storage capability, cards are typically manufactured using a predominantly metal housing. The vast majority of cards having a two metal sides separated by a three-sided plastic frame. The internal circuitry resides within the housing formed by the metal sides and plastic frame. The remaining face of the card is filled with a 50-position pin connector (in a socket arrangement). The receiving device has a 50-pin connector. The 50-position pin connector of the card mates with a 50-pin connector in the receiving device in a pin-socket arrangement. Once mated, data exchange is possible between the card and the receiving device. An example of a compact flash card used for data is the Compact 2000 Flash Disk by M-Systems or any other standard compact flash card.
When installing the card, the user typically grasps the card directly by the card housing and inserts the card into a data slot on the receiving device. Receiving devices are any devices that are configured to receive data from or store data on a card.
One such receiving device that utilizes cards is the Hewlett-Packard 620LX palmtop. The 620LX uses cards for data storage. A data card drawer is used to install and remove the data card from the 620LX. However, the data card drawer does not provide a user-device isolation function since, although the front of the drawer is hard plastic, the drawer body is metal. The use model of the 620LX is such that user isolation from the card during the installation and removal is not essential. Therefore, using a data card drawer with a metal body does not present a risk to the user from handling the card during installation and removal.
Survivalink uses a compact flash card in its defibrillator. Electrical isolation of the card from the user is enabled by manufacturing the data card with an all-plastic housing. The absence of any external metal allows the user to grasp the card directly without compromising user isolation. There are several drawbacks to this solution. First, all-plastic housings are supplied in very small quantities and by very few vendors. Further, because the all plastic housing is thicker, there is less usable space for data inside the card. This limits the card design to single-sided circuit boards and, hence, provides less memory. This design also requires the use of a special off-center connector in the card because of the single-sided circuit board. Because of these constraints, all-plastic cards are difficult to procure and significantly more expensive than the standard metal-sided variety with the added detraction of providing less memory.
Electrical isolation of the user from the device can be extremely important in some use models, such as when the card is used in a medical device, particularly where high voltages are present, or when there is a risk of damaging the device due to ESD transfer from the user to the device. Additionally, the ability to prevent damage to the installed card under mechanical impact. Finally, the ability to install the card in such a way as to prevent ingress of environmental residue is also important. What is needed, therefore, is an apparatus that electrically isolates the user from the device while the card is being installed such that a user is prevented from being simultaneously in electrical contact with the card while installing the card into a device. Further what is needed is an apparatus that prevents damage to the flash card connector mechanism when the installed card is subjected to mechanical force. Finally what is needed is an apparatus that installs the card into the receiving device while providing a mechanism to prevent ingress of environmental residue into the device.
A data card holder for installing a data card into a receiving device comprising: a housing having an interior portion formed from a bottom wall, a front wall and two side walls; a keying detent located on at least one side wall of the housing wherein the detent protrudes into the interior of the housing; and a handle formed on the front wall of the housing wherein the handle is formed on a face of the front wall that is exterior to the interior of the housing. In this data card holder, the interior portion of the housing further has a flange attached to the front wall and parallel to the bottom wall of the housing. The bottom wall of the housing may further have a cut-out portion. The front wall of the housing may further comprise a second keying detent. Along the front wall of the housing the data card holder may further comprise a safety rib along the front wall protruding into the interior of the housing. The front wall of the housing may also have a sealing rib around its perimeter.
In another embodiment, a data card holder for installing a data card into a receiving device comprising: a housing having an interior portion formed from a bottom wall, a front wall and two side walls; a safety rib located on the front wall of the housing wherein the safety rib protrudes into the interior of the housing; and a handle formed on the front wall of the housing wherein the handle is formed on a face of the front wall that is exterior to the housing. The interior portion of the housing may further have a flange attached to the front wall and parallel to the bottom wall of the housing. Again, the bottom wall of the housing may further have a cut-out portion. In this embodiment, the data card holder may also have at least one side wall of the housing further comprises at least one detent. Optionally, the front wall of the housing has a sealing rib around its perimeter.
A method of isolating a user from a device when installing a data card is also contemplated. The method comprises: installing a data card having a metal housing in a data card holder formed of a non-conductive material; and installing the data card holder into a receiving device. The installing step of the method may also comprise: installing the data card into the data card holder so that notches on either side of the data card mate with a detent located on at least one side of the data card drawer.
It is also contemplated that this invention includes a method for preventing damage to a pin-connector in a receiving device when installing a data card drawer. This method comprises: installing a data card in a data card holder so that the data card fits snugly against a front wall portion of the data card holder; and installing the data card holder into a receiving device so that a detent located on the front wall portion of the data card holder abuts against a portion of the receiving device to prevent further entry.
Another method contemplated, includes the ability to install a data card into a high energy device. The steps of the method comprise: installing a data card having a metal housing in a data card holder formed of a non-conductive material; and installing the data card holder into the high energy device, wherein the user is electrically isolated from the high energy device while installing the data card holder into the device.
A further method of isolating a device from electrostatic discharge when installing a data card is also included. This method comprises: installing a data card having a metal housing in a data card holder formed of a non-conductive material; and installing the data card holder into a receiving device. Additionally, the installing step may further comprise: installing the data card into the data card holder so that notches on either side of the data card mate with a detent located on at least one side of the data card drawer.
Yet another method is contemplated. Specifically, the method of sealing an opening in a device for receiving a data card from ingress or egress of environmental material. The steps of this method comprise: installing a data card in a data card holder having a face; and installing the data card holder into a receiving device such that a rib on a perimeter of the face of the data card holder sealingly mates with the device for receiving the data card.


Methods and apparatus for executing a query on dynamic properties of a plurality of objects in a database are provided. In one implementation, the method includes obtaining a query; determining that a first portion of the query comprises a method for accessing a dynamic property of the plurality of objects; obtaining mapping data associated with the dynamic property of the plurality of objects, the mapping data mapping the dynamic property to a pre-determined location in the database; translating the first portion of the query in accordance with the mapping data such that the first portion of the query is executable against the pre-determined location in the database without creating instances of the plurality of objects; executing the query including executing the translated first portion of the query without creating instances of the plurality of objects; and displaying a result of the executed query to a user.

FIG. 1 illustrates a conventional database network. The database network comprises a plurality of clients 102, a network server 104, a Web Sphere™ server 106, and a database 108 containing objects. The WebSphere server 106 is an application server, developed by International Business Machines Corporation, of Armonk, N.Y., which functions as an extension to the network server 104. The WebSphere server 106 allows users to write object-oriented application programs and to design or install custom objects. These objects are stored as table structures in the database 108. The WebSphere server 106 is typically used with relational database systems, such as DB2™ or Oracle™.
The objects in the database 108 have class definitions. The class definitions contain information concerning static properties associated with the objects. Static properties are the attributes defined in the class definition. Each of the static properties is mapped to a table column in the database 108, and this mapping data is stored as metadata. The metadata takes the similar form of a Structured Query Language (SQL) view and the query translation processes are based on relational view rewrite. Some objects also have dynamic property capabilities. Dynamic properties on the contrary are not defined in the class definition. Dynamic properties are typically used for customizing an application without changing the class definition. Dynamic properties can be accessed using getPropertyBy and can be set using setPropertyBy methods that are defined in the class definition. By storing these data as dynamic properties, the user need not change the class definition of an object each time a dynamic property is added or deleted. As with static properties, the dynamic properties may each be mapped to a table column in the database 108. Alternatively, one or more of the dynamic properties may be unmapped, and instead are stored in an overflow column.
Oftentimes, a user wishes to execute queries on the objects in the database 108. The WebSphere server 106 contains a query service 110 for this purpose. For static properties, the query refers to the attributes of the class definitions for the objects. Using metadata, the query system translates the query into a query against the database schema, and this is referred to as "pushdown". If a query contains a method, instances of objects must be created and methods must be run on these instances, and this is referred to as running "in object space". Because dynamic properties are accessed using the methods, evaluating the queries with dynamic properties is done in object space. Running queries in object space is usually slower than pushdown, and thus is inefficient.

Method and apparatus for executing a query on dynamic properties of objects in a database


A device suitable for manufacturing an optical registration carrier, such as a master plate, which device comprises a support for said optical registration carrier, at least a first and a second light source, wherein the wavelengths of the light from said first and said second light source are different from each other, as well as an objective disposed between said light sources and said support, which is movable with respect to said light sources. A correction lens is disposed between the first light source and the objective, which correction lens can be moved jointly with the objective. The focal points of the two light sources at least substantially coincide with various movements of the objective and the correction lens with respect to the light source.

The invention relates to a device suitable for manufacturing an optical registration carrier, such as a master plate, which device comprises a support for said optical registration carrier, at least a first and a second light source, wherein the wavelengths of the light from said first and said second light source are different from each other, as well as an objective disposed between said light sources and said support, which is movable with respect to said light sources.
The term master plate is understood to mean a plate which can be used for making a mould that is used for manufacturing CD""s, DVD""s and the like by means of an injection moulding process. It is also possible, however, to use the master plate itself as a mould. The term optical registration carrier as used in the present patent application refers to a master plate as well as to a CD or DVD or the like, unless indicated otherwise.
In a device referred to in the introduction, which is known per se, a light source having a relatively small wavelength is used for writing the optical registration carrier to be manufactured. Said light source will hereinafter be called the writing light source. Another light source having a greater wavelength is used for focussing the writing light source. This light source will hereinafter be called the focussing light source.
The advantage of this arrangement is that it makes it possible to select the optimum wavelength of the light source for the required writing or focussing function. In addition, when writing on an optical registration carrier including a photosensitive lacquer it is possible to select a wavelength for the focussing light source to which said photosensitive lacquer is insensitive.
The two light sources direct their beams at the optical registration carrier to be worked via the same objective, to which end the focal points of the two light sources need to coincide. During focussing, the objective is moved with respect to the light sources and with respect to the support of the optical registration carrier until the focussing light source is accurately focussed on the optical registration carrier. Since the two light sources have different wavelengths, also the focal distances of the objective are different for these different wavelengths. When the objective is moved with respect to the focussing light source, also its position with respect to the writing light source changes. The consequence of this is that when the differences between the wavelengths of the light sources are relatively large, the writing light source cannot be kept focussed when the objective is being moved for focussing the focussing light source.
The object of the invention is to provide a device wherein light sources having different wavelengths can be focussed simultaneously in a simple manner.
This objective is accomplished with the device according to the invention in that a correction lens is disposed between the first light source and the objective, which correction lens can be moved jointly with the objective, wherein the focal points of the two light sources will at least substantially coincide with various movements of the objective and the correction lens with respect to the light source.
By means of the correction lens the light beam from the first light source is caused to converge or diverge relative to the light beam from the second light source in such a manner that the two light beams are focussed at the same point after exiting the objective. By moving the objective jointly with the correction lens, the focal points of the two light sources will coincide in every position of the objective with respect to the light source.
Preferably the two light sources are lasers, with the first light source being a focussing laser and the second light source being a writing laser. The wavelength of the focussing laser is preferably greater than that of the writing laser. The first light source must converge between the correction lens and the objective thereby.

Device suitable for manufacturing an optical registration carrier, such as a master plate


A system for applying rotational torque to a fastener on a fastening member (such as a threaded rod) to maintain the tight fastening. One specific embodiment of the system uses a recoil spring to apply such torque directly to the fastener; the system enables continued tightening of the fastener long after the initial fastening occurs.

(1) Field of the Invention
This invention relates to the field of building construction or improvement. More particularly, the invention disclosed herein is essentially a device for assuring that the nut remains tight against the cap-plate, as the structural frame shortens. Although the invention has several embodiments, it essentially is a system for rotating a nut on the threaded tip of an anchored rod to maintain tight contact between the nut and the cap-plate (or a washer abutting a surface anchored by the rod).
(2) Background of Invention
There are many situations requiring application of rotational torque upon a fastener, to maintain the tightness of the fastening long after the initial fastening. One example of such a situation involves the need to tighten a nut fastening two structural elements together after one or both structural elements have shrunken from dehydration. For example, lumber used for construction materials typically contains higher moisture when the structure is first constructed, compared to the moisture content after the structure has been constructed for a period of time. This is especially true when the lumber has been newly treated with preservatives and chemicals to withstand moisture. The internal moisture content of the wood construction elements decreases with the passage of time. This process, along with the compression caused by the weight of the structure bearing down on the wood units, eventually results in the shrinkage of the wood units (sometimes called "settling"). The process is most active during the first couple of years, and can result in a 5-6% decrease in the dimensions of wood units; then the process continues for several more years at a slower rate. As a result, many wooden units attached to each other lose their tight connections, thereby potentially creating a danger during the occurrence of catastrophic events such as hurricanes, tornadoes, strong wind and storms, or earthquakes. Maintenance of the tight connections will reduce or prevent damage caused by the repetitive shaking of the structures during the aforementioned catastrophic events contact between the nut and the cap-plate (or a washer abutting a surface anchored by the rod).
The invention is essentially a device to maintain tension between the nut and plate (or washer) on a structural frame when the preservative-treated lumber dries and shrinks over time. Typical construction methods include anchoring the frame of a structure to the foundation of the structure. One such method includes a rod, anchored to the foundation and extending through the lower horizontal base plate of the wall and upward through the uppermost wooden cap-plate and terminating in a nut tightened atop the cap-plate. As the structural frame dries over time (and after the roof is added), shortening of the wall joists often results in a gap of at least a few inches between the cap-plate and the once-tight nut. Such gaps enable high winds to vibrate or move the structure on its foundation, often increasing the gap until the structure can be destroyed or greatly damaged by movement by the wind.
A wide variety of tie-down or take-up systems have been developed to assure that the structural elements remain tightly connected. Known in the art are the following patents and published applications, arguably related to the patentability of the present invention:
U.S. Pat. /App. Pub. No.1st Named InventorDate of Patent/Publication3,806,992Reimer Apr. 30, 19744,721,306ShewchukJan. 26, 19885,364,214FazekasNov. 15, 19945,522,688Reh Jun. 4, 19965,540,530Fazekas Jul. 30, 19967,037,060ComminsMay 2, 20062007/0001451StruvenJan. 4, 20072009/0324364SmithDec. 31, 20097,905,066PryorMar. 15, 20112011/0113711EspinosaJul. 20, 2010
U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,364,214 and 5,540,530 issued to Fazekas disclose a self-adjusting tiedown system having a spring as a retainer, rather than to tighten the nut. These patents disclose a pair of opposing wedges that slide relative to each other, to increase in height to occupy any gap that arises between the nut and the top plate.
U.S. Pat. No. 7,037,060 issued to Commins discloses a shrinkage compensator assembly having an internal compression spring interposed between an innermost base cylinder and an outer sliding cylinder, to urge the sliding cylinder upward to increase the height of the assembly.
U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0001451 filed by Struven discloses a spring loaded nut for retaining a tubing connection with the tapered end of a vessel fitting. A compression spring within the nut housing biases a ferrule to maintain the tubing in tight engagement with the tapered end of the vessel fitting, to prevent leakage from the vessel through the fitting.
U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2009/0324364 filed by Smith discloses a self-adjusting shrinkage compensation device having four nut segments around a threaded rod, and coiled spring members flexibly holding the segments against the rod.
None of the above listed references discloses a self-tightening nut assembly, in which the nut automatically rotates around (and down) the threaded tip of a rod to maintain a tightened abutment with whatever the rod is being deployed to hold snug in place. More particularly, none of the above listed references discloses a self-tightening fastener system comprising a wire or line attached to and wound around a nut and attached to a tightening means actuated by a recoil spring.


Software intrusion protection systems to prevent remote access to sensitive data are very prevalent. In some cases, additional physical access protection may also be desired. By preventing physical access to a system an intruder may not be able to physically “steal” component parts of the system and then obtain their contents (or design criteria) at a remote site (e.g., after the physical theft). Monitors are provided to detect potential access to a secure computer system and identify if inappropriate access to the secure computer system is obtained (or is imminent). In a case where unauthorized access is predicted, warnings and alerts may be sent prior to an actual breach. Upon determination that a breach may be likely to occur, techniques to protect data (e.g., erasure, destruction, etc.) and component parts may be initiated. Sensors monitor internal and external physical environmental conditions to assist in detection of intrusion.

In the field of network computing, security is usually a very high priority requirement. In some cases, security may even be an extreme requirement. For example, banking systems and military systems may fall into the category of systems that require extreme security. Security from intrusion has at least two distinct aspects. Firstly, access security refers to network security such that an intruder does not gain "access" in the form of computer access (usually remotely) to data on a system. A second access security refers to "physical" security such that an intruder does not gain "access" to a physical device or obtain entry into a secure location of a building (e.g., secure computer room). This disclosure is mainly directed to detecting and protecting physical security aspects of a computer system. The disclosed systems and methods may be integrated with other computer systems, including systems protecting data access intrusion (i.e., non-physical remote access intrusion), to provide a comprehensive intrusion protection system for a customer network and devices on that network.
Physical security begins with maintaining security to a building or room within a building at a secure location. Often, some areas within a building or campus are expected to have a higher security requirement than others. It may be the case that certain rooms have additional "key-card" access requirements such that only certain personnel (e.g., based on business role or security clearance, etc.) may gain access to those rooms. If physical security is breached to a building, a next breach may be to a device itself. The disclosed system represents an improvement to the technical field of computer system security by enhancing the capabilities and monitoring functions of a computer system itself to work in conjunction with other security systems (building and software) to prevent unexpected access to data or device components of the computer system.

Intrustion detection and notification device

Hewlett Packard Enterprise Development LP


Apparatuses, systems and methods for controlling production of hydrocarbon material disposed within a subterranean formation are provided. In one aspect, a method is provided for producing hydrocarbon material by displacement via flow communication station of a production well. Working states of the production well are analyzed by setting the flow communication stations in the working state, producing hydrocarbon material while in the working state, and sensing a characteristic of the produced material while in the working state. A working state that optimizes operating parameters of the of the production well is determined based on the sensed characteristic, and the production well is subsequently operated in that working state.

Drive or displacement processes produce hydrocarbon material from a subterranean formation by injecting a pressurized fluid from an injection well into subterranean formation such that hydrocarbon material within a subterranean formation is driven to a production well. In some instances, there is channeling of the injected fluid through the subterranean formation. The channeling results in the injected fluid bypassing the hydrocarbon material contained within the subterranean formation.

Apparatuses, systems and methods for producing hydrocarbon material from a subterranean formation using a displacement process