A device, system, and method for providing a transmit diversity device have a first antenna and a second antenna. The first antenna may have a first power transmission gain pattern, which may be non-uniform in a reference plane. The second antenna may have a second power transmission gain pattern, which may be non-uniform in a reference plane. The first and second antennae may be arranged with respect to each other such that a minimum power region of the first gain pattern overlaps a maximum power region of the second gain pattern in the reference plane. The transmit diversity device may also have a processor to receive a feedback parameter from a feedback device. The processor may produce a different transmit diversity parameter based on the feedback parameter for each of a first and second signals to be transmitted on the first and second antennae, respectively.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to the field of wireless communications and more specifically to transmit diversity devices.
2. Description of the Related Art
Transmitting devices using a plurality of antennae to transmit a signal simultaneously using a diversity parameter may reduce the total transmission power required for a signal to reach a receiving communication device when compared to using one antenna only. Multiple antenna elements in the transmitting device may enhance spectral efficiency and capacity, while reducing signal degradation caused by multi-path and fading. One or more transmit diversity parameter may be applied to signals transmitted from two or more antennae, and may modify an effective power distribution detected by receiving communication devices, such as base stations. The transmitted signals may propagate along different paths and may reach the receiving communication device with different phases that may interfere. The total power of the interfering signals perceived by base stations may change with varying parameters of transmit diversity control. It is a goal of mobile transmit diversity devices to minimize destructive interference of signals at the base station in order to increase the total power of the received signals.
US Patent Publication No. 2008/0227404, entitled "Method, Apparatus, and System for Providing Feedback to Transmit Diversity Device", published Sep. 18, 2008 and assigned to the assignee of the present application, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, describes optimizing transmit diversity parameters to reduce destructive interference of signals from different antennae received at the base station. One such method includes matching the wavepatterns of the signals from different antennae so that the signals coincide and constructively interfere.
However, with this solution, a new problem is encountered. In a wireless connection, for a base station to receive transmitted signals, the base station may require that the signals reach the base station with a power greater than a predetermined threshold. Diversity gain is a measure of the reduction in the total transmission power of the transmit diversity device by using two or more antennae compared using one antenna in order to meet the required predetermined threshold of power at the base station. When the wavepatterns of signals from different antennae coincide, a maximum power region of a signal from one antenna may be added to a corresponding maximum power region of a signal from another antenna. The result is a large diversity gain at maximum power regions of the waveform of the signals. However, a receiving base station may be located outside of a maximum power region, in minimum power regions of the waveform of the signals.
There is a need for a system, device, and method, to improve the diversity gain of transmit diversity devices.

System, apparatus and method for introducing antenna pattern variability


A single reel data tape cartridge housing includes a base and a cover. The base includes four outer side walls which are formed with at least one step such that the outer walls step to a decreased thickness toward their free end. The cover includes four outer side walls which are formed with at least one step such that the outer walls step to a decreased thickness toward their free end. The base and cover also include four inner walls which are formed with two steps such that the inner walls step to a decreased thickness toward their free end. The inner and outer walls of the cover complementarily mate with the inner and outer walls of the base. A projection can be placed within pockets in the base and cover to locate the base and cover during assembly.

Single reel data tape cartridges, one generation of which is known as 3480 type cartridges, include a reel containing magnetic tape with a leader block attached to the free end of the tape as it extends from the reel. The cartridge is generally rectangular except for one corner which is angled and includes a leader block window. The leader block window holds the leader block and permits the tape to exit from the cartridge for threading through a tape drive when the leader block is removed. When the leader block is snapped into the window, the window is covered.
The leader block is generally rectangular and has a cutout which combines with a pin to hold the tape. The front surface of the leader block includes a slot for engaging an automatic threading apparatus in a reel-to-reel magnetic tape drive apparatus. The front surface of the leader block is generally cylindrical and has a rounded boss which engages with an inclined surface of the corner of the cartridge. The rear surface is rounded to form a portion of an arc of a radius to match the periphery of the take-up reel hub in the tape drive apparatus as the leader block fits into the slot in the hub. A compliant section may be formed on the leader block to permit the leader block to compress at its rear surface to accommodate especially the first layer of tape when the tape is wound onto the take-up reel.
The tape drive apparatus includes a threading apparatus for connection to a single reel tape cartridge. The drive apparatus includes a drive motor for the supply reel mounted beneath a base plate so that its shaft extends normal to and slightly above a surface of the base plate. A take-up reel is mounted on the base plate and is attached to the motor. The cartridge reel, when coupled to the motor, lies in substantially the same plane as a hub of the take-up reel so that the tape moves in a plane normal to both motor shafts when being transported. After the threading of the tape, transfer of the tape between the supply reel and the take-up reel is achieved by controlling the driving motors for the reels. The tape passes through a vacuum guide, a magnetic transducer head, and a tension transducer.
The tape cartridge is formed of a molded base and cover which are ultrasonically welded to each other to form the housing for the cartridge. A small weld bead is molded into the bottom surface of the walls of the cover. This weld bead mates with the top surface of the walls of the base. The sonic energy is generally applied through the cover and to the weld bead to melt the bead onto a land on the base and cover. It is also known to locate the weld bead on the base.
Proper assembly requires proper registration of the base and cover and proper collapse of the weld bead during welding. However, improper registration can yield poor control of the outer dimensions of the cartridge and increase external and internal flash due to reduced clearances. In extreme cases this can prevent the weld bead from contacting the mating wall surface of the base. This can result in poor weld strength and cartridge failure if the cartridge is stressed such as by being dropped. In less extreme cases, it can result in an increase in exposed flash and reduced strength. Nonuniform weld bead collapse also can result in poor weld strength and cartridge failure if the cartridge is stressed. Proper collapse depends on proper positioning and support of the base and cover during welding, and on proper balance of the input ultrasonic intensity. Also, welding of the housing assembly can result in weld flash escaping from the interface between the base and the cover if the joint width and flash area are insufficient to contain the flash created when welding to the designed weld depth. Raised walls are designed into the inner walls of the base or the cover to minimize weld flash escaping into the inside of the cartridge where it can affect the tape and cause errors. Flash on the outside of the housing is cosmetically objectionable.
The base of these known cartridges includes raised wall sections which serve as locators to help align and locate the cover with respect to the base during assembly. These locators operate in only one direction and are essentially ineffective as flash retainers.
There is a need to provide a cartridge base and cover assembly which reduces the amount of weld flash that is generated during welding while maintaining sufficient weld strength to resist the propagation of cracks when the cartridge is stressed. There is a need for a single reel cartridge assembly which prevents flash escaping from the interface between the base and the cover either into the cartridge or outside of the cartridge. There is also a need for a system to improve the assembly of the housing by facilitating alignment of the cover and the base.

Single reel cartridge with improved housing assembly


The disclosed embodiments of the present invention are used to permanently disable or destruct an RFID so that it is no longer possible to read some or all of the data encoded on the RFID tag. In one method for disabling data on a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, an RFID tag is identified and its identity is confirmed. Verification that a prerequisite event has occurred is obtained, occurrence of which is required prior to disablement of the data. A destruct instruction is transmitted to the RFID tag. The RFID tag verifies that the destruct instruction is valid and disables the data upon verifying validity of the destruct instruction. The tag may disable the data by erasing the data, disabling the data, auto-destructing, or performing any operation that makes the data unreadable.

Radio frequency identification (RFID) is a technology that incorporates the use of electromagnetic or electrostatic coupling in the radio frequency (RF) portion of the electromagnetic spectrum to uniquely identify an object, animal, or person. RFID is coming into increasing use in industry as an alternative to the bar code. The advantage of RFID is that it does not require direct contact or line-of-sight scanning. RFID is sometimes also called dedicated short range communication (DSRC).
In an RFID system, multiple wireless tags are interrogated by sending information from an interrogating transmitter to the tags and having information transmitted by the tag in response. This is commonly accomplished by having the tag listen for an interrogation and for it to respond with a unique serial number and/or other information. However, it is desirable to extend the range of wireless tags so that it is not necessary to bring each tag close to a reader for reading. Two problems are evident when extending the range of the reading system. One of the problems is that there is limited power available for transmission from the wireless tag, and that if the range is significant, it is possible that many tags will be within range of the interrogating system and their replies may corrupt each other.
There are a number of methods and apparatuses that address these problems and enable the fabrication of wireless tags with longer ranges and an ability of the system to handle many tags in the sensitive range.
In one application, RFID tags can be used to identify items for purchase, inventory, etc. And, as outlined, there are known methods that enable one specific tag in a group of many tags to be interrogated without corruption by other tags of information sent by that one particular tag to the reader and without accidental transmission of data or commands to other tags of information sent to that particular tag.
The least expensive tags usually have read only memory. This is adequate for identifying a tag and for executing a purchase. However, at times, the purchaser might require privacy after the purchase so that another party cannot perform a scan and learn the contents of that purchaser's purse, car or home. Further, the tags may need to be disabled to allow the product to be taken through a security device that recognizes intact tags.
Thus, there are times when it is desirable to disable or destroy an RFID tag after purchase. This disablement may be either partial or complete and may be accomplished by data erasure, modification, etc. However, tags with destructible memory may be susceptible to thievery, in that a thief with the proper equipment could potentially disable a tag. Thus, it is desirable to require some type of validation of authority to disable a tag. Furthermore, when a tag is destroyed it is desirable that other tags within range of the disabling device, typically a reader, are not also destroyed.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

System and method for disabling data on radio frequency identification tags


The present disclosure is directed to a light emitting diode (LED) lighting system. In one embodiment, the LED lighting system includes an LED light source deployed in a first location and a power supply for powering the LED light source, wherein the power supply is remotely located from the LED light source in a second location and designed to power the LED light source to minimize a power loss along a length of an electrical connection coupled between the LED light source and the power supply.

A typical light fixture has a power supply located within the same housing as the light fixture's optics. However, with newer light fixture technologies, the light source may have a longer life span than the power supply. The power supply may need to be replaced several times over the course of the light fixture's life span.
The maintenance required for the light fixture becomes a problem when they are located in hazardous environments or in hard to reach locations such as, for example, towers or high poles. Each time a light fixture must be replaced requires the cost of multiple people and equipment, such as a service lift. In addition, further costs are incurred if production must be halted near the area where the power supply in the light fixture is being replaced.

Remotely distributed power network for an LED lighting system


A new and distinct variety of grapevine substantially as illustrated and described and which is distinguished principally as to novelty by producing intensely pink-red seedless berries with very good flavor and size forming loose bunches in which the berries are firmly attached to their capstems and being mature for harvesting and shipment approximately September 1 through September 15 in Delano in the San Joaquin Valley of California.

The present invention relates to a new and distinct variety of grapevine which will hereinafter be denominated varietally as "Jolly" and, more particularly, to a grapevine which bears seedless berries which are of an intense pink-red coloration, have a very good flavor and size and which are mature for harvesting and shipment approximately September 1 through September 15 in Delano in the San Joaquin Valley of California.
The development of new commercial varieties of fruit is a science requiring diligent efforts over prolonged periods of time, keen powers of observation and considerable good fortune. The horticulturist must produce or select those varieties deemed worthy of further observation; plant them in a controlled environment for such further observation; painstakingly observe the plants through several growing seasons; faithfully record the individual characteristics of the new varieties frequently numbering in the thousands; compare the individual characteristics of the new varieties, one to another, through the several growing seasons; and ultimately select one or more of the varieties for further development.
Once the selection has been made, the varieties selected are asexually reproduced and, in a sense, the process begins anew. Each variety selected is observed over, usually, several growing seasons until it has borne one or more crops to confirm that those attributes which caused the parent variety to be selected are present in the progeny. While in the case of commercial fruit varieties it is the commercial appeal of the fruit which is a paramount concern, there are a myriad of other considerations which are also of importance and yet which may be significantly more difficult to detect unless observed over many years. For example, considerations such as resistance to pests and disease, hardiness, the shipping quality of the fruit, prolonged shelf life and the like are all factors to be evaluated.
With the advent of a world economy for commercial fruit varieties, another factor is becoming of increasing importance. While the potential commercial significance of having opposite seasons in the northern and southern hemispheres has long been recognized, this potential has only relatively recently begun to be realized. The increase in price which can be obtained for fruit counterbalances the cost of shipment making possible the potential for a virtually year around availability of many fruit varieties. However, since the market for fruit, as with most consumer products, is dependent upon educating the consumer to recognize and purchase particular varieties, there is considerable commercial advantage in developing commercial fruit varieties which have superior characteristics when grown in both the northern and southern hemispheres.
The new variety of grapevine of the present invention possesses a unique combination of attributes which make it a particularly promising variety in that it fits well with existing commercial varieties having ripening dates over substantially contiguous time periods and otherwise has exceptional characteristics in the above-noted respects, particularly in its superior characteristics both when grown in the northern and southern hemispheres.


According to one embodiment, a semiconductor substrate, a redistribution trace, and a surface layer are provided, with the surface layer provided on the redistribution trace. On the semiconductor substrate, a wire and a pad electrode are formed. The redistribution trace is formed on the semiconductor substrate. The surface layer is larger in width than the redistribution trace, and extends beyond the edge of the redistribution trace.

In order to achieve high integration and high performance of semiconductor devices, improvement of an operation speed and increase in capacity of memories are required. Accordingly, fine redistribution traces with a pitch of 10 um or less are required also in a redistribution trace forming process on a semiconductor substrate.
Scaling of a pitch of redistribution traces may result in occurrence of leakage between the redistribution traces. Moreover, a margin when further forming wires, bumps, or the like on the redistribution traces decreases, so that processing by photolithography has become difficult.

Bump structure with underbump metallization structure and integrated redistribution layer


A method for triggering at least one restraint means, triggering signals from peripheral acceleration sensors being released by signals from centrally situated acceleration sensors. In this context, a release threshold is raised in the case of a detected misuse behavior, or the release for the triggering signals is blocked.

Peripheral acceleration sensors in a vehicle measure accelerations in the vicinity of an impact location during an accident. These are used to then decide whether the restraint means are to be triggered. If there is a triggering signal from such peripheral acceleration sensors (satellites), this triggering signal is tested by a central control unit to determine whether it may be released. A plausibility check follows. For this purpose, the central control unit itself has acceleration sensors for determining this. This is relevant above all for side impact detection.

Method for tripping at least one restraining means


The specification describes multimode optical fibers with specific design parameters, i.e., controlled refractive index design ratios and dimensions, which render the optical fibers largely immune to moderately severe bends. The modal structure in the optical fibers is also largely unaffected by bending, thus leaving the optical fiber bandwidth essentially unimpaired. Bend performance results were established by DMD measurements of fibers wound on mandrels vs. measurements of fibers with no severe bends. Additional embodiments of the present invention describe an improved optical link when the inventive multimode fiber is connected to standard or conventional multimode fibers.

The tendency of optical fibers to leak optical energy when bent has been known since the infancy of the technology. It is well known that light follows a straight path but can be guided to some extent by providing a path, even a curved path, of high refractive index material surrounded by material of lower refractive index. However, in practice that principle is limited, and optical fibers often have bends with a curvature that exceeds the ability of the light guide to contain the light.
Controlling transmission characteristics when bent is an issue in nearly every practical optical fiber design. The initial approach, and still a common approach, is to prevent or minimize physical bends in the optical fiber. While this can be largely achieved in long hauls by designing a robust cable, or in shorter hauls by installing the optical fibers in microducts, in all cases the optical fiber must be terminated at each end. Thus even under the most favorable conditions, bending, often severe bending, is encountered at the optical fiber terminals.
Controlling bend loss can also be addressed by the physical design of the optical fiber itself. Some optical fibers are inherently more immune to bend loss than others. This was recognized early, and most optical fibers are now specifically designed for low loss. The design features that are typically effective for microbend loss control involve the properties of the optical fiber cladding, usually the outer cladding. Thus ring features or trench features, or combinations thereof, are commonly found at the outside of the optical fiber refractive index profiles to control bend losses. See for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,691,990 and 4,852,968, both incorporated herein by reference.
Performance issues for optical fibers under bend conditions have generally been considered to involve generalized optical power loss, due to leakage of light from the optical fiber at the location of the bend. In most cases, the influence of modal structure changes on bend loss is overlooked.
In single mode optical fibers general power loss is the primary consideration, because all leakage involves light in the fundamental mode of the optical fiber. However, in multimode optical fiber the modal structure affects the loss, with higher order modes suffering more loss than lower order modes. In addition, bends in the optical fiber cause modes to transform and mix. Accordingly, while a signal in a lower order mode may survive some bending, if it is converted to a higher order mode it will be more susceptible to bending loss.
The combination of higher order and lower order modes in a multimode optical fiber determines the bandwidth, and thus the signal carrying capacity, of the optical fiber. Bending multimode optical fiber may reduce the signal carrying capacity of the optical system.
The property of differential mode loss in multimode optical fibers can be more serious than generalized optical loss in single mode optical fibers. The latter can be addressed using low cost power amplifiers. However, differential mode loss in multimode optical fibers can lead to complete loss of signals propagating in higher order modes.

Bandwidth-maintaining multimode optical fibers


A modular personal carrying system for facilitating the carrying of objects by a user. There may be included a first personal carrying device configured to removably attach to the user. There may also be a second personal carrying device configured to removably attach to the user. Also, there may be a removable container configured to removably attach to the first personal carrying device and to the second personal carrying device and configured to contain an object therein. A first personal carrying device may be a backpack. A second personal carrying device may be a belt. The backpack and the belt may be configured to attach to each other. There may also be a leg belt. Also, there may be a second removable container that may be configured to removably attach to a bottom surface of the removable container and also to a bottom surface of the backpack. The first removable container may be configured to removably attach to the bottom surface of the backpack. Also, the first removable container and the second removable container may both be fanny packs.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to personal carrying devices, specifically to modular personal carrying systems.
2. Description of the Related Art
Personal carrying devices have been used since ancient times. There has always been a need to conveniently carry articles on ones person. Personal carrying needs vary widely over different individuals, situations, and needs. Accordingly, the many kinds of bags, backpacks, slings, rucksacks, harnesses, attaches, briefcases, carry-ons, carryalls, cases, diddies, duffels, grub-bags, handbags, haversacks, holdalls, kits, knapsacks, packs, packets, pockets, pokes, kit bags, purses, sacs, sacks, saddlebags, satchels, suitcases, totes, and other personal carrying devices are sometimes adapted and/or specialized to match particular needs. Specialization is often at the expense of fulfilling other needs.
While some personal carrying needs are typically adequately fulfilled by specialized carrying devices, other personal carrying needs are not. For example, there are some situations where the advantages of specialization, such as efficient use of space, weight, weight distribution, etc., are greatly appreciated, but the personal carrying needs of the situation are variable and changing over time. Further, it may be inconvenient to have multiple carrying devices to properly address the changing needs.
As an example, hiking and camping often require very specialized carrying devices configured to efficiently use and manage limited space and weight requirements as well as properly distribute weight over a person to facilitate long hikes over sometimes difficult terrain. Further, wherein the user may intend to spend significant time in the outdoors, there is a great need to bring enough gear and supplies to keep the user healthy and safe for several days.
However, the user may intend to hike a distance into the outdoors and establish a base camp. There, a majority of the gear and supplies may be left while the user then sets out on smaller excursions in surrounding areas, for example taking day hikes in order to explore, experience the area, taking samples, survey, or any other reason. During these smaller excursions a very different set of needs are present and because of the circumstances, specialized personal carrying devices are very much in demand. However, it is inconvenient and inefficient to carry multiple sets of specialized carrying devices.
As another example, a personal carrying device may be used primarily as a storage device, like a 72-hour kit. In such a case, the device will typically be used to store items, but in case of an emergency or other similar event, the personal carrying device may be used to carry the contents thereof some previously unknown distance for some previously unknown purpose. Therefore, it is likely that the device may be required to serve any number of divergent needs. Thus, specialization in one aspect may render the device inadequate for the eventual actual need.
Still further, a user may take many different kinds of trips, such as trips involving camping, fishing, hunting, search and rescue, reconnaissance, exploration, travel and any other kinds of trips where it is convenient or necessary to carry items on ones person. Therefore an individual may have greatly changing needs. As it is always beneficial to have specialized personal carrying devices, it would be beneficial, but inconvenient and expensive, to purchase many different specialized personal carrying devices adapted to the particular needs of each trip.
Yet still further, the particular needs of each trip may be unknown for a time, even unknown till the time of the immediacy of the need. In such cases it may be impractical or impossible to obtain an appropriately specialized personal carrying device.
Again further, personal carrying devices often contain many different types of contents. Some personal carrying devices include only a small number of compartments or separate storage areas. This has the advantage of keeping all the materials in only one or a few locations, making it simple to determine where to begin looking for an item. However, actually finding the appropriate item may be difficult, as it may be lost among a large number of other items.
Some personal carrying devices include a large number of compartments or storage areas. This allows for better organization of the contents of the personal carrying device. However, unless the organization structure is committed to memory, or marked on the device, determining the proper compartment for each object may be difficult. Further, wherein the organization of contents of the personal carrying device is marked thereon, changes in the organization may lead to confusion or may render the personal carrying device unfit for use.
What is needed is a personal carrying device or system that may be configured by a user to be adapted to a wide variety of needs.


A star configured multiple access radio communication system wherein a hub station communicates, in time division multiplex mode, with a plurality of remote subscriber stations by a forward link signal path and the remote subscriber stations communicate with the hub on a return link signal path and wherein all received return link signals are time synchronous, and all signals possess the same time division multiplex structure in which a portion of the signal is dedicated to time synchronization. Each remote subscriber station has a synchronization burst sequence generator, each generated burst sequence is constructed such that the time tracking and synchronization process of each return link is relatively unaffected by all other remote stations. At the hub station there is a delay discrimi-nator for each remote subscriber, each delay discriminator includes a first and a second channel. The first channel has a one symbol delay device, a matched filter, and a squaring circuit. The second channel has a matched filter and a squaring circuit. A summing circuit sums the outputs of the squaring circuits, and an output sampler sample the incoming signals at an offset of half a symbol period with respect to the peak of the first matched filter.

The star architecture of the multiple access communications system consists of a hub station in the center of the star and remote stations of which there is one each at the star. It is assumed that a communications path exists by which the hub station transmits information to each of the remote stations and this path is called the forward link. It is assumed that a communications path exists by which an individual remote station transmits information to the hub station and this path is called the return link. A star architecture with K remote stations is shown in FIG. 1.
The object of this invention is to provide apparatus and method for the synchronization of signal timing in a multiple access communications system.
The present invention is part of that multiple access communications system which is configured in a star architecture and for which it is necessary that all return link signals received at the hub station are time synchronous. All signals possess the same time division multiplex structure in which a portion of the signal is dedicated to a time synchronization burst. This invention specifies that burst sequence for each individual signal and provides a time tracking delay-lock loop for each individual signal even though the sync bursts from all of these received signals are coincident in time and frequency. The novelty of this invention is the use of special sync burst sequences in the well known time-gated delay lock loop (Spilker, J.J. DIGITAL COMMUNICATIONS BY SATELLITE, Englewood Cliffs, N.J., 1977, Prentice-Hall, pp. 555-569). These sync burst sequences are specified so that the interferences between coincident signals is minimized for timing offsets up to .+-.1 chip, which means that the time tracking and synchronization process for each return link is relatively unaffected by all of the others. To implement the time tracking loop a portion of the forward link information capacity is allocated to the signal timing error data which the remote station uses for timing correction. It is assumed that each remote station receives its own timing error data in a robust, uncorrupted manner. A portion of the return link information capacity is allocated to the sync burst which is received by the hub station and processed by the delay discriminator.

Class of low cross correlation palindromic synchronization sequences for time tracking in synchronous multiple access communication systems


The present disclosure relates to genetically engineered host cells and methods of producing a lipid-derived compound by employing such host cells. In particular embodiments, the host cell includes a first mutant gene encoding a cytoplasmic tRNA thiolation protein. Optionally, the host cell can include other mutant genes for decreasing fatty alcohol catabolism, decreasing re-importation of secreted fatty alcohol, or displaying other useful characteristics, as described herein.

Fatty alcohols are a versatile class of chemicals with many consumer and industrial applications. Yet production of such compounds still rely on unsustainable and non-renewable sources, such as petroleum or harvesting from threatened animal or plant species.
The background description provided herein is for the purposes of generally presenting the context of the disclosure. Work of the presently named inventors, to the extent it is described in this background section, as well as aspects of the description that may not otherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing, are neither expressly nor impliedly admitted as prior art against the present disclosure.

Methods of producing lipid-derived compounds and host cells thereof

National Technology & Engineering Solutions of Sandia, LLC


There is disclosed a process for preparing mixed alkali metal salts of tripolyphosphate. A solution of mixed orthophosphate salts, such as sodium and potassium is dried by spraying the mixture onto a hot tumbling bed of a mixture of phosphate salts. The dried salts are then calcined at a temperature in the range of from about 350.degree. C. to about 600.degree. C., preferably above 500.degree. C. to form the mixed alkali metal salt of tripolyphosphate.

Mixed salts of tripolyphosphates (sodium and potassium) have been found to be highly desirable for use in food preparation and preservation because of the properties of such salts. While sodium tripolyphosphates have been employed as a detergent builder and in food products for many years, it was known that potassium tripolyphosphate was much more soluble in water and dissolved at a faster rate than sodium tripolyphosphate. Furthermore, its value in food products has been appreciated when the amount of sodium in the human diet was brought to the attention of the public by the medical profession. Of course, the use of the potassium salt would reduce the amount of sodium in food products and it is desireable to have a detergent builder that is readily soluble in water. However, there are many difficulties associated with the handling and use of potassium tripolyphosphate because it is deliquescent, prone to severe caking and difficult in general to ship, store and handle conveniently. Also, the potassium salt of tripolyphosphate is widely known to impart an undesirable taste to food products and therefore has not been used for that purpose.
One solution to the problems presented by the properties of potassium tripolyphosphate is the use of mixed sodium/potassium salts of tripolyphosphate. Such use would reduce the amount of sodium in the diet and the mixed salts exhibit increased solubility in water over the sodium tripolyphosphate salts. Cost has been one major factor which has limited the use of the mixed salt. More importantly, there has not been found a convenient, efficient process for producing large quantities of the mixed salt.
One early attempt to produce the mixed salts of tripolyphosphate is disclosed in U. K. patent 1,102,892. Such process starts with the phosphate ore which is digested with a solution of phosphoric acid. Sodium and potassium sulfate salts are then added to the solution which causes the calcium content of the ore to precipitate, leaving a solution of mixed orthophosphate salts. After filtering the solution containing the mixed salts is solidified in a multi-action evaporator. First, the water is removed from the solution to a sufficient extent to either eliminate free water or provide a concentrate containing between 48% to about 55%, by weight solids. If only a concentrated solution is left, it is mixed with an amount of desired end product, i.e., sodium potassium tripolyphosphate, previously prepared. In either case the dried product is then calcined at the usual temperatures employed to produce the mixed salt tripolyphosphate.
Another method of preparing the mixed tripolyphosphate salt is described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,372,984 to Metcalf et al. In this process a very concentrated aqueous slurry of sodium tripolyphosphate is prepared to which are added the appropriate amount of sodium and potassium bases. It is essential that the polyphosphate reactants are largely in the undissolved state. The dihydrate of the mixed salt is produced.
The improved solubility of the mixed tripolyphosphate salt is appreciated in the prior art as is shown by the disclosure of U.S. patent 4,857,287 to Dick et al. The product of the process disclosed therein desirably contains more that 75%, by weight, Form I sodium tripolyphosphate and 0.4% to about 0.8% potassium. According to said process an aqueous solution of sodium orthophosphate wherein the Na.sub.2 O/P.sub.2 O.sub.5 ratio is from 1.60 to 1.67 and an appropriate amount of dissolved potassium is sprayed into a spray dryer maintained at a calcining temperature so as to produce tripolyphosphate. The product is reported to have improved caking properties and quickly dissolves in water.
Other mixed salts of condensed phosphates have been prepared by various processes. In U.S. Pat. No. 2,511,249 to During there is disclosed a process for preparing sodium potassium pyrophosphates. In this process a solution of mixed sodium and potassium orthophosphates is dried on a drum drier or other suitable surface and then subjected to calcining to form the trimetaphosphate which is reported to be water soluble.
An improvement in the process for preparing the sodium salt or sodium/potassium double salt is reported in U.S. Pat. No. 3,230,040 to Metcalf et al. Avoidance of water insoluble metaphosphates is achieved by rapidly increasing the temperature of the dried mixed orthophosphate salts. A solution of mixed orthophosphate salts is first dried on a drum drier and then prepared for calcining by appropriate milling and screening. Rapid heating such as by gas fired jets directed at the surface of the dried salt mixture achieves the objective of avoiding insoluble metaphosphates.
Preparation of other mixed salts, i.e., calcium/sodium of metaphosphate is described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,725,369 to Nathan et al. A slurry of mixed salts is heated to remove water and then calcined to provide the desired mixed salt metaphosphate in substantially crystalline form.

Process for preparing anhydrous polyphosphate mixed alkali metal salts


An arrangement to provide personalized services to customers, such as hotel guests or hospital patients, wherein the personalized services are based upon a personal preference profile collected for each individual. The services are displayed to the guest or patient via an in-room monitor. Moreover, the personal preferences are modified during the guest's or patient's present stay, and saved after the stay for later visits. In addition, a personal presence of host personnel, such as personnel at a front desk or an admission desk, may be integrated into the display on the in-room monitor.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to distributed customer systems, and, more particularly, to methodologies and concomitant circuitry for the delivery of personalized services, including a personal presence, to individual customers.
2. Description of the Background
Traditionally, in a service setting such as a guest in a hotel/motel or a patient in a hospital, the guest or patient has been provided with basically the same standardized room-based services, that is, personalized options are virtually impossible to arrange for an individual guest or patient, especially prior to check-in. It is also true that a guest-stay or patient-stay, in terms of room-based services, is viewed as an independent event from one stay to the next. There is virtually no attempt to "remember" the preferences of the guest or patient from prior stays so as to make the next stay more personalized, and therefore more enjoyable. Nor is there any real effort to modify preferences of a guest or patient based upon choices during the present stay. Finally, there is no viable mechanism to capture the preferences of the guest or patient with respect to room-based services prior to check-in.
To understand the limitations of the traditional approach to guest or patient services, consider the following enhanced services (heretofore unavailable) in a hotel scenario. The personalized preferences of an individual guest are captured and stored, either upon reservation or based upon selections during past visits, so that after check-in, as the guest enters his hotel room, he hears his favorite music playing over a stereo in the room. Also when he turns the TV on, he sees a personal welcome message for him in Spanish, his native language. With the remote TV control, he accesses the hotel's restaurant guide. Further, he is able to call into view the maitre'd of a particular restaurant to discuss menu selections, and then reserve a table as well as make a menu selection for dinner later that evening. Then he calls into view the concierge, again on the TV, to ask some questions about the other hotel services and area attractions. The conceriege extracts an area map as stored in a database and displays the map on the guest's TV. Next, the guest picks up the phone to call his spouse to inform her he has arrived at his hotel room. The phone has been programmed for speed dialing to his home phone number, and he is so informed upon picking up the phone. At the same time, in the background, guest inquiries and selections are being utilized to adapt the prior list of personal preferences so as to store the most up-to-date information about the guest.
After dinner, the guest decides to watch a movie on his in-room TV. He browses the selections in the movie guide from a personalized list of recommendations--based upon his preference list and selections from past hotel stays, comedies are his interest so the movie guide lists comedies first. He chooses and begins watching a movie, but he stops the movie before it is finished so he may retire for the night. In the morning, the guest is awakened with his regular news broadcast on TV. The breakfast he had ordered the night before via a menu displayed on his TV arrives, and as he completes breakfast, he is able to finish watching the movie from the previous night. After the movie, a stock ticker is automatically displayed on the TV because the guest had expressed an interest in being kept informed about financial markets. Again, any choices by the guest that may impact on the list of personal preferences are used to automatically adapt his list of personal preferences. For instance, suppose that during the stock ticker display, the guest decides to watch another movie, this time a musical. The list of personal preferences might then be modified so that musicals are listed first, then comedies, for the next time the guest desires to watch a movie.
Upon check-out, the guest's list of personal preferences, as adapted during his visit, are stored in a database for use during a later hotel stay.
Other possible services not discussed in the illustrative example above, but which would be made available depending upon the guest's interest, include: (1) send and receive e-mail and faxes via an in-room connection using the guest's laptop; (2) establishing an in-room Internet connection; and (3) play interactive games with other hotel guests over the TV, with a live host at a remote hotel location joining in the action to encourage the players and add a "realness" dimension to the game.
As may now be readily appreciated from the foregoing discussion, the prior art is devoid of teachings or suggestions for collecting personal preference information about an individual--prior to check-in, upon check-in, and during the individual's stay--and adapting the personal preference information during individual's stay to update the individual's personal preference information for present as well as later use.

Personalized services, including a personal presence, for customers based upon collected personal preferences


A high voltage device. A high voltage MOS transistor is applied in the ESD protection device to the structure of which a doped region is added, generating a parasitic semiconductor controlled rectifier (SCR) having a shorter discharge path such that the SCR has faster response enhancing ESD protection.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a high voltage device with electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection and more particularly to high voltage device with a parasitic silicon controlled rectifier (SCR) which has a shorter discharge path.
2. Description of the Related Art
As semiconductor manufacturing evolves, ESD protection has become one of the most critical reliability issues for integrated circuits (IC). Several ESD test modes, such as machine mode (MM) or human body mode (HBM), have been proposed to imitate the circumstances under which an ESD event occurs. The ability to withstand certain levels of ESD is successful commercialization essential for an IC.
ESD protection circuits are generally located at input/output ports or between power rails, to release electrostatic stress before the electrostatic stress damages interior or core electronic circuits in an IC. ESD protection circuits are typically designed to be switched off during common/normal signal operation and switched on during an ESD event to release accumulated electrostatic charge.
Among ESD protection circuits, silicon controlled rectifiers (SCR) have been recognized as an effective ESD protection device. FIG. 1 shows characteristic curves of a silicon controlled rectifier (SCR). Due to the low holding voltage (Vhold, about 1V in a CMOS process) of the SCR, power (Power=IESD×Vhold) generated by the SCR device during ESD stress is lower than other ESD protection devices (such as diode, MOS, BJT, or field-oxide device) in CMOS technologies. Therefore, the SCR device can sustain much higher ESD stress within a smaller layout area in the CMOS IC.
FIG. 2 shows a conventional high voltage device with a parasitic SCR as ESD protection device disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,459,127. The high voltage device is also a N-type metal oxide semiconductor (MOS) transistor. A gate 110 of the NMOS is formed on a P substrate 100. An N+ region 112 is a source of the NMOS and an N well 102 a drain of the NMOS. An N+ region 106 is a contact point for the drain. The gate 110 controls the electrical connection of N+ region 112 and the N well 102. The gate 110 is coupled to a ground line or a pre-driver according to circuit requirements.
The P substrate 100 is coupled to the ground line through the P+ region 116. The N+ region 112 is coupled to the ground line. The drain is coupled to a pad through the N+ region 106. Due to low dosage concentration, the junction between the N well 102 and P substrate 100 has a very high breakdown voltage, such that high voltage signal can be input from the pad into the N well 102 and does not cause junction breakdown.
The parasitic SCR comprises a P+ region 104, the N well 102, P substrate 100, and N+ region 112. P+ region 104 is located beside N+ region 106 and beyond the gate 110. The parasitic SCR is turned on when positive ESD voltage occurs in the pad and the P substrate 100 is grounded. In FIG. 2, a discharge path A while the SCR is turned on is shown as a dotted line. The majority of the ESD current flows from the P+ region 104, the N well 102, P substrate 100, and N+ region 112 to the ground line releasing ESD stress.

Vanguard International Semiconductor Corporation


An apparatus includes a substrate having a surface and a plurality of solder balls arranged on the surface to form a ball grid array. A portion of the plurality of solder balls is arranged to have a pitch between adjacent solder balls. The adjacent solder balls having the pitch have a shape of a truncated sphere. At least one solder ball of the plurality of solder balls is included in a solder island on the surface having a shape that is different than the shape of the truncated sphere.

Field of the Disclosure
The present invention relates generally to a package including a ball grid array (BGA) or a land grid array (LGA), more specifically to a package including BGA or LGA having a modified footprint.
Background
Semiconductor chips are found in virtually every electrical product manufactured today. Chips are used not only in very sophisticated industrial and commercial electronic equipment, but also in many household and consumer items. Chips are packaged in packages, and packages are mounted on printed circuit boards (PCB) in devices such as a mobile phone or other electronic devices.
For example, an image sensor chip may be packaged in a suitable package. The package is then mounted on a PCB in a device. The device may be a mobile phone or other electronic device. The package may be mounted on the PCB by reflowing the ball grid array (BGA) at the bottom of the package on the PCB. The BGA is an array of solder balls formed at the bottom of the package. In the reflowing process, the solder balls are heated and melted, permanently forming solder joints between the package and the PCB. The reflowed BGA including the formed solder joints not only provides electrical connection between the package and the PCB, it also provides the mechanical support for holding the package to the PCB. In some occasions, an increased mechanical strength for holding the package to the PCB is desired.
Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding components throughout the several views of the drawings. Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of various embodiments of the present invention. Also, common but well-understood elements that are useful or necessary in a commercially feasible embodiment are often not depicted in order to facilitate a less obstructed view of these various embodiments of the present invention.

Ball grid array and land grid array having modified footprint


A bicycle is provided with a frame and a drive portion. The frame is at least partially hollow, and at least part of the drive portion is disposed in an interior of the frame. The drive portion includes a crank and a plurality of transmission means, in which one of the transmission means rotates another transmission means at a rotational speed higher than a rotational speed of the crank, which in turn rotates the rear wheel of the bicycle.

A. Field of the invention
The present invention relates to a bicycle, and more particularly to a drive mechanism on a bicycle for transmitting power to the rear wheel.
B. Description of the related art
In general, a bicycle includes a frame, a front fork, a steering portion, a front and rear wheel, and a drive portion for rotating the rear wheel. The drive portion includes a chain wheel and a crank rotatably supported on the frame, a sprocket mounted on the rear wheel, and a chain extending between the chain wheel and the sprocket. The number of teeth on the chain wheel is larger than that on the sprocket, thereby rotating the rear wheel faster than the chain wheel.
Because power is transmitted directly from the chain wheel to the sprocket on the rear wheel via the chain, the chain wheel must be much larger than the sprocket. However, because the rotational axis of the chain wheel and the rotational axis of the rear wheel are generally the same height above the ground, there is relatively little clearance between the ground and the bottom of the chain wheel.
In addition, on some bicycles a chain cover is mounted around the chain in order to help prevent the rider's clothes from being soiled or entangled by the drive portion. However, because the chain cover is a separate part, the number of the parts of the bicycle is increased, thus requiring addition work during assembly. In addition, a chain cover that completely surrounds the chain would further reduce the clearance between the bottom of the chain wheel and the ground.


The present invention is directed to a valve position indicator for indicating an open or closed position of a valve having a valve stem, the valve position indicator comprising a body adapted to be mounted to a subsea xmas tree structure, a traveling block movably connected to the body by at least one guide bolt, the traveling block including a threaded hole for engaging a threaded extension shaft which is coupled to the valve stem, a rigid tube connected to the body and having first and second open ends, and a coiled spring member having one end connected to the traveling block and the other end extending through the first end of the rigid tube, wherein the extension of the spring member beyond the second end by a predetermined amount provides a visual indication that the valve is in its open or closed position, whereby movement of the traveling block in response to actuation of the valve will push or pull the spring member through the tube to provide the desired visual indication.

The present invention is related to a valve position indicator for providing a visual indication of the open or closed position of a valve.
Valves are used in subsea xmas trees to control the flow of oil and gas from subsea wells. In substantial water depths, these valves are typically actuated either hydraulically from a surface vessel or directly by a remote operated vehicle (ROV). In either case, it is important for the operator to have visual confirmation that the valve is in its open or closed position to ensure that the valve is functioning properly.
In certain prior art designs, such a visual indication is provided by a "flag" which is connected through a series of linkages to a threaded drive which in turn is coupled to the valve stem. Thus, when the valve is either opened or closed, the valve moves the flag either into or out of a "window", e.g. a hole formed in the ROV panel, to provide the necessary indication of the position of the valve. However, this design is somewhat complex and consequently difficult and expensive to manufacture.


An establishment can coordinate devices (e.g., lights, speakers, displays) to enhance a game playing environment based on events detected in a network of wagering game machines. A system can be implemented that determines an environmental effect based on an event of a wagering game (e.g., a near win event), regardless of the particular wagering game developer/manufacturer. The system can then determine that the environmental effect should be modified based on current circumstances of the area to be impacted and/or the player, for example. The system modifies the environment effect as indicated for the current circumstances and causes the modified environmental effect to be produced.

Wagering game machines, such as slot machines, video poker machines and the like, have been a cornerstone of the gaming industry for several years. Generally, the popularity of such machines depends on the likelihood (or perceived likelihood) of winning money at the machine and the intrinsic entertainment value of the machine relative to other available gaming options. Where the available gaming options include a number of competing wagering game machines and the expectation of winning at each machine is roughly the same (or believed to be the same), players are likely to be attracted to the most entertaining and exciting machines. Shrewd operators consequently strive to employ the most entertaining and exciting machines, features, and enhancements available because such machines attract frequent play and hence increase profitability to the operator.
Some wagering games/machines provide entertainment by enhancing a near win experience. A wagering game machine enhances a near win experience with some audio and/or video from the wagering game machine to suggest to a player that the player came close to winning. The wagering game machine may play a particular melody that crescendos, but stops prematurely. This additional stimulation can make near wins entertaining for a player.


A method for sanitizing and disinfecting a surface using an aqueous solution of chitosan. The aqueous solution is heated to convert the aqueous solution to a steam vapor containing chitosan. The surface is treated with the steam, thereby disinfecting the surface and simultaneously depositing the chitosan from the steam onto the surface. The steam will also penetrate porous surfaces. An antimicrobial film of chitosan is thereby formed on the surface. The steam vapor sterilizes the surface and the chitosan film inhibits growth of bacteria and other microbes on the surface for several months. The steam containing the chitosan can be generated from an aqueous solution of chitosan heated in standard commercial and home-use steam generators. This chitosan vapor steam treatment of surfaces can be used on any hard surface or soft surface.

There is need to disinfect surfaces and materials within buildings and other enclosures, such as locker rooms, clubhouses, gymnasiums, equipment related to athletic activities, health care facilities, and vehicles for transportation for land, sea, and air. It is known to use steam for disinfecting surfaces. Portable steam generators are commercially available which typically work with a "wand" that allows manual application of steam directly to surfaces of floors, walls, ceilings, fixtures, furniture, equipment, and the like. Such application of steam sterilizes these surfaces but does not provide an on-going antimicrobial protection of these surfaces.
Chitosan possesses good antibacterial properties against various bacteria and fungi because of its polycationic nature. Chitosan is obtained from the shells of crabs, shrimps and other crustaceans. It is a non-toxic, biodegradable and biocompatible natural polymer, and has long been used as a biopolymer and natural material in pharmaceutical, medical, papermaking and food processing industries. Chitosan is a basic polysaccharide obtained by deacetylation of the chitin which is present in the carapace of these crustaceans. However, because of strong hydrogen bonds, chitosan itself is hardly soluble in a solvent other than an acidic aqueous solution and, even if it is made into an aqueous solution, the viscosity of the solution can become high whereby its handling is difficult. In addition, Chitosan has strong water-absorption ability due to the presence of many hydrophilic polar groups. In order to overcome these problems chitosan has been incorporated into polymeric core-shell particles dispersed in water (see U.S. Pat. No. 8,226,962). This methodology is relatively complex and appears useful only for textiles and not for all surfaces.
What is needed is an aqueous solution of chitosan or related substances that overcomes the problems of viscosity, high acidity, and water absorption and which will provide sustained antimicrobial protection to all surfaces by a simple method of application.

Method for applying a persistent antimicrobial film


In an electronic apparatus, a memory unit stores relation information to relate selectable items to be selected by a user in a layered tree structure, and a display control unit performs a first step and a second step. The first step causes a display unit to display a first window in which plural selectable items in a layer is displayed. The second step causes the display unit to display a second window in which selectable items are displayed while the plural selectable items are displayed in the first window, if one of the plural selectable items is selected in the first window; and the selectable items displayed in the second window are related with the selected selectable item and are located in a layer lower than the layer of the selected selectable item by one layer in the relation information.

1. Field of the Invention
The present disclosure relates to an electronic apparatus and an image forming apparatus.
2. Description of the Related Art
For a setting operation to cause an electronic apparatus to perform a function, for example, a known conventional technique displays a window in which a selectable item to be a setting value of the function is displayed so as to enable a user to select the selectable item for the easy setting operation. Further, another technique displays plural windows corresponding to respective layers of functions, and enables a user to perform setting operations along the order of them.
However, when the aforementioned techniques are used for a setting of a function in a deep layer, the deeper the layer is the more windows a user must operate, and therefore, the heavier burden is given to a user. Further, to redo a setting operation for a function in an upper layer, a user must perform the following operations. The user closes all windows corresponding to functions in layers lower than the upper layer, and redoes the setting operation and then redoes setting operations layer by layer in turn until a window in a layer of a user's objective function is displayed.
To reduce such a user's burden, for example, a technique groups plural working windows displayed on a screen, and closes the grouped working windows at once.
Although the aforementioned technique reduces the user's burden to close windows corresponding to functions in layers lower than the upper layer, the user must still redo setting operations from the upper layer to lower layers layer by layer.

Electronic apparatus and image forming apparatus with improved displays of different levels of menu items


A complex input/output port connecter is applied in an electronic device and electrically connected with at least an input/output module. The electrical connecter includes a frame and a plurality of signal lines. The frame accommodates at least one input/output module. The signal lines are arranged on one side of the frame in a direction perpendicular to an assembly direction of the input/output module and electrically connected with a circuit board of the electronic device. The input/output modules are installed within the frame freely according to usage requirements and electrically contact the corresponding signal lines to form an electrical connection.

1. Field of Invention
The present invention relates to an electrical connecter, and more particularly to a complex input/output port connecter.
2. Related Art
Nowadays, with the continuous and vigorous development of technologies, computer equipments have become popularized. The computer equipments currently available on the market, no matter personal computers (PC) or notebooks, must be electrically connected with a computer peripheral device, for example, a display screen, a projector, a printer, a keyboard, a mouse, a speaker, etc. through an electrical connection port, such that the peripheral device performs default functions.
A general electrical connection port is fixed on a back plate of a computer equipment and electrically connected with a motherboard, so as to achieve the electrical signal communication between the motherboard and a peripheral device electrically inserted in the connection port Conventional electrical connection ports are fixed and standard components, and cannot be replaced or added/removed by a user at will. If the types and amount of the electrical connection ports cannot meet the usage requirements, the user must have the motherboard replaced by another one that meets the usage requirements, which is an additional cost burden to the user. Besides, the discarded motherboard in good conditions for the replacement of the electrical connection ports causes a waste of resources.
A chassis of the computer with replaceable output/input modules is disclosed in the prior art. The chassis is opened with a slot on a back plate thereof and has a connecter socket on a motherboard. The output/input modules are moveably installed in the slot in conformity with the individual user's demands for choosing a desired output/input module. Manufacturers also reveal a concept of a detachable assembly structure for the input/output ports and the motherboard. First, the separate input/output ports are installed into a chassis. Then, the motherboard is fixed by breaches and barbs on edges of the chassis to achieve the electrical connection between the motherboard and the input/output ports.
In addition, another type of connection interface module is disclosed in the conventional art. The connection interface module includes a plurality of connection interfaces of different specifications and a distribution connecter. One end of the connection interfaces is provided with a joint and the other end is connected to the distribution connecter. The user may select a corresponding connection interface according to a connection terminal of the peripheral device to achieve the electrical connection.
Although the concept that the electrical connection port and the motherboard are separated is disclosed in the above examples, the electrical connection ports are still configured with a plurality of input/output modules. If one of the input/output modules does not meet the user's demands or is damaged, the whole set of electrical connection ports is still required to be replaced, which is inconvenient in actual use.


Disclosed is an improved process for the preparation of an N-protected .alpha.-L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine methyl ester from an N-protected L-aspartic anhydride and L-phenylalanine methyl ester, the improvement which comprises employing the L-phenylalanine methyl ester in the form of a mineral acid salt thereof and conducting the reaction either (a) in an organic solvent and in the presence of a salt of an organic carboxylic acid, or (b) in an organic solvent comprising an organic carboxylic acid and in the presence of at least one member of the group consisting of an alkali metal or an alkaline earth metal inorganic base, an ammonium alkali metal or alkaline earth metal salt of an organic carboxylic acid and ammonium carbonate. The starting N-protected aspartic anhydride, e.g., N-benzyloxycarbonyl-L-aspartic anhydride, can be produced by the reaction of N-protected aspartic acid with phosgene. When the N-protecting group sibenzyloxycarbonyl and the solvent is acetic acid, the desired product can be isolated from the reaction mixture in crystalline form in high purity by adding water thereto.

a) Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of an N-protected .alpha.-L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine methyl ester, which is an important intermediate compound for preparing .alpha.-L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine methyl ester, which has sweetness of good quality and a sweetness degree of about 200 times the sweetness of sucrose. Therefore, its use as a diet sweetener is continuing to expand.
In the process of this invention, the N-protected .alpha.-L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine methyl ester is prepared by the reaction of an N-protected L-aspartic anhydride with an acid addition salt of L-phenylalanine methyl ester in an organic solvent and in the presence either of a salt of an organic carboxylic acid or, when the organic solvent comprises an organic carboxylic acid, in the presence of an inorganic alkali metal or alkaline earth metal organic base, an ammonium alkali metal or alkaline earth metal salt of an organic carboxylic acid or ammonium carbonate.
The use of an acid addition salt rather than the free base form is critical for the prevention of self-cyclization reaction of the free amine in L-phenylalanine methyl ester and the ring cleaving reaction of the N-protected L-aspartic anhydride by water.
The process of the present invention lacks the disadvantages of the prior art, i.e., it avoids the production of byproducts by cyclization such as diketopiperazine compounds and it suppresses the production of .beta.-isomers, thereby improving the yield and purity of the end product. Moreover, when the reaction solvent comprises an organic carboxylic acid, the N-protected .alpha.-L-phenylalanine methyl ester can be selectively crystallized from the reaction mixture.
b) Description of the Prior Art
.alpha.-L-Aspartyl-L-phenylalanine methyl ester is a dipeptide compound composed of L-aspartic acid and L-phenylalanine methyl ester. Various methods have already been disclosed for the preparation of this compound and these methods are primarily chemical processes.
An N-protected L-aspartic anhydride is generally employed for the starting material. For example, in one known process, N-protected L-aspartic anhydride is subjected to a condensation reaction with L-phenylalanine methyl ester in an organic solvent and subsequently cleaving the protective group with a usual method to obtain .alpha.-L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine methyl ester (U.S. Pat. No. 3,786,039).
In other processes, L-phenylalanine methyl ester is reacted with N-protected L-aspartic anhydride in an inert reaction medium. In accordance with the process of G.B. Application 708463, an ethyl acetate solution of N-benzyloxycarbonyl-L-aspartic anhydride and an ethyl acetate solution of L-phenylalanine methyl ester hydrochloride are mixed. A 1N aqueous sodium carbonate solution is added to the mixture to initiate the reaction by neutralizing the L-phenylalanine methyl ester hydrochloride salt.
In U.S. Pat. No. 4,824,994, L-phenylalanine methyl ester is reacted in a non-reactive solvent, e.g., toluene or toluene plus acetic acid, with N-carbobenzoxy-L-aspartic anhydride.
In a known process which does not use L-phenylalanine methyl ester, N-formyl-L-aspartic anhydride is subjected to a condensation reaction with L-phenylalanine in acetic acid and then the formyl group is removed in the presence of an aqueous hydrogen halide solution. The reaction product is subsequently esterified by treating with water, alcohol and the aqueous hydrogen halide solution, and .alpha.-L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine methyl ester is isolated in the form of its hydrogen halide salt (U.S. Pat. No. 3,933,781).
A process for reacting N-benzyloxycarbonyl-L-aspartic anhydride with L-phenylalanine methyl ester in an inert organic solvent by reaction of the hydrochloride salt with a base is also known (Dahlmans et al., U.S. Pat. No. 3,808,190). For example, N-benzyloxycarbonyl-L-aspartic anhydride and L-phenyl-alanine methyl ester hydrochloride are dissolved in ethyl acetate and then an aqueous sodium carbonate or potassium carbonate solution is added to the resultant solution, which converts the hydrochloride acid addition salt of the L-phenyl-alanine methyl ester in situ into its free base form as evidenced by the disclosure in Dahlmans et al. at col. 2, lines 17-19, which states that the amount of base added is at least equivalent to the amount of the amino acid ester addition salt.
By adding a base at least equivalent to the amount of amino acid ester, the amino acid methyl ester acid addition salt is converted to its free base form, which is unstable and self-condensates to form a diketopiperidine. In fact, Dahlmans et al. disclose at col. 3, lines 13-15:
"the use of an aqueous solution of the base in the reaction of the present invention results in some racemization of the aspartyl-amino acid esters produced."
In contrast, the present invention is directed to the reaction of N-protected L-aspartic anhydride with a mineral acid addition salt of L-phenylalanine methyl ester and does not occur via the unstable free base form of L-phenylalanine methyl ester.
The reaction system of Dahlmans et al. contains an inert solvent, base and water. Although the inert solvent does not react with the reactants (see col. 4, lines 18-25), the base does and the adverse effect of using the free base form of the amino acid methyl ester inevitably occurs. In contrast, the reaction system of the present invention employs the stable form (acid addition salt) of the amino acid methyl ester. When the reaction of this invention is conducted in the presence of a base, the reaction solvent also includes an organic carboxylic acid, which is not merely an inert solvent because it prevents the formation of the unstable free base form of the amino acid methyl ester. Furthermore, no water is employed in applicants' reaction system, in contradistinction to Dahlmans et al. (col. 2, lines 22-24).
Takahashi et al. (U.S. Pat. No. 4,824,994) is directed to the production of N-carbobenzoxy alpha-L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine methyl ester by reacting N-carbobenzoxy L-aspartic anhydride with L-phenylalanine methyl ester in its unstable free base form. The distinguishing feature of that process is the particle diameter of N-carbobenzoxy L-aspartic anhydride which has a particle diameter of not more than 130 .mu.m. Takahashi et al. discovered that the smaller the particle diameter, the higher the ratio of the .alpha. to .beta. isomers of N-carbobenzoxy alpha-L-aspartyl-L-phenyl-alanine methyl ester which is produced.
Takahashi et al. disclose at col. 2, lines 49-52, that the solvent is used merely for suspending the reactants. Although acetic acid is disclosed as an illustration of such an inert solvent, the acetic acid in Takahashi et al. is used merely as a suspending agent. Thus, as in Dahlmans et al., the amino acid ester is used in Takahashi et al. in a free base form, which is unstable under conventional conditions and which results in less than optimum yield and purity of the desired product.
Tertiary amines are also used in U.S. Pat. No. 3,808,190 as a base for promoting the reaction, in which case the reaction is carried out in the organic solvent by neutralizing the hydrochloride salt of L-phenylalanine methyl ester with an aqueous alkali solution. The inevitable disadvantage is that the ester group of L-phenylalanine methyl ester is hydrolyzed by the aqueous alkali solution, diketopiperazine compounds are formed as by-products by cyclization under alkaline conditions or basic conditions due to tertiary amines, in particular, and water causes ring-cleavage reaction of N-protected L-aspartic anhydride.
On the other hand, a process for conducting the reaction of N-formyl-L-aspartic anhydride with L-phenylalanine methyl ester in a solvent in the presence of acetic acid or formic acid is also known (EP 227301).
In U.S. Pat. No. 4,680,403, N-benzyloxycarbonyl-L-aspartic acid is converted to its anhydride in toluene with acetic anhydride and then reacted with L-phenylalanine methyl ester by the addition of a toluene solution thereof.
The L-phenylalanine methyl ester used as a raw material in these processes is usually obtained by reacting L-phenylalanine with methanol and a mineral acid such as hydrogen chloride, followed by neutralizing the resultant mineral acid salt of L-phenylalanine methyl ester.
However, the free amine form of L-phenylalanine methyl ester is thermally unstable and readily dimerized into diketopiperazine derivatives under conditions around neutrality, in particular, where neutralization and extraction operations are carried out. Additional limitations are placed on the yields of neutralization and extraction, and hence there is a disadvantage that the overall yield decreases on the basis of expensive L-phenylalanine.

Preparation of N-protected .alpha.-L-aspartyl-L-phenylalanine methyl ester


A multi-tiered process automation system employing a novel property attachment mechanism is described. For example, a computer-implemented method according to one embodiment of the invention comprises: providing one or more project objects, procedure objects, and step objects; generating attachment data attaching a plurality of properties to the project objects, procedure objects, and step objects, each of the properties having a value associated therewith, wherein at least some of the properties are generated and attached to the project objects, procedure objects, and step objects at runtime, during execution of the project objects, procedure objects, and step objects, respectively; storing the attached properties with the associated values and attachment data; receiving a request to execute one or more of the objects; interpreting the attachment data to identify the properties attached to each of the one or more objects; and executing the one or more of the objects within the process automation system using the values associated with the one or more properties.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to the field of computer aided software engineering. More particularly, the invention relates to managing distributed processes in a process automation system.
2. Description of the Related Art
Process automation systems are used to perform a variety of computerized tasks. By way of example, software developers use process automation systems to build, test and package software applications. Within this context, the functions performed by these systems may include managing source code; building executable files; executing tests on the software builds; collecting and analyzing diagnostic information related to the builds; and generating detailed reports.
Given the size and complexity of many software projects, "distributed" process automation systems have been developed in which multiple independent jobs are executed concurrently on a set of shared resources (e.g., computer systems). FIG. 1 illustrates one such system developed by BuildForge, Inc. (recently acquired by International Business Machines, Inc). In this system, multiple jobs 101-103 are executed concurrently in response to commands from a Web server 100. A central database 110 enables communication between the jobs 101-103 and allocates resources to each of the jobs upon request. For example, when a job requires access to a particular resource, it opens a connection to the database 110 and executes a query to determine if that resource is available. If the resource is not available, the job waits for a period of time and then checks the database 110 again. Once the resource becomes available, it is allocated to the job and the information needed to complete the job (e.g., source files, environmental variables, etc) is retrieved from the database. The database is then updated to reflect the allocation of the resource to the new job.

Process automation system and method having a hierarchical architecture with multiple tiers


A device to deter an animal from resting on furniture having a seating area comprises one or more sections of a rigid half-tubular form to be placed on the seating area, backrest, arm, and/or side of the furniture wherein the sections have a combined length to span approximately a width of the seating area, backrest, arm, or side. The half-tubular form can have the shape of an inverted half-cylindrical shape, a rectangular shape, a triangular shape, or a non-uniform relief shape wherein flat edges of the form are placed on the seating area, backrest, arm, or side of the furniture.

Pet owners often have difficulty in keeping companion animals, such as dogs or cats, from lying on furniture. The result is soiling furniture with shed fur, skin oil, dirt, discoloring, insects, bodily fluids, and general damage and premature wear. Traditional methods for blocking access to furniture include such things as placing obstructions such as boxes and other miscellaneous items including chairs on the furniture to keep pets off. Additionally, electronic devices such as motion-activated deterrents, voice, electrical stimulation, noise, including ultrasonics, and so on, have been attempted. Physical barriers, blankets, pads, and mylar sheeting have been used. Most if not all of these methods fail. The animal either moves the obstruction rather easily or gets used to the attempted deterrent.
U.S. Patent Application 2005/0098273 (DeBoard) and U.S. Pat. No. 8,245,668 (Alberti et al), U.S. Pat. No. 6,095,091 (Byrne), and U.S. Pat. No. 5,702,791 (Zegeer) show various barriers to place on furniture.

Device for deterring animals from resting on furniture


The present disclosure relates to a vacuum dewatering apparatus comprising a vacuum box disposed opposite of a steam box where the steam box comprises a bottom plate having a substantially linear portion and a curvilinear portion. A plurality of apertures are disposed along at least a portion of the curvilinear portion to permit the transmission of steam. In a preferred embodiment, the curvilinear portion is adjacent to the trailing edge and the linear portion is adjacent to the leading edge of the apertured bottom plate. Further, at least a portion of the apertures are aligned opposite the vacuum box which acts to remove the steam. The vacuum dewatering apparatus of the present invention enables the use of high levels of steam improving vacuum dewatering and improving drying efficiency.

Steam boxes are commonly used in the manufacture of paper products to improve dewatering of fibrous webs at various locations on the paper machine. Steam boxes may be used to improve dewatering by impinging steam onto the fibrous web as it is conveyed through the papermaking process while simultaneously subjecting the web to a vacuum. The increase in temperature caused by the steam reduces the viscosity and surface tension of the water within the web, resulting in more efficient removal by the vacuum.
To facilitate removal of water from the fibrous web the steam box may be installed in the wire section of the paper machine after formation of the fibrous web, in which case the steam box may be used to increase the temperature of the fibrous web to drain the warmed water more easily and thus increase the dry content and improve the drying capacity of the dryer section. By means of steam boxes it is, for instance, possible to increase the capacity of the paper machine.
The use of a conventional steam box with a vacuum dewatering system to improve paper machine capacity however, has its limitations. For example, when the steam flow to individual compartments of a compartmental steam box is reduced below the fixed local volumetric rate of the vacuum system the system will make up flow from adjacent compartments or air outside the hood. The result is reduced moisture uniformity across the fibrous web and a reduced control of dewatering. Another disadvantage of conventional steam boxes is that the amount of steam condensed in the web is largely dependent upon the porosity of the sheet and the capacity of vacuum available. If the steam flow is increased to a point where either of these limitations is exceeded, excess steam will blow out into the machine room. This problem becomes evident when the known compartmented hoods attempt to cope with wet streaks.
Thus there remains a need in the art for an improved steam box design which provides for increased condensation of steam in the web and improved dewatering.

Fibrous web dewatering apparatus and method


The disclosure relates to a preferred application for the treatment of stored, waste or filtered water by the transfer of an oxidizing gas into this water. In this case, it has the functions of a turbojet with mass transfer. The installation is constituted by a vessel comprising two concentric parallel chambers communicating with each other at least by their ends,. and the central chamber is provided, firstly, at least with two turbines arranged in stages, the rotational axis of which is the same as the axis of symmetry of the installation and, secondly, structures forming counter-blades placed in an alternating position with the turbines.

1. Field of the Invention
The field of the invention is that of installations for the mixing of fluids by means of a system for the stirring of the mixture. More particularly, the installation of the invention is designed for the mixing of a liquid phase with a gas phase, enabling the contact between the two phases to be optimized.
The invention is applicable preferably to the treatment of stored, waste or filtered water by the transfer of an oxidizing gas into this water. In this case, it displays the functions of a turbojet with mass transfer.
However, those skilled in the art could envisage its use for the treatment of other liquids or, again, for other mixtures of liquids.
2. Description of the Prior Art
The following are the main aims, in the light of prevailing standards, in the treatment of water with a view to the distribution of water for consumption:
the elimination of suspended matter; PA1 the elimination of organic matter; PA1 the elimination of troublesome ions; PA1 sterilization. PA1 firstly, at least with two turbines arranged in stages, the rotational axis of which is the same as the axis of symmetry of the installation; and PA1 secondly, with structures forming counter-blades placed in an alternating position with the turbines. PA1 said fluid mixture is placed under pressure in the vessel, the treatment fluid being introduced by means of a pressure-reducing device such as a hydro-injector or a liquid jet vacuum pump and/or a compression device such as a pump, compressor or water ring pump; PA1 said vessel is at least partially immersed in a reservoir of liquid to be treated, so as to subject it, continuously or cyclically, to a partial treatment; PA1 at least two vessels according to the invention are associated so as to work in parallel or in series.
The standard treatment system most frequently comprises a succession of physical/chemical steps of the coagulation-flocculation-decantation-filtration type.
After the filtration operation, it is known that water should then be rid of pathogenic micro-organisms by means of oxidizing agents (ozone, chlorine etc.) or radiation (UV radiation) or again by a refining treatment using active coal in granular or powder form (the elimination of micropollutants, heavy trace metals, and unwholesome flavors or odors).
The use of ozone is recognized as being efficient not only in bactericidal and virulicidal conditions, but also in combined steps of treatment by ozonation-coagulation, ozonation-flottation, ozonation-adsorption on filtering media (with the possibility of biological activity on the filter), without overlooking the more standard applications such as iron extraction and demanganizing or the elimination of flavors and odors. Finally, it is known that ozone has an oxidizing effect on a number of micropollutants (phenols, certain detergents etc.): see B. Langlais, Nouveau developpement de l'ozonation en eau potable et technologie appropriee (New Development of Ozonation in Potable Water and Appropriate Technology) in L'eau, l'industrie, les nuisances (Water, Industry, Nuisance), No. 109, April 1987, pp. 28 to 30.
There are several known types of mixers used in water treatment systems. These mixers may be constituted by injection systems (porous membranes, depression-creating diffusers, emulsifying machines also known as liquid jet vacuum pumps or hydro-injectors), static mixers or dynamic mixers (for example with driven turbine or stirrers).
These known mixers are generally located upstream from the contact vessels (also known as contactors) designed as to keep the oxidizing gas in contact, for a predetermined time, with the flow of liquid to be treated.
Thus, for example, the French patent application No. 90 06969 dated May 31, 1990, filed on behalf of the present applicant, describes an installation comprising, for example, successively a transfer machine for the addition of the treatment gas to the liquid to be treated, a module for the enforced dissolving of the treatment gas in the liquid and a contactor module. The enforced dissolving module described in this document is constituted by a recirculator device constituted by a vessel comprising a first central chamber forming a gas exhaust conduit and a second annular recirculation chamber coaxial to the exhaust conduit. The two chambers are separated by a wall and communicate with each other at their lower and upper parts so as to enable the recirculation of the treatment medium by cyclical passage from one to the other.

Installation for the mixing of two fluid phases by mechanical stirring, notably for the treatment of water by transfer of oxidizing gas, and use of such an installation


A showerhead assembly with a plurality of speakers is disclosed. The illustrative showerhead assembly includes a showerhead to exert fluid, a support structure to transport the fluid to the showerhead, and a plurality of speakers to exert sound with a consistent directionality. The showerhead assembly illustratively includes a dome housing having an inner wall and an outer rim, a showerhead to exert fluid, a support structure extending from a center of the housing such that the support structure has a first end attachable to a wall or ceiling and a second end distal from the first end and the support structure transports the fluid to the showerhead, and a plurality of speakers disposed on the support structure such that the speakers are directed toward the inner wall of the housing and the speakers generate and exert sound with a consistent directionality.

The present disclosure relates generally to audio systems, especially to audio systems designed for use in a shower.
Some people enjoy listening to music while taking a shower, but the shower room or bathroom is designed such that sound from an audio speaker placed anywhere in the room may cause unwanted echoes and reverberations due to the floor and walls reflecting soundwaves with minimal absorption. Also, the white noise caused by the water adds to the unwanted noises that echo within the room, so the common way to improve the audibility of the music is to increase its volume, which may be not only disturbing to those outside the bathroom but also too loud for the comfort of the listener inside the shower. As such, there is a need for an improved audio system within the bathroom that causes minimal echoes and reverberations and allows the user to comfortably enjoy music better while taking the shower.
Various illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a showerhead assembly including a showerhead configured to discharge fluid, a support structure configured to transport the fluid to the showerhead, and a plurality of speakers configured to exert sound with a consistent directionality. In one embodiment, the showerhead assembly includes a dome housing having an inner wall and an outer rim, a showerhead configured to discharge fluid, a support structure extending from a center of the housing such that the support structure has a first end attachable to a wall or ceiling and a second end distal from the first end and the support structure transports the fluid to the showerhead, and a plurality of speakers disposed on the support structure such that the speakers are directed toward the inner wall of the housing and the speakers generate and exert sound with a consistent directionality.
In one illustrative embodiment, the dome housing is a paraboloid. In another illustrative embodiment, the speakers are configured such that a source of the sound is located at a focal point of the paraboloid. In one illustrative embodiment, the sound is exerted such that waves of the sound travel parallel to each other. In another illustrative embodiment, the plurality of speakers have noise-cancelling capability. In one illustrative embodiment, the showerhead is disposed on the second end of the support structure. In another illustrative embodiment, the showerhead is disposed on the outer rim of the housing. In one illustrative embodiment, the showerhead assembly includes at least one additional showerhead disposed on the outer rim of the housing such that the at least one additional showerhead discharges the fluid. In one illustrative embodiment, the showerhead assembly further includes a hydrogenerator disposed on the support structure such that the hydrogenerator receives at least a portion of the fluid transported by the support structure to generate energy to power the plurality of speakers.
Also disclosed herein are various illustrative embodiments related to a showerhead which includes a support structure having a first end attachable to a wall or ceiling and a second end distal from the first end such that the support structure transports fluid, a nozzle attached to the second end of the support structure and configured to receive the fluid, and a plurality of speakers disposed in the nozzle, the speakers configured to generate and exert sound with a consistent directionality. The nozzle has a surface with a first region and a second region, the first region comprised of at least one sound opening configured to exert sound generated by the speakers, the second region comprised of at least one fluid opening configured to exert the fluid transported by the support structure, and the first and second regions configured such that the sound and the fluid are exerted from the showerhead with a consistent directionality.
In one illustrative embodiment, the first region is surrounded by the second region. In another illustrative embodiment, the second region is surrounded by the first region. In yet another illustrative embodiment, the first and second regions are interspersed. In an additional embodiment, the sound and fluid are exerted such that the sound and the fluid travel parallel to each other.
While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which shows and describes illustrative embodiments of the disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.
While the present disclosure is amenable to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been shown by way of example in the drawings and are described in detail below. The intention, however, is not to limit the present disclosure to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the present disclosure is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.


The invention relates to a method for producing tamper-proof identification elements, and to tamper-proof identification elements produced according to said method and consisting respectively of at least one layer (2) reflecting electromagnetic waves (3), a spacer layer, and a layer consisting of metallic clusters (4). According to said method, a partial or all-over layer reflecting electromagnetic waves is applied to a carrier substrate (1), followed by at least one partial and/or all-over polymer layer having a defined thickness (3), and a layer consisting of metallic clusters which is produced by means of a method using vacuum technology or from systems based on solvents is then applied to said spacer layer(s).

(1) Field of the Invention
The invention relates to a method for the production of antifalsification identification elements having a color tilting effect caused by metallic clusters separated from a mirror layer across a defined transparent layer.
(2) Description of Related Art
WO 02/18155 discloses a method for the antifalsification marking of objects, the object being provided with a marking comprised of a first layer reflecting electromagnetic waves, onto which an inert layer, transparent to electromagnetic waves, of defined thickness is applied, and this inert layer is succeeded by a third layer formed of metallic clusters.

Method for producing tamper-proof identification elements