A system for separating semiconductor devices from a wafer having back metal exposed in scribe streets of the wafer positioned on a plastic film by applying a variable radial force to stretch and tension the film while controlling the stretch and tension as a function of a control parameter.

In the past, numerous different approaches have been used for singulating or dicing a semiconductor wafer, the process of dividing a semiconductor wafer into individual devices. The two most widely used methods at this time are sawing using a diamond saw blade and laser scribing using a focused laser beam to cut through the wafer. Neither method is ideal. Both result in a significant loss of material during the cutting process. As the size of semiconductor devices get smaller, the width of the line of lost material during the scribing process becomes comparable to the width of the device. If the width of the line of material lost during the scribing process could be made significantly smaller, many more devices could be made on each wafer, resulting in a large savings in the cost of fabricating the devices.
Another method of wafer dicing, scribe-and-break, uses a tool with a diamond point or edge to create a line of stress between the devices to be separated and then another apparatus breaks the wafer along this line.
All three of these methods can cause damage along the cut edges of the devices that can result in rejected devices during visual inspection and in some cases cracking that can cause device failure in the field.
Since the invention of plasma and reactive ion etching in the 1970s, many individuals have proposed using these processes for wafer singulation. These processes potentially could decrease the material loss during the dicing process by etching very narrow scribe lines through the semiconductor wafer. In addition, since the etch process takes place at a microscopic level and involves no material melting or mechanical grinding, the edge of the semiconductor devices are not damaged by the process. In order for a plasma etching or a reactive ion etching process to be effective in wafer dicing, it would have to etch very deep, narrow trenches in the scribe streets of the semiconductor wafer and it would have to etch at a very fast etch rate to be economically attractive. These two conditions have been achieved in the last several years by the approach disclosed in Teixeira et al. U.S. Pat. No. 6,417,013 building on the work disclosed in Laermer et al. U.S. Pat. No. 5,501,893. The single issue that remains to be resolved is a cost effective method of separating the back metal that remains in the scribe streets after the etch process is completed.
Semiconductor wafers usually have back metal comprising one or more metal layers applied to the back of the wafer during fabrication to provide ohmic contact and/or ease of die attach during packaging of the devices. These layers of metal are not readily etched using dry etch processes. This invention teaches a method and apparatus to effectively separate these metal layers in the semiconductor wafer scribe streets.
It is current practice to mount the semiconductor wafer to be diced or singulated on a plastic film that is stretched across a metal or plastic frame. When using a scribe-and-break process, after the process has been completed the diced wafer is examined to ensure that the back metal has been separated between all of the devices. If the metal is not separated between any devices, it is common practice to manually press a stylus against the backside of the plastic film causing the film to deform upward and stretch causing the back metal to separate in this region.

System for separating devices from a semiconductor wafer


The present invention provides a method of analyzing multidimensional data using a computer as well as methods of displaying multidimensional data to a user for further analysis. The present invention provides for a method and system for state model Fitting. The system components include a detector and a computer operably connected to the detector. The computer accesses one or more logic instructions for receiving and analyzing raw data from the detector and generating a state model of the raw data based on probability weights.

Presently there are a number of methods for analyzing multidimensional data. Typically, these methods rely on some form of mathematical modeling which is used to present, rearrange or transform the data in such a way that observations may be made and conclusions drawn. Such methods include for example, multivariate analysis, regression analysis, and logarithmic transformation. Although there are a number of methods to analyze multidimensional data, the methods have certain limitations and shortcomings. For example, when using visualization to analyze such data, the viewing of multidimensional data as combinations of lower dimensional views (e.g., histograms and bivariate displays) results in the loss of information in an uncontrollable manner. Such loss of information frequently leads to loss of the pertinent information necessary to accomplish desired goals, e.g., understanding the differentiation and maturation of cells when analyzing cytometry data. While such methods generally are not dependent upon the manner of data collection, in many instances those who collect data by a particular method routinely use the same form(s) of data analysis and presentation. This is especially true in the field of cytometry.
Cytometry is a technique for the simultaneous analysis of multiple physical and chemical characteristics of individual particles either suspended in a liquid medium (flow cytometry) or coated on slides (image cytometry). Typically cytometry is used for the analysis of the physical and chemical characteristics of individual cells, although any type of particle can be measured by this technology. The term "cell" will refer to a particle that is measured by a cytometer. Cytometry uses the principles of light scattering, light excitation, cell volume, and emission of fluorochrome molecules to generate specific multi-parameter data from a single cell. The process of collecting correlated data from a population of cells using a cytometer is summarized in FIG. 1. The cells are normally collected as a tissue specimen and then divided into one or more samples. The samples can be contained either in a fluid volume (FIG. 1a, 12a) or on a slide (FIG. 1b, 12b).
The sample is normally reacted with reporter molecules or stains that confer information about the quantity of specific types of cellular structures or molecules either on or in the cell. The cocktail of stains along with the cell's intrinsic properties allow different cell types to be partially or completely delineated from each other in subsequent analyses. Stains can include one or more fluorescent labeled monoclonal antibodies, nucleic acid specific fluorescent components, fluorescent lipophilic molecules, viable cell dyes, etc. The intrinsic properties of the cells include, but are not limited to, forward angle light scattering (FALS), side scatter (SS) and cell volume.
In FIG. 1, the differently filled circles 10a, 10b, 10c represent three different cell types that are present for this example population. Cell types are known types of cells that are defined by a priori information from previous studies and/or the data collected by the cytometer. These cell types include, but are not limited to, tissue culture cell-lines, specific lineage-specific blood or bone-marrow cells, bacteria and fungi.
After staining, the cells are processed by a cytometer as illustrated in FIG. 1c. Depending on the staining cocktail, the intrinsic cellular properties, and the instrument's capability; various parameters are detected, digitized, and stored. This stored data structure is referred to as a listmode file. Typically, listmode files organize stored data such that measured parameters are in columns and events are in rows. Commonly, the number of events generated during cytometry analysis is in the range from about 10 to about 20,000. However, in certain instances the number of events can be in the millions.
The listmode correlated parameters are normally displayed as one-parameter (1P), two-parameter (2P), or three-parameter (3P) plots. (See FIG. 2.) Using techniques such as principal components, a higher number of correlated parameters (3+P) can also be displayed.
Analysis of multidimensional data, such as cytometer data generally involves classifying the data into relevant populations by using some set of hierarchical or refinement gates. A gate is either a one-dimensional range or a two-dimensional parameter boundary where events can either be inside or outside the boundary. Gates can also be combined into Boolean algebraic expressions. Events that satisfy these gates can then be displayed in other histograms defined by other parameters. This gate refinement process is carried out until the populations of interest are displayed on some set of histograms. Statistical analyses of these gated events along with all or some of the graphics are generally the ultimate output of conventional multidimensional data analysis, including cytometry analysis.
This prior art approach to analysis of multidimensional data, however, has several limitations, including parameter scalability, gating errors, and multiple sample data integration and visualization. The number of two-parameter histograms necessary to represent m-dimensional data encoded in a listmode file is m*(m−1)/2. For example, examining a sample with a cytometer that generates ten parameters requires 45 separate two-parameter histograms and a visual understanding of the implicit relationships between the parameters is very difficult. Thus, prior art approaches do not scale well with number of parameters.
The prior art method of analyzing multidimensional data is also limited by compounding gating errors. A gate is a boundary that attempts to contain one or more cellular populations, however, populations are actually m-dimensional probability distributions. Attempting to separate these distributions with simple boundaries can result in false positives contained in the gate and false negatives excluded by the gate. Since the output of one gate is used for the definition of another, these errors are compounded as the number of parameters increase. Compounding gating errors are further exacerbated by subjective placement of the gates.
The prior art method of analyzing multidimensional data is further limited in its ability to analyze data from multiple samples from a single specimen. Different cocktails of stains are often used to look at a single specimen in different ways. It is difficult to correlate the information from the separate analyses so that a single coherent picture of the specimen emerges.
Accordingly, there is a need in the art for improved methods of analyzing multidimensional data and related systems for analyzing and/or displaying data, including multidimensional data generated during cytometry analysis.


A method of and apparatus for continuously making an organic ester from a lower alcohol and an organic acid is disclosed. An organic acid or salt is introduced or produced in an electrode ionization (EDI) stack with a plurality of reaction chambers each formed from a porous solid ion exchange resin wafer interleaved between anion exchange membranes or an anion exchange membrane and a cation exchange membrane or an anion exchange membrane and a bipolar exchange membranes. At least some reaction chambers are esterification chambers and/or bioreactor chambers and/or chambers containing an organic acid or salt. A lower alcohol in the esterification chamber reacts with an anion to form an organic ester and water with at least some of the water splitting with the ions leaving the chamber to drive the reaction.

Electrodeionization (EDI) is best known as a desalting process for dilute aqueous streams. Its commercial application has been limited to the production of ultra-pure water mainly for semiconductor and pharmaceutical industries. EDI technology based on a fixed resin-wafer has been disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,495,014, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference. Further disclosures of related EDI technology are in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/213,721 filed Aug. 6, 2002 entitled "ELECTRODEIONIZATION METHOD" and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/702,798 filed Nov. 5, 2003 entitled "IMMOBILIZED BIOCATALYTIC ENZYMES IN ELECTRODEIONIZATION (EDI)", the entire disclosures of which are incorporated by reference. This technology was originally developed for desalting industrial dextrose streams but its use can be extended to the application of EDI in the fields of chemical production, separation, and purification.
Organic esters, such as ethyl lactate, are attractive substitutes for many traditional solvents that are generally considered to be toxic. For this description, ethyl lactate is used as an example of a class of organic acid esters that are derived from the reaction of small alcohols such as methyl, ethyl, propyl, butyl, etc. with organic acids such as acetic, lactic, propionic, 3-hydroxy-propionic, butyric, etc. Ethyl lactate is a biodegradable chemical that has equivalent or superior solvent properties compared to many petroleum-based solvents. It is manufactured by esterification, i.e., reaction of ethanol and lactic acid. Although lactic acid is produced by fermentation, the acid is neutralized to the lactate salt to prevent media acidification and inhibition of biocatalytic activity. Therefore, the lactate salt must be converted back to lactic acid and the acid must be recovered and purified before esterification. The salt conversion and subsequent acid recovery can be the highest cost in the entire ester process, and is the greatest economic barrier to increased ethyl lactate production and utilization.
Various methods have been implemented or proposed to convert the salt to lactic acid. The utility of these methods can be affected by the type of base that is used to neutralize the lactic acid. The conventional approach uses hydrated lime for neutralization to form calcium lactate salt. Following fermentation the broth is acidified with sulfuric acid, which produces calcium sulfate and lactic acid. Calcium sulfate, which is only slightly soluble, precipitates during the acidification step and is removed from the broth by filtration. Although simple, this approach requires the addition of acid and produces nearly one pound of waste calcium sulfate for every pound of lactic acid that is produced.
Another approach uses sodium hydroxide or bicarbonate as the base for neutralization and a double electrodialysis process to concentrate the sodium lactate salt by desalting electrodialysis (DSED) and to split the salt into sodium hydroxide and lactic acid by water-splitting electrodialysis (WSED); the sodium hydroxide can then be recycled back to the fermentor. This approach is somewhat more economical than the conventional process because the DSED and WSED processes purify the lactate, as well as convert and separate it from the broth, and produce much less chemical waste. The DSED and WSED systems and membranes, however, represent significant capital and operating costs.
Yet another approach, referred to as direct esterification, uses ammonium hydroxide to neutralize the acid in the fermentor, DSED to concentrate and purify the ammonium lactate salt, and a pervaporation-assisted reactor to "thermally crack" ammonia gas from the ammonium lactate and remove it from the broth and to simultaneously carry out the esterification reaction. The primary difficulty with this approach is that ammonia and ethyl lactate can react irreversibly to produce lactamide that has no significant value and substantially reduces the ethyl lactate yield.

Single-stage separation and esterification of cation salt carboxylates using electrodeionization


A display unit includes a touch point locus detector that detects a locus of a touch point on the touch panel, and a suspended touch detector that detects that the touch is suspended when the touch point remains at rest at one spot for at least a predetermined time period while the locus is detected. The display unit also includes a graphics identifying section that identifies a graphics indicated by the locus when the suspended touch is detected, and a graphics display section that displays the locus on a display screen, erases the displayed locus after the graphics identification is finished, and displays a graphics obtained through the identification on the display screen.

1) Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a display unit with a touch panel in which a display screen and a coordinate input unit are integrated, a method of controlling the display unit, and computer products.
2) Description of the Related Art
Recently, a display unit with a touch panel is coming into wide use. The display unit has a display screen and a coordinate input unit integrated into one, and can control an image displayed on the display screen while the user touches the display screen. Another type of display unit with a touch panel of relatively a large size is also increasing. This type of display unit is equal to the size of a blackboard or a whiteboard, and is used for giving lectures at schools or making presentations at company.
The display unit with a touch panel enables a speaker to write information on an image displayed on the display screen or enlarge a part of the displayed image by touching the display screen. Therefore, when the speaker uses the display unit to make a presentation, the audience can understand the presentation more easily. As it is also possible to quickly change or switch the displayed image, there is an advantage that the speaker can smoothly proceed with the presentation.
During the presentation, the speaker needs in many cases to draw a graphics such as an arrow, a circle, or a triangle, in addition to characters. In drawing a graphics, it is general that the speaker uses a graphics drawing tool such as a pen or an eraser displayed on the display screen. When a display unit with a large touch panel is used to make a presentation, it often occurs that the speaker cannot draw a graphics at a desired position with the graphics drawing tool while standing at a certain position. In this case, the speaker must move across the display screen in order to operate the tool during the presentation.
When the speaker moves across the screen during the presentation, both the speaker and the audience lose concentration, and this may interrupt the smooth proceeding with the presentation. The moving during the presentation may give a physical stress to some speakers. When the speaker feels it troublesome to operate the graphics drawing, the operability of the display unit with a touch panel may be lowered.

Display unit with touch panel, method of controlling the same, and computer products


A cushioned pallet that includes a base support with interlocking reusable corner support assemblies. The interlocking reusable corner support assemblies are preformed and removably secure to the base. A cushioned pallet that includes a base support with interlocking reusable corner support assemblies and center support assemblies. A cushioned pallet that includes a base support with corner support assemblies, center support assemblies, vertical support members and a top cap with corner support assemblies. The various components of the cushioned pallet are preformed and removably connect to each other to reduce the number of parts, ease assembly and disassembly, and allow the cushioned pallet to be reused many times.

The present invention relates generally to a cushioned pallet, and more particularly, to a cushioned pallet that utilizes interconnecting reusable components. These components can readily be snapped together and apart for easy assembly, disassembly, and reuse of the pallet. Moreover, the components are made of materials sufficient to withstand the forces associated with the shipping of heavy but sensitive electronics equipment.
Pallets are routinely employed in the shipping and handling of products. The shipping and handling of communications equipment and computers, however, often requires special features for pallets due to their large size and heavy weight. These products are transported on pallets usually by forklift from an assembly line to a warehouse for storage, from the warehouse to a truck for transportation, and from the truck to its final destination for installation.
Jostling these products during shipping or storage can damage the sensitive components. Accordingly, pallets with shock absorbing and anti-vibration cushioning and protective coverings are used in the communications equipment and computer industries. FIG. 1 shows a conventional cushioned pallet 10 for use in the storage and transport of a load 12, such as a heavy but sensitive piece of communications equipment. The base 11 of cushioned pallet 10 includes a sheet of plywood of suitable thickness and size to support the load 12. At each corner of cushioned pallet 10 on the underside of the pallet is a corner support 14. Corner support 14 comprises a top piece of foam 16, which provides cushioning and dampening for the load 12, and a bottom piece of wood 18, which impacts with the ground. The foam 16 and wood base 18 are held together by glue 20.
On the top side of each corner of cushioned pallet 10 are two wood corner supports 22. Wood corner supports 22 help secure load 12 in place on base 11. Wood corner supports 22 are held in place on base 11 by nails (not shown). Load 12 is also held in place on base 11 by a pair of metal connects 26. Metal connects 26 are made from steel tubing. Metal connects 26 pass through pre-existing holes 27 in the base of the frame of load 12 and are then secured to base 11 by bolts and nuts, which are embedded in the wood base. The embedded nut have been known to fall off.
Cushioned pallet 10 also includes a vertical support 29, usually a two-by-four, positioned at each corner. FIG. 1 shows only one vertical support 29. The vertical supports 29 connect to a top cap (not shown) The top cap typically is a sheet of wood covering the top of load 12. Pins 31, which protrude from base 11, hold vertical supports 29 in place at each corner of cushioned pallet 10. Pins 31 fit into corresponding holes drilled in the ends of vertical supports 29. Base 11, vertical supports 29, and the top cap are held together by a pair of steel bands 28, only one of which is shown in FIG. 1. Steel band 28 passes through a notch at the top of foam cushion 16, along vertical support 29 and around the top cap.
Finally, further support and cushioning is provided for the conventional cushioned pallet 10 by a pair of center supports 32, only one of which is shown in FIG. 1. The pair of center supports 32 is fixed on the underside of base 11, one along the front face and one along the back face. Each center support 32 consists of a wood base 34 and a foam cushion 36. As with the corner supports 14, the wood base 34 and foam cushion 36 are glued together at seam 38.
While conventional cushioned pallets such as pallet 10 adequately protect sensitive electronics and communications equipment, they have several drawbacks. First, conventional cushioned pallets are comprised of a substantial number of parts that must be bolted, nailed or glued together, which require extensive labor to assemble and are expensive. Many parts, such as screws, bolts, nuts, washers and nails are required for assembly. Moreover, as noted above, the embedded nuts used to secure the metal connects have been known to fall off, causing farther delay and increased expense.
Second, the metal straps or bands, such as 28 in FIG. 1, that run between the top cap and the base sheet and hold the assembly together can be dangerous. When finally installed, these straps are under substantial tension. When the straps are cut to remove the pallet, the tension is released and a loose strap may injure the user. Injury can also occur when the user installs the straps around the pallet and introduces the tension to the straps. Installers at ajob site also face problems in discarding the numerous metal bands associated with an installation.
Third, the combination of metal straps, wood components, and numerous parts results in increased weight for conventional pallets. This increased weight results in higher shipping costs.
Conventional cushioned pallets have an additional drawback in that they typically are not reused. For example, once the numerous pieces of the conventional cushioned pallet are secured together it is difficult to take them apart for future use. Various parts of the conventional cushioned pallets also become bent or broken during use. Repairing such pallets proves too costly, and the pallets are simply discarded. In fact, only about 30% of conventional pallets are reused. Conventional cushioned pallets, therefore, require the costly repurchase of materials and result in increased waste.
Yet another problem associated with conventional pallets is that they are not environmentally friendly. As noted above, the majority of conventional pallets are not reused. Those that are reused may only be reused once or twice before being discarded. Moreover, as noted existing pallets combine numerous parts with glue, screws and nails. As a result, conventional pallets are too costly to disassemble. They also cannot simply be ground for recycling because each pallet consists of a number of different materials. Consequently, conventional pallets are sent to landfills.
In an effort to address some of these problems, engineers have attempted to reduce the number of bolts, nuts, screws and washers utilized in conventional pallets. The pallets, however, were found not to be as sturdy and reliable. Engineers attempted to replace the steel banding with plastic bands. The plastic bands, however, were not strong enough and failed. Also, in the high temperature environment not uncommon in shipping, the plastic bands stretched.
In light of the foregoing, a need exists for a cushioned pallet for use in storing and transporting sensitive electronic equipment that has a reduced number of components, an increased level of safety in assembly and disassembly, a decreased cost, and reusable components as compared with prior arrangements.

Cushioned pallet utilizing interconnecting reusable components


A method and system for computer aided design (CAD) is disclosed for designing geometric objects. The present invention interpolates and/or blends between such geometric objects sufficiently fast so that real time deformation of such objects occurs while deformation data is being input. Thus, a user designing with the present invention obtains immediate feedback to input modifications without separately entering a command for performing such deformations. The present invention utilizes novel computational techniques for blending between geometric objects, wherein weighted sums of points on the geometric objects are used in deriving a new blended geometric object. The present invention is particularly useful for designing the shape of surfaces. Thus, the present invention is applicable to various design domains such as the design of, e.g., bottles, vehicles, and watercraft. Additionally, the present invention provides for efficient animation via repeatedly modifying surfaces of an animated object such as a representation of a face.

A designer using a computer aided design (CAD) computational system will typically approach the design of a free form geometric object (such as a surface) by first specifying prominent and/or necessary subportions of the geometric object through which the object is constrained to pass. Subsequently, a process is activated for generating the geometric object that conforms to the constraining subportions provided. In particular, such subportions may be points, curves, surfaces and/or higher dimensional geometric objects. For example, a designer that designs a surface may construct and position a plurality of curves through which the intended surface must pass (each such curve also being denoted herein as a "feature line" or "feature curve"). Thus, the intended surface is, in general, expected to have geometric characteristics (such as differentiability and curvature) that, substantially, only change to the extent necessary in order to satisfy the constraints placed upon the surface by the plurality of curves. That is, the designer expects the generated surface to be what is typically referred to as "fair" by those skilled in the art. Thus, the designer typically constructs such feature curves and positions them where the intended surface is likely to change its geometric shape in a way that cannot be easily interpolated from other subportions of the surface already designed.
As a more specific example, when designing containers such as bottles, an intended exterior surface of a bottle may be initially specified by subportions such as: (a) feature curves positioned in high curvature portions of the bottle surface, and (b) surface subareas having particular geometric characteristics such as having a shape or contour upon which a bottle label can be smoothly applied. Thus, the intention of a bottle surface designer is to construct a bottle design that satisfies his/her input constraints and that is also fair. Moreover, the designer may desire to generate holes for handles, as well as, e.g., ergonomic bottle grips by deforming various portions of the bottle surface and still have the bottle surface fair.
There has heretofore, however, been no CAD system wherein a designer (or more generally, user) of geometric objects can easily and efficiently express his/her design intent by inputting constraints and having the resulting geometric object be fair. That is, the designer/user may encounter lengthy delays due to substantial computational overhead and/or the designer/user may be confronted with non-intuitive geometric object definition and deformation techniques that require substantial experience to effectively use. For example, many prior art CAD systems provide techniques for allowing surfaces to be designed and/or deformed by defining and/or manipulating designated points denoted as "control points." However, such techniques can be computationally expensive, non-intuitive, and incapable of easily deforming more than a local area of the surface associated with such a control point. Additionally, some prior art CAD systems provide techniques for defining and/or deforming surfaces via certain individually designated control vectors. That is, the direction of these vectors may be used to define the shape or contour of an associated surface. However, a designer's intent may not easily correspond to a surface design technique using such control vectors since each of the control vectors typically corresponds to only a single point of the surface isolated from other surface points having corresponding control vectors. Thus, such techniques are, at most, only able to deform an area of the surface local to such points having corresponding control vectors.
Additionally, such prior art CAD systems may also have difficulties in precisely performing blending and trimming operations. For example, two geometric objects intended to abut one another along a common boundary may not be within a sufficient tolerance to one another at the boundary. That is, there may be sufficiently large gaps between the geometric objects that the boundary may not be considered "water tight," which may be problematic in certain machining operations and other operations like Boolean operations on solids.
Accordingly, it would be very desirable to have a CAD system that includes one or more geometric design techniques for allowing CAD designers/users to more easily, efficiently and precisely design geometric objects. Further, it would be desirable to have such a system and/or computational techniques for graphically displaying geometric objects, wherein there is greater user control over the defining and/or deforming of computational geometric objects, and in particular, more intuitive global control over the shape or contour of computationally designed geometric objects.
Definitions
This section provides some of the fundamental definitions that are used in describing the present invention. These definitions are also illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16.
A "parametric geometric object" S is a geometric object that is the image of a function f, wherein the domain of f is in a geometric space embedded within a coordinate system (denoted the "parameter space") and the range of f is in another geometric space (denoted the "object space"). Typically, the inverse or pre-image, f−1, of a geometric object such as S will be a geometrically simpler object than its image in object space. For example, the pre-image of a curve 170 in object space may be a simple line segment 172, L, in parameter space. Thus if S denotes the curve in object space, then notationally f and S are sometimes identified such that for uεL, a corresponding point in the curve S is denoted S(u). Similarly, the pre-image of an undulating surface 204 (FIG. 16) in object space may be a simple bounded plane 180 in parameter space. Thus, if S denotes the undulating surface 204, then for (u,v)εf−1(S), S(u,v) denotes a corresponding point on the undulating surface 204.
A "profile" 200 (FIG. 16) is a geometric object, such as a curve in object space, through which an associated object space geometrically modeled object (e.g. surface 204) must pass. That is, such profiles 200 are used to generate the geometrically modeled object. Thus, profiles provide a common and natural way for artists and designers to geometrically design objects, in that such a designer may think in terms of the feature or profile curves when defining the characteristic shape of a geometric object (surface) being designed. For example, profile curves on a surface may substantially define the geometry of a resulting derived geometric object; e.g., its continuity, curvature, shape, boundaries, kinks, etc. Note, that for many design applications, profiles are typically continuous and differentiable. However, such constraints are not necessary. For example, a profile may, in addition to supplying a general shape or trend of the geometric object passing therethrough, also provide a texture to the surface of the geometric object. Thus, if a profile is a fractal or fractal-like, the fractal contours may be in some measure imparted to the surface of the derived geometric object adjacent the profile. Further note that it is within the scope of the present invention to utilize profiles that are of higher dimension (≧2). Thus, a profile may also be a surface or a solid. Accordingly, if a profile is a surface, then a solid having locally (i.e., adjacent to the profile) at least some of the geometric characteristics of the profile may be derived.
Moreover, profiles (and/or segments thereof) may have various computational representations such as linear (e.g., hyperplanes), elliptic, NURBS, or Bezier. Note, however, that regardless of the computational representation, a method (such as interpolation) for deforming or reshaping each profile is preferable. More particularly, it may be preferable that such a method results in the profile satisfying certain geometric constraints such as passing through (or substantially so) one or more predetermined points, being continuous, being differentiable, having a minimal curvature, etc. Further, note that such a deformation method may also include the ability to decompose a profile into subprofiles, wherein the common boundary (e.g., a point) between the subprofiles may be "slidable" along the extent of the original profile.
A "marker" 208 (FIG. 16) is a point on a profile that can be moved to change the shape of the profile 200 in a region about the marker. A marker also designates a position on a profile where the shape of a geometric object having the profile thereon can be deformed.
A "profile handle" 212 (FIG. 16) is a geometric object tangent to the profile 200. Such a profile handle may control the shape of the profile locally by modifying the slope (derivative) of the profile at the marker 208. Alternatively, for non-differentiable profiles, a profile handle may be used to control the general shape of the profile by indicating a trend direction and magnitude of the corresponding profile. For example, if the profile is a fractal or other non-differentiable geometric object, then a profile handle may, for example, provide a range within the object space to which the profile must be confined; i.e., the range may be of a tubular configuration wherein the profile is confined to the interior of the tubular configuration, Note that the profile handle 212 affects the fullness of the profile 200 (e.g., the degree of convexity deviating from a straight line between markers on the profile) by changing the length of the profile handle.
An "isocline boundary" 220 is the boundary curve opposite the profile 200 on the isocline ribbon 216. In one embodiment, at each point on the profile 200 there is a paired corresponding point on the isocline boundary 200, wherein each such pair of points defines a vector 224 (denoted a "picket") that is typically transverse to a tangent vector at the point on the profile. More particularly, for a parameterized profile, the isocline boundary 220 can be viewed as a collection of pickets at all possible parameter values for the profile 200.
An "isocline ribbon" (or simply isocline) is a geometric object, such as a surface 216, which defines the slope of the geometric object (e.g., surface) 204 (more generally a geometric object 204) at the profile 200. Equivalently, the isocline ribbon may be considered as the representation of a geometric object delimited by the profile 200, the isocline handles 218a and 218b (discussed hereinbelow), and the isocline boundary 220. In other words, the geometric object 204 must "heel" to the isocline ribbon 216 along the profile 200. Said another way, in one embodiment, the geometric object 204 must be continuous at the isocline 216 and also be continuously differentiable across the profile 200. In an alternative embodiment, the geometric object 204 may be constrained by the isocline 216 so that the object 204 lies within a particular geometric range in a similar manner as discussed above in the description of the term "profile." Note that there may be two isocline ribbons 216 associated with each profile 200. In particular, for a profile that is a boundary for two abutting surfaces (e.g. two abutting surfaces 204), there can be an isocline ribbon along the profile for each of the two surfaces. Thus we may speak of a right and a left hand isocline ribbon.
An "isocline handle" 228 is a geometric object (e.g., a vector) for controlling the shape of the isocline ribbon 216 at the marker 208, wherein the profile handle and isocline handle at the marker may define a plane tangent to the surface 204. Hence the isocline handle is used to determine the shape of the surface 204 (or other underlying geometric object) about the marker. In particular, an isocline handle 228 is a user manipulatible picket 224. If all the profile handles 212 and isocline handles 228 (e.g., for two or more abutting surfaces) are coplanar at a marker 208, then the surface 204 will be smooth at the marker (assuming the surface is continuously differentiable), otherwise the surface may have a crease or dart. Note that by pulling one of the handles (either isocline or profile) out of the plane of the other handles at a marker, one may intentionally generate a crease in the surface 204 along the profile 200.
The part of the profile 200 between two markers 208 is denoted a "profile segment" 232. Similarly, the part of the isocline ribbon 216 between two isocline handles 228 is denoted a ribbon segment 240.
A "boundary segment" 244 denotes the part of the boundary 220 between two isocline handles 228.
The vector 246 that is the derivative tangent to the isocline boundary 220 at an isocline handle 228 is denoted a "ribbon tangent." Note that modifications of ribbon tangents can also be used by the present invention to control and/or modify the shape of an underlying geometric object such as surface 204.
Isocline handles 228 may be generalized to also specify curvature of the surface 204. That is, instead of straight vectors as isocline handles, the handles may be curved and denoted as "isocline ribs" 248. Thus, such ribs may facilitate preserving curvature continuity between surfaces having associated isocline ribbons along a common profile boundary, wherein the isocline ribbons are composed of isocline ribs. Accordingly, the curvature of such surfaces will match the curvature of their corresponding isocline ribs, in much the same way as they match in tangency.
A "developable surface" is a surface that can be conceptually rolled out flat without tearing or kinking. It is a special case of a "ruled surface," this latter surface being defined by being able to lay a ruler (i.e., straight edge) at any point on the surface and find an orientation so that the ruler touches the surface along the entirety of the ruler. For a developable surface, the surface perpendiculars are all equal in direction along the ruling.
"Label surfaces" denote special 2-dimensional (developable or nearly developable) surfaces wherein a label may be applied on, e.g., a container. Label surfaces allow application of a decal without tearing or creasing. These surfaces are highly constrained and are not typically deformed by the geometric modification of an isocline ribbon 216.
A "trim profile" is a geometric object (curve) that is a profile for trimming another geometric object (e.g., a surface). The trim profile may have a single corresponding isocline ribbon 216 since if the surface to be trimmed is a label surface, it will not be modified and, accordingly, no isocline ribbon can be used to change its shape.
A trim profile (curve) can be used to delimit any surface, not just a label surface. A surface, S, that is blended along a trim profile with one or more other surfaces is called an "overbuilt surface" when the surface S overhangs the trim profile. For example, in FIG. 12, surface 130 is an overbuilt surface, wherein the portion of the surface outside of the area 134 is typically not shown to the designer once it has been trimmed away.
A convex combination of arguments Fi is a summation
      ∑    i                c      i                  F      i      where the ci are scalar coefficients and scalar multiplication is well-defined for the Fi (e.g., Fi being vectors, functions, or differential operators), and where ci≧0 and
            ∑      i                  c      i        =  1.If the Fi are points in space, for instance, then the set of all possible such combinations yields the convex hull of the points Fi, as one skilled in the art will understand.
A "forward evaluation" is a geometric object evaluation technique, wherein in order to generate a set of sample values from a function, f(x), argument values for x are incremented and f is subsequently evaluated. This type of evaluation is usually fast and efficient, but does not give function values at chosen positions between the increments.
An "implicit function" is one written in the form f(x)=0. XεRN When a parametric curve or surface is converted to an implicit form, the conversion is called "implicitization." Hence f(t)=(sin(t), cos(t)) in parametric form may be implicitized by f(x,y)=x2+y2−1=0. Both forms describe a circle.
Dividing a vector by its length "normalizes" it. The normalized vector then has unit length. A vector function may be divided by its gradient, which will approximate unit length, as one skilled in the art will understand.
Given a function defined by a
      ∑    i                        p        i                          (        t        )                                F        i                          (        t        )            where pi(t) are weighting functions, if
            ∑      i                          p        i                          (        t        )              =  1for all values of t, then the pi are said to form a "partition of unity."
"GI" continuity denotes herein a geometric continuity condition wherein direction vectors along a continuous parametric path on a parametrically defined geometric object are continuous, e.g., tangent vector magnitudes are not considered.

Computational geometry using control geometry having at least two dimensions


A dry fire protection sprinkler has an inlet seal assembly to seal an inlet orifice. A spring seal compresses in response to a load. An inlet release unit releases the inlet seal assembly. A flexible tube has an inlet end connected to the inlet release unit. A flexible linkage extends through the flexible tube, and has an inlet end connected to the inlet release. An outlet biasing portion is connected to an outlet end of the tube and an outlet end of the linkage, which displaces upon activation of the sprinkler. A sprinkler body is connected to the outlet biasing portion, with an outlet seal assembly to seal its outlet orifice. When ambient reaches a predetermined temperature, the outlet seal assembly releases from the outlet orifice, and the outlet biasing portion displaces the linkage, causing the inlet of the linkage to operate the inlet release unit, releasing the inlet seal.

Dry sprinklers are used in areas that are exposed to freezing conditions, such as in freezers or outdoor walkways. In some dry-pipe systems, fluid supply conduits are positioned in a space in which the fluid in the supply conduit is not subject to freezing. A dry sprinkler is attached to the fluid supply conduit and extends into a space in which the fluid would otherwise be subject to freezing.
A typical dry sprinkler comprises a sprinkler head, a tube, a pipe connector at an inlet end of the tube that connects the inlet end to supply conduits, or a pipe network, of the fire suppression system, a plug seal at the inlet end to prevent water from entering the tube until it is necessary to actuate the dry sprinkler, and an actuating mechanism to maintain the plug seal at the inlet end until actuation of the dry sprinkler. Typically, the sprinkler head is attached to an end of the tube that is opposite to the inlet end of the tube. Also, the tube is conventionally vented to the atmosphere to allow drainage of any condensate that may form in the tube.
Examples of dry sprinklers are generally disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,755,431, to Ondracek, and in U.S. Pat. No. 5,967,240, also to Ondracek. As shown generally in these patents, the actuating mechanism of a dry sprinkler can be a rod or other similar structure that extends through the tube between the sprinkler head and the inlet end to maintain the plug seal at the inlet end. The actuating mechanism includes a thermally responsive support element at the sprinkler head that supports the rod and, therefore, the plug seal at the inlet end. In some dry sprinklers, the tube is also sealed at the sprinkler head end of the tube and the actuating mechanism is supported at the sprinkler head end by a seal cap that is supported by the thermally responsive support element. In such arrangements, the space in the tube between the seal cap and the plug seal can be filled with a pressurized gas, such as dry air or nitrogen, or with a liquid, such as an antifreeze solution. When an elevated temperature occurs, the thermally responsive support element fails, releasing the plug seal (and also any lower seal at the sprinkler head end of the tube) to allow water from the fluid supply conduit to flow into and through the tube to the sprinkler head, whereupon the fluid is distributed by the sprinkler head.
Conventional dry sprinklers are fabricated using a rigid tube having a seal at the inlet that is separated from the thermally responsive support element of the sprinkler that is intended to be positioned in an area exposed to freezing conditions, such as an area that is not heated. The rigid tube extends into the unheated area from a wet pipe system (located in a heated area) and must be precisely aligned and installed while avoiding various architectural, structural and mechanical obstructions typically found in commercial or industrial buildings.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

The Reliable Automatic Sprinkler Co. Inc.


A tilt correcting apparatus makes a tilt correction in an information recording apparatus or the like capable of recording record information onto an information recording medium, on an information recording surface of which a track having a wobble is formed, by emitting laser light thereonto. The tilt correcting apparatus is provided with: a correcting device for changing an irradiation angle of the laser light; a controlling device for controlling the correcting device such that the irradiation angle is set to be each of a plurality of predetermined angles before the record information is recorded; a wobble detecting device for detecting a wobble signal corresponding to the wobble from a photo-detection signal of light from the track caused by the laser light; and a tilt determining device for determining an amount of tilt of the information recording surface, on the basis of the detected wobble signal. The controlling device controls the correcting device to correct the irradiation angle in accordance with the determined amount of tilt when the record information is recorded.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a tilt correcting apparatus for and a tilt correcting method of detecting the amount of disc tilt (hereinafter merely referred to as the "amount of tilt") in an optical disc, such as a writable DVD+R and a writable DVD+RW, and making a tilt correction on the basis of the detected amount of tilt, and an information recording apparatus and an information recording/reproducing apparatus, such as a DVD recorder, including such a tilt correcting apparatus.
2. Description of the Related Art
On an information reproducing apparatus, such as a DVD player, it is extremely important to irradiate an optical disc which is set, such as a DVD, with laser light for reading, from a direction perpendicular to the recording surface of the optical disc, in order to optically read information, accurately. This is because the inclination, i.e., "tilt" of the information recording surface of the optical disc, such as a DVD, to the laser light deteriorates a reproduction signal, depending on the amount of tilt (i.e., a tilt amount or a tilt angle) as being the extent of the inclination, or the angle of tilt. Thus, conventionally, on a read-only optical disc, such as a DVD-ROM, the amount of tilt of the information recording surface is detected by using the amplitude of a Radio Frequency (RF) signal, which is detected in accordance with the presence of record information (i.e. recording pits). Then, at the time of actual reproduction of the record information, the irradiation angle of the laser light is fine-tuned so as to cancel the amount of tilt (which is referred to as a "tilt correction" herein as occasion demands) with respect to the information recording surface; namely, the laser irradiation angle to the information recording surface is set so as to increase the amplitude of the RF signal, to thereby prevent the deterioration of the reproduction signal by tilt.
On the other hand, even an information recording apparatus or an information recording/reproducing apparatus, such as a DVD recorder, at the time of recording, it is extremely important to irradiate an optical disc with laser light for writing, from a direction perpendicular to the information recording surface of the optical disc, in order to optically write information. This is because the presence of tilt causes a large light spot to be formed on the information recording surface, depending on the amount of tilt, to thereby deteriorate a writing signal. In this case, if the writable disc, such as a DVD+RW, is unrecorded, it is impossible to detect the RF signal corresponding to the record information, as in the above-mentioned DVD-ROM or the like. Thus, in place of the RF signal, the amplitude of a tracking error signal which uses land/groove tracks is used for the detection of the amount of tilt. For example, in reproducing the information on an optical disc in a wobble•land pre-pit manner, the signal amplitude of a RF difference signal (i.e. the tracking error signal) and the amplitude of a land pre-pit signal can be used, to thereby detect the amount of tilt (e.g. refer to Japanese Patent Application Laid Open NO. 2002-288859).
However, the irradiation angle of the laser light which gives a peak to the RF signal is not generally equal to the irradiation angle of the laser light which gives a peak to the tracking error signal. Namely, there is such a technical problem that the highly accurate tilt correction is essentially difficult or impossible from the detection of the amount of tilt by using the tracking error signal. Moreover, in order to detect the amount of tilt by using the tracking error signal, it is necessary to open tracking servo, for the detection of the amount of tilt at one point for recording, then, measure the tracking error signal, then, close the tracking servo, and then, perform a next detection. For such detection, it takes, e.g., several tenths of a second. Thus, if it is desired to obtain the distribution of the amount of tilt on the whole disc, it takes several seconds since the same detection is performed at a plurality of points for recording. Namely, there is also such a technical problem that the quick detection of the amount of tilt is essentially difficult.

Tilt correcting apparatus and method, information recording apparatus, and information recording/reproducing apparatus


Magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles are made from a magnesium compound that is reacted with an organic dispersing agent (e.g., a hydroxy acid) to form an intermediate magnesium compound. Magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles are formed from hydrolysis of the intermediate compound. The bonding between the organic dispersing agent and the magnesium during hydrolysis influences the size of the magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles formed therefrom. The magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles can be treated with an aliphatic compound (e.g., a monofunctional alcohol) to prevent aggregation of the nanoparticles during drying and/or to make the nanoparticles hydrophobic such that they can be evenly dispersed in a polymeric material. The magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles exhibit superior fire retarding properties in polymeric materials compared to known magnesium hydroxide particles.

1. The Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles, methods of making magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles, and compositions incorporating such nanoparticles. Magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles are made using an organic agent having at least two functional groups that influence the size, shape and/or dispersibility of the nanoparticles.
2. The Relevant Technology
Fires are a frequent and dangerous hazard throughout the world. Every year fires kill people and cause substantial economic loss. According to statistics, the monetary loss due to fire is equivalent to 0.2% to 0.3% of the GNP of European and North American countries. Despite extensive fire prevention measures and fire fighting efforts, there are thousands of fire-related deaths in all countries, including developed countries in Europe and North America.
Many materials can be made less hazardous in a fire by including a flame retardant. Flame retardants are often used as filler materials in plastics and other materials for their ability to inhibit combustion and smoke generation.
There are many classes of compounds that are useful as flame retardants. Inorganic minerals, organo-phosphates, and halogenated compounds are commonly used in plastics and other materials. Magnesium hydroxide is a known flame retardant that is attracting substantial attention because of its performance, price, low corrosiveness, and low toxicity. The current market for magnesium hydroxide in flame retardants is about ten million pounds per year.
Magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)2) is an acid-free, halogen-free flame retardant suitable for use in plastics. Both hydroxide ions in magnesium hydroxide decompose endothermically when heated to temperatures greater than 340° C. The decomposition of Mg(OH)2 has the following formula: Mg(OH)2→MgO+H2O 1316 J/g.
The high decomposition temperature of magnesium hydroxide results in the absorption of larger amounts of heat energy than other known flame retardants. For example, aluminum trihydroxide (ATH) decomposes at 200° C. according to the following formula. 2Al(OH)3→Al2O3+3H2O 1051 J/g. As can be seen from the equations, the decomposition of magnesium hydroxide consumes 265 J/g more heat energy than ATH. In addition, the 100° C. higher decomposition temperature of magnesium hydroxide (compared to ATH) allows magnesium hydroxide to be processed in plastics at higher temperatures.
The decomposition products of manganese hydroxide (i.e., water and MgO) are non-toxic, and the mineral phase, MgO, is alkaline, which reduces the likelihood that acidic, corrosive gases will be formed and/or escape from the plastic when heated to combustion temperatures.
The gaseous water formed in the decomposition of the magnesium hydroxide is believed to envelop the flame, thereby excluding oxygen and diluting flammable gases. Similar to the function of char formed by phosphorous-containing flame retardants, a heat insulating material comprising MgO may form on the surface of the plastic in contact with the flame, reducing the flow of potentially flammable decomposition products to the gas phase where combustion occurs.
Magnesium hydroxide is typically incorporated into plastic as a finely divided powdery filler. To obtain the desired fire retarding properties, the magnesium hydroxide is added to plastics in relatively high amounts. In some cases, the weight of the magnesium hydroxide filler is equal to the weight of the plastic material. Including large amounts of a particulate filler, however, can have a negative effect on the tensile strength and other mechanical properties of the plastic material. Plastic materials having large quantities of magnesium hydroxide have also been known to absorb water, thereby decreasing tensile strength and increasing the rate of aging.

Magnesium hydroxide nanoparticles, methods of making same and compositions incorporating same


A method and an apparatus for performing a virtual address based memory access. A software object is executed. A security level for the software object is established. A virtual address based memory access is performed using at least one of the security levels. The function of the object is executed based upon the virtual address based memory access.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to computer systems operations, and, more particularly, to a method and apparatus for performing linear address-based security schemes to provide secure memory access.
2. Description of the Related Art
Computers or computing systems are important elements in many of today's industrial and home applications. Many systems, such as manufacturing systems, power systems, product distribution systems, document systems, etc., are powered by computer systems that utilize processors. These processors perform a variety of tests and execute a plurality of software programs that interact with each other. Many times input/output devices permit manipulation of operations of processors and software programs.
Computing systems have evolved from single task devices to multitask devices. A computing system employs an operating system to execute the many tasks and manage their resource utilization. Typically, when a user invokes a process (e.g., opens an application program such as a word processor), the operating system dedicates certain computing resources (e.g., portions of memory) for use by the task. Many computing resources, however, cannot, or are not, dedicated in this manner. Printer drivers, for example, are frequently used by multiple tasks. Operating systems, therefore, also usually define access rights and protocols for tasks relative to such shared resources. Thus, by virtue of the operating system's efforts, computing systems can simultaneously execute multiple tasks in an efficient manner.
One important aspect in such a computing environment is "security." Computing systems that multitask employ security and protection services to protect their operating system from user processes, and to protect the processes from each other. Without protection, a rogue program could unintentionally destroy the program code or data in the memory space belonging to the operating system or to another process. Note that, at least in this context, security does not imply thwarting intentional malicious acts, although it contemplates protecting against these as well.
Many processors, such as x86 processors, provide a plurality of security levels, such as privilege levels. Turning now to FIG. 1, one example of the representation of a plurality of security levels is illustrated. The inverse pyramid styled structure in FIG. 1 illustrates four levels of security (privilege) level 0, level 1, level 2, and level 3. The operating system is afforded a base privilege level such as level 0. The privilege afforded by the security level 0 allows a particular software structure to obtain access provided by subsequent security levels such as levels 1-3. If a software structure is allowed only a privilege of security level 2, that particular software structure only has access and control over operations that are afforded by privilege levels 2 and 3. In many cases, popular operating systems, such as Microsoft Windows®, do not utilize the full capabilities of the plurality of privilege levels. Some software operating systems only use two privilege levels, such as level 0 and level 3 through level n.
A user application program may execute at security level 3, while the operating system services and all drivers operate at security level 0. This can open the computer system to a variety of security risks. This is particularly true since most drivers have access to all of the computer resources because they are operating at the most privileged level, security level 0. Therefore, an unauthorized access to a driver that controls a device in the computer system, such as a modem device, can cause unauthorized operation of the modem resulting in system destruction. Furthermore, unauthorized access to system memory can cause loss of valuable data and software programs.
A standard level of security is desirable during operation of the processor such that certain software structures (e.g., software objects, subroutines, standalone programs, etc.) can be controlled and given priority over other software structures. A rogue software structure that controls an I/O device in the computer system, such as a modem device, can cause unauthorized operation of the I/O device, resulting in system destruction or misuse. Furthermore, unauthorized access to system I/O devices can cause loss of valuable data and software programs.
The present invention is directed to overcoming, or at least reducing the effects of, one or more of the problems set forth above.

Method and apparatus for linear address based page level security scheme to determine current security context


One embodiment of the invention is directed to an array of articulable masts for use with an array of directional elements. In a particular embodiment, each of the masts employs: (a) a linked structure with a plurality of pivotally connected links that includes a fixed link which is attached to a base and a free link which is adapted to support a directional antenna and (b) a wire structure that engages the linked structure. The array also includes a rotor structure that engages the corresponding wire structure associated with each of the linked structures. In operation, rotation of the rotor structure causes the free ends of the linked structures to move such that the boresights of any attached directional elements are moved at the substantially the same time and in the same way and so that each boresight is collinear or parallel to a radius of a spherical section.

Directional elements have been developed that process transverse electromagnetic waves. For example, directional radio frequency antennas (e.g., a parabolic dish antenna) and directional optical elements (e.g., lasers and CCDs) have been developed. Directional elements have also been developed that process longitudinal waves. For example, directional microphones have been developed. Characteristic of directional elements is a boresight, the axis of maximum gain with respect to the signal being processed by the element. The boresight of a directional antenna is the axis of maximum gain in the antenna's radiation pattern. For example, in an axially-fed parabolic dish antenna, the boresight is the axis of symmetry of the parabolic dish. Many applications for directional elements require that the boresight of the element be adjustable. For example, if a directional antenna is used to track a moving object, the position of the boresight of the directional antenna typically must be moved to keep the moving object within the radiation pattern at or near the boresight.
To move a directional element, a mast is employed that is capable of moving the boresight of the element within some defined range. Typically, such masts employ a gimbal mechanism to facilitate the positioning of the boresight of the element. The gimbal mechanism extends from a first end that is attached to a base to a second end that is attached to the directional element structure. Associated with the gimbal mechanism is an x-y-z orthogonal coordinate system. Rotation about the x, y, and z axes can respectively be defined as pitch, yaw, and roll. The gimbal mechanism typically includes two gimbals, the first gimbal providing the ability to roll the directional element structure within a defined range and the second gimbal providing the ability to pitch/yaw the directional element structure within a define range. The range of motion of the first and second gimbals defines the spherical section within which the boresight of the directional element can be positioned. Typically, the first gimbal supports the second gimbal and the second gimbal supports the directional element. Further, the first gimbal also typically supports the motor used to rotate the directional element about the second gimbal. Consequently, the motor used to rotate the first gimbal must rotate the first gimbal, second gimbal, directional element, and motor for rotating the directional element about the second gimbal.
The volume needed to accommodate a directional element and a gimbal mechanism for positioning the boresight of the directional element is directly proportional to the dimensions of the directional element and the extent of the spherical section within which the boresight can be positioned. For example, as the dimensions of a directional antenna increase with the spherical extent being held constant, the greater the volume needed to accommodate the antenna and gimbal mechanism. Likewise, as the spherical extent increases with the dimensions of antenna being held constant, the greater the volume needed to accommodate the antenna structure and gimbal mechanism. Of particular concern in many applications is the height of this volume. For example, when a directional antenna and gimbal are disposed substantially outside the typical exterior surface of an aircraft (typically, under some kind of cover), the height of the volume occupied by the antenna and gimbal mechanism typically increases drag and/or changes the performance of the aircraft. Further, the height of the antenna and gimbal mechanism (or related cover) also creates a visual signature that is undesirable in particular instances.


A microbiological method of desulfurization (MDS) of hydrocarbon fuels such as coal, coal tar and petroleum uses an aqueous microbial biocatalytic agent which is not significantly reproducing but is still capable of oxidizing inorganic sulfur compounds and/or of selectively cleaving sulfur-carbon bonds in organic compounds, thereby removing sulfur with insignificant losses in fuel value. Microorganisms are selected according to the type of fuel sulfur present and the environment in which the desulfurizing process is to take place. One embodiment allows droplets of highly concentrated cell-water suspensions to pass from the top surface of the fuel through to the bottom, desulfurizing along the way and removing the sulfur products of the process as well. This MDS method can be used during hydrocarbon fuel production, storage, transport, and/or processing conditions, thereby also providing an added benefit in corrosion protection of the vessels used for these functions.

Sulfur is nearly ubiquitous in fossil fuels and occurs as inorganic (pyritic) sulfur and organic sulfur (mercaptans, disulfides, thiols, sulfones, thioethers, thiophenes) and many more complex forms of "bound" sulfur. In petroleum, it is the third most abundant element after carbon and hydrogen, and yet it is an undesirable component of both raw and refined fuels. The sulfur concentration of petroleum has been correlated with the corrosion of pipelines, pumps, and refining equipment and leads to the premature breakdown of engines. In addition, combustion of sulfur-containing fuels results in sulfur dioxide pollution of the atmosphere, contributing to acid rain. Consequently, strict regulations on sulfur emissions and the sulfur content of refined fuels have been adopted in the U.S. and elsewhere.
When the sulfur is predominantly in the organic form it can be removed chemically by a hydrodesulfurization process which involves reacting the hydrocarbon with hydrogen gas in the presence of a catalyst at elevated temperatures. Since the hydrodesulfurization process has many shortcomings and is quite expensive, microbial desulfurization (MDS) processes have attracted much attention.
Many processes utilizing microorganisms known to be capable of both degrading sulfur compounds and utilizing hydrocarbon for growth have been studied with varying degrees of success. However to date, Microbial Desulfurization has been shown to be effective only in laboratory experiments. Further, it has been suggested that current Microbial Desulfurization processes are, for the most part, merely incidental to the metabolic consumption of the hydrocarbon by the microorganisms during their growth process (catabolic MDS) rather than sulfur specific or sulfur selective reactions.
Sulfur content of carbonaceous fuels, such as coals and oils, has prevented utilization of a considerable amount of such materials due to deleterious effect upon the environment. Inorganic pyritic sulfur and organically bound sulfur may each constitute as much as about 3.5 weight percent of the coal. Microbial metabolism of inorganic pyritic sulfur by its oxidation using bacteria such as Thiobacillus and Sulfolobus species is known (Eligwe, C. A., "Microbial Desulfurization of Coal," Fuel, 67: 451–458 (1988)). These chemolithotropic organisms utilize inorganic pyritic sulfur compounds as energy sources and are capable of removing 90% or more of the inorganic pyritic sulfur from coal within a few days.
Pre-combustion MDS for coal and liquid petroleum products has been described in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,861,723 pyrite removal during wet grinding of coal with MDS organisms; U.S. Pat. No. 4,851,350 organic sulfur removal in coal slurry with added nutrients and Hansenula sp. or Cryptococcus albidus; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,510,265 for removal of organic sulfur by Rhodococcus species and their enzyme derivatives in combination with hydrodesulfurization (HDS). MDS in these cases is specific to removal of either pyritic or organic sulfur but not both during active processing of the fuel sources.
Valentine in U.S. Pat. No. 5,593,889 suggests use of MDS at any time during storage, transport, and processing of hydrocarbon fuels. However, the MDS process in '889 converts organic sulfur to water-soluble sulfates in an emulsion under growth conditions with supplemental nutrients.
Dibenzothiophene (DBT) is the organosulfur compound most considered representative of the form in which organic sulfur exists in naturally occurring organic carbonaceous fuels such as coal and oil and is the primary compound upon which the microbial metabolism of organosulfur compounds has focused. The pathway of microbial degradation of DBT in most of the prior art is by C—C bond cleavage. Microbial degradation of organic sulfur-containing carbonaceous materials by C—C bond cleavage results in the loss of a large portion of the calorific value of the carbonaceous fuel. It is, therefore, desirable to follow a microbial degradation route which removes sulfur from the molecule without removing carbon from the molecule, thereby retaining calorific value of the fuel to a greater degree than is possible by carbon degradative pathways. Such sulfur-specific metabolism of the organic substrates requires cleavage of carbon-sulfur bonds in the organic sulfur-containing molecule. In the case of sulfur specific metabolism of dibenzothiophene, the organic end product is 2-hydroxybiphenyl.
Prior art microorganisms alleged to be capable of degradation of DBT by C—S cleavage to sulfates include a Pseudomonas species as described by Isbister, et al. (Isbister, J. D. and Kobylinski, E. A., "Microbial Desulfurization of Coal in Processing and Utilization of High Sulfur Coals," Coal Science and Technology Series, No. 9, 627); Rhodococcus rhodochrous and Bacillus sphaericus as disclosed by Kilbane, II, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,358,869; and Pseudomonas ATCC 39381 as set forth by Isbister, J. D., and R. C. Doyle in U.S. Pat. No. 4,562,156. However these organisms are intended for organic, not pyritic, sulfur removal under growth nutrient supplemented conditions and/or agitated aqueous emulsion conditions.
Johnson et al. in U.S. Pat. No. 6,071,738 disclose the use of recombinant microorganisms to remove organic sulfur by metabolic processing to organosulfinate and/or organosulfonate precipitates. These compounds are then extracted by a polar solvent and removed by phase separation using a polar phase such as water. Microorganisms or enzymes employed as biocatalysts in '738 are reported not to consume the hydrocarbon framework of the former refractory organosulfur compound as a carbon source for growth. As a result, the fuel value of substrate fossil fuels thus treated does not deteriorate. The concentrations of microorganisms or derived enzyme biocatalyst can be adjusted so that appropriate volumes of biocatalyst preparations having predetermined activities can be obtained. However these organisms are intended only for organic, not pyritic, sulfur removal. Further, use is described as under bioreactor or refinery type conditions.
Similarly Olson in U.S. Pat. No. 6,124,130 describes microbial desulfurization of hydrocarbon fuel without the fuel being used as a carbon or energy source. However at least a 500-fold growth of the culture is expected per week using a sulfur free added alternative carbon source in a supplemented innoculum.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,804,435 describes a Pseudomonas putida that is resistant to organic solvents and hence can be used for biodesulfurization with a very small amount of water. These microorganisms are organic solvent-resistant strains capable of performing desulfurization under microaerobic conditions in the presence of organic solvents. The application of these microorganisms to petroleum refining or coal desulfurization steps is suggested to establish a more efficient, energy-saving and safe desulfurization process. However no specific method of use is suggested.
Jenneman et al. in U.S. Pat. No. 5,789,236 describe the use of concentrated Campylobacter sp. on oil to speed up a reduction of sulfides process in fuel reservoirs. One example uses a microbe innoculum concentration of 107/ml. of nutrient supplemented culture medium.
Hence it is clear that none of the prior MDS art describes a microbiological method of desulfurization of fossil fuels (MDS) allowing the biocatalytic removal of sulfur without an unacceptable loss in the fossil fuel value due to catabolic destruction of the hydrocarbon, without the need for agitation, and without the addition of growth enabling nutrients. Further it is clear that none of the prior MDS art describes a microbiological method of desulfurization of fossil fuels (MDS) allowing the biocatalytic removal of both inorganic and organic sulfur without an unacceptable loss in the fossil fuel value due to catabolic destruction of the hydrocarbon and without the addition of growth enabling nutrients. The present invention therefore provides a new means for more effective and desirable MDS treatment of sulfur-containing hydrocarbon fuels.

Method for the microbiological desulfurization of fossil fuels


An approach for managing file storage between local and remote storage locations in a networked computing environment (e.g., a cloud computing environment) is provided. In a typical embodiment, files/data may be tagged with metadata that associates the files/data with an event that indicates a date/time and a geographical destination of an intended use of the files. The files may then be transferred between local and remote storage (e.g., at the destination) based upon a set of predefined rules for transferring the files/data.

The networked computing environment (e.g., cloud computing environment) is an enhancement to the predecessor grid environment, whereby multiple grids and other computation resources may be further enhanced by one or more additional abstraction layers (e.g., a cloud layer), thus making disparate devices appear to an end-consumer as a single pool of seamless resources. These resources may include such things as physical or logical computing engines, servers and devices, device memory, and storage devices, among others.
When end users/consumers store files with a cloud provider, the cloud provider may decide where to store the data based on the best location according to the cloud storage architecture. As such, users may be unaware of the location of their files and/or have little input over where the files are stored. This issue may be complicated as the amount of data grows and/or when efficient or rapid access to the data needed.

Predictive data management in a networked computing environment

International Business Machines Corporation


An area efficient baseband filter is disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, an apparatus includes a current to voltage (I-V) filter configured to receive an input current signal at an input port and generate a filtered output voltage signal at an output port based on a feedback transconductance. The input current signal comprises an input DC current in addition to a signal current. The apparatus also includes a feedback circuit connected between the output port and the input port, the feedback circuit having at least one transistor configured to couple the input DC current to a signal ground and to provide the feedback transconductance for the I-V filter.

1. Field
The present application relates generally to the operation and design of analog front ends, and more particularly, to the operation and design of area efficient baseband filters.
2. Background
Wireless devices are becoming increasing more complicated and now routinely provide multi-mode and multi-band operation. As a result, efficient utilization of circuit area has become a primary concern. A typical transmitter front end includes a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) to convert digital data to baseband analog signals. Signal conditioning, such as baseband filtering, is used to prepare the baseband analog signals for input to an up-converting mixer. It is desirable to have the signal conditioning utilize as little circuit area as possible while still allowing the transmitter front end to achieve a desired level of signal to noise (SNR) performance.
A typical baseband filter may include an amplifier, a transconductor, and a variety of passive components in a feedback configuration that are used to set the filter response. For example, the filter response may be determined from a product of the resistors and capacitors used in the feedback configuration. Typically, a majority of the circuit area is occupied by the passive elements and the amplifier area, and therefore the circuit area is determined by the number and types of components needed to achieve a desired SNR.
Therefore, it would be desirable to have an improved baseband filter that provides a desired level of noise performance while utilizing less circuit area than conventional baseband filters.


Pretreatment of a fabric using a material that binds to the fabric and changes some characteristic of the fabric. In an embodiment, the characteristic that is changed can be at least one of stain and flash for wrinkle resistance. The material can be Permafresh material. The material can bind to the fabric, and intends to be maintained within the fabric for the life of the fabric. After pretreatment, the pretreated material is processed by a laser which intends to change the look of the material without undesirably damaging the material. The treatment may make the treatment by lasers more consistent and allow the lazed graphic to maintain its quality after repeated washings and wearing.

Technolines LLC has been granted a number of patents, including U.S. Pat. No. 5,990,444 and others, which describe lasers being used to write graphic images and patterns on substrates. The lasers may write graphic images on fabric substrates such as cotton, polyester, suede, leather, and the like. The laser should write with an output power or energy "density" per unit time, or EDPUT, that makes a mark on the fabric, without undesirable damage to the fabric.

Surface pretreatment of fabrics for laser writing applications


An ultrasound transducer having an extended focus for enabling an ultrasound imaging catheter to image features at a distance from the transducer with a high resolution and a high penetration depth. The ultrasound transducer is configured such that the acoustic path-length from the periphery of the transducer is increased relative to the acoustic path-length from the center of the transducer thereby increasing the transition length and focal length of the transducer. The ultrasound transducer may include an acoustic element having a convex surface on a side which transmits and receives ultrasound waves. An acoustic backing material may be attached to the acoustic element opposite the side where ultrasound waves are transmitted and received, and an acoustic matching layer may be provided on the convex surface of the acoustic element. The acoustic matching layer may have a substantially uniform thickness such that it also has a convex outer surface. The radius of curvature of the convex surface of the acoustic transducer element will determine the focal length for a given size and frequency of operation of the ultrasound transducer.

Ultrasound imaging catheters typically produce cross-sectional views of internal features of a living body to assist in accurate medical diagnosis and treatment decisions. Intravascular and intraluminal ultrasound imaging refers generally to imaging from within blood vessels, arteries, and other small lumens. Intracardiac imaging refers to imaging the walls of the heart. Ultrasound imaging catheters generally image features a short distance from the transducer.
Ultrasound imaging devices are generally known, and although there are various ways to accomplish this type of imaging, imaging catheters employ mechanisms to transmit scanning beams of ultrasound energy into the area being studied and to receive the return echoes from each scan in order to generate an image which can be seen on a visual display such as a monitor. The transmitted ultrasound beam has several important parameters, such as frequency, beam-width in the near-field and far-field, focal length, transition length between near and far-field, and beam intensity which define the performance characteristics of the ultrasound imaging system. Some of the most important performance characteristics of an ultrasound imaging system include axial and lateral resolution and penetration depth. The resolution of an ultrasound imaging system is defined as the minimum distance of separation between two objects and the maximum distance from the two objects at which the two objects can still be identified separately in the ultrasound image. The penetration depth is the depth below the surface of the feature at which the ultrasound waves can detect and produce an image.
Axial resolution and lateral resolution typically improve with increasing frequency. Increasing the frequency of a system, however, reduces the penetration depth of the ultrasound beam and consequently the depth of view. Hence, the optimal acoustic frequency for any given imaging application using conventional ultrasound transducers is a compromise between resolution and penetration depth. Reducing the beam diameter also improves lateral resolution. For an exhaustive discussion of ultrasound beam characteristics and the relationship of these characteristics to performance parameters, the reader is referred to Harm ten Hoff, "Scanning Mechanisms for Intravascular Ultrasound Imaging; A Flexible Approach"; ISBN:90-9006072-3; Ph.D. Thesis (1993); Erasmus University Rotterdam, The Netherlands; "Diagnostic Ultrasound; Principles and Instruments," 4th Ed., Frederick W. Kremkau, W. V. Saunders Co., Philadelphia, ISBN:0-7216-4308-6 (1993); these and all other references cited herein are expressly incorporated by reference as if fully set forth in their entirety herein.
The penetration depth of an ultrasound imaging system is a function of the frequency, the dynamic range of the system, and the ultrasound beam shape. Usually, however, the dynamic range is limited because excessive intensity can result in cavitation which can cause severe damage to the catheter and to the surrounding tissue. The penetration depth can be improved by optimizing the beam shape by extending the beam focal length and producing a tighter beam at a desired distance from the transducer. Hence, imaging system design aspects other than frequency may be changed to affect the beam shape thereby improving the resolution and penetration depth of the ultrasound imaging system.
In turn, the shape of an ultrasound beam of a single transducer is a function of the shape and dimensions of the transducer, the ultrasound frequency and the use of focusing. Referring to FIG. 1, a typical ultrasound beam-shape is described. The near-field extends from the transducer and is characterized by a converging beam and an irregular ultrasound intensity pattern due to interference of ultrasound waves originating from different parts of the transducer. In the near-field, the acoustic field amplitude and phase are erratic due to the constructive and destructive interference of energy emitted by different parts of the transducer. The near-field can be described as somewhat incoherent.
The transition from near-field to far-field conditions is located at a distance Z=Z.sub.R from the transducer. The transition length, Z.sub.R, is defined as the distance from the transducer along the central axis of the transducer where the difference between the acoustic path-length from the center of the transducer and from the periphery of the transducer is one-half a wavelength (1/2.lambda.). This can be better described with reference to FIG. 11 which depicts a transducer having a flat acoustic element 2 and no focusing lens. Throughout this application, "standard transducer" refers to a transducer having a flat acoustic element and no focusing lens. In FIG. 11, the lines b and Z.sub.R represent acoustic path-lengths. The acoustic path-length is measured from an iso-phasic (coherent) plane on or inside the transducer assembly, usually the front surface of the acoustic element. The acoustic path-length through a media can be expressed in the number of wavelengths and is equal to: ##EQU1##
where L.sub.x =geometric path-length through media.sub.x
c.sub.x =speed of sound in media.sub.x PA1 f=acoustic frequency
The distance b represents the acoustic path-length from the periphery of the transducer, and the distance Z.sub.R represents the acoustic path-length from the center of the transducer. The transition length, Z.sub.R, is located at a distance from the transducer where: EQU b-Z.sub.R =1/2.lambda.
Using this definition, it can be seen that closer to the transducer, in the near-field, the difference, b-Z.sub.R, is larger than 1/2.lambda.. Conversely, further away from the transducer, in the far-field, the difference, b-Z.sub.R, is smaller than 1/2.lambda., resulting in an increasingly coherent and diverging beam.
The far-field is distinguished by wavefronts (iso-phasic lines) which are convex-shaped and diverging. The natural focal point is located at the point of minimum beam width, W.sub.f, which is at a distance from the transducer defined as the focal length, Z.sub.f, generally about 0.8Z.sub.R from the transducer surface.
According to the above definitions, Z.sub.R and the natural focal length Z.sub.f will increase when the acoustic path-length from the periphery of the transducer increases with respect to the acoustic path-length from the center of the transducer. Hence, increasing the diameter of the transducer will increase Z.sub.R and also Z.sub.f. By the same principle, Z.sub.R and Z.sub.f can be decreased by decreasing the acoustic path-length from the periphery of the transducer with respect to the acoustic path-length from the center of the transducer.
An example of the effect of shortening Z.sub.R and Z.sub.f is seen in the known use of a concave lens to focus an ultrasound beam. Referring to FIG. 2, an ultrasound transducer comprises a flat acoustic element 2 having a concave lens 3 laid on the front of the acoustic element. Z'.sub.R and Z'.sub.f represent the transition length and focal length, respectively, of a standard transducer. The material of the lens is selected so that the speed of sound in the lens, c.sub.1, is greater than the speed of sound in the medium (usually water/blood), c.sub.m. Because the path, b, from the periphery travels a greater distance through the lens at a greater speed than the path, a.sub.R, from the center, the acoustic path-length from the periphery of the transducer is decreased relative to the acoustic path-length from the center of the transducer to the transition point, Z'.sub.R, of a same sized standard transducer. Accordingly, the transition length Z.sub.R and the focal length Z.sub.f are decreased relative to Z'.sub.R and Z'.sub.f for the transducer without the lens.
A similar effect can be observed when the acoustic path-length along the axis is shortened with respect to the acoustic path-length from the periphery. In other words, when a portion of the acoustic path-length along the axis is reduced, the remainder of the acoustic path-length must be increased, thereby increasing the transition length Z.sub.R to maintain the 1/2.lambda. difference between the acoustic path-lengths from the periphery and from the center of the transducer.
As the beam travels through the near-field, its diameter decreases, and the beam is described as being tight. As the beam travels through the far-field, its diameter increases and the beam is described as diverging. This is true even for flat unfocused transducer elements because even for flat transducer elements there is some beam narrowing or "focusing." For a given transducer diameter, increasing the beam frequency increases the near-field length and produces a narrower beam. Reducing the beam diameter improves the lateral resolution. Therefore, lateral resolution is greatest at the focal point and decreases beyond the focal point as the beam travels through the far-field in a diverging pattern.
A larger transducer may also improve lateral resolution and penetration depth, but a larger transducer requires a larger catheter, and the catheter size may often be restricted by the size of the vessels through which it must fit.
As described above, with reference to FIG. 2, an ultrasound beam shape may also be adjusted by the use of focusing. Ultrasound waves have been disclosed to be focused by using a curved (rather than flat) transducer element, a curved reflector in the transducer assembly, or a lens. The emphasis of ultrasound imaging design has been concentrated on the ability to image smaller and smaller vessels in the distal regions of the coronary vasculature via a remote arterial site to obtain images of the vessel walls. This has been accomplished by inserting a catheter having an ultrasound transducer disposed on its distal end into a vessel and positioning the transducer proximate to the area of the vessel wall to be imaged. To be inserted into very small vessels, the size of the ultrasound transducer must be relatively small not only to traverse the vessels, but also to avoid occluding the vessel. Because the transducer is placed immediately adjacent or very close to the area to be imaged, a short focal length is required.
To this end, focusing has been used to converge the ultrasound beam for the purpose of shortening the focal length. For example, the ultrasonic transducer described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,438,999 to Kikuchi et al. includes a piezoelectric element having a concave surface to converge the ultrasonic beam, producing a shortened near-field and focal length and a tight beam in close to the transducer. A concave focusing device is used to shorten the focal length of the transducer in order to increase resolution and detection depth in close to the transducer. Kikuchi et al. also discloses an ultrasonic transducer having a convex acoustic lens made of silicone rubber materials for converging an ultrasonic beam. A convex lens made of silicone rubber materials will create a converging beam having a shortened focal length because the speed of sound in silicone (about 1 mm/.mu.sec as shown in FIG. 19e tabulating materials and respective densities and speeds of sound) is slower than the speed of sound in the typical medium of water/blood (1.5 mm/.mu.sec). Hence, the silicone rubber convex lens disclosed in Kikuchi et al. acts to increase the acoustic path-length along the center axis of the transducer with respect to the acoustic path-length from the periphery of the transducer, thereby decreasing the transition length, Z.sub.R, and the focal length, Z.sub.f.
However, the short focal lengths of the conventional flat and concave-shaped transducers limit the imaging distance from the transducer at which features may be imaged with good resolution and detection depth. These limitations restrict the type and size of internal features within the human body which may be imaged by systems utilizing these transducers. For instance, an ultrasound imaging catheter with a small enough diameter to insert intraluminally into the chambers of the heart may not have a large enough focal length to image the internal walls of the chambers with adequate resolution and detection depth.
More specifically, the maximum size catheter which can be inserted through the femoral artery to the left side of the heart is about 8F, and through the inferior vena cava to the right side of the heart is about 9F or 10F. A 9F catheter can accommodate a transducer up to a diameter of about 1.93 mm. Within the chambers of the heart, it is desirous to image a distance of up to 10 cm in order to image the walls of the heart. At a frequency of about 9 megahertz (MHz), which is needed for adequate penetration, the high resolution near-field for a flat transducer extends to only about 4.5 mm. Therefore, when the ultrasound beam reaches the walls of the heart chambers, the beam is well into the far-field where there is reduced resolution and penetration depth.
A need exists for an improved ultrasound transducer with an extended focus at low frequencies which can be used to image large chambers, organs, vessels, or other anatomic structures with high resolution and high penetration depth.

Ultrasound transducer with extended focus