The present invention is directed to a semiconductor device including a semiconductor substrate, a through hole penetrating the semiconductor substrate, a base film covering the through hole, a conductive layer disposed on the base film, an insulating film formed on the side wall of the through hole, and a conductive material embedded in the through hole via the insulating film, in which the base film has a stepped portion formed by an opening pattern that selectively exposes the conductive layer therethrough into the through hole, and in which the conductive material is connected electrically to the conductive layer through the opening pattern.

Recently, there have been developed techniques in which multiple semiconductor devices each having a through electrode are stacked to form a small, high-capacity, and highly-functional electronic component. Semiconductor devices having a through electrode are disclosed in, for example, Patent Document 1 (Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2011-86773) and Patent Document 2 (Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2011-86850).
The semiconductor devices disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2 include a silicon substrate, a through electrode provided in the silicon substrate, an electrode pad formed on a surface of the silicon substrate, and a rearrangement wiring layer formed on the electrode pad. Such semiconductor devices are manufactured by, for example, the following method. First, an electrode pad is formed on a front surface of a silicon substrate via an insulating film to forma rearrangement wiring layer. Next, a first etching gas (SF6) is used to perform dry etching on a rear surface of the silicon substrate to the middle of the silicon substrate. Subsequently, a second etching gas (C4F8) is used to perform dry etching on the remaining part of the silicon substrate to thereby form a through hole that reaches the electrode pad. An insulating film is then formed on the entire inner surface of the through hole and, thereafter, the insulating film at the bottom surface of the through hole is etched to provide communication between the electrode pad and the through hole. A through electrode is then formed inside the insulating film. A semiconductor device having a through electrode is thus obtained through such a process.

Semiconductor device having a base film and manufacturing method for same


Toner contains a binder resin containing one or more kinds of crystalline resin and one or more kinds of non-crystalline resin. The non-crystalline resin located at the surface portion of the toner forms a shell structure of a continuous phase of the non-crystalline resin and the toner has an amount of melting heat of 30 J/g or more in a second temperature rising as measured by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC).

1. Technical Field
The present invention is related to toner, a development agent, and an image forming apparatus.
2. Background Art
Latent images formed electrically or magnetically are typically rendered visible by an electrophotographic image forming apparatus using toner (electrophotographic toner). For example, in electrophotography, electrostatic images (latent images) are formed on an image bearing member (typically a photoreceptor) and developed with toner to form visible toner images. The visible toner image is then transferred onto a transfer medium, typically paper, and thereafter fixed thereon. In the fixing process in which the toner image is fixed on the transfer medium, a thermal fixing device such as a heating roller fixing system or a heating belt fixing system is generally used for better energy efficiency.
In the current market, toner is demanded to have good low temperature fixability for energy saving.
To improve the low temperature fixability of toner, it is necessary to control the thermal characteristics of the binder resin accounting for a large ratio of the toner. In efforts to meet such an demand, for example, JP-2010-077419-A, JP-2012-083661-A, JP-2009-53695-A, and JP-2010-276754-A disclose regulating the composition and the thermal characteristics of a crystalline resin or toner having a good combination of low temperature fixability and high temperature stability of by providing a layer formed of particulates to the surface of the toner.
In addition, JP-2009-014926-A describes using a toner containing a binder resin formed of two kinds of crystalline resins (particularly preferably crystalline polyester resins) having different molecular weights under a particular fixing condition to improve the low temperature fixability of toner and prevent fixed images from cracking. In addition, JP-2010-151996-A discloses a toner containing a binder resin formed of two kinds of crystalline resins having different storage elastic moduli at 160° C. to have a good combination of low temperature fixability and high pressure stability.
However, in toner having a binder resin containing a crystalline resin, if the content of the crystalline resin accounts for a large ratio in the binder resin, the toner has an excellent low temperature fixability but with problems such that the toner is vulnerable to stirring stress in a development device, which easily leads to agglomeration of the toner and carrier over time, resulting in production of deficient images and in addition, it takes a time for re-crystallization of toner melted on a transfer medium during thermal fixing, meaning that the hardness of the surface of an image is not regained soon. These problems are ascribable to the properties of the crystalline resin. For this reason, marks of a member such as a discharging roller arranged in a discharging or transfer path are formed on the surface of an image after fixing, resulting in gloss change or damage thereof.
In attempts to solve these problems, for example, JP-3949526-B1 (JP-2004-038115-A) and JP-4513627-B1 (JP-2006-276305-A1) disclose a combinational use of a crystalline resin and a non-crystalline resin instead of using only a crystalline resin as the main component of a binder resin.
These are successful in compensating the defect about the hardness of the crystalline resin but are not satisfactory about improvement of the low temperature fixability thereby.

Toner, development agent, and image forming apparatus


A mounting structure includes a resin member that includes a mounting portion having a mounting hole, and a reinforcing member that has a insertion hole through which a fastening member is inserted for mounting the resin member on a bearing surface of a mounting target member. A mounting surface of the resin member is inclined so that the axis direction of the insertion hole of the reinforcing member coincides with a fastening direction of the fastening member to the mounting target member. The mounting hole of the mounting portion has a polygonal shape.

The present disclosure relates to a mounting structure of a resin member suitable for mounting a resin molded product which is used in, for example, fixing a wire harness or the like to a vehicle.
For example, when a wire harness or the like is fixed to a vehicle, a mounting bracket such as a protector, which is a resin molded product, is used in many cases. In this case, a screw shaft portion of a bolt is inserted through a bolt insertion hole of the mounting bracket, the mounting bracket is fastened to a bearing surface of a vehicle body by the bolt, and thus the wire harness or the like is fixed to a vehicle body side member through the mounting bracket. In addition, there is a case where a screw shaft portion is provided in the vehicle body side member and then a nut is fastened to the screw shaft portion so as to fasten the mounting bracket to the vehicle body.
However, there is a case where a breakage due to the fastening of a bolt or a nut occurs in this mounting bracket. In order to prevent this breakage due to the fastening of a bolt or a nut, for example, a mounting structure of a synthetic resin component disclosed in JP-A-2008-304023 has been known in which a mounting bracket is reinforced by inserting a cylindrical metal collar into the inner circumference of a bolt insertion hole.
As described above, in the mounting structure of a synthetic resin component disclosed in JP-A-2008-304023, the breakage due to the fastening of a bolt or a nut is prevented by the reinforcement using the cylindrical metal collar.
However, for example, when a screw hole formed on the vehicle body side member is orthogonal to the bearing surface of the vehicle body side member, an insertion direction of the bolt inserted through the bolt insertion hole of the mounting bracket coincides with a fastening direction of the bolt to the screw hole of the bearing surface. In this case, for example, in the mounting surface of the mounting bracket, which is directed to the bearing surface of the vehicle body side member, it is not necessary to perform a process in which the insertion direction of the bolt inserted through the bolt insertion hole of the mounting bracket coincides with the fastening direction of the bolt to the screw hole of the bearing surface.
Accordingly, even in a case of using the cylindrical metal collar, at the time of fastening by the bolt, the entire opening end face of the metal collar, which is directed to the bearing surface of the vehicle body side member, comes into surface contact with the bearing surface of the vehicle body side member and thus a gap is not generated between the opening end face of the metal collar and the bearing surface of the vehicle body side member.
Incidentally, when a gap is generated between the opening end face of the metal collar, which is directed to the bearing surface of the vehicle body side member, and the bearing surface of the vehicle body side member at the time of fastening by the bolt, the fastening force of the bolt to the bearing surface of the vehicle body side member is weakened. In this case, rattle occurs in the mounting bracket and thus the fixing of a wire harness or the like to the vehicle body side member is not completely performed.
On the other hand, for example, when an axis of the screw hole formed on the vehicle body side member is not orthogonal to the bearing surface of the vehicle body side member, that is, the screw hole is formed to be inclined with respect to the bearing surface, the insertion direction of the bolt inserted through the bolt insertion hole of the mounting bracket does not coincide with the fastening direction of the bolt to the screw hole of the bearing surface. Therefore, it is not possible to fasten the bolt to the screw hole of the bearing surface. In addition, an example in which the screw hole is formed to be inclined with respect to the bearing surface is generally shown, for example, in a case where the bearing surface of the vehicle body side member is inclined.


The plug connection comprises an elastomeric shroud having a plug-receiving portion through which is connected a spark plug comprising an hexagonal handling nut. A metal shield, comprising a top cover portion and two side-shield portions, covers the elastomeric shroud. When mounted, the side-shield portions surround the plug-receiving portions and form joint seam zones, each having a bottom end portion and a top portion. The bottom end portion of one seam zone includes an opening and the bottom end portion of the other seam zone includes a corresponding tab. The side-shield portions further comprise flanges. When the plug connection is connected to the spark plug, the flanges fit onto the hexagonal handling nut and the opening and tab are loosely fitted, so that the joint seam zones can be spaced apart. Preferably, the top portion contains protrusions provided on the side of the side-shield portions and a corresponding recess provided on the side of the top shield, these protrusions and recess fit together when the shield is mounted.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to the electrical connection of a high-voltage cable to a spark plug used in internal combustion engines of cars or other vehicles, stationary apparatus such as generators, or portable apparatus such as chain-saws, and the like. The invention more particularly concerns a shield or hood for covering the terminal portion of the high-voltage-cable.
2. Description of Background Information
FIGS. 1-7 show an example of the structure of a prior art plug connection device.
The device comprises a socket terminal 2 made of stainless steel or similar material and a shroud or boot 3 made of insulating elastic materials, such as silicone rubber or other elastomer, in which the socket terminal is contained. At one end of the socket terminal 2 a cable connecting portion 2a is provided where the high-voltage cable is crimped and electrically connected. The socket terminal 2 further has a plug-connecting portion 2b at the other end. This portion has an axis perpendicular to that of the cable connecting portion 2a and receives a bulb-like stud terminal 5a of a spark plug.
The insulating shroud 3 has a substantially L-shaped configuration, one branch of which forms a sleeve portion 3a into which the socket terminal 2 is received. The sleeve portion 3a defines a cable path-hole 3b through which the high-voltage cable is introduced. The other branch of the L-shaped shroud defines a tubular plug receiving portion 3d having a plug path-hole 3c and a closed end. The stud terminal 5a of the spark plug is guided through this path-hole 3c and inserted into the plug connecting portion 2b.
The shroud 3 is enclosed in a metal cover 7. As shown in FIG. 2, the metal cover 7 is prepared by stamping out an appropriate shape from a metal plate, i.e., an aluminum sheet, and folding or bending it. The central part of the metal plate corresponds to the top-cover portion 7a while the side parts flanking the top-cover portion 7a correspond to laterally-defining side cover portions 7b, 7c which are substantially symmetrical. The metal cover 7 is shaped by folding or bending these parts.
With a metal cover 7 as shown in FIGS. 1-5 and 7, the outer circular surface of the plug receiving portion 3d is covered with a pair of side-cover portions 7b, 7c which extend along the guiding direction of the stud terminal 5a. When the sidecover portions 7b, 7c are folded and shaped, they form joint seam zones 7d, 7e. One of them is provided with a recess 7f, while the other is provided with a complementary shaped tab 7g. Thus, the tab 7g is fitted into the recess, as shown in FIG. 5.
In this construction, the upper and lateral parts of the socket terminal 3a are shielded respectively with a top cover 7a and side-cover portions 7b, 7c. The side-cover portions are provided with corresponding fitting flanges 7h, 7i depending from the bottom end thereof. Normally the spark plug comprises a stud terminal 5a, a metallic stud cover 5b and a hexagonal handling nut 5c therebetween. When the stud terminal is inserted through the plug path-hole 3c and connected to the socket terminal 2, the hexagonal handling nut 5c is fitted between the flanges 7h, 7i.
As shown in FIG. 1, a dielectric sheet 10 is interposed between the external surface of the elastomeric shroud 3 and the internal surface of the metal shield 7.
When the spark plug 5 is mounted onto a side of an engine 9 and the stud terminal 5a is connected to the plug-connecting portion 2b of the plug connection, the flanges 7h, 7i of the metal cover 7 are put into contact with an outer surface of the hexagonal handling nut 5c. This cover 7 prevents thermal deteriorations of the elastomeric shroud 3. Such a type of flanged metal cover is described, for instance, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,348,486, issued on Sep. 20, 1994.
With the structure of the prior art cover, each flange 7h, 7i is put into contact with the hexagonal handling nut 5c and thus is electrically grounded to the side of the engine 9. The heat released is also led away. For this purpose, each flange 7h, 7i has to be in contact with an outer surface of the hexagonal handling nut 5c.
As mentioned above, the side-cover portions 7b, 7c have joint seam zones 7d, 7e correspondingly provided with a recess 7f and a tab 7g. The recess and the tab are interlocked by mutual engagement so that both joint seam zones 7d, 7e are firmly closed and resist a tangential opening force. Also, the diametric distance L separating both flanges 7h, 7i corresponds roughly to the diameter M of the tangent circle of the hexagonal handling nut 5c.
In this structure, the diametric distance L between the flanges 7h and 7i is determined solely on the basis of the diameter M of the tangent circle. Thus, when manufacturing, a corresponding dimensional precision is needed to fix that distance.
When the diametrical distance L is shorter than the diameter M of the tangent circle, the two flanges 7h and 7i may not fit properly onto the hexagonal handling nut 5c. Consequently, the elastomeric shroud 3 cannot be fitted smoothly over the spark plug 5, leading to a low work efficiency.
On the contrary, when the diametrical distance L is longer than the diameter M, the fit is loose and easily jolted. Consequently, engine 9 may shake the metal cover 7 off the hexagonal handling nut 5c, and further increase the misfitting. Sometimes, the metal cover 7 may separate from the elastomeric shroud 3.
Further, the metal cover 7 cannot exert the force necessary to fix the elastomeric shroud 3 onto the spark plug 5. Vibrations then increase the abrasion between the stud terminal 5a of the spark plug and the plug-connecting portion 2b, thus disrupting the electrical contact.


A golf club head which includes a main body provided with a socket, and a weight member disposed in the socket, wherein the socket is a tubular portion extending to the inside of the main body and deforming a through-hole extending therethough, the weight member having a main portion accommodated by the through-hole, and secured in the through-hole by a crushable portion which, after being crushed by the application of pressure causes the socket to expand, locking the weight member in the socket.

The present invention relates to a golf club head, more particularly to the structure of a weight member and a socket therefor.
In golf club heads, a weight member separate from the main body of the club head is often used in order to obtain desired weight distributions to adjust, for example, the gravity point, the sweet spot, the moment of inertia and the like of the golf club head (for example).
In case the of metal wood-type hollow club heads, on the other hand, light-weight, strong metal materials such as titanium alloys have been widely used in recent years. The use of such materials can decrease the wall thickness of the golf club head. Therefore, if a large-sized, heavy weight member can be used in a club head whose wall thickness is relatively thin, then the design freedom will be remarkably increased.
In the laid-open Japanese patent application P2001-276287A, a method of securing a weight member to the main body of the golf club head is disclosed, wherein, as shown in FIGS. 14(a) and 14(b), a cylindrical weight member (c) is positioned in a cylindrical socket (e), with its smaller diameter end portion (c2) protruding from the inner end (e1) of the socket through a smaller diameter opening formed at the inner end (e1) of the socket. The protruding portion (c2) is pressed to deform, expanding over the surface of the inner end (e1) of the socket. In order to facilitate such deformation, the end of the protruding portion (c2) is provided with a hollow (c3).
When the size of the weight member is increased, the pressing force necessary to deform it as indicated above increases at an accelerating pace. Therefore, in this method, near the base of the socket, as indicated by the circles in FIG. 14(b), the wall (a) is subjected to a large stress due to the large compressive stress transferred by the socket as indicated by arrows, which results in unfavorable residual stress or strain or, in the worst case, cracks in the finished article.


In one embodiment, a direct memory access (DMA) disk controller used in hardware-assisted data transfer operations includes command receiving logic to receive a data transfer command issued by a processor. The data transfer command identifies one or more locations in memory and multiple distinct regions on one or more disks accessible to the DMA disk controller. The DMA disk controller further includes data manipulation logic to transfer data between the memory locations and the distinct regions on the disks according to the data transfer command.

Computer systems typically include a processor, main memory and secondary storage memory. The processor is, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) or a microprocessor. The main memory is normally random access memory (RAM), and the secondary storage is typically a hard disk drive. When the processor wants to make use of data stored in the secondary storage memory, the data is moved from the hard disk drive into the main memory. Normally, the data would be moved from the hard disk drive into the main memory in units of blocks. Because the transferring of blocks of data in this manner to and from the hard disk drive and the main memory is time consuming, computer systems have used a Direct Memory Access (DMA) disk controller to oversee the transferring of data. Typically, the DMA disk controller receives information from the processor indicating a base address from where bytes are to be moved, an address to where these bytes should be placed, and the number of bytes to be moved. The DMA disk controller is then able to monitor and oversee the transferring of the data, thus freeing the processor to perform other processing tasks.
Some computer systems use a series of secondary storage devices such as a Redundant Array of Inexpensive Disks (RAID) to store data. With a RAID design, a RAID controller instructs a DMA disk controller to transfer data between a local memory location and a disk location. The DMA disk controller establishes a direct data path between the local memory and the disk array, allowing the RAID controller central processing unit (CPU) to perform other tasks while the data exchange occurs in parallel.
Conventional DMA disk controllers are capable of transferring data between one or more memory locations and a contiguous region of a disk drive. Specifically, a DMA disk controller is capable of "gathering" data from noncontiguous memory locations according to a "gather list" provided by a RAID controller and writing the collected data to a single contiguous region of a single disk drive. In addition, the DMA disk controller is capable of reading data from a single contiguous region of a single disk drive and "scattering" this data over non-contiguous memory locations according to a "scatter list" provided by the RAID controller.
Some RAID operations involve data transfers between multiple memory locations and multiple distinct disk locations. Currently, no mechanism exists for performing such data transfers in an efficient way. In particular, a RAID controller has to issue a separate command for each distinct disk location involved in the required data transfer. For example, in order to destage a RAID-5 strip containing 'N' number of data chunks (i.e., components that form a RAID stripe) and a parity data chunk, the RAID controller must issue a total of N+1 distinct write commands to the DMA disk controller. Furthermore, because there is a possibility that any of these write commands can fail or be interleaved with other operations, the RAID controller has to take additional upper-level precautions to monitor the execution of these write commands and ensure that the related data transfers appear atomic to the system.

Composite DMA disk controller for efficient hardware-assisted data transfer operations


Dynamic access is provided to automation resources, where, in a distributed automation system having a plurality of automation components, a first automation component searching for an automation resource sends a request to the automation system and, for this request, receives a response regarding availability of suitable automation resources from all automation components which it has been possible to reach, and then selects that automation component which has the suitable automation resource and uses the automation resource.

The invention relates to a method for storing, retrieving and assigning data in a distributed automation system and hence, more generally, to a method for dynamic access to automation resources, since a memory or a data record stored in the memory is also included under the generic term automation resource below.
A distributed automation system is subsequently to be understood to mean an automation system having a plurality of automation components, each automation component being communicatively connected to at least one other automation component. In this way, each automation component can be reached either indirectly or directly by any other automation component. The connection between the automation components is made via a field bus, for example. It is likewise conceivable for some or all of the automation components to be connected to the Internet or to a local derivative of the Internet.
To date, even in a distributed automation system, data have always been stored in a memory which is associated with the respective automation component, to which the data to be stored are supplied, by an explicit association, e.g. a "hardware configuration". Normally, a memory provided locally on the respective automation component is used for storage in this context.
Similarly, a central data server which, for the purpose of central data storage, is associated with all the automation components involved in an automation system is known.
Selection of the storage location during the routine on the basis of prescribed or prescribable criteria, such as the obtainability of the memory, its speed, the security of the stored data, etc., is currently not known.

Method for storing data in a memory in a distributed automation system and method for coupling an automation component to a distributed automation system


Systems and methods and computer products for drowsy driver detection and response. Exemplary embodiments include systems and methods and computer products for determining that a vehicle has engaged in a lane violation, determining a severity of the lane violation, determining a drowsy driver condition of the vehicle and responding to the drowsy driver condition via onboard warning, corrective actuation, or remote human interventions.

A number of vehicle systems have been devised to assist the vehicle in maintaining a central position within a driving lane. Generally) a "lane keeping" (LK) system includes a device such as a video camera that gathers information on the current position of the vehicle, along with sensors for detecting certain dynamic state variables of the vehicle. Information on the deviation of the vehicle from the center of the driving lane, as well as the dynamic state variables of the vehicle, appropriate feedback indication is provided to the driver. For example, the feedback indication could be in the form of an audio signal, a visual signal, and/or a haptic signal to the driver. In addition to driver feedback, the LK system may also be integrated within the steering system of the vehicle to provide a corrective input thereto when a path deviation is detected.
However, there is no drowsy driver determination based on LK algorithms discussed above.

Systems, methods and computer products for drowsy driver detection and response


A seating system for blind use that is quiet and allows movement and turning with little effort. The blind seating system comprises a seat assembly, support frame, and adjustable tether arm. The seat height may be adjustable to accommodate persons of different sizes. It also accommodates multiple persons and allows each to adjust their position relative to the blind floor plan and each other, which is particularly useful when helping others to hunt, observe, photograph, or film.

A blind is an enclosure designed to hide or camouflage the user and often times provides shelter from the elements. Blinds are used in a variety of applications including: to observe nature, to perform scientific studies or gather environmental samples, to photograph nature, and to engage in sportsman and hunting activities. Blinds may be constructed solely of natural vegetation, but are often times more permanent structures with frames of wood, plastic, metal poles, wire, mesh, webbing, or other materials. Blinds may also be decorated with foliage-like components to aid in camouflaging or blending in with the environment. Additionally, blinds may be free standing or integrated into the natural environment such is the case with tree stands.
The concept of a blind has been known for centuries. However, modern blinds are often complex structures with highly developed insulation, concealment means, and observation arrangements to maximize efficiency and user comfort. For example, modern blinds have multiple observation windows, cross wind containment means, and sophisticated insulation for keeping the user shielded from the elements and/or concealed from wildlife.
Although current technology provides more effective blinds, the user seating system located within the blind continues to pose challenges. For example, multiple viewing ports or windows allow the user to observe or hunt from many vantage points; however, moving from one side of the blind to another to reach these multiple viewing ports inevitably creates undesirable racket and noise.
Noise minimization is a vital component of successful blind use. A blind user must often move around within the blind to get a better vantage point, make use of multiple windows, or to simply stretch after long hours of immobility. Current seating arrangements are bulky and clumsy at best. They do not offer a quiet and efficient means to allow a user to change position within the blind. Therefore, a seating system is needed within the blind that allows the user to move freely around the blind with minimum noise and optimum comfort. Additionally, seating systems become especially cumbersome when more than one user occupies the blind and/or when additionally equipment is located in the blind.
Blinds are sometimes equipped with multiple, individual chairs. Such chairs typically resemble office-type chairs with expanded bases and either stationary legs or rollers, making them difficult to move around the blind. Traditional chairs are bulky and lead to collisions with the walls of the blind, other occupiers, goods or equipment on the blind floor, and the user's own feet. Furthermore, they allow multiple occupants to tangle with one another so that one may be positioned between a second occupant and the window of the blind. This is particularly problematic when hunting as the space between a blind window and the hunting rifle of another occupant is understandably dangerous.
The current inventive system solves these problems by mounting one or more seats to a structural frame with a supporting arm that is sometimes telescopic. The structural frame provides a rail system that is adjustable and is capable of fitting against the exterior walls of the blind, or in other embodiments, may form the exterior walls of the blind, or may be positioned as desired by the user within the blind. The invention also provides for one or more seats to be mounted to, and swivel around, the rail system, and that secondarily swivel on the support arm. These multiple degrees of freedom allow the user to move the seat to desired locations within the blind and to rotate the seat as desired, facing in any direction, all with minimum noise and effort.
The basic principal of the blind seating system is to provide a seating system for blind use that is quiet and allows movement and turning with little effort. In further embodiments, the seating height may be adjustable to accommodate persons of different sizes. It also accommodates multiple persons and allows each to adjust their position relative to the blind floor plan and each other, which is particularly useful when helping others to hunt, observe, photograph, or film.


A semiconductor body (2) has adjacent a first major surface (3) a first region (5) of one conductivity type part of which defines an active device area (6) of a power semiconductor device (7) having at least two electrodes (8 and 9 or 8 and 10) and active device regions (11) each forming with the first region (5) a pn junction (11a) extending to the first major surface (3). A protection device (12) formed by a series-connected array of semiconductor rectifying elements (13) is provided on an insulating layer (14) on the first major surface (3). The protection device (12) is connected between at least two electrodes (8 and 9 or 10) of the power semiconductor device (7) so as to break down to cause conduction between the two electrodes when the voltage across the protection device (12) exceeds a predetermined limit. The active device area (6) is surrounded by field relief means (20) including at least one field relief area (21) extending along the first major surface (3) for causing electric fields within the active device area (6) to spread laterally outwardly of the active device area (6) so as to increase the breakdown voltage of the power semiconductor device (7). The protection device (12) is provided adjacent the field relief means (20) so that the array of rectifying elements (13) extends across the field relief areas (21) thereby enabling the protection device (12) to influence voltages at the field relief area.

This invention relates to a semiconductor component comprising a power semiconductor device and a protection device for protecting the power semiconductor device against excessive voltages.
EP-A-372820 describes such a prior art semiconductor component which comprises a semiconductor body having first and second major surface with, adjacent the first major surface, a first region of one conductivity type part of which defines an active device area of a power semiconductor device having at least two electrodes and active device regions each forming with the first region a pn junction extending to the first major surface, and a protection device comprising a series-connected array of semiconductor rectifying elements provided on an insulating layer on the first major surface, the protection device being connected between at least two electrodes of the power semiconductor device for causing conduction between the two electrodes when the voltage across the protection device exceeds a predetermined limit.
As described in EP-A-372820, the power semiconductor device may be a vertical power MOSFET of the DMOS type and the protection element is formed in thin-film technology as a series of back-to-back pn junction diodes connected between the drain and the control or gate electrode of the power MOSFET. The protection device acts to clamp the voltage across the power semiconductor device to the total avalanche voltage of the diode chain so that any excessive energy, for example a rapid rise in the voltage at the drain electrode during turn-off of an inductive load, will be dissipated by conduction of the power MOSFET resulting from avalanche conduction of the diode chain.

Power semiconductor device having over voltage protection


A wireless accessory has one or more sensors positioned at an outer periphery of its housing, thereby forming a knob-like input. The sensors may be configured to detect a change in contact force or contact location of first and second fingertips at respective first and second opposite sides of the periphery. An input gesture is determined based on the detected change, and a command corresponding to the gesture may be executed.

Conventional wireless earbud controls include start/stop, volume up/down, and forward/backward. One method of consumer operation of these controls is a flat touchpad for entry of all of the aforementioned gestures. Another method is to have most of these controls reside within a wirelessly connected phone. Touching and tapping on the earbuds may be intuitive, but such actions may cause undesirable noise and ear discomfort from the tapping. Also, antenna performance may be affected by such touching or tapping, since the antenna may lie directly next to the touch area.


Aspects of the subject technology are related to systems and methods for anticipating content domain names to be used by a browser. A system may be configured to detect network events while one or more web pages associated with a domain name are being loaded, identify, based on the network events, one or more content domain names that are associated with the domain name, and storing, in a data repository, associations of the one or more content domain names with the domain name. The associations of the one or more content domain names in the data repository may be used to initiate a Domain Name System (DNS) request for at least one of the one or more content domain names when a subsequent web page associated with the domain name is loaded by a browser.

The Domain Name System (DNS) is a naming system designed to translate domain names meaningful to humans into numerical identifiers that may be used by networking equipment to locate resources on the internet. A user typically directs a web browser to access a resource (e.g., a web page) by providing a Uniform Resource Locator (URL) to the browser that contains a domain name. In order to access the resource, the browser needs to translate the domain name into an internet protocol (IP) address using a DNS service. For example, a web page may be associated with a URL "http://www.news.com/US/" which contains the domain name of the web page "www.news.com." In order to locate and access the web page, the browser must request from a DNS service a translation of the domain name of the web page "www.news.com" to an IP address (e.g., 220.127.116.11).
Even after a web page is retrieved, the browser may need to translate domain names in the web page content itself. For example, the web page content may contain content elements (e.g., images, advertisements, dynamic content, web page elements, etc.) that may need to be downloaded from various content domain names (e.g., images.news.com, money.news.com, www.ads.com, etc.). In order to correctly display the web page "http://www.news.com/US/," the various content domain names also need to be translated into IP addresses by sending DNS requests to a DNS service (e.g., a DNS server or a local DNS service).
However, translating the content domain names into IP addresses only after they have been identified in the content of the web page may take a considerable amount of time.

Anticipating domains used to load a web page


An electromagnetic flow control apparatus includes a fluid flow conduit, a magnetic membrane, and a plurality of discrete sources of selectably variable magnetic fields, such as electromagnets, arranged in an ordered array, to drive the membrane in a desired manner to control the flow of fluid in the conduit. The membrane can preferably be driven between two extreme positions wherein the flow of fluid in the conduit is totally unrestricted in the rest position of the membrane and wherein the flow is highly restricted or stopped completely in the maximum deformation of the membrane radially inward.

There exist many devices and methods for controlling fluid flows, whether these flow are in open channels or in closed conduits. Areas in which such devices and methods find use include medical, industrial, automotive, aeronautical, sewage treatment and water management, among many others.
Many of these areas require very precise control of small quantities of fluid. Such areas include medical infusion systems, pharmaceuticals production, various vehicle systems. In many of these areas, complex mechanical or electromechanical solutions exist, although attempts have been made to find electromagnetic solutions.
An indication of the state of the art is provided by U.S. Pat. No. 3,982,722, entitled "Magnetic Control Valve." This patent describes a fluid control valve for a fluid system, particularly an air-conditioning system in a vehicle. A flow passage in the system is defined by a "radially flexible tubular member so that the flow area" thereof is variable. Three electromagnets are arranged coaxially about the tubular member, such that an annular space is formed between the electromagnets and the tubular member. Of the three electromagnets, the internal diameter of the middle one is smaller than the diameter of the outer ones, so as to create a constriction in the annular space. A volume of small iron particles is located in the annular space. In order to constrict the flow area of the tubular member, the middle electromagnet is operated so as to attract the iron particles thereto, such that they accumulate in the central area and apply a radially inward force to the tubular member, thereby narrowing the cross-sectional area thereof. The tubular member is allowed to expand when the extreme electromagnets are operated so as to attract the iron particles away from the center.
Disadvantages of the above-described structure include the fact that it provides throttling only of a fluid flow, and that it is incapable of providing high resolution, real time control of a fluid flow.


A first optical splitter splits a light source to obtain a first optical signal, a second optical signal, and a third optical signal. A first MZ modulator modulates the first optical signal to output a fourth optical signal. A second MZ modulator modulates the second optical signal to output a fifth optical signal. A first optical coupler couples the fourth optical signal and the fifth optical signal to output a sixth optical signal and a seventh optical signal. A power regulator and a phase shifter respectively perform power adjustment and phase shifting on the third optical signal to output an eighth optical signal. A second optical splitter splits the eighth optical signal into a ninth optical signal and a tenth optical signal. A second optical coupler combines the sixth optical signal and the ninth optical signal. A third optical coupler combines the seventh optical signal and the tenth optical signal.

With continuous development of communications technologies, a communications system has increasingly high requirements for a transmission bandwidth and a capacity of an optical fiber transmission technology. To meet the bandwidth and capacity requirements, a multichannel transmission technology emerges.
For example, in the prior art, an optical frequency shifter is provided, including: one input port, a 1-input 2-output optical coupler connected to the one input port, two Mach-Zehnder (Mach Zehnder, MZ) modulators optically connected to two output ends of the 1-input 2-output optical coupler respectively, a 2-input 2-output optical coupler optically connected to output ends of the two MZ modulators, and two output optical ports connected to two output ends of the 2-input 2-output optical coupler.
The optical frequency shifter uses a dual channel output technology. Because of problems such as an extinction ratio and bias control of the MZ modulator, carrier leakage may occur on both channels, and consequently quality of an output signal is not high.

Optical device and optical signal processing method


Mapping is carried out at a point on an elliptic curve to be utilized for elliptic encryption based on identity information (ID information) of each entity and a mapping value is set to be a public key of the entity. By using the mapping value and secret information, a secret key of each entity is generated. The entity generates a common key to be used for an encrypting process and a decrypting process by utilizing the self-secret key and the public key to be the mapping value obtained by mapping at a point on the elliptic curve based on ID information of a communication participate. In this case, pairing on the elliptic curve is utilized.

The present invention relates to a key sharing method for sharing a common key between both entities without a preliminary communication, a secret key generating method and device for generating a secret key of each entity in a center, a common key generating method and device for generating a common key necessary for an encrypting process and a decrypting process on each entity side, a cryptographic communication method and system for carrying out a communication by using a ciphertext such that people other than a concerned participant cannot know the contents of information, and a memory product/data signal embodied in carrier wave for recording/transmitting operation programs for these methods.
In the modern society, called a highly information-oriented society, based on a computer network, important business documents and image information are transmitted and communicated in a form of electronic information. Such electronic information cab be easily copied, so that it tends to be difficult to discriminate its copy and original from each other, thus bringing about an important issue of data integrity. In particular, it is indispensable for establishment of a highly information oriented society to implement such a computer network that meets the factors of "sharing of computer resources," "multi-accessing," and "globalization," which however includes various factors contradicting the problem of data integrity among the parties concerned. In an attempt to eliminate those contradictions, encrypting technologies which have been mainly used in the past military and diplomatic fields in the human history are attracting world attention as an effective method for that purpose.
A cipher is defined as exchanging information in such a manner that no one other than the participants can understand the meaning of the information. In the field of ciphers, encryption is defined as converting an original text (plaintext) that can be understood by anyone into a text (ciphertext) that cannot be understood by the third party and decryption is defined as restoring a ciphertext into a plaintext, and cryptosystem is defined as the overall processes covering both encryption and decryption. The encrypting and decrypting processes use secret information called an encryption key and a decryption key, respectively. Since the secret decryption key is necessary in decryption, only those knowing this decryption key can decrypt ciphertexts, thus maintaining data security.
The encryption key and the decryption key may be either the same or different from each other. A cryptosystem using the same key is called a common-key cryptosystem, and DES (Data Encryption Standards) employed by the Standard Agency of the USA Commerce Ministry is a typical example. As an example of the cryptosystem using the keys different from each other, a cryptosystem called a public-key cryptosystem has been proposed. In the public-key cryptosystem, each user (entity) utilizing this cryptosystem generates a pair of encryption and decryption keys and publicizes the encryption key in a public key list, thereby keeping only the decryption key in secret. In this public-key cryptosystem, the paired encryption and decryption keys are different from each other, so that the public-key cryptosystem has a feature that the decryption key cannot be known from the encryption key with a one-way function.
The public-key cryptosystem is a breakthrough in cryptosystem which publicizes the encryption key and meets the above-mentioned three factors required for establishing highly information-oriented society, so that it has been studied actively for its application in the field of information communication technologies, thus leading RSA cryptosystem being proposed as a typical public-key cryptosystem. This RSA cryptosystem has been implemented by utilizing the difficulty of factorization into prime factors as the one-way function. Also, a variety of other public-key cryptosystems have been proposed that utilize the difficulty of solving discrete logarithm problems.
Besides, a cryptosystem has been proposed that utilizes ID (identity) information identifying individuals, such as post address, name and electronic mail address of each entity. This cryptosystem generates an encryption/decryption key common to a sender and a receiver based on ID information. Besides, the following ID-information based cryptosystems are provided: (1) a technique which needs a preliminary communication between the sender and the receiver prior to a ciphertext communication and (2) a technique which does not need a preliminary communication between the sender and the receiver prior to a ciphertext communication. The technique (2), in particular, does not need a preliminary communication, so that its entities are very convenient in use, thus considered as a nucleus for the future cryptosystems.
A cryptosystem according to this technique (2) is called ID-NIKS (ID-based non-interactive key sharing scheme), whereby sharing an encryption key without a preliminary communication is enabled by employing ID information of a communication partner. The ID-NIKS needs not exchange a public key or a secret key between a sender and a receiver nor receive a key list or services from third parties, thus securing safe communications between any given entities.
FIG. 1 shows principles for this ID-NIKS system. This system assumes the presence of a reliable center, around which a common-key generation system is configured. In FIG. 1, the information specific to an entity X, i.e. its ID information of a name, a post address, a telephone number, an e-mail address, etc. is represented by h(IDx) using a hash function h(·). For an any given entity X, the center calculates secret information Sxi as follows on the basis of center public information {PCi} center secret information {SCi} and ID information h (IDx) of the entity X, and sends it to the entity X secretly:Sxi=Fi({SCi}, {PCi}, h(IDx)
The entity X generates, for communications between itself and another arbitrary entity Y, a common key KXY for encryption and decryption with its own secret {Sxi}, center public information {PCi} and entity Y's ID information h(IDY) of the partner entity Y as follows:KXY=f({Sxi}, {PCi}, h(IDY))
The entity Y also generates a common key KYX for the entity X similarly. If a relationship of KXY=KYX holds true always, these keys KXY and KYX can be used as the encryption and decryption keys between the entities X and Y.
In the above-mentioned public-key cryptosystem, for example, an RSA cryptosystem, its public key measures 10-fold and more as long as the presently used telephone number, thus being very troublesome. To guard against this, in the ID-NIKS, each ID information can be registered in a form of name list to thereby be referenced in generating a common key used between any given entities. Therefore, by safely implementing such an ID-NIKS system as shown in FIG. 1, a convenient cryptosystem can be installed over a computer network to which a lot of entities are subscribed. For these reasons, the ID-NIKS is expected to constitute a core of the future cryptosystem.
In an ID-NIKS sharing a common key to act as an encryption key and a decryption key each other without performing a preliminary communication using the ID information of a communication partner, particularly, it is desirable that sufficient safety should be maintained against a collusion attack in which a plurality of entities collude. Whether a cryptological safe ID-NIKS can be constructed or not is an important problem for an advanced computerization society and an ideal crypto scheme has been researched.

Key sharing method, secret key generating method, common key generating method and cryptographic communication method in ID-NIKS cryptosystem


A spectrometer (10) for sample surface analysis by irradiation of the surface by primary particles and a corresponding method of surface analysis spectroscopy. The spectrometer (10) provides sample viewing and secondary charged particle collection substantially normal to the sample surface. A collection chamber (22) comprises a secondary charged particle lens arrangement (20) to focus the emitted particles in a downstream direction along a first normal axis (24) and thereby to define a charged particle optical crossover location (25); and a light-reflecting optical element (50) downstream of the lens arrangement and arranged to receive image light (41) and reflect it away from a second normal axis (42) for providing a viewable image of the surface. The optical element (50) is positioned at, or near to, the crossover location (25) and comprises an opening (52) therethrough, such that the focused particles pass through the opening for downstream spectroscopic analysis substantially without obstruction by the optical element.

1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to a spectrometer for surface analysis of a sample, the spectrometer having optical sample viewing capability, and to a corresponding method for surface analysis spectroscopy. The invention relates particularly, but not exclusively, to sample analysis by means of secondary electron energy spectroscopy, such as X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy or Auger electron spectroscopy.
2. Description of the Related Art
Chemical and physical analysis of the surface of a sample generally requires the excitation of that surface with a primary beam of "particles", such as ions, electrons, photons or atoms, and the detection of secondary particles which are emitted from the surface and whose characteristic energy or mass is measured. The energy or mass spectrum obtained is used to provide information about the chemical or elemental composition of the sample. There are many known techniques employing this form of analysis, including for example Auger electron spectroscopy (AES), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS), and secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS).
The majority of these techniques use a vacuum system in which the analysis is performed. A primary particle beam generator is employed to provide a beam of irradiation which is directed towards an analysis area of the spectrometer, at which location is placed a sample, held in a vacuum analysis chamber. The secondary charged particles emitted from the surface of the sample are then collected by a charged particle collection lens arrangement from where they pass into a spectroscopic analyser in which their energies or masses are determined.
In addition to making spectral observations of the secondary particles from the sample, it is generally desirable also to be able to view the surface of the sample visually, using an optical microscope. Such a microscope may be arranged so that the surface can be visually observed while secondary particles are collected from the surface. Alternatively, or additionally, the microscope may be used to identify and define an area of analysis, especially where analysis is to be made of a small area of the sample surface. The ability to perform simultaneous visual and spectral observations is particularly desirable during system set-up.
For more than 20 years, surface analysis systems have been manufactured with the charged particle collection lens arrangement being mounted at, or close to, the normal to the surface of a sample. Such systems include the Thermo VG ESCALAB systems, manufactured by Thermo Electron Corporation of Delaware, USA, and KRATOS ULTRA XPS systems, manufactured by KRATOS Analytical (a subsidiary of SHIMADZU Corporation), of Manchester, United Kingdom, among others. Where a system includes an optical microscope, this is mounted at an angle to the normal to the sample surface, typically 45°. A separate light source providing illumination to the area under investigation on the sample surface is then similarly mounted, at any angle to the axis of the optical microscope.
However, the quality of the viewed image from this sample viewing geometry is generally poor, with the sample image only being truly in focus at the centre of the field of view and out of focus towards the edges, because of the angle from which the sample is viewed. In addition, when the sample surface is illuminated by the light source, shadows formed as a result of the sample's surface topography can degrade the image quality, for the same reason. Furthermore, when the sample height is changed, the analysis position on the sample, as viewed by the optical microscope, also appears to move. This sample viewing geometry is therefore not desirable for identifying the analysis position.
An arrangement which provides optical viewing normal to the sample is the electron probe micro-analyser (EPMA) manufactured by Cameca of Courbevoie Cedex, France. However, the EPMA is a wavelength-dispersive X-ray microanalysis (WDX) system, in which the secondary particles are not charged particles, but X-ray photons. The optical axis leaving the sample for the microscope is mounted normal to the sample surface, along with the primary electron beam generator. The primary beam's probe-forming optics produce a very narrow beam, which is arranged to pass through a small hole in the centre of a conventional microscope Schwarzschild reflective objective disposed just above the sample. The secondary particles, which are X-ray photons, are collected for measurement at approximately 45° to the normal.
For the Cameca EPMA, the use of off-axis X-ray collection leads to a reduced sensitivity, particularly for soft X-ray emission. Moreover, this system cannot be used for secondary charged particle analysis.
Secondary charged particle systems having the optical microscope mounted normal to the sample surface are also known; for example, the SSI X and S probe systems, manufactured by Surface Science Instruments of California, USA, and the Thermo Thetaprobe, manufactured by Thermo Electron Corporation. In these systems, the charged particle collection lens arrangement is mounted at an angle of typically 55° to the normal.
While visual observations with such sample viewing geometries may be of better quality, this is at the expense of potentially significant degradation in the analysis sensitivity of the instrument for the SSI X and S probe and Thermo Thetaprobe systems, due to the off-axis collection of the secondary charged particles.
Generally, in order to save space in the laboratory, several different surface analysis instruments are provided together, in a multitechnique system. Such a system may then be operated in any particular surface analysis mode, or sequence of modes on the same sample, as required by the application.
Each different analysis mode may require its own primary column and secondary column. Including access for an optical camera, a sample illumination source, a vacuum pump, sample entry and the like, the analysis chamber for such a multitechnique system must therefore be provided with a large number of chamber ports. Furthermore, all of the ports which are relevant for the collection of surface analysis data must be directed at the sample analysis area.
The actual location and configuration of each chamber port is accordingly a matter of balancing the competing desires of accommodating the hardware for each instrument without overcrowding the chamber; favourably positioning the primary beam column for each instrument; favourably positioning the secondary beam column for each instrument; and favourably positioning the ports used in common by all of the analysis instruments.
The ESCALAB system is one example of a mutitechnique system, a typical chamber arrangement for which is illustrated in FIG. 8. Table 1 below lists the port assignments for the arrangement.
TABLE 1PortPortassignmentAssignment description801Lens assemblyCollection lens for charged secondary particles.802Electron gunSource of primary electron beam for AUGER experiments803X-rayPrimary X-ray source using a quartz crystal X-raymonochromatormonochromator804X-ray sourcePrimary un-monochromated X-ray source805Entry chamberSample pump-down chamber or sample preparation chamber806Quad SIMSQuadrupole detector for SIMS experiments807ScintillatorLow energy electron detector for scanning electronmicroscope (SEM) imaging808Ion gunIon beam source for depth profiling/sample cleaning ionscattering spectroscopy (ISS) or SIMS809View portLarge glass window to view sample by eye810CCD cameraGlass window through which CCD microscope sample viewingoccurs811Stage portMounting for stage to move sample around inside vacuum812LightGlass window for sample illumination813Iris controlMounting for collection lens F/number aperture mechanism814SpareOften used for residual gas analysis (RGA) or anadditional light source815Flood gunLow energy electron gun for charge neutralisation ofsamplenotPumping portPort through which chamber may be evacuated to ultra highshownvacuumnotBeam portPort for connecting system to beam line primary X-rayshownsources820Magnetic lensMounting for magnetic collection lens (fitted belowsample)821Gas dosingPort for admission of gas for surface reactionexperiments822U.V. sourceSource of ultraviolet primary radiation for UPS analysis
In view of the formidable problem of optimising the configuration of the instrument ports in an analysis chamber, a number of alternative approaches have been proposed.
One approach, employed in the NanoSIMS system, also manufactured by Cameca, involves performing the spectral observation and visual observation of the sample at different locations. In the NanoSIMS system, the sample is translated between an analysis position for spectral observation and a remote position for optical viewing.
Another approach, used in the Quantum and Quantera systems, manufactured by Ulvac-PHI of Kanagawa, Japan, the analysis chamber is entirely separate from the optical microscope, and CCD images are recorded on the microscope workbench before the sample is introduced into the analysis chamber.
While both visual and spectral observations may be made with the optical microscope axis and the collection lens arrangement axis respectively being normal to the sample surface, this approach has a significant disadvantage in that the sample cannot be optically viewed during spectral analysis. In addition, the co-ordinate system for mounting and moving the sample must be very accurate.
It would be desirable, therefore, to provide a charged particle spectrometer capable of making spectral observations of secondary charged particles with high sensitivity and of producing optical images of the sample with high quality. The invention aims to address the foregoing desires by providing an improved charged particle spectrometer.

Spectrometer for surface analysis and method therefor


An electronic expander (12) allows for reading a plurality of utility meters (14) with an interrogation device (30) via a common electronic access point (16) wherein the interrogation device (30) interrogates and receives meter usage data from all of the meters (14) during a single coupling with the common electronic access point (16).

I. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to utility meter reading and, more particularly, to electronic automated meter reading ("AMR") systems for reading utility meters.
II. Description of the Prior Art
Various buildings will typically be equipped with utility meters (e.g., gas, water, electric) to monitor the consumption of the particular utility within that building. In order for the utility company to bill for that consumption, the utility meter must be read periodically. Traditionally, utility meters have been read manually by a meter reader physically viewing the dial indicators on the meter face and writing that meter usage data or information on a tracking card or the like. The tracking card would then be turned into the utility which would enter the data into a billing system for subsequent client billing. All of the effort necessary to thus read several meters represents a fairly significant labor cost, creates a risk of error in the meter reading process, and exposes meter readers to risks on the job.
Significant improvements to the process of meter reading have been made, primarily to automate the meter reading and data entry phase. To this end, various systems have been developed in which the meter usage data is read electronically into a recording device which may then be connected to the billing system for automatic downloading and subsequent client billing. By way of example, a utility meter is equipped with an electrically readable register coupled to an electric access point by which to establish electronic communication with a recording device. Such systems are known in the industry as automated meter reading or AMR systems.
One AMR system marketed by Sensus Technologies, Inc., of Uniontown, Pa., is known as the TouchRead system. In that system, the electric register on the meter is coupled via a communication cable (e.g., a pair of wires) to a touch pad located either on an exterior wall of the building or perhaps on a lid cover of an underground pit or vault. The meter reader employs a portable electronic meter interrogating device equipped with a coupler that may be physically mated against the touch pad. When so mated, the interrogating device generates signals via the coupler and touch pad to power and interrogate the register and receive back therefrom meter usage data for that meter. The data is stored in the interrogation device for subsequent use by the utility billing system. The TouchRead system is described in greater detail in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,758,836 and 4,652,877, the disclosures of both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.
Other AMR systems are also available, such as the Sensus Technologies' RadioRead and PhonRead systems. In the RadioRead system, the electric access point is a radio transceiver coupled to the register. The interrogating device employs a second radio transceiver adapted to selectively communicate with the meter transceiver to obtain meter usage data therefrom such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,438,329, the disclosure of which is also incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Similarly, the electric access point in the PhonRead system is provided by a meter interface unit ("MIU") at the building which is coupled to the meter register and a telephone line servicing the building. The interrogating device may be a remote computer or data processor which may be contacted via a telephone link to the MIU to obtain the meter usage data. Details of the PhonRead system are provided in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,434,911 and 5,454,031, the disclosures of both of which in their entireties are incorporated herein by reference.
Notwithstanding significant improvements in cost efficiencies and the like which the AMR systems bring to the field of utility meter reading, they still suffer from the drawback that the interrogation device must establish electronic communication with each meter access point and disconnect therefrom before the interrogation device may communicate with the next meter. Thus, for example, with the TouchRead system, the meter reader must mate the coupler of the interrogation device with the touch pad for a first meter, obtain the meter usage data for that meter, disconnect from the touch pad, re-mate with another touch pad for a second meter, obtain the meter usage data, and disconnect, and so on, one by one until the meter usage data from a selected plurality of meters has been obtained. The same one-by-one sequencing of connect, read, disconnect for each meter is also characteristic of other AMR systems such as the PhonRead and RadioRead systems. Thus, while AMR systems reduce labor costs, errors and exposure risks, further reduction is desired.


The present invention describes polymer compositions containing boron nitride particles that are encapsulated in layers of turbostratic carbon. The polymers so prepared exhibit enhanced thermal conductivity.

Sugiyama et al., JP2887874, discloses coating boron nitride (BN) particles 100 micrometers (μm) in diameter with colloidal graphite particles of a size less than 5 μm in diameter by immersing the BN into an aqueous colloidal suspension of the graphite, followed by drying at up to 300° C.
Kenji et al., J P Hei 2[1990]-169192, discloses applying a graphite coating to a sintered body of cubic BN. A dispersion of 1-3 μm graphite powders in ethanol is sprayed onto the surface of the sintered body. The thus coated surface is said to be more absorbing of laser radiation, facilitating cutting of the sintered body.
Turbostratic carbon is a form of carbon that, like graphite, forms platelet structures and is highly ordered in the plane of the platelet, but, unlike graphite, shows no organization between platelets—that is in the direction normal to the plane of the platelet. Turbostratic carbon and methods for the formation thereof are described in detail in Graphite Fibers and Filaments, M. S. Dresselhaus et al., Springer-Verlag (1988), pp. 42-48 and 51-55.
Polymers, including polymers filled with inorganic, non-electrically conductive particulate matter, have found widespread commercial use as dielectric or insulating materials such as in wire and cable, printed circuits, including flexible printed circuits, and including multi-layer printed circuits. In applications where power levels generate significant heat, improvement in thermal management can be derived from polymeric materials exhibiting increased thermal conductivity.

Polymers containing hexagonal boron nitride particles coated with turbostratic carbon and process for preparing same


A feeding trough for a sliver opening device of an open-end spinning device, having a concave gripping area for conveying a sliver, lateral walls for guiding the sliver, and a concavely curved support surface for fixing a fiber tuft combed by an opening roller, wherein the feeding trough is pivotable around a shaft parallel to the axis of the opening roller. The feeding trough (8) is arranged in its working position with a gap width A of 0.7 to 1.5 mm between the support surface (13) and adjoining tips (20) of the opening roller set (3) at a combing-in point K, which is constantly reduced to a gap width B of ≦0.5 mm over an angle area W in the direction of rotation of the opening roller (2) of at least 30°. The gap width opposite the direction of rotation of the opening roller (2) up to a transition area (14) between the support surface (13) and the gripping area (11) substantially increases by only an amount such that, when pivoting the feeding trough (8) opposite the direction of rotation of the opening roller (2), a contact with the tips of the teeth (20) is avoided.

The invention relates to a feeding trough for a sliver opening device of an open-end spinning device.
Sliver opening devices for open-end spinning devices are known in various embodiments and have been extensively explained in numerous patent publications.
For example, German Patent Publication DE 35 01 842 C2 describes a sliver opening device wherein a cylindrical, preferably corrugated sliver draw-in cylinder with an associated feeding trough constitutes a gripping area for the feed sliver.
The slowly rotating sliver draw-in cylinder here feeds the feed sliver to a downstream-located opening roller at a constant transport speed.
This means that on its way to the opening roller the feed sliver, which is preferably stored in sliver cans, first passes through a condenser, which not only condenses the feed sliver, but also provides it with a definite, suitable profile for draw-in.
The condensed feed sliver subsequently enters the gripping area constituted by the sliver draw-in cylinder and the feeding trough, which customarily is wider than the feed sliver. It is assured in this way that the feed sliver is also dependably gripped in the edge areas.
To prevent the feed sliver from spreading out too far and to get into the edge areas of the opening roller where, because of the termination of the saw-tooth card set, dependable combing of the feed sliver is no longer assured, a fiber tuft support with lateral strips is arranged following the gripping area.
The lateral strips also prevent uncontrolled lateral excursions of the feed sliver because of the helically-shaped arrangement of the saw tooth card set.
However, there is a relatively large nip between the gripping area and the fiber tuft support in the feeding trough in accordance with German Patent Publication DE 35 01 842 C2.
Furthermore, sliver opening devices for open-end spinning devices, which have an additional pressure roller in the area of the feeding trough, are known from German Patent Publication DE 38 17 346 C2, for example.
This means that this known feeding trough has a gripping area constituted by a special pressure roller and a sliver draw-in cylinder, which is followed via an extensively rounded transition area by a concavely curved support surface for the fiber tuft.
Furthermore, lateral guide surfaces for the feed sliver are arranged in the transition area.
With this known feeding trough a relatively large, free nip exists between the gripping area and the fiber tuft support. Added to this is that, because of the convex curvature of the two transport rollers, only one nip line results, which is arranged clearly distanced from the opening roller because of the roller arrangement alone.
The above described feeding troughs have quite proven themselves when producing standard yarn, however, they show considerable disadvantages if so-called novelty yarns are to be produced.
Such novelty yarns have, for example, defined thickened places at recurring distances.
It is necessary for producing such a novelty yarn to periodically change the amount of individual fibers to be fed into the spinning rotor, this means that the sliver to be fed to the opening roller must be repeatedly accelerated and slowed down over short periods of time.
With known feeding troughs the problem exists in this connection, that the feed sliver backs up in the above explained open nip during the acceleration period, and is therefore combed-out only insufficiently, or in a delayed manner. Because of this, the desired effects are more or less blurred, which interferes greatly with the fabric.

Feeding trough for a sliver opening device of an open-end spinning device


A direct-down conversion receiver may include a transconductance-capacitor (GmC) filter to filter undesirable mixing products and provide a filtered baseband-differential signal. The GmC filter may include first and second transconductance-capacitor (GmC) circuits in series and a transconductance-feedback circuit in feedback with the second transconductance-capacitor circuit. The GmC circuits may comprise cross-coupled pairs of transistors to receive a baseband-differential signal and generate a differential output current. The GmC circuits may also comprise MOSCAPs coupled respectively between the differential inputs of the GmC circuit and internal-feedback nodes. In some embodiments, a substantially-constant bias voltage may be maintained across the voltage-dependent capacitors to allow the voltage-dependent capacitors to provide a substantially constant capacitance.

In many wireless communication systems, RF signals are down-converted to an IF signal and/or baseband signal prior to conversion to digital signals. Filters are conventionally used to remove interferers from the IF or baseband signal in order to decrease the signal's dynamic range which may be helpful in the subsequent conversion from an analog baseband signal to a digital signal. With the move from super-heterodyne receivers to direct-down conversion receivers, the filtering has moved from being off-chip passive filtering at the IF frequency to being on-chip active filtering at a baseband frequency. One important parameter in receivers is noise figure. Because the noise figure of baseband filters may, in some cases, significantly affect the overall receiver noise figure, a baseband filter's noise figure should be kept as low as possible. Unfortunately, this conventionally has required that on-chip capacitors used in the baseband filters be large in value to limit the added noise. Large on-chip capacitors, however, typically require a significant amount of the area of an RF integrated circuit.
Some conventional approaches have used the gate capacitance of MOSFETs to achieve higher-density and thus smaller capacitors (e.g., MOSCAPs); however these conventional approaches typically have to change the semiconductor manufacturing process to build a permanent channel under the gate so that a capacitance can be provided with no bias voltage. The additional masking step in the fabrication process for this channel can significantly increase the cost of an RF integrated circuit (RFIC).
Some other conventional approaches use MOSCAPs coupled to ground with a high-common-mode signal. These approaches generally require doubling of the capacitance for use in a differential circuit, which offsets at least some of the size reduction obtained from the density increase.

Direct down-conversion receiver with transconductance-capacitor filter and method


Configurations and methods that enable the testing of CAM-specific circuitry, even if the memory is defective, are implemented by utilizing various test modes. Accordingly, the CAM can be debugged to isolate memory failures from priority encoder failures, which significantly reduces the need for design changes. The present invention provides the ability to test the CAM functions very efficiently, thereby reducing the test time.

A Content Addressable Memory (CAM) is an application specific memory that allows its entire contents to be searched within a single clock cycle. Accordingly, a CAM is a storage array designed to quickly find the location of a particular stored value. By comparing the input against the data memory, a CAM determines if an input value matches the values stored in the array. If the comparison is done simultaneously, the CAM is operating at maximum efficiency. A match, when it exists, is found in one clock cycle.
A CAM stores words in an array, similar to a RAM. The write mode is comparable, but the CAM mode is very different. In a RAM, the word in a location is read by the address. In contrast, in a CAM, the data on the input is looking for a match. When a match is found, the output is the address in the array.
The number of address lines limits a RAMs data size. For example, a 10-bit bus addresses 1024 locations of 8-bit data. A CAM does not have this limitation because it does not use an address bus to read a location. To find a match of an 8-bit value in 1024 locations, an 8-bit bus on the input is required. When the data is found in the CAM, a match signal goes active. The output is the matching data address. Because a CAM does not need address lines to find data (CAM mode), the memory size can be easily extended. Accordingly, CAMs have become popular and are widely used in the arena of networking, Ethernet, ATM switches and diverse protocol applications.
However, in a CAM, there exists a need to be able to test the memory to verify that the memory is defect-free. The CAM search functions also need to be tested to verify that the CAM search is not defective. Because the CAM functions can only be verified if the memory is defect-free, often, in new CAM designs, a memory failure obscures defects in the CAM-specific circuitry. Therefore, there is a need to be able to test the CAM-specific circuitry, even if the memory is defective. However, there is no existing conventional method or structure, which tests the CAM-circuitry, notwithstanding that the memory is defective.
Therefore, a need exists to overcome the problems with the prior art as discussed above.

CAM test structures and methods therefor


A non-nodal mounting system for an ultrasonic element includes a drive ring and a flexible disk. The drive ring is rotatably connected to a mounting housing. The flexible disk is fixed at a radially inner portion to the ultrasonic element and at a radially outer portion to the drive ring. The flexible disk can include flexible fingers for reducing the force transmitted to the drive ring. Also, the flexible disk can include an inner annular ring at the radially inner portion and a concentric annular ring at the radially outer portion. The rings are connected by the fingers.

In acoustic welding, such as ultrasonic welding, two parts to be joined (typically thermoplastic parts) are placed directly below an ultrasonic horn. In plunge welding, the horn plunges (travels toward the parts) and transmits ultrasonic vibrations into the top part. The vibrations travel through the top part to the interface of the two parts. Here, the vibrational energy is converted to heat due to intermolecular friction that melts and fuses the two parts. When the vibrations stop, the two parts solidify under force, producing a weld at the joining surface.
Continuous ultrasonic welding is typically used for sealing fabrics, films, and other parts. In continuous welding, typically the ultrasonic horn is stationary and the part is moved beneath it. Scan welding is a type of continuous welding in which the part moves. The plastic part is scanned beneath one or more stationary horns. In transverse welding, the part is stationary while the horn moves over it.
The horn is an acoustical tool made of, for example, aluminum, titanium, or sintered steel that transfers the mechanical vibratory energy to the part. Horn displacement or amplitude is the peak-to-peak movement of the horn face. The ratio of horn output amplitude to the horn input amplitude is termed gain. Gain is a function of the ratio of the mass of the horn at the vibration input and output sections. Generally, in horns, the direction of amplitude at the welding surface of the horn is coincident with the direction of the applied mechanical vibrations.
A rotary acoustic horn, like all horns, imparts energy at a selected wavelength, frequency, and amplitude. The rotary horn includes a shaft with input and output ends, and a welding portion mounted on and coaxial with the output end. The diameter of the welding portion is greater than the diameter of the shaft. The welding portion has a cylindrical weld face having a diameter that expands and contracts with the application of acoustic energy. Typically, a rotary horn is cylindrical and rotates around a longitudinal axis. The input vibration is in the axial direction and the output vibration is in the radial direction. The horn and anvil are close to each other, and the anvil can rotate in the opposite direction to the horn. The part to be bonded passes between these cylindrical surfaces at a linear velocity which equals the tangential velocity of these cylindrical surfaces. Matching the tangential velocities of the horn and the anvil with the linear velocity of the material is intended to minimize the drag between the horn and the material. The excitation in the axial direction is similar to that in conventional plunge welding.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,096,532 describes two classes of rotary horn. The patent compares a commercially available full wavelength rotary horn, manufactured by Mecasonic-KLN, Inc. of Fullerton, Calif. (Mecasonic horn) and a half wavelength rotary horn described in the '532 patent.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,707,483 discloses another type of rotary acoustic horn with undercuts.
There are typically two methods of mounting any ultrasonic horn, nodal and non-nodal mounting. A node is a portion of the horn that is not moving in one or more directions. With a nodal mount the horn can be held or grasped rigidly. Non-nodal mounts require some flexible elements because the horn surface is moving (vibrating). Because of the difficulties of handling the vibrations, non-nodal mounts are typically not used in the industry.
Nodal mounts typically have a flange machined at a node, shown in FIG. 1, or a series of set-screws positioned radially around the node shown in FIG. 2. U.S. Pat. No. 4,647,336 discloses a reparable nodal flange mount such as that of FIG. 1. In this design the flange at the nodal point of a booster has an O-ring above and below it. A two piece support collar clamps against the O-rings to support the assembly. (This is shown in FIG. 4 of the '336 patent). U.S. Pat. No. 4,995,938 discloses using the nodal flanges as pistons of an air or hydraulic cylinder. In this system, the method of supporting the booster and the method of applying the required welding force are combined, as shown in FIG. 1 of the '938 patent).
U.S. Pat. No. 5,486,733 discloses a nodal mount inside the converter. A machined ring is sandwiched between the piezoelectric crystals that are driving the horn. U.S. Pat. No. 4,975,133 includes a set-screw nodal mount for an ultrasonic booster. This design is used for rotary shear welding operation. RD 21128 discloses a method where a potting material is used instead of O-rings on a nodal flange type mounting.
Anti-nodes are areas of maximum displacement of a horn or booster. Attaching mounting systems at these locations or at other non-nodal locations requires the mount to be designed to isolate the vibration from base of the device.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,752,380 discloses using a pair of leaf springs located at the non-nodes of a non-rotating bar horn. U.S. Pat. No. 3,863,826 discloses a sonic or ultrasonic apparatus that uses a leaf spring support to mount a converter to a stationary support. These springs isolate the vibration and allow vertical motion with an air cylinder to accommodate the height of the parts being welded. This design is for a non-rotating horn. In both these patents, the leaf spring is sandwiched between the junction of the converter or booster and the horn. This interferes with the transmission of ultrasonic energy through the horn and limits the usefulness of rotary horns.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,955,740 discloses a non-nodal rotary horn mount which uses a solid metal diaphragm located in the junction between the booster and horn. The diaphragm is statically stiff, having a static stiffness of about 1.35.times.10.sup.7 N/m (77,000 lb/in). Very high static loads are possible because the design uses a rotating tube to isolate this force from the bearings Also, in this design, the diaphragm is designed to resonate at the frequency of the horn. The diaphragm is an ultrasonic element. Similarly, U.S. Pat. No. 4,884,334 discloses a statically stiff disk or finger support which resonates at the frequency of the horn and is an ultrasonic element.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,468,336 discloses a flexural spring support for a shear welding apparatus. This design uses tapered support beams that allow a plate to be vibrated side-to-side while remaining parallel to the fixed plate. This side-to-side motion slides the parts being welded past each other and welds them together. This design is for a shear welding operation, uses taper beams, and could not be practically adapted to a rotary horn mounting situation. U.S. Pat. No. 5,464,498 discloses another flexural support spring method. This design is machined from a single piece of material.
A commercially available non-nodal mount for horns, shown in FIG. 3, was manufactured by American Technology, Inc. (Amtech), Shelton, Conn., and is used for shear welding. This unit has a plate with slots machined radially from the outer diameter to create fingers. The outer edge of the finger plate is mounted with a clamp ring while the inner fingers are clamped between the end of the horn and the booster.

Non-nodal mounting system for acoustic horn


A communication system that provides link sharing between communication devices within the system. A first communication device communicates with the service provider over a first link and a second communication device communicates with the service provider over a second link. The second communication device determines a need for additional bandwidth and transmits a request for the additional bandwidth. The second communication device receives an instruction message responsive to the request that grants the second communication device access to available bandwidth on the first link. The second communication device then communicates with the service provider over a third link and the first link at the available bandwidth wherein the third link connects the second communication device and the first communication device.

1. Field of the Invention
The invention is related to the field of communication systems, and in particular, to bandwidth sharing between communication devices within a communication system.
2. Description of the Prior Art
High-bandwidth communications are becoming customary for both businesses and residences. Customers are requesting more bandwidth from service providers to satisfy their communication needs. Thus, service providers are continually searching for methods and systems to supply the higher bandwidths to their customers.
One way to provide high bandwidth is with high-bandwidth links, such as Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) service links, ISDN service links, and satellite links. Even though these service links provide a high bandwidth to the customer, the customer may require an even higher bandwidth than these service links can provide.
One method of providing more bandwidth to the customer is to provide multiple links between the service provider and the customer. For example, the service provider could set up two Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) links with the customer. A communication device located at the customer premises bonds the data received over the two PSTN links to provide increased bandwidth. Alternatively, the service provider could set up a PSTN link and a satellite link. Unfortunately, the communication device at the customer premises may have a difficult time bonding data received over different types of links.
Another problem is that communication systems are not utilizing the full capacity of their resources. For example, while a first customer may require an increased bandwidth, a second customer may have bandwidth that is not being fully utilized. The bandwidth available to the second customer is being wasted, and consequently, the service provider is not operating at maximum capacity. Unfortunately, current communication systems have not been effectively adapted to utilize the available bandwidth provided to its customers.

Bandwidth sharing between devices in a communication system


The present invention provides methods of altering vagal tone in a patient by administering a therapeutically effective amount of a mediator of P.sub.2x -purinoceptors located on vagal afferent nerve terminals to the patient. Diagnostic applications are also provided.

The parasympathetic limb, i.e., the vagus nerve, is a major component of the autonomic nervous system which regulates the function of various organs and tissues throughout the body. Sensory stimuli elicit neural signals (i.e.,action potentials) traveling in the vagus nerve via afferent fibers to the central nervous system which in turn sends neural signals to effector organs via efferent vagal fibers; known as vagal reflexes. In addition, sensory stimuli can elicit localized release of biologically active compounds (i.e., neuropeptides) from afferent nerve terminals, independent of afferent traffic traveling to the central nervous system; known as axonal reflexes. The vagus nerve maintains a basal level of activity, evidenced by the output of the efferent vagal fibers, or tone. Vagal tone is increased or decreased depending upon the body's needs, generally in response to internal or external sensory stimuli. The former can be either central or peripheral. The effects of the vagus nerve are mediated by the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, released from efferent nerve terminals, activating muscarinic cholinergic receptors on target cells.
Alteration of vagal tone is used in humans in the acute management of pathophysiologic conditions and therapy of certain diseases. For example, certain cardiac pathologies are associated with vagally mediated slowing of the heart rate (i.e., bradyarrhythmias). This slowing can hemodynamically compromise a patient's welfare. Also, there is considerable evidence that vagal reflexes and vagal afferent axonal reflexes contribute to the pathophysiology and symptomatology of asthma and other obstructive pulmonary diseases.
Existing approaches for alteration of vagal tone are based on pharmacologic modulation of the function of the vagal efferent fibers. For instance, vagal tone can be modulated by blockade of muscarinic cholinergic receptors as well as by the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme which degrades acetylcholine. Indeed, anticholinergic drugs are very effective in the treatment of bradyarrhythmias associated with acute myocardial ischemia. These drugs are also effective bronchodilators in chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases. However, there is presently no therapeutic approach which targets the axonal reflexes which exacerbate certain pathophysiologic conditions such as asthmatic bronchoconstriction.
The number of people in the United States and other developed countries suffering from asthma has doubled over the last twenty years. The cost of illness related to asthma in the United States was estimated to be 6.2 billion dollars in 1990. Today, it is estimated that 10% of the world's population suffers from asthma. Furthermore, the number of asthma deaths worldwide continues to increase. This trend in increasing mortality due to asthma is paradoxical in view of the decreased mortality from other diseases and our better understanding of the pathophysiology of asthma. This situation is probably due, at least in part, to the lack of new therapeutic modalities including those which also target the neural component of the disease.
The vagus nerve also mediates neurogenic human fainting (i.e., vasovagal syncope). A vasovagal reaction is characterized by an inappropriate decrease in blood pressure and/or heart rate. Patients suspected of suffering from vasovagal syncope are subjected to a clinical test (i.e., tilt test) in which the induction of fainting is attempted by head-up tilt in the presence or absence of drugs (e.g., isoproterenol). This is a tedious and expensive test. Furthermore, there is presently no diagnostic procedure available to determine the severity of this pathology quantitatively.
Adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) is a purine nucleotide found in every cell of the human body where it plays a major role in cellular metabolism and energetics. Once outside of cells, however, ATP exerts different effects on various tissues and organs. The actions of extracellular ATP are known to be mediated by specific cell surface receptors, P.sub.2 -purinoceptors. These receptors are subdivided into two families: P.sub.2x and P.sub.2y (Abbracchio and Burnstock, Pharmacol Ther. (1994) 64, 445-475). Classification is based upon certain aspects of the signal transduction initiated by the activation of these receptors as well as the relative agonist potencies of ATP and ATP analogues in different systems. For example P.sub.2x -purinoceptor-mediated responses are characterized by the order of agonist potencies of .alpha., .beta.-methylene ATP which is greater than .beta., .gamma.-methylene ATP which is greater than ATP and 2methyl-thio ATP (those two being equal). Thus, it has been recognized that purinoceptors are unique and their stimulation activates specific mechanisms. Extracellular ATP is known to affect neural elements via the activation of a P.sub.2x -purinoceptor.
Trezise et al., Br. J. Pharmacol.(1993) 110, 1055-1060, have shown that ATP can depolarize rat vagal fibers in vitro and that this action is mediated by P.sub.2x - purinoceptors.
However, such findings are not applicable to the autonomic nervous system of humans for a number of reasons. First, tests with single cells do not address the problems of purine metabolism associated with whole tissue. Further, it is uncertain whether tissues in vitro express the same receptor types as in vivo. In addition, work performed with ATP in rats can not be extrapolated to humans because rats lack certain specific type of afferent/efferent reflex loops triggered by ATP which are found only in cats, dogs and humans.
ATP has been employed as a therapeutic in human patients. For example, ATP has been used for many years in the acute management of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia. However, it is believed that the mechanism of ATP's action in this setting involves the degradation of ATP to adenosine and the action of adenosine on the specialized tissue of the heart (i.e., atrio-ventricular node). Indeed, the use of adenosine in this setting is the subject of Belardinelli et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,673,563. ATP has also been shown to be effective against cancer in animal models and in humans. However, the mechanism of action of ATP in this setting involves the immune system and/or direct action on tumor cells and is independent of the autonomic nervous system. The use of ATP as anti-cancer therapy is the subject of Rapaport, U.S. Pat. No. 5,049,372.
The present invention provides a unique approach to modulating vagal tone and vagal axonal reflexes in humans through the activation and blockade of P.sub.2 -purinoceptors on afferent vagal nerve terminals in vivo.

Allegheny University of the Health Sciences