The present invention provides a polymer that can be used as an anti-refelctive coating (ARC) polymer, an ARC composition comprising the same, methods for producing the same, and methods for using the same. The polymer of the present invention is particularly useful in a submicrolithographic process, for example, using KrF (248 nm), ArF (193 nm), or F2 (157 nm) laser as a light source. The polymer of the present invention comprises a chromophore that is capable of absorbing light at the wavelengths used in a submicrolithographic process. Thus, the ARC of the present invention significantly reduces or prevents back reflection of light and the problem of the CD alteration caused by the diffracted and/or reflected light. The ARC of the present invention also significantly reduces or eliminates the standing wave effect and reflective notching. Therefore, the polymer of the present invention can be used to produce a stable ultrafine pattern that is suitable in manufacturing of 64M, 256M, 1G, 4G and 16G DRAM semiconductor devices. Moreover, the ARC of the present invention significantly improves the production yield of such semiconductor devices.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an anti-reflective polymer that is useful in a submicrolithographic process, a composition comprising the polymer, and a method for preparing the same. In particular, the present invention relates to a polymer that can be used in an anti-reflective coating layer to reduce or prevent back reflection of light and/or to eliminate the standing waves in the photoresist layer during a submicrolithographic process. The present invention also relates to a composition comprising the polymer, and a method for using the same.
2. Description of the Prior Art
In most submicrolithographic processes standing waves and/or reflective notching of the waves typically occur due to the optical properties of the lower layer coated on a substrate and/or due to changes in the thickness of a photosensitive (i.e., photoresist) film applied thereon. In addition, typical submicrolithographic processes suffer from a problem of CD (critical dimension) alteration caused by diffracted and/or reflected light from the lower layer.
One possible solution is to apply an anti-reflective coating (i.e., ARC) between the substrate and the photosensitive film. Useful ARCs have a high absorbance of the light wavelengths that are used in submicrolithographic processes. ARCs can be an inorganic an organic material, and they are generally classified as xe2x80x9cabsorptivexe2x80x9d or xe2x80x9cinterferingxe2x80x9d depending on the mechanism. For a microlithographic process using I-line (365 nm wavelength) radiation, inorganic anti-reflective films are generally used. Typically, TiN or amorphous carbon (amorphous-C) materials are used for an absorptive ARC and SiON materials are typically used for an interfering ARC.
SiON-based anti-reflective films have also been adapted for submicrolithographic processes that use a KrF light source. Recently, use of an organic compound as ARC has been investigated. It is generally believed that an organic compound based ARCs are particularly useful in submicrolithographic processes, in particular those using an ArF light source.
In order to be useful as an ARC, an organic compound needs to have many diverse and desirable physical properties. For example, a cured ARC should not be soluble in solvents because dissolution of the organic ARC can cause the photoresist composition layer to peel-off in a lithographic process. One method for reducing the solubility of cured ARC is to include cross-linking moieties such that when cured the ARC becomes cross-linked and becomes insoluble in most solvents used in lithographic processes. In addition, there should be minimum amount of migration (i.e., diffusion), if at all, of materials, such as acids and/or amines, to and from the ARC. If acids migrate from the ARC to an unexposed area of the positive photoresist film, the photosensitive pattern is undercut. If bases, such as amines, diffuse from the ARC to an unexposed area of the positive photoresist film a footing phenomenon occurs. Moreover, ARC should have a faster etching rate than the upper photosensitive (i.e., photoresist) film to allow the etching process to be conducted smoothly with the photosensitive film serving as a mask. Preferably, an organic ARC should be as thin as possible and have an excellent light reflection prevention property.
While a variety of ARC materials are currently available, none of these materials is useful in ArF laser submicrolithographic processes. In the absence of an ARC, the irradiated light penetrates into the photoresist film and is back reflected or scattered from its lower layers or the surface of the substrate (e.g., semiconductor chip), which affects the resolution and/or the formation of a photoresist pattern.
Therefore, there is a need for an ARC material which have a high absorbance of the wavelengths used in submicrolithographic processes.
It is an object of the present invention to provide an organic polymer that can be used as an ARC material in ArF laser (193 nm) or KrF laser (248 nm) submicrolithographic processes.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a method for preparing an organic polymer that reduces or prevents diffusion and/or light reflection in submicrolithographic processes.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide an ARC composition comprising such an organic diffusion/reflection preventing or reducing polymer and a method for producing the same.
It is a still further object of the present invention to provide a method for producing a photoresist pattern using ArF laser submicrolithographic processes with reduced standing wave effect.
It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a semiconductor device which is produced using the ARC composition in a submicrolithographic process.
One aspect of the present invention provides an acrylate polymer, an ARC composition comprising the same, and a method for using the same. In one particular embodiment, the polymer of the present invention comprises a chromophore which has a high absorbance of light wavelengths of 193 nm and 248 nm.
ARC compositions of the present invention can comprise a mixture polymers which include cross-linking moieties such that the polymers become cross-linked when heated (i.e., cured or xe2x80x9chard bakedxe2x80x9d). Cross-linking moieties can comprise an alcohol group and other functional group that is capable of reacting with the alcohol group to form a cross-linkage. It is believed that cross-linking of the polymer significantly improves the adhesiveness and the dissolution properties of ARC compositions.
Uncured polymers of the present invention are soluble in most hydrocarbon solvents; however, cured polymers are substantially insoluble in most solvents. Thus, polymers of the present invention can be easily coated onto a substrate and are capable of preventing undercutting and footing problems that can occur during a photoresist pattern formation process on photosensitive materials (i.e., photoresist compositions). Moreover, ARCs of the present invention have a higher etching rate than conventional photosensitive films resulting in an improved etching ratio between ARCs and photosensitive films, i.e., higher etching selectivity.
One embodiment of the present invention provides an ARC polymer selected from the group consisting of a polymer of the formula:
wherein
each of R12, Ra, Rb, and Rc is independently hydrogen or optionally substituted C1-C10 alkyl, preferably hydrogen or methyl;
each of R1 to R9 is independently hydrogen, optionally substituted C1-C5 alkyl, or optionally substituted C1-C5 alkoxyalkyl;
Rd, R10 and R11 are independently optionally substituted C1-C10 alkyl;
x, y and z are mole fractions, each of which is independently in the range of from about 0.01 to about 0.99;
each of m and n is independently an integer of 1 to 5.
Alkyl groups according to the present invention are aliphatic hydrocarbons which can be straight or branched chain groups. Alkyl groups optionally can be substituted with one or more substituents, such as a halogen, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, hydroxy, amino, thio, alkoxy, carboxy, oxo or cycloalkyl. There may be optionally inserted along the alkyl group one or more oxygen, sulfur or substituted or unsubstituted nitrogen atoms. Exemplary alkyl groups include methyl, ethyl, i-propyl, n-butyl, t-butyl, fluoromethyl, difluoromethyl, trifluoromethyl, chloromethyl, trichloromethyl, and pentafluoroethyl.
Particularly useful polymers of Formula 3 include the following polymers:
Polymers of Formulas 4 to 7 can be cured by contacting with an alcohol-containing compound in the presence of an acid.
Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for producing polymers disclosed above.
Polymers of Formula 1 can be produced by polymerizing a mixture of monomers comprising a 9-anthracenealkylacrylate monomer of the formula:
and a hydroxyalkylacrylate monomer of the formula:
under conditions sufficient to produce the polymer of Formula 1, where Ra, Rb, R1 to R9, and n are those defined above. Each monomer in the mixture has a mole fraction ranging from 0.01 to 0.99.
Polymers of Formula 2 can be produced by polymerizing a mixture of monomers comprising a 9-anthracenealkyl acrylate monomer of Formula IA above, a hydroxy alkylacrylate monomer of Formula IB above, and an alkylacrylate monomer of the formula:
under conditions sufficient to produce the polymer of Formula 2, where Rc and Rd are those defined above. Each monomer in the mixture has a mole fraction ranging from 0.01 to 0.99.
The hydroxy alkylacrylate monomer of Formula IB and the alkylacrylate monomer of Formula IC are commercially available or can be readily prepared by those skilled in the art.
Polymers of Formula 3 can be produce by polymerizing an acrolein monomer of the formula:
under conditions sufficient to produce a poly(acrolein) polymer of the formula:
and reacting the poly(acrolein) polymer of Formula IE with an alcohol under conditions sufficient to produce the poly(acetal) polymer of Formula 3. The alcohol can be a mixture of different alcohols (e.g., R10xe2x80x94OH and R11xe2x80x94OH, where R10 and R11 are those defined above) or a homogeneous alcohol system (i.e., only one type of alcohol is present). For example, a solution of (meth)acrolein in an organic solvent is polymerized at 60-70xc2x0 C. for 4-6 hours under vacuum in the presence of a polymerization initiator, after which the resulting polymeric product is reacted with C1-C10 alkyl alcohol at room temperature for 20-30 hours in the presence of an acid catalyst, e.g., trifluoromethylsulfonic acid. Examples useful alcohols include C1-C10 alkyl alcohols such as methanol, ethanol, propanol, butanol, pentanol, hexanol, heptanol, octanol, nonanol, decanol, and isomers thereof. In particular, methanol and ethanol are preferred.
The polymerization reactions disclosed above can include a polymerization initiator. Suitable polymerization initiators are well known to one of ordinary skill in the art including polymerization initiators that are used in conventional radical polymerization reactions such as 2,2-azobisisobutyronitrile (AIBN), benzoylperoxide, acetylperoxide, laurylperoxide, t-butylperacetate, t-butylhydroperoxide, and di-t-butylperoxide.
The polymerization reactions disclosed above can also include a polymerization solvent. Suitable polymerization solvents are well known to one of ordinary skill in the art. Exemplary polymerization solvents include organic solvents that are used in conventional polymerization reaction. Preferably, the polymerization solvent is selected from the group consisting of tetrahydrofuran (THF), cyclohexanone, dimethylformamide, dimethylsulfoxide, dioxane, methylethyl ketone, benzene, toluene, xylene and mixtures thereof.
Another aspect of the present invention provides an ARC composition comprising a cross-linked polymer produced from cross-linking a polymer of Formula 3 with a polymer of Formula 1 or 2, or mixtures thereof. The cross-linked polymer can be produced by admixing a polymer of Formula 3 and a polymer of Formula 1 or 2, or mixtures thereof under conditions sufficient to produce the cross-linked polymer. Typically, this cross-linking reaction is conducted in a conventional organic solvent. Suitable organic solvents for a cross-linking reaction are well known to one skilled in the art and include, but are not limited to, ethyl 3-ethoxypropionate, methyl 3-methoxypropionate, cyclohexanone, and propylene glycol methyletheracetate. The amount of solvent used is preferably from about 200 to about 5,000% by weight of the total weight of the polymer.
The ARC composition of the present invention can also include one or more anthracene derivative additives. Exemplary anthracene derivative additives include, but are not limited to, anthracene, 9-anthracenemethanol, 9-anthracenecarbonitrile, 9-anthracenecarboxylic acid, dithranol, 1,2,10-anthracenetriol, anthraflavonic acid, 9-anthraldehydeoxime, 9-anthraldehyde, 2-amino-7-methyl-5-oxo-5H-[1]benzopyrono[2,3 -b]benzopyridine-3-carbonitrile, 1-aminoanthraquinone, anthraquinone-2-carboxylic acid, 1,5-dihydroxyanthraquinone, anthrone, 9-anthryltrifluoromethyl ketone, 9-alkylanthracene derivatives of the formula:
carboxylanthracene derivatives of the formula:
and carboxylanthracene derivatives of the formula:
where each of R13, R14, and R15 is independently hydrogen, hydroxy, optionally substituted C1-C5 alkyl, or optionally substituted C1-C5 alkoxyalkyl.
Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for producing an ARC coated substrate. In one particular embodiment, a substrate (e.g., wafter) is coated with an anti-reflective coating composition comprising a mixture of polymers. The mixture of polymers comprises a polymer of Formula 3 and a polymer of Formula 1 or 2, or mixtures thereof. The mixture of polymers can be dissolved in an organic solvent and filtered prior to being coated. The mixture of polymers can also include one or more additives described above. The coated substrate is then heated (i.e., hard-baked) to produce the ARC coated substrate. Preferably the coated substrate is heated to temperature in the range of from about 100 to about 300xc2x0 C. for a period of from about 10 sec to about 1,000 sec. Heating the substrate causes cross-linking of the polymers to produce a thin film of ARC coating.
It has been found by the present inventors that the ARCs of the present invention exhibit high performance in submicrolithographic processes, in particular using KrF (248 nm), ArF (193 nm) and F2 (157 nm) lasers as alight source.
Additional objects, advantages, and novel features of this invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon examination of the following examples thereof, which are not intended to be limiting.

Organic anti-reflective coating polymer and preparation thereof

Hyundai Electronics Industries Co., Ltd.


The present invention comprises a golf swing training device having a graphic design that illustrates a plurality of golf swing variables, including a club path indicator and a club face angle guide. The template is designed so that golfers may practice swinging a golf club over the top of the template to determine whether their swing follows a desired path. A swing reference guide is included and correlates shot selection, ball path, club path, and club face angle.

Golf is a difficult sport in which slight swing errors can produce wildly undesirable results. Unfortunately, golfers do not always know the manner in which their swing deviated from the ideal. In an attempt to develop a better swing, many golfers turn to the countless books and other publications offering swing advice. Other golfers try some of the many gadgets that are intended to physically force or limit a golfer's swing to certain paths of motion in an attempt to develop a consistent swing. Neither written materials nor physical gadgets are able to provide the necessary feedback to allow a golfer to develop a consistent golf swing.
It is virtually impossible to develop a good swing solely by reading written coaching materials. The written text, even if accompanied by illustrations, does not provide a proper visual guide for replicating a desired golf swing when actually playing golf. The text of an article also does not allow golfers to actually experience what a proper swing feels like because there are no indicators to tell the golfers whether they are making the proper swing. Because learning a proper golf shot is largely an issue of developing the proper muscle memorization through repetition, an inability to feel a correct swing while training defeats the training. Worse yet, the muscles may actually train themselves to swing improperly because golfers repeatedly practice poor swings without knowing it.
The golf training gadgets currently on the market generally attempt to physically limit the range of motion during a swing. These gadgets often place golfers in uncomfortable positions in an attempt to fit all golfers into a single mold. The positions the golfers are forced into often result in a bad golf swing and potentially subjects golfers to injury associated with the unnatural form.
Another problem associated with present golf training gadgets is the social stigma associated with their use, at least for those training aids that are awkward, cumbersome, or overt. Still other training devices are large and inconvenient, expensive and inaccessible, or difficult to use in a variety of practice settings. Accordingly, there is a need for an improved golf training aid that provides the desired feedback to develop a consistent golf swing.


A document processor has a function of attaching additional information to an electronic document and a function of associating linked information with the additional information. The document processor includes a display unit that displays the electronic document, the additional information, and the linked information, a judging unit that judges whether or not the linked information has changed since it was last referred to by a user, and a display control unit that controls the display unit so that a display state of the additional information varies according to the judgment result from the judging unit.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a document processor, a document processing method and a document processing program, and more particularly to a document processor having a function of attaching additional information to an electronic document and a function of associating link information with the additional information, a document processing method in the document processor, and a document processing program that is executed in the document processor.
2. Description of the Related Art
Conventionally, there are a number of techniques for supporting the cooperative preparation of a document, such as the preparation of a device design or a device manual.
First, there is a technique in which an update time for information in a document file is stored in advance, and when the information is read out of the document file, a judgment is made as to whether or not the information has been updated since a user last referred to the update time. The updated information is then identifiably displayed according to the judgment (for example, refer to Japanese Published Unexamined Patent Application No. Hei 8-50590).
Also, there is a technique in which a relation between a report or document and a comment is held in an activity report, thereby making the history of activity relating to the relation between the report or document and the comment and the tracking of the comment easy. In the technique, a chain is formed, including a report group and a comment group, composed of the relationships between the various reports and comments, thereby making the extraction and use of information easy (for example, refer to Japanese Published Unexamined Patent Application No. 2001-147982).
Incidentally, in recent years, a technique has been used in which additional information such as character information, image information, sound information or link information may be attached to an arbitrary position within an electronic document without effecting the body of the electronic document. In the present specification, the additional information may also be referred to as an "annotation".
A system that allows an annotation to be attached to an electronic document is exemplified by DocuWorks (registered trademark) of Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd. or Acrobat (registered trademark) of U.S. Adobe Corporation.
However, according to the technique that identifiably displays the updated document information, although an updated document can be accessed, the linked information is not taken into consideration. Therefore, there arises such a problem that the user cannot access whether the state of the linked information has changed since the last time it was referred to.
Similarly, according to the technique in which the relation between a report and a comment is held in an activity report, the comment is not taken into consideration when determining whether the report has been updated. Therefore, there arises such a problem that the user cannot access whether the state of the linked comment has changed from the last time it was referred to.

Document processor, document processing method and storage medium storing document processing program


A method of discriminating individual organisms which comprises conducting a polymerase chain reaction using DNA fragments of test individuals and a primer having a symmetrical base sequence, separating the amplified DNA fragments by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, staining each of the separated DNA fragments by silver staining, and comparing the stained DNA fragments with each other; the above method of discrimination wherein the primer having a symmetrical base sequence is one member selected among the following ones: 5'-CCCTAAAGAAATCCC-3', 5'-TTTAGGGCGGGATTT-3', 5'-AGGGCCTTCCGGGA-3'; and the above method of discrimination wherein the individual organisms are animal or plant individuals. The method of the invention enables individual discrimination to be performed efficiently on the basis of a difference in DNA sequence, because it is possible to clearly ascertain different DNA fragments exhibiting polymorphism among test individuals. It is also possible to clearly ascertain different DNA fragments exhibiting polymorphism among test individuals by appropriately regulating the temperature condition of the polymerase chain reaction. Further it is possible to observe more clearly the DNA fragments exhibiting polymorphism among test individuals.

A method of discriminating animal and plant individuals on the basis of a difference in DNA sequence is internationally important from the standpoint of clarifying the genetic background of test individuals and protecting the rights of breeders and fosterers dealing with the same. As a method of individual discrimination on the basis of a difference in DNA sequence is used a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) method. In order to perform individual discrimination by the PCR method, a base sequence of a primer (short DNA fragments, indispensable for the PCR) is an important factor for the success of the discrimination.
Various primers prepared on the basis of known or optional base sequences have been developed, and methods of individual discrimination by using these known or optional base sequences as a primer for the PCR have been proposed (Skolnick, M. H. and R. B. Wallace, Genomics 2: 273-279 (1988); Williams, J. G. K. et al., Nucleic Acid Res. 18: 6531-6535 (1990)); however, according to conventional methods, it has been often difficult to clearly ascertain different DNA fragments exhibiting polymorphism among test individuals and improvements thereof have been demanded intensely.
In addition, as a method of discriminating test individuals on the basis of a difference in DNA fragments can be mentioned methods proposed in RFLP (Restriction Fragments Length Polymorphysms) (Tangsley, S. D. et al., Biotechnology 7: 257-264 (1989)), the official gazette of Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 62-500423 (1987) and the official gazette of Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 6-504427 (1994).
It is guessed that base sequences having a symmetrical structure of a mirror image are scattered among DNAs of organisms. That is, for example, it has been thought generally that the phylogenetic differentiation of plant species occurred along with the change of their genes (DNAs) in the process of evolution of them. It can be guessed by comparing the sequences of genes (DNAs) of different plant species with each other that the DNAs were recombined through domains having common base sequences in the phylogenetic differentiation. The present inventor has engaged in studies about the structural change of DNAs of plant species using rice plant as test materials and has found that when the recombination of DNAs (homologous recombination) is caused through a domain having a common base sequence, the recombinant DNA with a base sequence having a symmetrical structure of a mirror image (mirror image structure) in some cases (Kawata, M. et al., Theor. Appl. Genet. 90: 364-371 (1995)). According to the above, it can be guessed that DNAs of organisms including rice plant, corn and the like contain a base sequence having a symmetrical structure of the mirror image as traces of the recombinations of DNAs caused in the process of evolution of them.
Under these circumstances, taking the above prior arts into consideration, the present inventor has engaged in assiduous studies with a view to developing a primer useful for a method of individual discrimination by the PCR method, and has investigated the efficiency of a base sequence with a symmetrical structure of such a mirror image as a primer, and as a result has found that discrimination of test individuals can be performed efficiently by using a base sequence with said mirror image structure as a primer for the PCR. That is, the present inventor has found that DNA fragments (MI primer) having a symmetrical base sequence with a mirror image structure found by the present inventor enable DNA fragments exhibiting polymorphism among test individuals to be observed more clearly as compared with a primer prepared on the basis of a known or optional base sequence, and that hence the use of the MI primer as a primer for the PCR is effective for individual discrimination, which has led to the accomplishment of the present invention.

Method of individual discrimination by polymerase chain reaction using MI primer

Forage Crop Breeding and Seed Research Institute


An adjustable belt buckle is convenient to assembly and makes a binding belt easy to be adjusted. It uses the axial section of the top wall of the main body to further press and limit the pressing member and enhance the engagement between the first teeth portion and the second teeth portion to prevent the second teeth portion from being damaged and increase its life time.

Please reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, the conventional adjustable belt buckle 200 is illustrated. A binding belt 230 is passed through a main body 210 and a single-tooth portion 220 arranged inside the main body 210 may be engaged with a multi-teeth portion 240 of the binding belt 240.
However, the conventional adjustable belt buckle 200 only uses the single-tooth portion 220 to engage with the multi-teeth portion 230. The engagement between the single-tooth portion 220 and the multi-teeth portion 240 is week. It is easy to result in the damage of the single-tooth portion 220 while forcing the binding belt 230 excessively.


Vibro-acoustic attenuation or reduced energy transmission. The present invention relates to devices that display frequency zones of strong vibro-acoustic attenuation or reduced energy transmission. This can be used in particular, although not necessarily solely, in applications that require lightweight materials with good mechanical properties and good vibro-acoustic response or in applications that require materials with high sound reflection, absorption or sound isolation in a certain frequency band.

Materials with cavities, such as e.g. honeycomb core panels, can combine excellent mechanical properties with a low mass, making them attractive for application in transport and machine design. However, the high stiffness to mass ratio of these lightweight panels may result in unsatisfactory dynamic behaviour in that it may impair the panels' ability to reduce noise and vibration levels.
A variety of methods exists to insulate against sound transmission. These methods rely often on the acoustic mass law or the addition of an absorptive layer. The first method results in heavy materials, where the second method leads to thick materials, since to be efficient, the thickness of the absorptive layer should be in the same order of magnitude as the acoustic wavelength, making this last method only effective for high-frequency attenuation.
Another approach uses acoustic resonators based on the Helmholtz resonance principle. This phenomenon exists when an air cavity is connected to the atmosphere (air surrounding the structure) through a smaller connection (called the neck). The mass of the air in the neck can resonate on the stiffness of the air cavity, causing dissipation of energy in a specific frequency region. Although allowing very effective sound attenuation in certain frequency regions, these materials are very sensitive for contamination, since the characteristics of the connections between cavity and surrounding environment are crucial and may not be contaminated.
The degradation of performance due to contamination is the main weakness of methods as described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,854,298 B2 or JP2006337886 which are based on both Helmholtz resonances and acoustic impedance of material, which are both very sensitive for contamination.
To reduce structural vibrations most often tuned vibration absorbers are used. The addition of a local structural resonator can, in certain frequencies, trap the most of the movement of the material in a localized mode. The localization of movement is the main principle behind these tuned vibration absorbers. This local resonator is an addition to the structure at a certain point and prevents the movement of the structure at that point at a certain frequency.
This tuned vibration absorbers is a method for local vibration suppression while for acoustic radiation reduction, global vibration reduction is necessary. By using multiple tuned vibration absorbers, one can try to expand the local method to a global method to reduce both vibration and acoustic radiation.
In U.S. Pat. No. 6,576,333 B2 a method is described for creating sound isolation which comprises the inclusion of rigid high density particles in an inclusion of soft material to act as localized resonators. This method however has the disadvantages of changing the mechanical properties of the structure, the addition of considerable weight to the structure and being difficult to manufacture.
In Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0154418 A1 a similar method is used in which instead of an inclusion of coated spheres, addition of a flexible and heavy polymer is used. This solution poses the same problems concerning weight and producability.
In Applied Physics Letters 2010 (96) 041906, Yang et al. propose resonating membranes with high mass inclusions. Here the low acoustic transmission is not found at the resonance frequency of the local resonator but in between two resonance modes of the membrane. This because rather relying on localizing movement as in tuned vibrators, this method relies on the existence of localized modes which have imaginary acoustic wavelengths and are thus not able to radiate acoustically.
In Journal of Sound and Vibration 2011 (330) 2536-2553, Liu et al. propose a method for structural attenuation by the deformation of internal inclusion of high mass spheres with rubber coating in a lattice. The main weakness of this method is that it is only effective for in-plane motion and thus not effective for tackling the common noise and vibration problems. Furthermore the resonance of these structures relies again on a combination of materials which is difficult to produce. The tuning of the attenuated frequencies will have a huge impact on the stiffness of the overall structure and the addition of high density spheres lead to a high increase of mass.
Locally resonant structures can have an impact in the field of focusing and confining light with acoustic meta materials and the technique can be used for blocking in-plane waves, as described by Martinsson et al. in Quarterly of Mechanics and Applied Mathematic 2003 (56) 45-64.


A scanning microscope, such as a scanning electron microscope, has an energy beam which is caused to scan on a sample. A detector detects the interaction of the beam with the sample and generates sample image signals which are used to generate a display image of the scanned part of the sample. The sample image signals may be stored in an image memory, and a part of those sample image signals are read to generate the display image. This permits an effective magnification to be achieved without scanning the sample with scanning lines which are too close. Alternatively, or in addition, the beam may be cut intermittently during the scanning, at least for magnification above a predetermined limit. Where scanning is in a series of frames, each formed of a series of scanning lines, such cutting may change the interval between frames, the interval between lines, or may cause intermittent cutting within a line. All these changes reduce the duration of the beam on the sample, thereby reducing the risk of excessive charge build-up.

The present invention relates to a scanning microscope in which an energy beam scans a sample. It is applicable, for example, to a scanning electron microscope, in which the energy beam is made up of electrons, but is also applicable to a scanning microscope using other charged particles, such as ions, and also to a scanning microscope using a laser beam.
In a scanning electron microscope, a sample is scanned by an electron beam and this generates a secondary signal from the sample which is detected and converted to sample image signals. The sample image signals are processed to modulate the luminance of a display image. The display image may be produced, for example, on a cathode ray tube. Scanning occurs by causing the beam to sweep along a series of parallel lines (scanning lines) which define an area on the sample, that area being known as a scanning frame. The distance between the scanning lines is known as the scan interval.
It is usual for the size of the display image to be fixed. Therefore, if the dimensions of the scanning frame of the energy beam on the sample are reduced, the effective magnification of the display image will be increased. Normally, the number of scanning lines in a scanning frame is determined such that the scanning lines of the display are not noticeable when viewed directly by an observer. Thus, they depend on the resolution of the cathode ray tube. Generally, 500-1000 scanning lines are used.
In such an arrangement, the number of scanning lines of the energy beam on the sample within a scanning frame is constant. Therefore, in order to increase the effective magnification, the length of the scanning lines is reduced and the scan interval between the scanning lines is varied.
It is possible to generate a display image directly from the sample image signals. However, it is known to convert the sample image signals into digital signals, and store those digital signals in an image memory. Then, by reading out the content of the image memory, a display image may be generated. With such a technique, it is usual for the image memory to store the sample image signals of only one frame, at any time, and therefore the image memory may also be referred to as a frame memory.
Although it is normal for the energy beam to be focused into a fine spot, in a scanning microscope, the scanning operation described above, in which scanning occurs in a series of parallel scanning lines defining a scanning frame, causes the spot to sweep out a series of areas corresponding to the scanning lines. As the desired magnification is increased, and the scan interval is decreased, the areas swept out for each scanning line approach each other. At a predetermined magnification, the area swept out by the spot along one scanning line will adjoin the area swept out by the spot for the immediately adjacent scanning line. For smaller scan intervals, the areas will overlap. When such overlapping occurs, no further increase in the resolution of the scanned image is possible.
When such overlap occurs, in e.g. an electron microscope, the current density on the specimen may become excessively high. This may cause heating of the specimen and, if the sample is or contains insulating material, may cause accumulation of charged particles on the sample. Furthermore, the build-up of charged particles may affect the sample itself, causing contamination. This problem is particularly acute in the investigation of semiconductor elements using electron microscopes, since charge build-up occurs on insulating layers (such as photoresist), and such charge build-up may affect the properties of the semiconductor element itself. Indeed, such problems may arise even at magnifications below that which corresponds to overlapping of the areas swept out by the spot of the energy beam for adjacent scanning lines.
It may further be noted that problems due to increased current density occur not only during observation of a sample, but also during focusing or astigmatic compensation. Focusing can be achieved with high precision if high magnifications are used. Therefore, even if the sample is to be observed only at relatively low magnifications, focusing may make use of high magnifications, involving magnification of part of the sample. Since the scan interval is thus reduced for the automatic focusing step, the current density will be high for the part of the specimen scanned during the focusing operation. This may damage the specimen or contaminate it. Similar considerations apply to astigmatism correction.

Scanning microscope and a method of operating such a scanning microscope


A smoke exhauster includes bottom opening for engaging with a fan device and includes a fastener secured beside the opening. A net device has a portion secured to the smoke exhauster opposite to the fastener and includes an ear having a notch for engaging with the fastener and for allowing the ear to be secured to the smoke exhauster without disengaging the fastener from the smoke exhauster. The ear includes an oblong hole communicating with the notch for allowing the fastener to be engaged into the oblong hole.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a net, and more particularly to a net device for a smoke exhauster.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Typical smoke exhausters comprise one or two, openings for engaging fan devices and for drafting the smokes. A net device is required to be secured to the bottom of the smoke exhauster for protecting the fan device. The smoke and the vaporized oil or grease or fat may be drawing through the net device such that the net device may easily become greasy and oily and should be cleaned frequently. However, two or more fasteners solidly secure the net device to the smoke exhauster and may not be easily removed for cleaning purposes.
The present invention has arisen to mitigate and/or obviate the afore-described disadvantages of the conventional smoke exhausters.


A three dimensional visual display device kit made of paper or plastic materials, comprising a multitude of interchangeable stemmed panels of varying shaft lengths and shapes for user to insert into a decorative collapsible base structure that houses a foam-like material for anchoring stemmed image panels. Said stemmed panels having printed graphics and visual enhancements. A support structure attached to top of base structure with multiple slits to stabilize, space and support upright angled stemmed panels. To be assembled into a free standing three-dimensional arrangement of blooming panels that can be viewed from multiple angles like a bouquet of flowers.

The invention evolves from the arts of graphic design and paper engineering of three dimensional paper structures and is geared for manufacture within the paper converting industry: die cutting, embossing, gluing, die stamping & folding, and printing of paper based materials.
Users create a unique visual display by assembling the base unit structure and inserting individual flat image panel shafts through the slits of the top panel and down into the anchoring foam material beneath it, forming an upright arcing "blooming" arrangement, creating a three-dimensional bouquet of image panels that can be viewed from all sides.
Alternate versions will provide further crafting and customization activities such as coloring, decorating and applying stickers to individual flat image panels.
The invention is intended as a consumer activity, gift, novelty, greeting, game, craft, table centerpiece and/or party decoration, in a variety of different sizes, designs and themes, for amusement, celebration, and decoration.
The visual effect of the user assembled invention is a blooming dimensional spray of image panels from front, back and sides of the assembled display. The inventors have long been in the art of paper design and paper engineering in the sector of stationery and gifts. The present invention is an evolution from a prior invention; Patrou, Phelps U.S. Pat. No. 5,157,852, a 3-dimensional paper display device housed in a clear case in assembled form, also created as a gift and stationery item. The evolution being an un-housed three dimensional pictorial structure viewed from all sides in kit form. The differences and advantages include, less structural design with less paper engineering required, more viewer angles of the display and far less material and manufacturing costs.
Like traditional pop-up greeting cards, the present invention draws from making an inexpensive attractive three-dimensional scenic, themed or decorative paper object with collapsibility for ease of mailing. The present invention goes beyond the typical pop-up three-dimensional greeting cards because it is in kit form. By producing the present invention in kit form, it affords user activity and eliminates substantial assembly costs in manufacturing.
Another difference is that typical pop-up three-dimensional greeting cards are primarily engineered to be seen primarily from a front-on viewing angle due to the constrictions and limitations of 90 degree parallel folding construction design. The present invention provides many more viewing angles because the assembled image panels are in convex semi-circular arrays, not in parallels.

Three dimensional visual display device kit


An actuator comprising a motor for rotating a shaft connected via a gear train to an output device; an interrupter vane connected to the output device and adapted to travel in a path corresponding to the movement of the output device; and at least two interrupter switches, such as opto-interrupter switches, spaced apart from one another along the path of the interrupter vane at locations corresponding to travel limits of the output device. A controller energizes the motor in response to a command signal and de-energizes the motor in response to an indication from one of the interrupter switches that the output device is at or approaching one of the travel limits. The actuator may be a rotary or linear actuator, and may be particularly well-suited for avionics applications.

Electric motor driven actuators are used for operation of various components throughout industry. For example, ITT Aerospace Controls, a company related to the assignee of the present invention, manufactures rotary actuators that are identified in commerce as part numbers S343T003-39 or MA20A1001-1 and depicted in FIGS. 1A and 1B. These actuators are typically used in aircraft on ball, butterfly, and/or gate valves on lines that supply, for example, water, hydraulic fluid, and/or fuel.
Actuator 10 utilizes a DC motor 12 and a planetary gear train 14 to provide 90-degree rotary actuation of output shaft 16. Typically, a cam (not shown) attached to output shaft 16 inside housing 24 activates one or more electro-mechanical micro-switches 18 for limitation of travel and indication of position of the actuator. Typically, four micro-switches are provided: two (one at each end) to limit travel and two to indicate position. A relay (not shown) typically controls the direction of the DC motor. Motor 12 is mounted on motor plate 20 and micro-switches 18 are mounted on switch plate 22, all of which are encased in housing 24 having a bottom cover 25. Manual valve handle 26 mounted to the output shaft 16 below the switch plate allows manual activation of the valve and visually indicates the valve position even in the absence of power. A manual stop 23 at each end of travel for the manual valve handle 26 provides a mechanical limit to travel of the output shaft.
There is a need in the art, however, for simplifying the mechanical design, improving reliability, improving manufacturability, and enhancing control of such actuators, while still maintaining a long life in a harsh operating environment, with minimal incremental cost required to make the improvements and enhancements.

Actuator with interrupter-type limit switches


A pot rack comprising at least one track member having spaced-apart rails with at least an upper rail surface having a ferromagnetic property and at least one hook member having a lower hook portion for releasably engaging a kitchen utensil, and an upper cap portion of a dimension greater than a spacing between the rails wherein the cap portion includes a magnetic member which is magnetically attracted to the upper rail surface of each of the rails and a shank portion interconnecting the upper cap portion and the lower hook portion. A hook member for use on a slotted ferromagnetic rail comprising a head portion, an integral shank portion and a hook portion extending from the shank portion, said head portion having magnetic means associated therewith to establish a magnetic attraction between the head portion and the rail.

1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates generally to hanger systems and, more particularly, to a hanger system for hanging pots, pans and like cookware and kitchen utensils from a ceiling or wall mounted hanger support system.
2. Description of Related Art
U.S. Design Pat. Nos. Des. 392,133 and Des. 391,796 to Chen disclose a round ceiling rack and a half-round wall rack, respectively, which include spaced-apart rails. Hook members, having a head portion and a hook portion joined together by a flat shank portion, appear to be slidably positioned in the slots between the spaced-apart rails. The flat shanks of the hooks engage the rails on opposed sides so as to prevent rotation of the hook members.
U.S. Design Pat. No. Des. 353,502 to Liu discloses a hanger for kitchen utensils having a single square beam open at its lower surface to permit a plurality of hanger hooks to slide therein.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,714,166 to Hann et al. discloses a supporting rack for cooking utensils comprising a generally rectangularly formed flat bar with hook members suspended therearound.
Additional prior art pot racks and hanger systems are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,227,387 to Rose; U.S. Pat. No. 5,960,967 to Neil; U.S. Pat. No. 4,290,531 to Lazarus, III; and U.S. Pat. No. 3,998,332 to Lambertson.
One major drawback in conventional pot rack systems resides in the area where the hook attaches to the metal rack. Conventional pot hangers sometimes include hooks at both ends which will result in relative movement between adjacent pots and pans, generating contact between the hanging utensils, causing annoying sounds and possible cosmetic damage to the cookware. Other track-mounted hooks tend to move or "walk" along the rails when the rack is vibrated as other pots and pans are being removed or replaced. Hook systems such as disclosed in the above-mentioned Chen patents also suffer from the drawback that the hook cannot be rotated to accommodate better positioning of the utensils being hung.
The present invention solves the shortcomings found in the prior art by providing a pot rack system having a unique hook and track arrangement which provides easy movement along the rack including 360° rotation of the hook. Once the desired position is found, the hook remains firmly in place on the rack.


A fire detector including a base and a fire detector insert connectable to the base. The fire detector insert is connectable to the base by an axial movement and detachable from the base by a subsequent axial movement.

Fire detectors are used for early recognition of fires in areas having a corresponding fire load, to protect people and material assets. Fire detectors are typically mounted on the ceiling and have a round, white housing having a diameter of approximately 10 cm and a height of approximately 7 cm to 10 cm. Because of its function, the housing is seated on the ceiling. Fire detectors are industrially mass-produced products and fire detectors of one model and manufacturer typically appear identical. The corresponding housing size may normally be immediately recognized on the ceiling as a fire detector in spaces having public traffic. The uniformity of mass production and the housing shape therefore always represent a compromise between the function of the fire detector and the taste of the user and the visual demands of the surroundings.
Scattered light fire detectors are therefore predominantly mounted on ceilings, because the smoke is first transported to the ceiling due to the thermal generated by the fire and then propagates along the ceiling. This has the disadvantage that the installation, maintenance, and function testing of the fire detector must be performed on the ceiling. At least a ladder and, in taller rooms, even a lift platform is necessary for these activities. This results in a high outlay in time and money for the cited activities. Therefore, it is desirable to be able to perform the maintenance and regular function testing of the fire detectors using testing devices mounted on a long rod. Furthermore, a defective fire detector is also to be easily replaceable using a tool insert mounted on a rod. For this reason, nearly all fire detectors are inserted into a base to which the necessary supply and transmission lines are permanently connected. Contacts are located in the base, via which the fire detector is connected to these lines. Even when a fire alarm system is first put into operation, the fire detector is to be mountable in the base with the aid of a tool insert of this type, since often the installation and wiring of the base is performed by another company and, sometimes, a long time before the installation of the fire detector itself. Thus, a ladder and/or lift platform is only necessary for wiring the base. The fire detector is predominantly installed in the base, as described in WO 97/05586, for example, by inserting the fire detector in a specific orientation in the base and attaching it using a rotational movement, like a bayonet closure. Therefore, the tool insert used on the installation tool for installing the fire detector in the base is tailored to the shape of the fire detector, in such a way that the frictional force required for the rotational movement is applied via a form fit.
A scattered light smoke detector, which has a light transmitter and a light receiver which are positioned in such a way that a scatter point outside the scattered light smoke detector is situated in the open air, the scattered light smoke detector having a cover for protecting the light transmitter and the light receiver, as well as means for differentiating between smoke and other foreign bodies located in an area around the scatter point, is described in German Patent Application No. DE 101 18 913 A1. The means for differentiating between smoke and other foreign bodies has a processor for analyzing the variation over time of received signals of the light receiver, the processor being connectable to the light receiver. The technology for recognizing a fire employed in this scattered light smoke detector allows an installation of the scattered light smoke detector generally flush with the ceiling. An important step for unobtrusive mounting of fire detectors of this type has thus already been taken. Such a fire detector which is insertable flush with the ceiling requires, however, that it generally only has a flat or only slightly curved and smooth surface, which is formed by a cover disk which covers the fire detector. Therefore, it is extraordinarily difficult to install fire detectors of this type in a base using a rotational movement. Only comparatively low frictional forces may be transmitted via the smooth, flat surface of the fire detector, much lower frictional forces than via a form fit, which is typical in the current fire detectors. In the worst case, the frictional force which may still be applied is no longer sufficient to engage the fire detector contacts with the base contacts. Since the fire detector now terminates flush with the ceiling after being inserted into the base, it is additionally very probable that the mounting tool will slip along the ceiling during the required rotational movement and mark or even damage it.
Furthermore, a scattered light smoke detector which has two light receivers or an imaging lens for a light receiver to set a defined measuring volume is described in German Patent Application No. DE 101 18 913 A1.


A method of patterning a plurality of optical rods includes bonding a plurality of optical rods into an array wherein each of the optical rods is aligned so that an exposed end face of each of the optical rods is oriented in a common direction. The exposed end faces of the optical rods are patterned so that each of the exposed end faces has a three-dimensional pattern formed thereon. These patterned optical rods can then be separated and used in the fabrication of optical systems.

Single mode fiber optic data links have been developed as alternatives to multimode fiber data links. In a single mode fiber, a single spatial mode propagates therethrough so that modal noise effects are reduced. Single mode optical systems, however, may be extremely sensitive to alignment errors. Sensitivity to alignment errors may be particularly critical when a data link is used in an extreme environment with exposure to vibrations and shock. A need thus exists to provide single mode fiber optic connections which have reduced sensitivity to shocks and vibrations. Dust and debris may also be problematic in single mode fiber connections known in the prior art.
A single mode fiber optic connection according to the prior art is illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. As shown, two single mode optical fibers 11 are inserted into ferrules 13 that are held together with a spring loaded stainless steel jacket 15. The springs keep the ferrules in compression in an attempt to keep the ferrules in contact at all times. A ceramic sleeve 17 surrounds the ferrules to keep the ferrules and the fibers aligned in the transverse direction. This sleeve is thus precisely machined to tolerances within 1 micron on the inner diameter. Accordingly, as light is transmitted from a first one of the fibers across the junction to the second fiber, residual losses may occur.
The ferrules, however, may piston in and out of the sleeve as a result of severe shocks and/or vibrations thereby creating a gap between the two fibers 11. This gap may increase optical losses beyond acceptable levels. Moreover, a single dust particle between the respective core portions of the two optical fibers may block a significant portion of the radiation being transmitted therebetween.
Gradient Index (GRIN) lenses have been used to collimate and focus light in fiber switching and connecting systems. GRIN lenses, however, may be quite large in comparison with the dimensions of optical fibers thus increasing overall package sizes and reducing switching densities. GRIN lenses may also be limited to simple optical focusing and collimation functions while current broadband networks may require complex functions for Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM).
Accordingly, there continues to exist a need in the art for improved methods and structures for joining two optical fibers to reduce optical losses for signals transmitted therebetween.

Methods of forming optical rods including three-dimensional patterns on end faces thereof


A security grate is disposed intermediate a conventional multi-apertured vent on the front of a garage door panel to prevent intrusion through the juxtaposed aperture in the panel. Straps or washers serving as a backing plate may be located on the interior of the panel to further hinder unwanted removal of the vent and the security grate from the panel to obtain access to the aperture in the panel. Alternatively, the security grate may be disposed adjacent the interior of the panel and then any backing plate variants may be omitted. A cover of insulating material is attachable adjacent the rear of the panel to prevent airflow through the panel aperture and to provide insulation. A transparent or translucent cover may be substituted for the insulating cover to provide illumination when the garage door is closed. A closeable opening may be provided in the cover to permit airflow therethrough on a selected basis. The openings in the security grate may be multi-apertured and rectangular, circular, or other configuration as a function of manufacturing criteria and airflow considerations.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to vent assemblies and, more particularly, to a vent assembly having a security grate for preventing access through a juxtaposed aperture.
2. Description of Related Art
During the summer time in the southwest, the temperature in an unvented enclosed garage increases to well over 100 degrees. Such a high temperature may cause damage or deterioration to temperature sensitive items stored or otherwise disposed within such garage. Moreover, the high temperature renders it very uncomfortable for persons working within the garage. To alleviate this problem, it is common to cut one or more apertures in a garage door and cover such aperture with a multi-louvered screened vent readily available in hardware stores. Such vents permit convective airflow through the garage door and generally restrains intrusion of larger sized insects. Because the commercially available vents are usually of aluminum or light sheet metal, they are easily destroyed to permit access to the juxtaposed aperture. The now accessible aperture permits a child or small adult to pass therethrough and permits use of extended tools and the like to unlock and open the garage door. The resulting accessibility to the garage and its contents is an invasion of privacy and promotes burglary. The garage owner, and particularly a homeowner having such a vented garage door, is therefore faced with the quandary of either accepting an unreasonably hot garage or risk intrusion.
To encourage airflow into and out of a garage through a closed garage door, one or more of the conventional types of vents are often located close to the bottom and to the top of the garage door. Such positioning permits escape of hot air through the upper vents due to convection and a compensatory inflow of cooler air through the bottom vents. Such plurality of apertures promotes air circulation with attendant cooling benefits but also provides a plurality of locations for intrusion into the confines of the garage.

Vent with multi-apertured security grate


A plurality of printing conditions and designated color information are acquired, and it is judged whether a designated color specified from the designated color information can be reproduced under the printing conditions or not. On condition that at least one of the printing conditions under which the designated color cannot be reproduced is judged as being present, then a substitute color that is different from the designated color is determined in order to increase the number of the printing conditions under which the designated color can be reproduced. A display device displays visible information (colorimetric value display field, color difference display field, and color patch group) with respect to the substitute color.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a color reproduction assisting system, a color reproduction assisting method, and a non-transitory storage medium for assisting in the reproduction of designated colors on a print.
2. Description of the Related Art
Heretofore, there has been known in the printing field a technology for finely adjusting a color of an image into essential agreement with a color (hereinafter referred to as "designated color") designated by a color sample such as a color chip or the like. For faithfully reproducing a designated color, it is important to judge whether the designated color is present within the gamut of a printing press or not. Various processes have been proposed to predict whether a designated color can be reproduced or not and let the operator know the predicted result.
Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2011-166731 discloses a process of displaying a list of the attributes and items of print mediums and the distances up to gamut boundaries. The operator can select the type of a print medium that is suitable for reproducing a designated color by confirming the details of the displayed list.

Color reproduction assisting system, color reproduction assisting method, and non-transitory storage medium


A culinary greeting card kit is a boxed set of greeting cards (30) with envelopes (40) and two thematic cards, preferably recipe cards, (10, 20) for each greeting card. One recipe card (10), to be sent, is enclosed inside the greeting card and held by tabs (T); the other, identical, recipe card (20) is kept by the sender. The recipes vary from card to card and a picture of the food item made by the recipe may appear on the face of the greeting card and also on the back of each recipe card. Thus, the kit includes a variety of food pictures as well as recipes. The greeting card preferably has a pop-up section (F) traversing the recipe card, so that the card is retained under the pop-up section as well as between the tabs.

The greeting card industry is a major industry with substantial competition. Greeting card companies are constantly looking for new ideas for construction and presentation which may give them a competitive edge over their competition.
Many people enjoy cooking, collecting recipes, and sharing recipes with their friends, and sending greeting cards to their friends (who may also collect recipes). A person wishing to send both a greeting card and a recipe has typically had to copy a recipe card onto the greeting card (which requires the recipient to re-copy the recipe) or else to copy the recipe onto a card and enclose the recipe card with the greeting card.
The recipient would now have a plain, uncolored, probably blue-lined index card with a hand-written recipe; it lacks anything to make it special or memorable or to cause it to stand out in the recipient's recipe card collection. It has no apparent connection to the greeting card and its sender, so after the greeting card is trashed the stored recipe card is no reminder of the sender or the greeting card. It is not an ideal gift.
The plain recipe card has no picture of the food that the recipe makes; the card will not inspire the recipient to prepare the food, so it is less likely to be used.
The hand-written, 3-by-5 card recipe is not attached and may be lost, since the greeting card may be extracted and the recipe card carelessly discarded along with the envelope. It is known to attach a smaller card, such as a business card, inside a larger bifold greeting card; U.S. Pat. No. 5,349,769 in FIG. 2 shows a greeting card with slots 20 for holding corners of a smaller business card 22, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,275,285 shows a business card 110 similarly held in a card in FIG. 4, by its corners being inserted into angled slots.
Photographs are also known to have been fastened to greeting cards. U.S. Pat. No. 4,890,402 shows a photograph 20 held to the front of bifold greeting card 12 by a transparent pocket 16.
Greeting cards with a "pop-up" feature which pops up upon opening of the card are also known.
The prior art does not disclose any way of combining greeting cards with recipe cards. Nor does it disclose any pop-up greeting card with a correlated information bearing card disposed in conjunction with the pop-up feature.


This invention is to provide an adhesive thermometer, comprising: a sense unit, a display unit and an attachment unit, where the display unit and the sense unit are combined into a rectangular parallelepiped, and the display unit is located at the top while the sense unit at the bottom. The attachment unit is formed by an adhesive pad and the rectangular parallelepiped, which makes the sense unit to be disposed for exposing downward. The bottom of the adhesive pad is provided with gluey substance, and a protective pad is stuck to the gluey substance for temporary attachment. When using, simply tear down the protective pad and stick the thermometer to both ends of a measured location by means of the exposed gluey substance, and adhere the sense unit to the measured location to sense the temperature, followed by exhibiting the sensed temperature at the display unit in terms of different message types: numeral, color, sound or odor.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to adhesive thermometers, more specifically, to one capable of being stuck to the sensed position by the adhesive pad of the attachment unit, sensing the temperature by the sense unit, and exhibiting the sensed temperature at the display unit in terms of different message types: numeral, color, sound or odor.
2. Description of the Prior Art
As regards the drawbacks of the traditional mercury thermometers, electronic thermometers have gained their popularity because of the following well-known advantages: highly assured safety, short measuring time and handy viewing readout. Conventional electronic thermometers appear in various outlooks, for instance, FIG. 1 shows a popularly seen electronic thermometer 6, where its front is provided with a sense unit 61, which is placed in some portions of the human body (mouth, armpit or anus) of the measured individual, to sense the temperature, and the sensed temperature is read out from the display unit 62 located outside the human body. FIG. 2 shows an electronic thermometer 7 also named ear thermometer, where its cone-shaped sense unit 71 is inserted into the ear of the measured individual for the sense of the temperature, and the readout is shown in its display unit 72. Aside from the aforementioned two electronic thermometers, there are quite many different types, for instance, for some organizations or places (kindergartens, schools or department stores) that are prone to contagious diseases, a forehead thermometer is being used to aim at the forehead of someone entering to scan and induce the body temperature within a short distance, which enables a selection of potential fevered persons of temperature over 37.5° C., for further affirmation or elimination, the said infrared forehead thermometer is categorized as an electronic thermometer.
The prior art electronic thermometers nowadays (for instance the aforesaid three types) have a common flaw, which is unable to attach to the surface of a measured individual or article for showing the temperature at any time, only for single measurement of the temperature, where every use calls for a repeat of a like procedure (repeat for reset, repeat for the approach of the measured target, and repeat for the hold of the thermometer). A demand of a using mode for showing temperature at any moment, which could only be achievable by the sophisticated monitoring system of some medical organizations, where all the aforesaid prior art electronic thermometers are not available for the requirement; therefore, a thermometer of a novel structural combination is absolutely needed to be invented to meet such usage. It is worth further noting that the using mode of the thermometer that can stick to the measured individual for showing the body temperature at any time is most demanded by the parents of young and small children. Since young and small children will occasionally be sick, which definitely requires some time (a couple of days) to rest for earlier recovery; at the moment, their parents, attended to them day and night, have to measure their temperature repeatedly, to know if they are getting better. Such efforts for the parents that have already looked after their sick children for long are really awful fatigues for them. The inventor realized the suffering of the parents deeply, which hence motivated him in initiating the idea of the invention, for offering a thermometer that features sticking to the measured individual, for showing the body temperature directly; moreover, it can further show the temperature in sound through a sound generator, for providing the caretaker a better control over the measured temperature for action. In the same measure, this thermometer can also be applied to the measured location of an article or a place once the temperature is demanded for observation at any time.


An optical glass comprises, denoted as weight percentages, SiO2-2-22%, B2O3: 3-24%, ZnO:>8% and ≦30%, CaO+BaO+ZnO: 10-50%, MgO: 0-3%, La2O3+Y2O3+Gd2O3+Yb2O3: 1-33%, TiO2: 2-20%, ZrO2: 0-10%, Nb2O5: 2-32%, Li2O: 0-5%, Na2O: 0-8%, K2O: 0-10%, WO3: 0-20%. The ratio by weight of La2O3 to the combined contents of La2O3, Y2O3, Gd2O3, and Yb2O3 (La2O3/(La2O3+Y2O3+Gd2O3+Yb2O3)) falls within a range of 0.7 to 1.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to glass having a high refractive index that is suited to use in the lenses employed in cameras and projectors. The present invention further relates to optical elements made from this glass and to a method for manufacturing such optical elements.
2. Discussion of the Background
Highly refractive glass with a refractive index of 1.8 or more can be divided into three types: high dispersion glass having an Abbé number of 25 or less, medium dispersion glass with an Abbé number of 25 to 35, and low dispersion glass with an Abbé number of 35 or more. Conventionally, medium dispersion glass with an Abbé number of 25 to 35 that contains lead is known. However, due to concern for the environment and humans, the following glasses that achieve the above-stated optical characteristics without the incorporation of lead have been proposed in recent years.
For example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication (KOKAI) Showa No. 62-275038, which is expressly incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, discloses a glass having a refractive index nd of 1.8 to 1.85, an Abbé number v(nu)d of 31 to 32, and a specific gravity of 3.0 to 3.7 that is desirable for use in eyeglasses.
Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication (KOKAI) Heisei No. 7-41334, which is expressly incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, discloses a glass with a refractive index of 1.84 to 1.93, an Abbé number nud of 25 to 32, and a specific gravity of 4.0 or less.
Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication (KOKAI) No. 2000-128570, which is expressly incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, discloses a glass having a refractive index of 1.84 or above and a specific gravity of 3.9 or less.
Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication (KOKAI) No. 2004-175632, or English language family member U.S. patent application No. 2004-220041 AA, which are expressly incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, discloses a glass having a refractive index of 1.70 to 1.93 and an Abbé number nud of 28 to 45.
In the manufacturing of high-quality optical elements in which glass is softened by heating, when the glass serving as starting material does not melt readily, requiring that the melting temperature be raised, the platinum comprising the melting container ends up melting into the glass, discoloring the glass.
Further, when molding glass with low devitrification stability while in a molten state, the glass ends up devitrifying as the glass melt is quenched. Further, when devitrification stability is only good during molding of the glass melt and the molded glass is subsequently employed as a material, being reheated and melted during molding, low devitrification stability causes the molded product to devitrify.
Thus, obtaining a high-quality optical element requires the use, from melting to manufacturing of the optical element, of a glass that simultaneously satisfies the requirements of meltability, devitrification stability when molding glass in a molten state, low coloration, and devitrification stability in molded glass that has been softened by heating.
The glasses disclosed in the above-mentioned four patent publications are characterized by not containing Harmful Pb. However, the glasses have drawbacks that they do not satisfy simultaneously the requirements of meltability, devitrification stability when molding glass in a molten state, low coloration, and devitrification stability in molded glass that has been softened by heating. Further, the various above-described glasses all contain an essential component in the form of TiO2, and thus present the problem of increased coloration, which is thought to be the result of titanium ions generated by high temperature melting.

Optical glass, optical element and method of manufacturing thereof


A system for obtaining spatial measurements between objects such as crops in an agricultural field. The system includes a measurement device including a motorized reel containing a wound length of measuring line, and electronic encoder with shaft rotated in opposing directions by dispensing or retrieving measuring line. A pivotably movable spring-biased tension arm maintains tension in the line when being rewound. The tension arm is responsive to changes in line tension and configured to automatically start the motor to rewind the line onto the reel based on angular position of the arm. A gear train includes a translatable shuttle gear which selectively couples the reel to the motor based on movement of the tension arm. The encoder converts rotary motion of its shaft into linear field measurements. In one implementation, the tension arm comprises an inboard arm and outboard arm with translatable pulley coupled thereto by an articulated joint.

The present invention relates generally to systems for performing spatial measurements between objects, and more particularly to a system and related device suitable for obtaining spatial measurements of crops in agricultural fields.
Consistency of plant spacing in crop rows is an important aspect of the agricultural arts. Immature plants or seed are typically planted by motorized planting vehicles, which can lead to inconsistency in spacing. Proper spacing between plants in the row ensures that each plant receives the necessary amount of sunlight, nutrients, air circulation to ward off fungal diseases, and room to mature. Lateral spacing between adjacent crop rows of plants is therefore also important for the same reasons. Accordingly, proper plant spacing contributes positively to the health and vigor of the plants, and ultimately maximizes the crop yield and quality of the produce.
Improvements in devices suitable for accurately and reliably measuring plant spacing in the planted agricultural field are desired.

Spatial measurement system for agricultural applications


A toy includes a base with an upright post, a suspending track member and a moving piece. The suspending track member is mounted on the prop and has a track portion that inclines gradually and downwardly and that has a top side formed with an anti-slipping surface. The moving piece is capable of downward sliding movement along the track portion and includes a body part and left and right arms, each of which has a lower section pivoted to the body part for forward and rearward pivoting movement of the left and right arms relative to the body part, and an upper section that extends from the lower section. The upper sections of the left and right arms are spaced apart by a distance wider than width of the track portion such that the left and right arms can be disposed on left and right sides of the track portion. The upper section of each of the left and right arms is formed with a track contacting part that extends above the track portion for contacting the anti-slipping surface and for suspending the moving piece on the track portion.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a toy, more particularly to a toy which has a moving piece with upwardly extending arms, and a suspending track member that has the arms of the moving piece hanging therefrom and that is formed with an anti-slipping surface to reduce downward moving speed of the moving piece and to result in intermittent and alternating stopping of the arms of the moving piece so as to give an effect of swinging movement of the moving piece along the track member.
2. Description of the Related Art
There are various types of toys having track members and moving pieces that are movable along the track members. In one example of a conventional toy, movement of a moving piece from a lower position to an upper position of a track member is effected by a magnet. The moving piece slides downwardly along the track member to return to the lower position in preparation for a succeeding cycle. In another example of a conventional toy, the moving piece is brought from a lower position to an upper position of a track member by means of a drive chain. The moving piece then slides downwardly along the track member to return to the lower position for the next cycle. In still other examples of conventional toys, gears or linear drive means are employed to move a moving piece from a lower position to an upper position of a track member to enable the moving piece to slide downwardly along the track member.
Although the method and mechanism employed for moving a moving piece from a lower position to an upper position of a track member may differ according to the type of toy, the moving piece usually slides downwardly along the track member with the aid of rollers to return to the lower position for the next cycle. After being popular for years, the aforementioned types of toys have lost their appear and have become less attractive to consumers.

Toy having a moving piece capable of swinging movement along a suspending track member


The present disclosure provides proteins comprising antigen binding domains of antibodies that bind to human granulocyte-colony stimulating factor receptor.

Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) is a major regulator of granulocyte production. G-CSF is produced by bone marrow stromal cells, endothelial cells, macrophages, and fibroblasts, and production is induced by inflammatory stimuli. G-CSF acts through the G-CSF receptor (G-CSFR), which is expressed on early myeloid progenitors, mature neutrophils, monocytes/macrophages, T and B lymphocytes and endothelial cells. Mice deficient in G-CSF or the G-CSFR exhibit marked neutropenia, demonstrating the importance of G-CSF in steady-state granulopoiesis. However, G-CSF appears to be dispensable for emergency granulopoiesis, e.g., in response to an infection. G-CSF increases the production and release of neutrophils, mobilizes hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell, and modulates the differentiation, lifespan, and effector functions of mature neutrophils. G-CSF may also exert effects on macrophages, including expansion of monocyte/macrophage numbers, enhancement of phagocytic function, and regulation of inflammatory cytokine and chemokine production. G-CSF has also been shown to mobilize endothelial progenitor cells and induce or promote angiogenesis.
While G-CSF is used therapeutically, e.g., to treat neutropenia and/or mobilize hematopoietic stem cells, it also has negative actions in some conditions, e.g., inflammatory conditions and/or cancer. For example, administration of G-CSF exacerbates rheumatoid arthritis (RA), murine collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) and a passive transfer model of CIA in rats. G-CSF has been found in the serum and synovial fluid of RA patients. Furthermore, interleukin (IL)-1 and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), which are found at increased levels in patients suffering from RA, induce the production of G-CSF by human synovial fibroblasts and chondrocytes. Mice deficient in G-CSF are resistant to the induction of acute and chronic inflammatory arthritis.
G-CSF has also been shown to play a role in multiple sclerosis (MS). For example, G-CSF enhances adhesion of an auto-reactive T cell line model of MS to extracellular matrix as effectively as interferon γ and TNFα, which are known to exacerbate MS symptoms. Moreover, G-CSF deficient mice are resistant to development of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE).
G-CSF and G-CSFR have also been tied to cancer, with studies showing that this signaling pathway contributes to chemotherapy resistance, growth, survival, invasiveness and metastasis of various cancers. Moreover, G-CSF has been shown to induce to angiogenesis, a process important in the development of solid tumors.
It will be clear to the skilled person from the foregoing, that there is a need in the art for reagents that reduce the signaling of G-CSF through the G-CSFR. Exemplary agents will be suitable for use as therapeutics, e.g., to treat or prevent a G-CSF-mediated condition.

Antibodies against G-CSFR and uses thereof


A liquid pharmaceutical composition of a GABA analog comprising at least one polyhydric alcohol containing 2 to 6 carbon atoms having a pH of about 5.5 to about 7.0 and additionally a two-component liquid pharmaceutical composition comprising a first component comprising a powder mixture comprising a GABA analog and a solid polyhydric alcohol, and a second component comprising a liquid base are described, as well as methods to prepare the compositions and a method for treating cerebral diseases, including epilepsy, faintness attacks, hypokinesia and cranial traumas, neurodegenerative disorders, depression, mania and bipolar disorders, anxiety, panic, inflammation, renal colic, insomnia, gastrointestinal damage, incontinence, pain, including neuropathic pain, muscular pain, skeletal pain, and migraine using a therapeutically effective amount of the pharmaceutical compositions.

GABA is an inhibitory amino acid found in the mammalian central nervous system (CNS). It has been reported that dysfunctions with GABA neurotransmission in the CNS may contribute or even cause psychiatric and neurological diseases such as epilepsy, schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's Chorea and dyskinesia (Saletu B., et al., International Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, Therapy, and Toxicology, 1986;24:362-373).
Gabapentin (1-(aminomethyl)-cyclohexaneocetic acid):
was designed as a GABA analog that would cross the blood-brain barrier. Gabapentin was found to have anticonvulsant and antispastic activity with extremely low toxicity in man. Gabapentin is presently marketed under the trademark Neurontin® as adjunctive therapy in the treatment of partial seizures in patients with epilepsy.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,024,175 and 4,087,544 disclose the use of gabapentin for the treatment of certain forms of epilepsy, faintness attacks, hypokinesia, and cranial traumas. Additionally, gabapentin brings about an improvement of cerebral functions and thus is useful in treating geriatric patients. U.S. Pat. No. 5,084,479 discloses the use of gabapentin in neurodegenerative disorders. U.S. Pat. No. 5,025,035 discloses the use of gabapentin in treating depression; U.S. Pat. No. 5,510,381 discloses the use of gabapentin in treating mania and bipolar disorders. U.S. Pat. No. 5,792,796 discloses the use of gabapentin in treating anxiety and panic. U.S. Pat. No. 6,127,418 discloses the use of gabapentin in treating gastrointestinal damage; U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,894,476 and 4,960,931 disclose a novel crystalline monohydrate form of gabapentin; and U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,133,451; 5,319,135; 5,362,883; 5,693,845; 5,091,567; and 5,068,413 disclose processes for preparing gabapentin as well as intermediates used in these processes. All of the aforementioned United States Patents are incorporated herein by reference.
Pregabalin ((S)-4-amino-3-(2-methylpropyl)butanoic acid)
is another GABA analog disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,563,175 for the treatment of seizure disorders including epilepsy, which is herein incorporated by reference.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,117,906 discloses the use of pregabalin in treating anxiety; U.S. Pat. No. 6,001,876 discloses the use of pregabalin in treating pain; U.S. Pat. No. 6,127,418 discloses the use of pregabalin in treating gastrointestinal damage; and U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,599,973; 5,608,090; 5,684,189; 5,710,304; 5,616,793; 5,629,447; 5,637,767; 5,840,956; 6,046,353; and 6,028,214 disclose processes for preparing pregabalin as well an intermediate used in these processes. All of the aforementioned United States Patents are incorporated herein by reference.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,024,175 discloses the administration of gabapentin enterally or parenterally within wide dosage ranges in liquid and solid form. Subsequently, it was disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,054,482, which is herein incorporated by reference, that gabapentin was converted to a lactam, i.e., 2-azaspiro[4.5]decan-3-one:
Furthermore, lactam formation unexpectedly occurred in the solid phase and under dry storage conditions. Since the gabapentin lactam displayed a certain toxicity, levels of this compound must be reduced to a minimum for reasons of safety. In further investigations, it was confirmed that liquid formulations of gabapentin undergo cyclization to form lactam much more readily than in the solid state. Additionally, it was discovered that gabapentin has a very bitter taste. Finally, there is a need to administer high doses of gabapentin in the treatment of certain diseases. In some cases, doses of up to 1500 mg per day are given to patients.
In view of the above issues, pharmaceutical compositions of gabapentin have been limited to solid dosage forms, such as capsules and tablets.
Pregabalin, similar to gabapentin, also is prone to cyclization to a lactam, i.e., 4-isobutyl-pyrrolidin-2-one:

Thus, there is a need for a liquid pharmaceutical composition of GABA analogs. In particular, liquid formulations of gabapentin and pregabalin would be desirable for the treatment of small children and elderly patients, since these patient groups require doses of gabapentin or pregabalin which are easy to swallow and which can be individually dosed.
The object of the present invention is a liquid pharmaceutical composition which is amenable to high concentrations of a GABA analog, is stable, has low levels of lactam, and has an agreeable taste.
We have surprisingly and unexpectedly found that a GABA analog can be formulated in a stable liquid pharmaceutical composition having low levels of the GABA analog lactam with a pH of about 5.5 to about 7.0 containing at least one polyhydric alcohol. Additionally, the present composition has an agreeable taste.


Sorbents for removal of mercury and other pollutants from gas streams, such as a flue gas stream from coal-fired utility plants, and methods for their manufacture and use are disclosed. The methods include mixing sorbent substrate particles with a sulfide salt and a metal salt to form a metal sulfide on the outer surface of the sorbent particles.

Emission of pollutants, for example, mercury, from sources such as coal-fired and oil-fired boilers has become a major environmental concern. Mercury (Hg) is a potent neurotoxin that can affect human health at very low concentrations. The largest source of mercury emission in the United States is coal-fired electric power plants. Coal-fired power plants account for between one-third and one-half of total mercury emissions in the United States. Mercury is found predominantly in the vapor-phase in coal-fired boiler flue gas. Mercury can also be bound to fly ash in the flue gas.
On Dec. 15, 2003, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed standards for emissions of mercury from coal-fired electric power plants, under the authority of Sections 111 and 112 of the Clean Air Act. In their first phase, the standards could require a 29% reduction in emissions by 2008 or 2010, depending on the regulatory option chosen by the government. In addition to EPA's regulatory effort, in the United States Congress, numerous bills recently have been introduced to regulate these emissions. These regulatory and legislative initiatives to reduce mercury emissions indicate a need for improvements in mercury emission technology.
There are three basic forms of Hg in the flue gas from a coal-fired electric utility boiler: elemental Hg (referred to herein by the symbol Hg0); compounds of oxidized Hg (referred to herein the symbol Hg2+); and particle-bound mercury. Oxidized mercury compounds in the flue gas from a coal-fired electric utility boiler may include mercury chloride (HgCl2), mercury oxide (HgO), and mercury sulfate (HgSO4). Oxidized mercury compounds are sometimes referred to collectively as ionic mercury. This is because, while oxidized mercury compounds may not exist as mercuric ions in the boiler flue gas, these compounds are measured as ionic mercury by the speciation test method used to measure oxidized Hg. The term speciation is used to denote the relative amounts of these three forms of Hg in the flue gas of the boiler. High temperatures generated by combustion in a coal boiler furnace vaporize Hg in the coal. The resulting gaseous Hg0 exiting the furnace combustion zone can undergo subsequent oxidation in the flue gas by several mechanisms. The predominant oxidized Hg species in boiler flue gases is believed to be HgCl2. Other possible oxidized species may include HgO, HgSO4, and mercuric nitrate monohydrate (Hg(NO3)2.H2O).
Gaseous Hg (both Hg0 and Hg2+) can be adsorbed by the solid particles in boiler flue gas. Adsorption refers to the phenomenon where a vapor molecule in a gas stream contacts the surface of a solid particle and is held there by attractive forces between the vapor molecule and the solid. Solid particles are present in all coal-fired electric utility boiler flue gas as a result of the ash that is generated during combustion of the coal. Ash that exits the furnace with the flue gas is called fly ash. Other types of solid particles, called sorbents, may be introduced into the flue gas stream (e.g., lime, powdered activated carbon) for pollutant emission control. Both types of particles may adsorb gaseous Hg in the boiler flue gas.
Sorbents used to capture mercury and other pollutants in flue gas are characterized by their physical and chemical properties. The most common physical characterization is surface area. The interior of certain sorbent particles are highly porous. The surface area of sorbents may be determined using the Brunauer, Emmett, and Teller (BET) method of N2 adsorption. Surface areas of currently used sorbents range from 5 m2/g for Ca-based sorbents to over 2000 m2/g for highly porous activated carbons. EPA Report, Control of Mercury Emissions From Coal-Fired Electric Utility Boilers, Interim Report, EPA-600/R-01-109, April 2002. For most sorbents, mercury capture often increases with increasing surface area of the sorbent.
Mercury and other pollutants can be captured and removed from a flue gas stream by injection of a sorbent into the exhaust stream with subsequent collection in a particulate matter control device such as an electrostatic precipitator or a fabric filter. Adsorptive capture of Hg from flue gas is a complex process that involves many variables. These variables include the temperature and composition of the flue gas, the concentration of Hg in the exhaust stream, and the physical and chemical characteristics of the sorbent. Of the known Hg sorbents, activated carbon and calcium-based sorbents have been the most actively studied.
Currently, the most commonly used method for mercury emission reduction is the injection of powdered activated carbon into the flue stream of coal-fired and oil-fired plants. Currently, there is no available control method that efficiently collects all mercury species present in the flue gas stream. Coal-fired combustion flue gas streams are of particular concern because their composition includes trace amounts of acid gases, including SO2 and SO3, NO and NO2, and HCl. These acid gases have been shown to degrade the performance of activated carbon. Though powdered activated carbon is effective to capture oxidized mercury species such as Hg+2, powdered activated carbon (PAC) is not as effective for elemental mercury which constitutes a major Hg species in flue gas, especially for subbituminous coals and lignite. There have been efforts to enhance the Hg0 trapping efficiency of PAC by incorporating bromine species. This, however, not only introduces significantly higher cost, but a disadvantage to this approach is that bromine itself is a potential environmental hazard. Furthermore, the presence of PAC hinders the use of the fly ash in the cement industry and other applications due to its color and other properties.
As noted above, alternatives to PAC sorbents have been utilized to reduce mercury emissions from coal-fired boilers. Examples of sorbents that have been used for mercury removal include those disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0103882 and in U.S. Pat. No. 6,719,828. In U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0103882, calcium carbonate and kaolin from paper mill waste sludge were calcined and used for Hg removal at high temperatures above 170° C., preferably 500° C. U.S. Pat. No. 6,719,828 teaches the preparation of layered sorbents such as clays with metal sulfide between the clay layers and methods for their preparation. The method used to prepare the layered sorbents is based on an ion exchange process, which limits the selection of substrates to only those having high ion exchange capacity. In addition, ion exchange is time-consuming and involves several wet process steps, which significantly impairs the reproducibility, performance, scalability, equipment requirements, and cost of the sorbent. For example, a sorbent made in accordance with the teachings of U.S. Pat. No. 6,719,828 involves swelling a clay in an acidified solution, introducing a metal salt solution to exchange metal ions between the layers of the clay, filtering the ion exchanged clay, re-dispersing the clay in solution, sulfidation of the clay by adding another sulfide solution, and finally the product is filtered and dried. Another shortcoming of the process disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,719,828 is that the by-products of the ion exchange process, i.e., the waste solutions of metal ions and hydrogen sulfide generated from the acidic solution, are an environmental liability.
There is an ongoing need to provide improved pollution control sorbents and methods for their manufacture. It would be desirable to provide sorbents containing metal sulfides on the sorbent substrate that can be manufactured easily and inexpensively. In this regard, simple and environmentally friendly methods that effectively disperse metal sulfide on readily available substrates, which do not require the numerous steps involved in an ion exchange process are needed.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Pollutant emission control sorbents and methods of manufacture


A voice quality conversion system includes: an analysis unit which analyzes sounds of plural vowels of different types to generate first vocal tract shape information for each type of the vowels; a combination unit which combines, for each type of the vowels, the first vocal tract shape information on that type of vowel and the first vocal tract shape information on a different type of vowel to generate second vocal tract shape information on that type of vowel; and a synthesis unit which (i) combines vocal tract shape information on a vowel included in input speech and the second vocal tract shape information on the same type of vowel to convert vocal tract shape information on the input speech, and (ii) generates a synthetic sound using the converted vocal tract shape information and voicing source information on the input speech to convert the voice quality of the input speech.

An example of conventional voice quality conversion techniques is to prepare a large number of pairs of speech of the same content spoken in two different ways (e.g., emotions) and learn conversion rules between the two different ways of speaking from the prepared pairs of speech (see Patent Literature (PTL) 1, for example). The voice quality conversion technique according to PTL 1 allows conversion of speech without emotion into speech with emotion based on a learning model.
The voice quality conversion technique according to PTL 2 extracts a feature value from a small number of discretely uttered vowels to perform conversion into target speech.

Voice quality conversion system, voice quality conversion device, voice quality conversion method, vocal tract information generation device, and vocal tract information generation method

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