A system and method for differential traction drive and steering axis coordination for an autonomous mower or other turf device includes initiating a steering motion based on determining a target forward speed and a steering rotational speed, calculating a left wheel speed and a right wheel speed, and applying the left and right wheel speeds, wherein the steering rotational speed is driven by a steering motor and the traction wheels associated with the autonomous mower, and the left and right wheel speeds are based on the target forward speed, a distance from a steering axle to the center of the respective wheel, and the steering rotational speed.

Traditional commercial reel mowers, such as triplex and five-plex mowers, include fixed mounting cutting heads in front of the mower. The steering mechanism is controlled by a steered caster type wheel in the back of the mower. This design allows the cutting unit to cut the grass before the traction wheels run over and compact the grass.
Similar designs have been applied to robotic reel mowers, that is, the steering is controlled by a steering motor on top of a steering axle. However, problems occur when the robotic mower encounters and attempts to steer over obstructions such as an irrigation system pod hole, or a sprinkler head. In that scenario, the steering motor outputs a higher than normal torque to achieve the steering motion. The major reason is due to the traction wheel (or drum) which often sinks into the pod or hole, and the steering motor is the major force to steer the wheel out of the pod. At times it is required to lift the robot's weight to escape the pod. This can cause difficulties, for example, a steering fault, or steering stall, due to motor over-current, and the steering motor is stopped, and ceases to steer the wheel.
Traditional reel mowers utilize a steered caster wheel with steering axle control. The caster wheel is for steering purposes only, and does not provide any traction force to move the turf device forward. The traction force, or the force used to generate motion between the turf device and a tangential surface (e.g., the ground), is carried out by front and/or rear traction wheels. Some mowers include two steering wheels, but they are not coordinated to assist the steering while the turf device is mowing.
The limitation of traditional systems, without differential design (i.e. designs using a single motor and a transaxle), is that a device would easily get stuck in these types of scenarios. Previous attempts to solve this problem include an additional mechanism for providing a differential lock. This could be part of the transaxle (adding cost), or it could be external, which adds complexity and creates reliability issues.
Thus, there remains a need for robust, continuous steering operation for devices having traction wheels and steering wheel mechanisms, or similar locomotion designs.

Differential traction drive and steering axis coordination system and method


A preparing apparatus of an NC machining program prepares an NC machining program including a position instruction of a cutting portion of a rotary tool on the basis of a two-dimensional workpiece coordinate system having a Z-axis and an X-axis as coordinate axes. An operator inputs a lead clearance α and a radial clearance β to the preparing apparatus via an input operation section. A processing section converts the NC machining program prepared on the basis of the two-dimensional workpiece coordinate system into an NC machining program including a position instruction of a three-dimensional workpiece coordinate system having the X-axis, a Y-axis and the Z-axis as the coordinate axes, on the basis of the lead clearance α and the radial clearance β.

The present invention relates to a method for preparing an NC machining program and an apparatus for preparing an NC machining program.
Conventionally, there has been known an NC machining apparatus for executing a cutting process of a workpiece made of a difficult-to-machine material such as a heat-resistant alloy or the like. As the NC machining apparatus, for example, a description will be given of a case that a workpiece made of the heat resistant alloy is processed by using an NC lathe. At a time of describing the process of the workpiece, X-axis, Z-axis and Z-axis directions are defined respectively as shown in FIGS. 6 to 8.
As shown in FIG. 6, in the case of cutting a workpiece W by using a normal bite 50, since thermal conductivity of the bite 50 is low, heat is not transmitted to the workpiece W from the bite 50, and the heat tends to be accumulated in the bite 50. Accordingly, the structure is made such as to make a rotating speed of the workpiece W lower so as to cut the workpiece W (hereinafter, refer to as a prior art 1).
In accordance with the prior art 1, a cut portion of the bite 50 tends to be exposed to a boundary damage as the bite 50 generates heat. Accordingly, a machining efficiency is low, and a service life of the bite 50 is short. Further, since a part of a rotating force is applied to the bite 50 at a time when the workpiece W is rotated, the bite 50 is bent and the cutting process is not stable.
Further, as shown in FIG. 7, there is a method of cutting the workpiece W by using an end mill 60 (hereinafter, refer to as a prior art 2). In accordance with the prior art 2, it is possible to suppress the heat generated at a time of cutting. However, a profile irregularity of the processed surface of the workpiece W is low, and a machining efficiency is low.
Further, in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 10-118803, there is proposed a method of cutting a workpiece W by using a rotary bite. In this case, since a tip of the rotary bite is exposed to a cutting load, the position of the rotary bite is continuously changed. Accordingly, a rotating speed of the rotary bite is determined in correspondence to the cutting load (hereinafter, refer to as a prior art 3). In accordance with the prior art 3, a generation of the boundary damage is suppressed. However, since the rotating speed of the rotary bite is determined in correspondence to the cutting load, it is impossible to obtain a high machining efficiency.
In recent years, as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, there has been proposed a technique of fixing a circular tip 140 to a distal end of a rotary tool 120, and cutting a workpiece W by the circular tip 140. In this case, a tool holding portion 150 is provided in a bite holder (not shown), and the rotary tool 120 is attached to the tool holding portion 150. The bite holder can turn around a B-axis which is in parallel to the Y-axis, and can reciprocate in the X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis directions. The rotary tool 120 is constituted by a tool main body 130 and a circular tip 140. The tool main body 130 is attached to the tool holding portion 150, and the tip 140 is fastened at a center in a distal end of the tool main body 130 by a bolt 132.
(Lead Clearance α)
As shown in FIG. 8A, the circular tip 140 is inclined in the direction of the Z-axis from a standard position shown by straight line L1, specifically, a feeding direction of the circular tip 140. The lead clearance α can be expressed as an angle formed by the straight line L1 and an axis of the circular tip 140.
A description will be given of a reason for setting the lead clearance α with reference to FIG. 10. In FIG. 10, reference symbol C denotes a rotating direction of the workpiece W. In the case that the lead clearance α is 0 degree, the rotary tool 120 tends to be bent at a time of cutting the workpiece W. Accordingly, the cutting of the workpiece becomes unstable, and a profile irregularity of the processed surface is lowered.
Accordingly, when the circular tip 140 is moved in the direction of the Z-axis at a time of cutting the workpiece W, the circular tip 140 is inclined at the lead clearance α (refer to FIG. 8). In this case, an auxiliary component force Fb is applied to the circular tip 140 in the feeding direction of the circular tip 140, and a main component force Fb is applied thereto in a direction orthogonal to the feeding direction. Further, the rotary tool 120 is hard to be bent by applying a combined force F of the respective component forces Fa and Fb in the same direction as the axis of the circular tip 140. Accordingly, a vibration of the rotary tool 120 is suppressed, a service life of the tool becomes longer, and the profile irregularity of the processed surface is improved.
Further, in the case of cutting the workpiece W having a large diameter by setting the lead clearance α to 0 degree, it is necessary to enlarge a protruding amount of the tool from the bite holder so as to avoid interference between the tool and the bite holder. However, in this case, the rigidity of the tool is lowered. Accordingly, if the lead clearance α is set to an angle other than 0 degrees, it is possible to make the protruding amount of the tool small, and it is possible to make the rigidity of the tool higher.
(Radial Clearance β)
As shown in FIG. 8B, the circular tip 140 is arranged in an upper side of center line O of the workpiece W. The radial clearance β is expressed as an angle (a cutting angle) formed by a cutting surface M including center line O of the workpiece W and a cutting portion 140a of the circular tip 140 and the Y-axis. Stated another way, and also as shown in FIG. 8B, the cutting surface M can represent a line M from the center line O of the workpiece W to a point of contact of the rotating tool 120 against the workpiece W during the cutting operation. The radial clearance β is the angle between the line M and the Y-axis.
A description will be given of a reason for setting the radial clearance β with reference to FIG. 9. In the case that the radial clearance β is 0 degrees, a flank 142 of the circular tip 140 is undesirably brought into contact with the workpiece W so as to wear.
Accordingly, a clearance is secured between the flank 142 of the circular tip 140 and the workpiece W by setting the radial clearance β at a time of cutting the workpiece W. Therefore, an abrasion loss of the flank 142 of the circular tip 140 is reduced, and a service life of the tool is elongated.
Further, the abrasion loss of the flank is reduced even in a negative tip, in which a relief angle of a cutting edge is 0 degrees, by changing the radial clearance β so as to adjust an amount of the clearance between the circular tip 140 and the workpiece W. Further, in the case that a movable distance in the direction of the Y-axis of the circular tip 140 is small, at a time of cutting a workpiece W having a large diameter, it is preferable to enlarge the radial clearance β.
As mentioned above, the abrasion loss of the circular tip 140 is reduced by adjusting the lead clearance α and the radial clearance β so as to cut a workpiece W, and the profile irregularity of the processed surface is improved.
In accordance with the prior arts 1 to 3, the NC machining program is prepared in such a manner that the rotary tool moves in the direction of the X-axis and the direction of the Z-axis. In this case, since a coordinate position of the rotary tool is expressed only by an X-Z two-dimensional coordinate, it is possible to easily prepare the NC machining program.
However, as shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, in the case that a workpiece W is cut by using the circular tip 140, it is necessary that the coordinate position of the tool is expressed by an X-Y-Z three-dimensional coordinate. In this case, a structure of the program becomes complicated, and it is impossible to easily prepare the NC machining program.

Method for preparing NC machining program and apparatus for preparing NC machining program


In a process for heating, e.g., a semiconductor wafer within a processing chamber, the wafer is exposed to a flux of electromagnetic radiation from lamps energized by alternating electric current. The surface temperature of the wafer is measured, and responsively, the radiation flux is controlled. The temperature measurement procedure includes collecting radiation propagating away from the wafer in a first light-pipe probe, collecting radiation propagating toward the wafer in a second light-pipe probe and detecting radiation collected in the respective probes. This procedure further involves determining, in the signal received from each probe, a magnitude of a time-varying component resulting from time-variations of the energizing current, and combining at least these magnitude according to a mathematical expression from which the temperature can be inferred. At least some of the radiation collected by the second probe is collected after reflection from a diffusely reflecting surface. The second probe effectively samples this radiation from an area of the diffusely reflecting surface that subtends a solid angle .OMEGA..sub.2 at the wafer surface. The first probe effectively samples radiation from an area of the wafer that subtends a solid angle .OMEGA..sub.1 at the first probe. The radiation sampling is carried out such that .OMEGA..sub.2 is at least about .OMEGA..sub.1.

In rapid thermal processing (RTP), workpieces such as semiconductor wafers can be subjected to specified temperature cycles of arbitrary complexity. For this reason, RTP is useful for carrying out thermally dependent processes, such as diffusion and annealing, int he course of manufacturing integrated circuits. However, some of these processes require the temperature to be controlled within limits as small as .+-.10.degree. C. or less. Such fine control is possible only if the wafer temperature can be measured to precision that is comparably high. Although thermocouples installed directly on the wafers will give precise temperature measurements, the instrumented wafers will generally be unsuitable for forming into integrated circuits. If thermocouples are installed on only a few wafers in each batch, individual variations between wafers and between locations within the RTP reactor may cause unacceptable deviations between the actual and inferred temperatures of the non-instrumented wafers.
Optical pyrometry is a useful alternative to direct instrumentation of the wafers within the reactor. One pyrometric technique has been described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,154,512, issued to C. W. Schietinger et al. on Oct. 13, 1992. This technique is schematically illustrated in FIG. 1. According to this technique, a first light-pipe probe 10 is provided having an input aperture that faces wafer 20, and a second probe 30 is provided having an aperture that faces one of opposing lamp banks 40, which are typically linear arrays of quartz-tungsten-iodine lamps situated outside of processing chamber 50. First probe 10 samples radiation emitted and reflected by the wafer and directs the sampled radiation into detector 60. Second probe 30 samples radiation emitted by the lamps and directs the sampled radiation into the detector. Probe 30 receives radiation both in a direct path from the lamps and also by reflection from reflector 80. The emissivity .epsilon. of the wafer is inferred from the probe signals, and then the wafer temperature is inferred from the Planck radiation law, which relates the wafer thermal emittance w, the wafer emissivity .epsilon., and the wafer temperature T.
As noted, the first probe signal is a sum of emitted and reflected radiation. Information sufficient to resolve the emitted and reflected components is available because the emission from the lamps, which are driven by alternating current, has an ac component, referred to as "ripple." Because the thermal emission from the wafer has no significant ac component, the wafer reflectivity is estimated as the ratio of the ripple amplitudes in the first and second probe signals, respectively. After this reflectivity has been evaluated, the first probe signal is corrected to yield a resolved value of the wafer thermal emittance.
Although useful, this technique fails to take into account several potentially significant sources of systematic error. One such error involves the determination of water reflectivity. The theoretical temperature computation implicitly assumes that this reflectivity is the hemispherical reflectivity of the wafer. However, the reflectivity actually measured can diverge significantly from the hemispherical reflectivity, because both probes sample the radiation field from a relatively small area.
That is, an excellent approximation to hemispherical reflectivity could be provided if: probe 10 were to sample wafer reflections from a relatively small area of the wafer, probe 30 were to sample the lamp radiation over a hemispherical volume (i.e., over a solid angle approaching 2.pi. steradians), and local fluctuations in lamp output and wafer reflectivity could be neglected. The second of these conditions is not fully satisfied, because most of the radiation collected by probe 30 enters the probe through end surface 90, which is typically a flat surface. As a consequence, probe 30 will typically collect radiation only over a view angle of 90.degree. or less. This will generally lead to a significant divergence between the measured reflectivity and the hemispherical reflectivity.
Another potential systematic error involves local fluctuations in lamp output. Because, as noted, the second probe samples only a relatively small area, it may be ineffective for averaging these fluctuations.
Thus, practitioners in the field have hitherto failed to provide a pyrometric technique so robust again potential sources of systematic error that temperature measurements of .+-.10.degree. C. accuracy or better can be made routinely at typical processing temperatures.

Semiconductor processing technique, including pyrometric measurement of radiantly heated bodies


An illumination system employing an elongated waveguide having a non-round transversal cross-section and having at least a portion of its surface shaped in the form of a linear collimating element. The waveguide further employs at least one array of light extracting features distributed along a longitudinal axis of the waveguide and disposed in the focal area of the respective linear collimating element. Each light extracting feature has an active aperture which is substantially less than the light receiving aperture of the linear collimating element and is configured to redirect light propagating in the waveguide generally towards a normal direction with respect to the longitudinal axis of the waveguide. Light rays redirected by the light extracting features are further collimated by the linear collimating element and exit from the waveguide in the form of a directional beam.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to light emitting waveguides such light pipes, optical fibers or planar waveguides provided with a series of optical elements distributed along the optical path to provide for a controlled illumination pattern. This invention also relates to optical illuminators and light distribution systems employing such waveguides, for example, side-emitting optical fibers, panel luminaires, edge-lit LED backlights and lighting panels, LCD display backlights, computer screens, advertising displays, road signs, and the like, as well as to a method for redistributing light from a variety of light sources.
2. Description of Background Art
Conventionally, illumination systems incorporating optical waveguides use the Total Internal Reflection (TIR) as the means for light propagation through the waveguide which is usually made from a transparent dielectric material. The waveguides comprise a core, commonly of an inorganic glass or polymeric plastic material, which can be surrounded by air in which case the light propagation by means of TIR can occur for the broadest range of propagation angles for a given core material. Alternatively, the waveguide may further incorporate a cladding layer that has a lower refractive index than the waveguide material in order to maintain the TIR properties for the core. This provides protection of the core from the environment, but also usually narrows the range of propagation angles compared to the optical interface formed by the waveguide's core with air.
The side-emitting optical fibers are usually illuminated from one or both terminal ends and have a series of some sort of light reflecting or scattering elements distributed along the fiber and causing portions of the light propagating in the fiber to leak outside at the controlled locations so that the light can be uniformly emitted along the entire length of the fiber.
The planar waveguides of edge-lit backlighting panels and luminaires can be illuminated from one or up to four its edges, which is conventionally done using individual LED's or LED strips. The light reflective or scattering elements are usually distributed along the planar surface opposite to the light emitting surface according to a predefined pattern in order to obtain a uniform surface brightness.
However, these prior art devices usually lack the collimating ability as the light outcoupled from the waveguide by the reflectors or scattering elements emerges from the waveguide highly divergent. This divergence is defined by the multitude of light propagation angles in the waveguide and by the properties of the reflectors. In many applications, however, an improved collimation can be required, for example, in order to increase the lighting panel luminosity toward a given direction or improve the irradiance intensity on an object that the waveguide-based backlight is illuminating.
It is therefore an object of this invention to provide an improved illumination system employing a waveguide structure with efficient light outcoupling and collimation that would enhance the energy efficiency and the utility of the device. The present invention solves the above problems by providing a portion of the waveguide that is shaped in the form of a linear collimating lens or a plurality of parallel collimating lens and by further providing a string of light-outcoupling optical reflectors disposed in proximity of the focal line of the collimating lens. As each reflector extracts a small portion of the light propagating in the waveguide from waveguide's longitudinal surface, the collimating lens intercepts and collimates the extracted light in at least one dimension, particularly in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the waveguide or to the prevailing direction of light propagation in the waveguide. Other objects and advantages of this invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following disclosure.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Collimating illumination systems employing a waveguide


A steam stripping substance, which is obtained by steam distillation of sesame oil under reduced pressure and contains sesamin analogues substantially, is mixed with water, a water-soluble solvent or their mixture serving as solvent. Sesamin analogues are caused to precipitate in this mixed system in the presence of more than one equivalent of an alkali with respect to the acid value of the steam stripping substance. The precipitated sesamin analogues are then separated from the mixed system.

This invention relates to methods of separating sesamin analogues (inclusive of mixtures of sesamin, its stereo isomers and their enantiomers) which are important substances having many physiologically "active" functions such as enhancement of effects of pyrethrin-type insecticides, acceleration of alcohol metabolism, inhibition of generation of peroxidized lipids in blood and inhibition of cancer. This invention relates to methods of efficiently separating such sesamin analogues at a high purity ratio and at a high yield from a steam stripping substance obtained by steam distillation of sesame oil under a reduced pressure condition.
Conventional methods of separating sesamin analogues from a steam stripping substance obtained by steam distillation of sesame oil under a reduced pressure condition includes (1) the method of subjecting the steam stripping substance to a molecular distillation process as disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication Tokko 7-25764 (U.S. Pat. No. 5,209,826); and (2) the method of mixing the steam stripping substance with ethanol, leaving the mixture quietly for a while and thereafter subjecting the supernatant to an adsorption process with resin of methacrylic acid alkyl ester as disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication Tokko 6-89353. The prior art method (1) described above is disadvantageous firstly in that the molecular distillation itself is a troublesome process, secondly in that the steam stripping substance must undergo a pretreatment process in order that the molecular distillation can be carried out efficiently, and thirdly in that the recovery ratio of sesamin analogues is low from the steam stripping substance. By the prior art method (2) described above, on the other hand, the purity of the sesamin analogues recovered by the adsorption process is low and, if it is desired to improve the purity, a refining process must be included and the recovery ratio of the sesamin analogues from the steam stripping substance turns out to be low as a result.


A timing belt system for a vehicle may include a camshaft timing gear, a crankshaft timing gear, a timing belt which connects the two timing gears to each other so as to synchronize rotations of the two timing gears, and a tensioner which adjusts tension of the timing belt, may include: a case which has one side formed in an opened container shape, and is provided to cover the crankshaft timing gear, the camshaft timing gear, the timing belt, and the tensioner from a rear side direction; and a front side plate which is formed in a large plate shape, and coupled to the case from a front side direction so as to close one open side of the case, in which a blow-by gas passage, which recirculates blow-by gas, is formed in the case.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a timing belt system for a vehicle, and more particularly, to a timing belt system for a vehicle which improves durability.
2. Description of Related Art
In general, a timing belt for a vehicle is a wet type belt.
The timing belt is one of the most important components in an engine, and refers to a belt that connects a timing gear mounted on a crankshaft to a timing gear mounted on a camshaft. The timing belt has cogs engaged with the gear, and is also called a tooth-attached belt or a cog belt.
As another apparatus that connects the timing gear of the crankshaft to the timing gear of the camshaft and serves to rotate the camshaft, there is a timing chain. However, the timing chain made of a metal material is heavier than the timing belt made of a rubber material. Therefore, although there is a merit in that the timing chain may be semipermanently used, the timing belt is mainly used to improve fuel efficiency.
The wet type belt refers to a timing belt of which an oil resistance and a thermal resistance are reinforced. The wet type belt is made of a material having a high oil resistance and a high thermal resistance, but causes manufacturing costs to increase. In addition, even in the case of the material having the high oil resistance and the high thermal resistance, because the rubber material has a limitation, long-term durability of the wet type belt may deteriorate.
The information disclosed in this Background of the Invention section is only for enhancement of understanding of the general background of the invention and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that this information forms the prior art already known to a person skilled in the art.


Techniques for using social networking information may include making a determination that content authored by a first party references a second party more than a specified number of times. An adjustment in affinity may be made between the first party and the second party in the social network in response to the determination. Making the adjustment in affinity may include modifying a social graph of at least the first party that is referenced by the social network in order to reflect the adjustment in affinity. Modifying the social graph includes creating a closer connection between the first party and the second party than had existed prior to the determination. In response to the adjustment in the affinity, promotion is adjusted, to the first party, of content in the social network that has a connection to the second party.

This specification relates generally to using social networking information.
Search engines identify resources (e.g., images, audio, video, Web pages, text, documents) that are relevant to a user's needs and present information about the resources in a manner that is useful to the user. For example, a search engine returns a set of search results in response to a user submitted query.
A user may give more weight to search results that are associated with reviews, opinions, or other content associated with a user's social graph (e.g., contacts of the user). A user's social graph can be based, in part, on social networks to which the user subscribes.
Social networks permit users to post information about themselves and to communicate with other people, e.g., their contacts, family, and co-workers. Some social networks permit users to specify friendships with other users. Additionally, social network users may write descriptions of their interests and disinterests (e.g., what they like or don't like), compose stories, describe their lives, etc. Some users may generate a great amount of content, while other users may generate little or no content.


A simplified arithmetic expression is used deed upon a divided segment in an interpolating solid body to be used for an interpolating operation, where an objective point for interpolation is located, for example on a grid point, on a line or on a plane, the number of times of making reference to a table or performing an arithmetic operation, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division is reduced to realize a high speed interpolating operation.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an interpolation method and a data transformation system. Specifically, the invention relates to a data transformation system. More specifically, the invention relates to an interpolation method to be employed together with a look-up table (hereinafter also referred to as "LUT) in data transformation, such as color transformation or so forth, and a data transformation system which executes interpolation.
2. Description of the Related Art
For example, when an image synthesized on a personal computer is output by a printer, it becomes necessary to perform color transformation of luminance signals R, G, B as image data into color signals Y, M, C, or into signals further including K in addition to the foregoing color signals, according to necessity. It is known that an input space defined by the luminance signals and an output space defined by the color signals in the color transformation have a non-linear relationship. When the relationship between the input and the output spaces is non-linear as stated above, it is not easy to precisely make a model of the transformation of the input space into the output space so as to perform an arithmetic operation. Also, even when the model can be made with a certain level or precision, it is possible that an amount of arithmetic operation required for the transformation per se becomes significant. In order to solve the problems in the data transformation, it has been known to perform the data transformation simply by preliminarily providing a table storing output data corresponding to respective input data.
However, even in such method, when the input space consists of 256 density levels with respect to each of signals R, G, B, for example, and when there is provided the table storing data of the output space corresponding to all data of the input space, an amount of data to be stored in the table becomes significant. Thus, in view of the cost for memory for the table, it is not practical. As a measure for this, it has been known to take a sample of the input space at an appropriate interval and make the table with respect to only sample points for reducing the amount of data stored. In this method, a transformed output data for a point other than the sample point (hereinafter also referred to as a grid point) of the input space is derived by a linear interpolation employing the grid point data of the sample points.
A three dimensional LUT is used in a three-dimensional transformation, in which input and output has a non-linear relation, such as color transformation of the luminance signals R, G, B into the color signals Y, M, C, or signals including a color signal K in addition to the foregoing color signals for three colors to be used in the printer. Thus, the three-dimensional LUT stores transformation data (hereinafter also referred to as grid point data) corresponding to respective grid points of a three-dimensional cubic grid formed by the input luminance signals R, G, B. For input corresponding to the point other than respective grid point in the three-dimensional cubic grid, a linear interpolating operation is performed with respect to an interpolation space expressed as a predetermined shape of a solid body containing the point to be transformed and having a given number of grid points as vertexes to obtain an output (transformed data) corresponding to the input.
An arithmetic expression for interpolation in a linear interpolation can be generally expressed as follows: ##EQU1## wherein k is a number of grid points to be utilized for the interpolation, v.sub.ui is a value indicated by the data of grid point ui, and c.sub.i is a weighting coefficient.
For example, when k is eight, the interpolation to be performed becomes an eight point interpolation using eight grid point data. In this case, the interpolation space becomes cubic. On the other hand, when k is five, the interpolation to be performed becomes a five point interpolation using five grid point data. The shape of the solid body to express the interpolation space is then variable depending upon selection of the five grid points. When k is preliminarily determined as set forth above, and the input signals R, G, B are expressed as byte data, the grid point data v.sub.ui to be used are output from the LUT on the basis of the predetermined upper bits of the input signals R, G, B, and, on the other hand, the weighting coefficient c.sub.i in the foregoing expression is determined on the basis of the lower bit data indicative of a position of the input signals in the interpolation space, for example.
A manner of the operation of the interpolating arithmetic expression as set forth above may vary depending upon a region in the interpolation space where an interpolating objective point indicative of the position of the input signals is located. For instance, there are four cases; where the region where the interpolating objective point is located is the grid point in the solid body expressing the interpolation space, where the region is a line connecting the grid points, where the region is a plane defined by the lines connecting the grid points, and where the region is inside of the solid body (these regions will be hereinafter referred to as a calculation divided segment). Since the number of grid point data and/or weighting coefficient to be practically used in the interpolating operation is different in respective cases, the operation can be simplified corresponding to the number of the grid point data and the weighting coefficient to be actually used. More specifically, when the interpolating operation is performed by software, the number of times to make reference to the grid point data or so forth or number of times of arithmetic operation for addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division are differentiated in respect to the foregoing four cases. Therefore, depending upon the region where the interpolating objective point is located, the number of times of operations and so forth can be reduced. For example, when the interpolating objective point is located on the grid point, the number of times of performing the operation can be minimum. On the other hand, when the interpolating objective point is located on the line connecting the grid point, the number of times of performing the operation can be second smallest.
Accordingly, the degree of simplification of the overall interpolating operation is determined by the number of respective interpolating objective points included in respective calculation divided segments within interpolating objective points designated by overall input signals. Assuming that the space defined by the overall input data is fixed, relatively greater number of grid points, namely, greater amount of data to be stored in the table, increases the probability that the interpolating objective point is located on the grid point or on the line connecting the grid points to achieve a greater degree of simplification. However, the required capacity of the table memory is increased. On the other hand, depending upon the shape of the solid body selected as the interpolating space, the degree of simplification is variable. At any rate, employing a simplified interpolating arithmetic expression is effective for reducing the overall interpolating arithmetic operation while the degree of simplification is variable.

Data transformation system performing data transformation employing interpolating operation


The invention provides a picture data decompression apparatus which reduces the time required for decompression of picture data and operates at a high speed. The picture data decompression apparatus includes a module switching section for extracting code patterns in units of n bits the compressed picture data, m decoding and dequantization modules, and an inverse orthogonal transform section for inverse orthogonal transforming decoded and dequantized data from the m decoding and dequantization means. Each of the decoding and dequantization modules decodes and dequantizes, from a code pattern in units of n bits extracted by the module switching section, only a predetermined variable length code of a single unique code pattern of n bits from among m different predetermined patterns. Each of the decoding and dequantization modules performs storage into the dequantized data buffer in order of coded coefficients without performing scanning conversion, and the inverse orthogonal transform section reads out the stored data of the dequantized data buffer designating an address and performs inverse orthogonal transform processing of the thus read out data.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a coding and decoding system for picture data which employs orthogonal transform which is one of high efficiency compression coding methods, and more particularly to a picture data decompression apparatus which decompresses compressed picture data obtained by orthogonal transform, quantization and variable length coding of original picture data at a high speed.
2. Description of the Related Art
A procedure of processing of a conventional picture data decompression apparatus is illustrated in FIG. 12.
Referring to FIG. 12, compressed picture data are first read in at step S121, and then at step S122, a header of the compressed picture data is analyzed to extract information necessary for decompression of the picture data such as a picture size, a number of blocks to be processed and so forth. Then at step S123, variable length codes of the compressed picture data are decoded in units of one block to obtain quantized orthogonal transform coefficients. At subsequent step S124, the quantized orthogonal transform coefficients are dequantized, and then at step S125, data obtained by such dequantization are written for one block into a memory, and the thus written data are read out from the memory. At step S126, the data thus read out are processed by inverse orthogonal transform to obtain picture data for one block.
The operations from the decoding processing of variable length codes at step S123 to the inverse orthogonal transform processing at step S126 are repeated for all of the blocks extracted in the header analysis processing at step S122 until it is determined at step S127 that processing for all of the blocks has been completed. Then at step S128, the picture data for one frame are written into a frame memory, and then the compressed picture data are decompressed. In this instance, in the decoding processing of variable length codes at step S123, compressed code bits are cut out by a plural number and compared with a code table, and when a coincident bit pattern is found out in the code table, coefficient data corresponding in a one-by-one corresponding relationship to the bit train in the code table can be determined. When no coincident bit pattern is found out in the code table, an additional bit is cut out, and the formerly cut out bits with the additional bit are compared with the code table again. After coefficient data are determined, they are multiplied by a quantization value for dequantization to obtain input data for inverse orthogonal transform.
Further, in the data writing and reading out processing at step S125, the data are written into the memory in order indicated by the numbers of the data construction in the block illustrated in FIG. 13, and data to be used for inverse orthogonal transform are read in order in the vertical direction and the horizontal direction of the block.
In the conventional picture data decompression method described above, a compressed code bit train is cut out by a plurality of bits, and the pattern of the thus cut out bits is compared with a code table. Then, if a coincident pattern is not found out in the code table, then the processing of cutting out a further plurality of bits from the compressed code bit train and comparing the thus cut out bits with the code table again is repeated until a coincident pattern is found out in the code table. Consequently, the conventional picture data compression method is disadvantageous in that it requires much processing time.
Further, in order to write data, which remain arranged in order as zigzag-scanned on the coding side, into a memory after dequantization, processing of scanning conversion is required, and the memory is accessed in units of one coefficient. Consequently, the conventional picture data decompression method has disadvantages also in that a very great number of processing steps are required for the microprocessor and also accessing to the memory is complicated, resulting in much processing time.


A learning apparatus comprises a plurality of detection units configured to detect a part or whole of a target object in an image and output a plurality of detection results; an estimation unit configured to estimate a state of the target object based on at least one of the plurality of detection results; a classification unit configured to classify the image into a plurality of groups based on the state of the target object; and a weight calculation unit configured to calculate weight information on each of the plurality of detection units for each of the groups based on the detection results.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a learning apparatus, a method for controlling the learning apparatus, a detection apparatus, a method for controlling the detection apparatus, and a storage medium, and particularly relates to a learning apparatus, a method for controlling the learning apparatus, a detection apparatus, a method for controlling the detection apparatus, and a storage medium for detecting a target object in accordance with the state of the target object using a plurality of existing detectors during the detection from images.
2. Description of the Related Art
To detect a target object in images, generally, a detector that detects the whole of the target object or a part of the target object is used. At this time, generally, a plurality of detectors are used, because use of a plurality of detectors enables detection of a target object that could not be detected with only a single detector. In cases where a plurality of detectors are used, it is necessary to integrate the outputs of the individual detectors and output the final detection result.
Japanese Patent No. 4566686 discloses a method for integrating the outputs of a plurality of detection results. In Japanese Patent No. 4566686, a method for discriminating the shape of a target object provided in an electronic component is described. Specifically, first, an image of a target object is captured, and two evaluation values for discriminating the shape of that target object are calculated. Then, a weighted sum of the evaluation values is obtained with the weights assigned to these two evaluation values changed in accordance with the shape and the size of the target object and shape discrimination conditions, and shape discrimination is performed. With this method, during shape discrimination, the weights assigned to the evaluation values are determined in accordance with the shape and the size of the target object and the preset shape discrimination conditions. This method enables discrimination suited to the shape of the target object and the shape discrimination conditions.
The shape discrimination conditions and how the weights are set under given shape discrimination conditions are important, and the manner in which the weights are set significantly influences the shape discrimination performance. However, Japanese Patent No. 4566686 makes no mention of efficient setting of the weights. If the weights are set inappropriately, it is no longer possible for the evaluation values to be weighted in a manner appropriate for the target object, and the final shape discrimination result, also, is inaccurate.
That is to say, when integrating a plurality of outputs, if it is not possible to obtain appropriate weights for the respective outputs in accordance with circumstances, it is unlikely that an effective result will be obtained even if the outputs are integrated. For this reason, it is an issue to appropriately set the weights in accordance with circumstances.

Learning apparatus, method for controlling learning apparatus, detection apparatus, method for controlling detection apparatus and storage medium


An automatic door operator with a continuously monitored supplemental obstruction detector. In a first embodiment, the obstruction detector is a radiant beam obstruction detector that transmits a beam of modulated radiant energy across the door opening. A safety signal generator produces an active safety signal only on unobstructed receipt of radiant energy by a receiver. Failure to receive the active safety signal when the motor is closing the door at least stops the door. A two wire cable, which carries both power and the active safety signal, connects the supplemental obstruction detector to the automatic door operator. Constant activation of a portable transmitter or of a local push button can override the supplemental obstruction detector to close the door. An alternative supplemental obstruction detector includes a safety edge having a compressible tube disposed on a leading end of the door. Plural conductors change their conductive state upon compression of the compressible tube. An oscillator sealed within the tube at one end supplies the safety signal. This embodiment may include a delay upon detection of compression of the compressible tube so that contact with the floor is not detected as an obstruction.

The present invention is in automatic door operators such as used in garage doors. Such automatic door operators typically employ a motor to move the door between an opened and a closed position in response to control signals. A wall mounted push button and a portable radio frequency transmitter are generally provided to generate these control signals.
It has been known for many years that such automatic garage door operators need some form of obstruction detection. Obstruction detection prevents personal injury or property damage caused by the controlled door closing on something. Obstruction detection also prevents damage to the door and the various driving components that would result from operation against an obstacle.

Continuously monitored supplemental obstruction detector for garage door operator


A class of 1,3,5-substituted pyrazoles is described for the treatment of inflammation, including treatment of pain and disorders such as arthritis. Compounds of particular interest are of Formula I ##STR1## wherein R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3 and R.sup.4 are as described herein; or a pharmaceutically-acceptable salt thereof.

Prostaglandins play a major role in the inflammation process and the inhibition of prostaglandin production, especially production of PGG.sub.2, PGH.sub.2 and PGE.sub.2, has been a common target of anti-inflammatory drug discovery. However, common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that are active in reducing the prostaglandin-induced pain and swelling associated with the inflammation process are also active in affecting other prostaglandin-regulated processes not associated with the inflammation process. Thus, use of high doses of most common NSAIDs can produce severe side effects, including life threatening ulcers, that limit their therapeutic potential. An alternative to NSAIDs is the use of corticosteroids, which have even more drastic side effects, especially when long term therapy is involved.
Previous NSAIDs have been found to prevent the production of prostaglandins by inhibiting enzymes in the human arachidonic acid/prostaglandin pathway, including the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX). The recent discovery of an inducible enzyme associated with inflammation (named "cyclooxygenase II (COX II)" or "prostaglandin G/H synthase II") provides a viable target of inhibition which more effectively reduces inflammation and produces fewer and less drastic side effects.
Pyrazole compounds have been used in the treatment of inflammation. U.S. Pat. No. 5,134,142 to Matsuo et al describes 1,5-diaryl pyrazoles, and more particularly, 1-(4-fluorophenyl)-5-4-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl!-3-(5-tetrazolyl)pyrazole, as having anti-inflammatory activity.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,146,721 to Rainer describes 1,3,5-triphenyl pyrazoles as useful analgesics, anti-inflammatory agents and antipyretics, and specifically describes 1,3,5-triphenyl-pyrazol-4-acetamide.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,254,093 to Huisgen et al describes a process for preparing pyrazoles, including ethyl-1,3,5-triphenyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylate.
The synthesis of a series of 3-phenyl-5-(2-phenyltriazol-4-yl)!-1H-pyrazol-1-yl!benzenesulfonamides is described H. Faidallah et al, Pak. J. Sci. Ind. Res., 35, 213 (1992)!, and specifically 4-4-bromo-3-(4-methylphenyl)-5-(2-phenyl-2H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)-1H-pyrazo l-1-yl!benzenesulfonamide. The synthesis of a series of related triazole substituted pyrazolyl benzenesulfonamides has been described H. Mokhtar et al, Pak. J. Sci. Ind. Res., 35, 428 (1992)!.
The use of 4-3-(4-aminophenyl)-5-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-1-yl!benzenesulfonamide as an intermediate in the synthesis of the corresponding benzenesulfonylureas has been described H. Faid-Allah et al, Ind. J. Chem., 27B, 245 (1988)!. An intermediate for antidiabetic agents, 4-3-phenyl-5-bromophenyl-1H-pyrazol-1-yl!benzenesulfonamide, has been described R. Soliman et al, J. Pharm. Sci., 76, 626 (1987)!. The condensation of sulfamylphenylhydrazines with chalcones to produce 4-3,5-diphenyl-pyrazol-1-yl!benzenesulfonamides has been reported, which are potential hypoglycemic agents H. Faidallah et al, Pak. J. Sci. Ind. Res., 35, 8 (1992)!. Specifically, 4-3,5-bis(4-methoxyphenyl)-1H-pyrazol-1-yl!benzenesulfonamide is described. 4-3,5-Diphenyl-1H-pyrazol-1-yl!benzenesulfonamide has been produced and evaluated for antidiabetic activity R. Soliman et al, J. Pharm. Sci., 70, 606 (1981)!.

1,3,5 trisubstituted pyrazole compounds for treatment of inflammation


A circuit including: at least one radio frequency microstrip conductor; and, a least one vanadium oxide region electrically coupled to the at least one radio frequency microstrip conductor; wherein, the at least one vanadium oxide region is substantially conductive in a first temperature range, and substantially non-conductive in a second temperature range.

Phased array radar antennas are generally known and implemented. Phased array antennas include apertures formed from a multitude of radiating elements. Each element is individually controlled in phase and amplitude. In this manner, desired radiating patterns and directions may be achieved. By rapidly switching the elements to switch beams, multiple radar functions may be realized.
Referring now to FIG. 1, there is shown a conventional transmit/receive switching circuit arrangement 100 for a phased array radar antenna. Circuit 100 includes a microstrip coupled to an input terminal P1 and to a transmit terminal P3 and capacitors 120, 130. "Microstrip", as used herein, generally refers to a transmission line used for transmitting high frequency signals, such as radio frequency or microwave frequency signals. A microstrip may typically take the form of a thin, strip-like transmission line mounted on a flat dielectric substrate, that is in-turn mounted on a ground plane. Capacitors 120, 130 are coupled to a receive terminal P2, a bias terminal BIAS, and ground through radio frequency (RF) diodes 140, 150. Transmit terminal P3 is coupled to a waste load 110.
When a sufficiently positive bias BIAS is provided, diodes 140, 150 essentially provide short-circuit conditions, such that signals are steered from input terminal P1 to transmit terminal P3 and hence waste load 110. When a sufficiently negative bias BIAS is provided, diodes 140, 150 essentially provide open circuit conditions, such that signals are steered to receive terminal P2. Circuitry 100 and its operation are generally known in the phased-array radar arts.
However, such a configuration and operation undesirably introduces signal losses, due to the incorporation of wires, jumpers and materials that affect RF performance and compromise circuit performance. Accordingly, it is desirable to eliminate these wires, jumpers and materials, such as those associated with the depicted diodes, while maintaining selective transmit and receive functionalities.

Vanadium oxide RF/microwave integrated switch suitable for use with phased array radar antenna


An edge-gripping wafer handling apparatus for holding and transporting wafers in a clean room environment is implemented by mounting gripping fingers on a paddle arm adapted to be controlled by a robot. At the free end of the paddle arm, a plurality of fixed fingers is mounted. Each of these fixed fingers includes a notch for gripping the edge of a wafer. A moving finger is mounted close to the fixed end of the paddle arm. The moving finger can be smoothly moved to engage the edge of the wafer and cause the opposite edge of the wafer to engage the fixed fingers. The movement of the moving finger is caused by a bellows flexing a hinge connected to the finger. The flexing hinge is formed as a parallelogram of two stable ends and two flexing arms. The movement of the hinge is smooth and causes no particulate matter to be generated due to rubbing or other friction generating mechanism.

Not Applicable
Silicon wafers for semiconductor production pass through many steps in transitioning from a slice of silicon to a collection of functional integrated circuits on a silicon wafer. Between many of these steps the wafers must be removed from a cassette, have their orientation changed, be placed in fixtures and be transported to the next step. All of these operations are performed in a clean room. One of the present technologies in wafer handling uses backside contact by vacuum grippers. This technology requires that there be a front side of the wafer and a backside with the backside subject to being handled by the vacuum grippers. A second technology in wafer handling grips the wafers by the edges but is subject to sudden exertions of force and mechanism wear that cause contamination. Both of these technologies have suffered from wafer jams when inserting and removing the wafers from the cassette, the wafer protrusion problemxe2x80x94misalignment of the wafers in the cassette, and contaminants getting on the wafer from breakdown of the transport mechanism.
The present invention relates to handling of silicon wafers and in particular to edge grip handling of silicon wafers.
A stable edge grip on a wafer can be maintained if there are at least three points of contact between the gripper and the wafer. The force imparted by the three points of contact must be sufficient to counterbalance the weight of the wafer, but must not be so large as to bend the wafer significantly. At least three edge gripping fingers are mounted on a paddle such that the entire paddle/finger assembly can fit between wafers in a cassette. At least two of the edge gripping fingers are fixed at one end of the paddle in a separated relationship and passively respond to pressure brought to bear on them by the wafer. A single finger is mounted on the other end of the paddle and exhibits linear motion. The arrangement of the fingers on opposite sides of the wafer leaves the edges along the axis of the paddle arm free. The movable finger is brought into contact with the wafer by a flexure hinge driven by compressible fluid. Because there is no rubbing motion in the mechanism of the flexure hinge, the mechanism does not wear, does not have backlash or creep-like error motions, and no particulate contaminants are generated. In addition, the use of a compressible fluid mechanism assures that a smooth steady motion is imparted to the moving finger.
In picking up a wafer, the paddle/finger assembly is slid beneath the target wafer until the two fixed fingers are just past the edge of the wafer. The assembly is then raised so that the wafer and gripping surface of all the fingers are approximately aligned. The moving finger then moves toward the wafer until it exerts sufficient force on the wafer to bring the far side of the wafer in contact with the fixed fingers. The moving finger is maintained in the contact position throughout the withdrawal from the cassette and during any transport.
The release of the wafer is accomplished by reversing the steps of pickup. The moving finger breaks contact with the wafer, releasing the force on the wafer. A flexure tip on the fixed fingers nudges the wafer away from edge gripping surfaces of the fixed fingers. Then the paddle/finger assembly is lowered and withdrawn from the proximity of the wafer.

Edge gripping end effector wafer handling apparatus


The invention concerns a probe for applying a high frequency electromagnetic energy flux on the skin through a mixture of conductive gel and a treatment product, designed to cause the treatment product to penetrate into the skin. The probe is provided with a non-conductive bearing surface (14), having a plurality of openings (6) around or in the proximity of which inductor elements (5) arranged in successive layers emit an electromagnetic field. The openings (6) emerge through an orifice (3) and contain the gel/treatment product mixture whereof the penetration into the skin is activated by the electromagnetic field. Advantageously, the probe further comprises at least one source of laser electromagnetic radiation (8) arranged inside or aligned with at least one opening (4) emerging in the bearing surface (14), so as to act jointly with the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the inductor element (5).

The invention relates to treatment of the skin by high-frequency electric means possibly associated with a source of laser electromagnetic radiation, particularly for so-called xe2x80x9cpermanentxe2x80x9d or xe2x80x9clong lastingxe2x80x9d depilation, as well as for regrowth of hair.
WO 93/04636 describes a process based on the observation that by mixing a conductive gel of the usual type used for the application of ultrasound probes to the skin, with a treating product, for example a lotion producing atrophy of the hair roots, it is possible by transcutaneous induction at high-frequency to cause the treating product to penetrate into the follicles (pores) and the hair stems and hence carry out a treatment.
This method hence enables a treatment of the skin to be carried out, notably a cosmetic treatment, for example to achieve long lasting depilation, and which moreover allows a punctual and effective application down to the follicles without a delicate manual intervention.
To carry out the method, WO 93/04636 also describes an apparatus comprising a handleable member for contacting the skin, having a non-conductive body provided with a bearing surface adapted to be applied to the skin. This surface comprises a plurality of discrete conductive electromagnetic emission points for example formed by exposed parts of turns of a solenoid embedded in the body of the contact member. These points are accessible through openings in this surface, and are preferably set back with respect to the latter, so that during use of the apparatus, these points may Contact conductive gel applied to the skin. These discrete emission points emit a high-frequency flux of electromagnetic energy, advantageously a pure emissive current supplied by a high-frequency oscillatory power circuit.
To carry out the same method, WO 96/03928 describes a flexible applicator probe able to conform to the part of the body to which it is applied, comprising non-conductive lower/internal and upper/external parts. At least the lower/internal part is provided with cavities having a plurality of discrete conductive electromagnetic emissive points or areas formed by parts of turns of a coil which are set back in relation to the probe""s lower/internal surface.
Another technological approach described in French patent 2 589 067 is a method and apparatus based on the observation that the application to the skin of an electrical field in combination with a laser electromagnetic radiation leads to a modification of the skin""s absorption properties.
The present invention relates to a probe for applying a flux of high-frequency electromagnetic energy to the skin, useful notably in the method described in WO 93/04636 or in French patent 2 589 067, or in any other method necessitating application of a conductive gel, this probe being provided with a non-conductive bearing surface adapted to be applied to the skin, this surface having in its thickness at least one cavity (or opening) that opens out via an orifice into the bearing surface as well as at least one inductor element for inducing an electromagnetic field and arranged to emit an electromagnetic field through said cavity and its orifice.
The probe according to the invention is characterized in that said inductor element is located in its thickness at an intermediate level of the depth of the cavity, this inductor element extending at least partly around and/or being in the proximity of said cavity""s wall.
Further characteristics of the probe according to the invention are set out in claims 2-15. The invention also pertains to the use of this probe for cosmetic treatments of the skin, as set out in claims 16-18, and to a method of cosmetic treatment of the skin according to claims 19-23.
When the probe is used, a mixture of gel/active treating product is applied onto the skin to be treated and/or into the cavities of the probe""s bearing surface so that this mixture acts as conductive interface between the prober""s bearing surface and the skin.
The flexible applicator probe according to the invention has numerous advantages. For instance, the intermediate arrangement of the inductor element for inducing the magnetic field allows this cavity to be enlarged and/or to make it a through-opening traversing the probers thickness, so that a source of a laser beam can be fitted within the probe""s thickness or on its upper/outer surface. This arrangement facilitates the simultaneous application of an electromagnetic field and a laser electromagnetic radiation onto the skin, as described in French patent 2 589 067. Moreover, the intermediate arrangement of the magnetic-field inductor element permits easy manufacture of the probes by perforation. Additionally, the arrangement of the magnetic-field inductor elements at least partially around and/or in the proximity of the cavities"" wall enables them to be arranged in successive layers, thereby allowing multiplication of the number of the electromagnetic-radiation missive points situated in each cavity. This arrangement furthermore enables the electromagnetic radiation produced by the multiple emission points to act on a greater quantity of the gel/treating product mixture in the cavities. This increases the intensity of the electromagnetic field applied to the gel/treating product mixture and to the skin, hence increasing the treating power of the applied products.
The electromagnetic field inductors are for example made of flattened windings, or of a network or grid of conductive material. The conductive material is preferably a conductive sheet of silicone resin, a fabric of conductive fibers such as carbon fibers, or a non-woven textile made of conductive fibers.
In embodiments comprising a laser electromagnetic radiation source, this source can be constituted either by a laser-emitting diode housed in the thickness of the probe or on its upper face, or by an optical fiber connected to a laser source external to the probe. In these embodiments, one possible arrangement is to arrange the cavities in the support surface in a pattern or along lines forming various geometrical figures, and to position the laser sources in a regular manner in the said pattern or along said lines.
If desired, the applied flux of electromagnetic radiation follow a program determined by the means for generating electrical impulses and the means for exciting the laser sources, for example alternating the two types of electromagnetic radiation and/or varying their intensity.
The probe according to the invention may be used, in combination With a treating gel, for the cosmetic treatment of the skin, in particular long-lasting depilation, baldness, couperosis, varicose veins and capillaries.


An impact weapon includes a long straight shaft and a handle with two forwardly angled arm members extending laterally therefrom. One arm member is slightly arcuate to facilitate the transfer of the weapon from the offensive position, wherein the weapon is grasped by the handle, to a defensive position wherein the weapon is grasped by the other arm member which is substantially straight thereby providing a "pistol-grip" like hold. The weapon is unitary in construction. The arm members and handle have flared striking heads to allow for pressure compliance techniques with a reduced risk of puncture wounds.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to impact weapons for use by law enforcement officials and particularly to nightsticks and riot batons and the like.
2. Prior Art
A wide variety of impact weapons such as clubs, riot batons, nightsticks and the like are known to the prior art. Many of these devices consist of a long rod-like element with a hand grip at one end such as a nightstick. A transverse handle may extend from the body in the proximity of the grip in a device known as a side handle baton. Both a straight nightstick and the side handle baton have advantages and disadvantages. Generally speaking, the straight stick is a superior striking tool and thus is principally an offensive weapon. The side handle baton on the other hand can be held in a manner to provide a blocking or defensive capability. However, even a skilled user cannot readily shift use of the weapon between offensive and defensive modes of operation. In addition, neither weapon is effective at close range where modern nerve pressure point pain compliance techniques can be used. Also, both weapons are rather large and cumbersome and thus are difficult to carry. The result is that some users may simply not carry the device. In an attempt to deal with the size and weight problem, some manufacturers have compromised by making batons that are hollow or collapsible. This approach simply results in a baton that is not adequate for use in the field.
Examples of the prior art include the police club of U.S. Pat. No. 3,944,226; the short impact weapon disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,052,063, which provides for use in close combat but does not have offensive capability; an attempt to improve the handles on a side handle baton in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,109,912; 4,132,409; 4,203,599; 4,667,958; and 4,703,932; the night stick in U.S. Pat. No. 4,283,051; the collapsible baton in U.S. Pat. No. 4,492,377; and finally, the complex assembly of U.S. Pat. No. 4,655,456 which provides a baton-like alternative embodiment but without providing a structure that allows for quick movement between offensive and defensive use.
What is desirable in an impact weapon is a device that provides for rapid conversion of the weapon from an offensive striking tool capable of delivering energy transfer to a chosen defensive tool that can be held against the arm to provide for a solid barrier between the user and an attacker. The device should also provide for effective use in close quarters at the very closest body position. Furthermore, the device should be of reduced size and be of unitary construction to eliminate the possibility of breakage. None of the prior art impact weapons provides for all the necessary requirements, being defective in one or more areas discussed above.


A corona detection device includes a bandpass filter having a primary passband that includes at least wavelengths in the range of about 250 nm to about 400 nm and a secondary passband that includes wavelengths in the range of about 675 nm to about 850 nm. The corona detection device also includes an image intensifier in optical communication with the bandpass filter. The image intensifier is configured to generate an image based on radiation passed through the primary passband and the secondary passband of the bandpass filter.

The need for corona detection is widespread and extends not only to power utility companies, but also to any entity interested in maintaining power circuitry and electronic devices. Corona discharge is a luminous partial discharge from conductors and insulators caused when an electric field surrounding the conductors and insulators exceeds a critical value and causes the surrounding air to begin to behave more as a conductor rather than an insulator. A high local electric field ionizes the air, causes excitation of nitrogen molecules in the air, and leads to discharge of ultraviolet radiation.
Corona discharge can be problematic for several reasons. For example, corona discharge generates ozone and nitrogen oxides, which can form corrosive compounds such as nitric acid, especially in the presence of high humidity. These corrosive compounds can significantly reduce the service life and performance of electrical components. Additionally, corona discharge can cause damage to high voltage insulators and can create radio interference and audio noise.
Electric fields large enough to cause ionization of the air are commonly caused where there is a problem or defect associated with power supply circuitry or other electrical components. These problems and defects may correspond to points of potential equipment failure. Thus, devices configured to detect the presence of corona discharge can be used to locate and correct such problems and defects before failure occurs.
Corona discharge emits radiation within a spectral range of about 280 nm to about 400 nm. This spectral region falls mostly in the UV range and, therefore, is invisible to the human eye. Light emitted by corona discharge in air is heavily concentrated in a relatively small number of very narrow bands, typically a few nanometers (nm) or less, with weak emission intensity between the peaks of these bands. More than half of the total intensity emitted by a corona discharge is emitted at wavelengths shorter than 380 nm, and the strongest emission occurs at a narrow band centered about 337.1 nm. Additionally, reasonably strong emission occurs at shorter wavelengths, down to about 295 nm.
Various prior art devices have been developed and proposed for detecting and/or imaging areas of corona discharge. Generally, these devices included one or more UV filters for isolating UV radiation spectral bands that include corona discharge. In this manner, an image of the corona discharge could be generated based on the filtered UV radiation.
These prior art devices, however, were problematic. For example, the filters of these devices passed little or no radiation outside of the UV spectral bands specific to corona discharge. Therefore, these devices either completely lacked the ability to generate images based on radiation in the visible spectrum or produced visible images of poor quality. As a result, while these devices may have been able to image areas of corona discharge, they were less useful in providing a reference image (e.g., a visible radiation-based image) to enable a user to determine where on an object an imaged corona discharge originated.
Further, other prior art devices employed complex schemes of multiple filters to generate images of corona discharge. Each of the filters included a narrow passband intended to capture radiation emitted only at a particular spectral line of the corona discharge emission spectrum. Such multiple filter schemes can add to the expense and complexity of the corona detector design and degrade performance by introducing a plurality of attenuation sources in the optical path of the detector.
Still other devices included a single filter restricted to a narrow passband centered about a particular corona discharge spectral line. These devices had little flexibility. While they may have been able to generate an image of corona discharge, they were often restricted to certain operating conditions. Because of interference caused, for example, by the presence of solar radiation, a corona detector sensitive to only a particular spectral band may be useful only for night time or indoor use. Installation of a different filter targeting a different spectral line may be required for using the same corona detector outdoors or during daylight hours. Therefore, not only did these devices lack flexibility, but they also were unable to produce suitable reference images based on visible radiation.
Other prior art devices attempted to solve the problem of providing a user with a suitable reference image based on visible radiation by generating a visible image and merging this image with a UV image of the corona discharge. This approach typically required mirrors, multiple filters, and/or multiple optical paths. Further, this approach required multiple imaging devices and complicated optics or processing circuitry to overlay or merge the visible and UV images.
The disclosed corona detection device is directed toward overcoming one or more of the problems described above.


The invention provides plant gene promoters, and essential promoter elements, which are root-specific and/or induced by parasitic nematodes. The promoters of the invention are useful for controlling expression of nucleic acids of interest in plant roots.

Plant parasitic nematodes are microscopic wormlike animals that feed on the roots, leaves, and stems of more than 2,000 crops, vegetables, fruits, and ornamental plants, causing an estimated $100 billion crop loss worldwide. One common type of nematode is the root-knot nematode (RKN), whose feeding causes the characteristic galls on roots. Other root-feeding nematodes are the cyst- and lesion-types, which are more host specific.
Nematodes are present throughout the United States, but are mostly a problem in warm, humid areas of the South and West, and in sandy soils. Soybean cyst nematode (SCN), Heterodera glycines, was first discovered in the United States in North Carolina in 1954. It is the most serious pest of soybean plants. Some areas are so heavily infested by SCN that soybean production is no longer economically possible without control measures. Although soybean is the major economic crop attacked by SCN, SCN parasitizes some fifty hosts in total, including field crops, vegetables, ornamentals, and weeds.
Signs of nematode damage include stunting and yellowing of leaves, and wilting of the plants during hot periods. However, nematodes, including SCN, can cause significant yield loss without obvious above ground symptoms. In addition, roots infected with SCN are dwarfed or stunted. Nematode infestation can decrease the number of nitrogen-fixing nodules on the roots, and may make the roots more susceptible to attacks by other soil-borne plant pathogens.
The nematode life cycle has three major stages: egg, juvenile, and adult. The life cycle varies between species of nematodes. For example, the SCN life cycle can be completed in 24 to 30 days under optimum conditions, whereas other species can take as long as a year or more to complete the life cycle. When temperature and moisture levels become adequate in the spring, worm-shaped juveniles hatch from eggs in the soil. These juveniles are the only life stage of the nematode that can infect soybean roots.
The life cycle of SCN has been the subject of many studies and therefore can be used as an example for understanding the nematode life cycle. After penetrating the soybean roots, SCN juveniles move through the root until they contact vascular tissue, where they stop and start to feed. The nematode injects secretions that modify certain root cells and transform them into specialized feeding sites. The root cells are morphologically transformed into large multinucleate syncytia (or giant cells in the case of RKN), which are used as a source of nutrients for the nematodes. The actively feeding nematodes thus steal essential nutrients from the plant resulting in yield loss. As the nematodes feed, they swell and eventually female nematodes become so large that they break through the root tissue and are exposed on the surface of the root.
After a period of feeding, male SCN nematodes, which are not swollen as adults, migrate out of the root into the soil and fertilize the lemon-shaped adult females. The males then die, while the females remain attached to the root system and continue to feed. The eggs in the swollen females begin developing, initially in a mass or egg sac outside the body, then later within the body cavity. Eventually the entire body cavity of the adult female is filled with eggs, and the female nematode dies. It is the egg-filled body of the dead female that is referred to as the cyst. Cysts eventually dislodge and are found free in the soil. The walls of the cyst become very tough, providing excellent protection for the approximately 200 to 400 eggs contained within. SCN eggs survive within the cyst until proper hatching conditions occur. Although many of the eggs may hatch within the first year, many also will survive within the cysts for several years.
A nematode can move through the soil only a few inches per year on its own. However, nematode infestation can be spread over substantial distances in a variety of ways. Anything that can move infested soil is capable of spreading the infestation, including farm machinery, vehicles and tools, wind, water, animals, and farm workers. Seed-sized particles of soil often contaminate harvested seed. Consequently, nematode infestation can be spread when contaminated seed from infested fields is planted in non-infested fields. There is even evidence that certain nematode species can be spread by birds. Unfortunately, only some of these causes can be prevented.
Traditional practices for managing nematode infestation include: maintaining proper soil nutrients and soil pH levels in nematode-infested land; controlling other plant diseases, as well as insect and weed pests; using sanitation practices such as plowing, planting, and cultivating of SCN-infested fields only after working in non-infested fields; cleaning equipment thoroughly with high pressure water or steam after working in infested fields; not using seed grown on infested land for planting non-infested fields unless the seed has been properly cleaned; rotating infested fields and alternating host crops with non-host crops; using nematicides; and planting resistant plant varieties.
Methods have been proposed for the genetic transformation of plants in order to confer increased resistance to plant parasitic nematodes. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,589,622 and 5,824,876 are directed to the identification of plant genes expressed specifically in or adjacent to the feeding site of the plant after attachment by the nematode. U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,589,622 and 5,824,876 disclose eight promoters isolated from potato roots infected with Globodera rostochiensis: no nematode-inducible promoters from other plant species are disclosed. These promoters are purported to be useful to direct the specific expression of toxic proteins or enzymes, or the expression of antisense RNA to a target gene or to general cellular genes.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,023,179 discloses a promoter enhancer element designated ASF-1, isolated from the CaMV promoter, which is purported to enhance plant gene expression in roots.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,750,386 discloses a deletion fragment of the RB7 root specific promoter of Nicotiana tabacum, which is purported to be nematode-responsive.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,837,876 discloses a root cortex specific gene promoter isolated from tobacco and designated TobRD2.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,866,777 discloses a two-gene approach to retarding formation of a nematode feeding structure. The first gene, barnase, is under control of a promoter that drives expression at least in the feeding structure. The second gene, barstar, is under control of a promoter that drives expression in all of the plant's cells except the feeding structure. Feeding site-specific promoters disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,866,777 include truncated versions of the Δ0.3TobRB7 and roIC promoters.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,955,646 discloses chimeric regulatory regions based on promoters derived from the mannopine synthase and octopine synthase genes of Agrobacterium tumefaciens, which are purported to be nematode-inducible.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,005,092 discloses the N. tabacum endo-1,4-β-glucanase (Ntce17) promoter.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,262,344 and 6,395,963 disclose promoters isolated from Arabidopsis thaliana, which are purported to be nematode-inducible.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,448,471 discloses a promoter from A. thaliana, which is specific for nematode feeding sites.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,593,513 discloses transformation of plants with barnase under control of the promoter of the A. thaliana endo-1,4-β-glucanase gene (cell) to produce plants capable of disrupting nematode attack.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,906,241 discloses use of the Ntce17 promoter in combination with a heterologous nucleic acid that encodes a nematocidal or insecticidal protein.
U.S. Pat. No. 7,078,589 discloses cloning and isolation of the soybean Pyk20 gene and promoter, which are purported to be induced by SCN infection and to show strong activity in vascular tissues.
U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0167507 discloses the promoter of soybean isoflavone synthase I, which is purported to be root specific and inducible in vegetative tissue by parasite attack.
U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0078841 discloses promoter regions of the TUB-1, RPL16A, and ARSK1 promoters of Arabidopsis thaliana and the PSMTA promoter from Pisum sativum, all of which are purported to be root-specific.
U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0248304 discloses cloning and isolation of the soybean Pyk20 gene and promoter, which are purported to be induced by SCN infection and to show strong activity in vascular tissues.
U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2004/0029167 discloses a promoter sequence of a class II caffeic acid O-methyltransferase gene from tobacco, which is purported to be inducible in response to mechanical or chemical injury or to aggression by a pathogenic agent.
U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0262585 discloses a promoter from soybean phosphoribosylformylglycinamidine ribonucleotide synthase and deletion fragments thereof, which are purported to be responsive to nematode infection.
WO 94/10320 discloses the Δ0.3TobRB7 promoter fragment from tobacco and its use with a variety of genes for nematode feeding cell-specific expression.
WO 03/033651 discloses synthetic nematode-regulated promoter sequences designated SCP1, UCP3, and SUP.
WO 2004/029222 and its US counterpart U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0070697 disclose regulatory regions from the soybean adenosine-5′-phosphate deaminase and inositol-5-phosphatase genes, for use in improving nematode resistance in plants.
None of the above-mentioned root- or feeding-site specific promoters are currently in use in commercial seed containing an anti-nematode transgene. Although the need for such products has long been acknowledged, no one has thus far succeeded in developing nematode-resistant plants through recombinant DNA technology. A need continues to exist for root-specific and/or nematode feeding site-specific promoters to combine with transgenes encoding agents toxic to plant parasitic nematodes.

Nematode inducible plant metabolite exporter gene promoters


A method for preserving fruits characterized by juice sacs and rag. The fruits are placed in a holding tank and submerged in a liquid having a freezing point higher than that of the fruits. The liquid may either be maintained just above its freezing point or frozen such that the temperature of the liquid is maintained above the freezing point of the fruits.

The present invention relates generally to methods and devices for preserving whole citrus fruits and in particular whole oranges.
Citrus fruits, and in particular oranges, are a popular food throughout the world. Citrus fruits taste good, are nutritious, and are a good source of essential vitamins and minerals. Citrus fruits are used as food in many different ways. Citrus fruits, among other things, may be peeled and eaten whole, squeezed to make citrus juice, or included as ingredients in other food dishes. Because of their sensitivity to climatic conditions, citrus fruits grow only in the warmer regions of the world. Their popularity, however, necessitates their shipment to regions where they are not indigenous.
Citrus fruits are characterized by having juice sacs and rag (segment membranes). The rag separates the numerous juice sacs within each individual citrus fruit. Additionally, citrus fruits are best picked when ripe. Unlike many other fruits, citrus fruits afford little latitude for ripe harvesting; if they become overripe, citrus fruits experience a degradation in flavor. Thus, after being harvested, they must be quickly processed and/or transported to consumers before a deterioration in flavor occurs. Furthermore, citrus fruits are soft and easily bruised, and will spoil if kept in an overly warm environment. Thus, a method and apparatus for storing and preserving citrus fruits in a cool environment such that their food quality, flavor, and appearance does not deteriorate are necessary for consumer satisfaction.
A number of fruit-preserving methods have been devised, a few of which are discussed below. For example, a process for preserving olives is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 860,185 to Bedford et al. Bedford describes an olive preservation process wherein olives are submerged in water maintained at a temperature ranging from 32 degrees F. to 50 degrees F. Olives, however, are different from citrus fruits in that they do not contain juice sacs and rag. Rather, olives are a firm fruit having a single-stone seed.
Babbitt, in U.S. Pat. No. 496,376, discloses a method for protecting the buds of fruit trees. The limbs of the fruit trees are sprayed with water when the temperature has fallen below the freezing point of water. The water encases the limbs and the buds in an ice coating. This coating protects the buds, for a very short period of time, from such extreme low temperatures as would destroy the fruit buds. This patent, however, does not address the storage and preservation of picked citrus fruits.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a method for storing and preserving fruits that are characterized by having juice sacs and rag for extended time periods whereby the food quality flavor of the internal juices are maintained and the external appearance does not deteriorate.

Method for the preservation of whole citrus fruit


Electromagnetic radiation is projected through various types of plastics materials such as plastic containers. The readings from the electromagnetic radiation transmitters are received by a sensor array. Plural readings are taken from each plastic bottle as it passes under the sensor. The measurements from the sensor array output are then fed into a computer. The materials are then separated into three classes. The first class contains polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyethylene teraphalate (PET) containers. The second class contains polypropylene (PP) and natural (primarily milk containers) high density polythylene (HDPE) containers. The third class contains opaque materials such as rigid, mixed color high density polythylene (HDPE) containers, opaque polyvinyl chloride (PVC) containers, opaque polystyrene (PS) containers, and opaque polypropylene (PP) containers. The groups of plastics contained in each of the classes are then separated out using the same or other detection means.

The present invention relates generally to a device for identification and separation of plastic containers and more particularly to a device for identification and separation of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) containers, polyethylene (PET) plastic containers, polypropylene (PP), and high density polyethylene (HDPE) containers.
It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that conservation and recycling are generally practiced by individuals, as well as municipalities. Municipalities are determining way to recycle materials such as plastic bottles in a cost effective manner. In recycling plastic containers, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) containers, polyethylene (PET) containers, polypropylene (PP) and high density polyethylene (HDPE) containers containers must be sorted and separated. Failure to separate these containers prior to the chemical recycling of the containers can create a bad mix, requiring the batch to be discarded without the benefits of recycling. To this end, there have been several attempts to provide a process and apparatus for identification and separation of plastic containers.
What is needed, then, is a process and apparatus for identification and separation of plastic containers. This process and apparatus must be able to identify and separate plastic containers at a high rate of speed. This process and apparatus must be cost effective. This process and apparatus must be accurate. This process and apparatus is presently lacking in the prior art.

Process and apparatus for identification and separation of plastic containers


A sign display mountable over a top surface of a cubicle wall includes a sign holder having a frame and a depending post extending therefrom for carrying a sign. A clamp assembly has a pair of engaging members and an attachment for securing the engaging members together to abut respective opposed vertical surfaces of a cubicle wall and a horizontal wall portion with an upper and lower surface. One engaging member includes at least one hole and the other engaging member includes an elongate slot. A threaded bolt is positionable upwardly through the elongate slot and one hole for securing the engaging members together. Each engaging member is a bracket formed as an L-shaped member to abut against a vertical surface of a cubicle wall and a horizontal wall portion.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention pertains to sign holders and particularly to sign holders for work cubicle walls that are adjustable in height and direction and modular in construction.
2. Related Art
A wide variety of sign holders are known to the prior art. None of the devices are adaptable to the top surface of a cubicle wall and adjustable to a wide variety of wall widths. Devices for cubicle wall mounting should be adjustable in height and movable through 360° to a desired direction to be easily viewable.


A water-based ink set for ink-jet recording is provided which is capable of: reducing graininess in a low-density printed part without reducing the color reproduction range in red and magenta directions in a high-density printed part; extending the color reproduction range in the red direction; improving the vividness of the red color; and improving the light fastness and gas resistance. The water-based ink set for ink-jet recording includes a magenta dye ink and a red pigment ink. The magenta dye ink is a light magenta dye ink having a lightness (L*) of about 50 or more in the L*a*b* calorimetric system.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a water-based ink set for ink-jet recording suitable for reducing graininess in a low-density printed part, for extending a color reproduction range, for improving light fastness and for improving gas resistance. The present invention also relates to an ink-jet recording method using this water-based ink set for ink-jet recording.
2. Description of the Related Art
When a color image is formed by use of an ink-jet recording method, a three-color ink set has been generally used which is composed of a yellow ink (Y), a magenta ink (M) and a cyan ink (C). Alternatively, a four-color ink set has also been used in which a black ink (K) is further added to the three-color ink set.
Generally, in an ink-jet recording method, the gradation of an image is controlled by adjusting the density of dots formed by ejecting ink onto a recording material. However, when the gradation is controlled by such a method, the dot density decreases in a low-density printed part. Relative to this, the individual dots become easily discernable to the eye, thereby causing a problem that the image is grainy.
In view of the above, a method has been proposed in which two or more inks are employed as cyan ink (see Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H01-95093). In this method, these inks have different dye concentrations and are composed of different kinds of dyes. In addition, a dye which is excellent in vividness but inferior in light fastness is employed in a dark color ink, and a dye which is excellent in light fastness but inferior in vividness is employed in a light color ink. Moreover, a similar method has been proposed for magenta ink (see Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H02-127482). According to these methods, graininess can be improved, but a problem remains that a color reproduction range cannot be extended. Moreover, when dye ink is employed, light fastness and gas resistance (particularly ozone resistance) of a printed part become a problem.
Generally, in a three-color ink set composed of yellow, magenta and cyan inks, and also in a four-color ink set in which a black ink is added to the three-color ink set, red color is developed by use of the magenta ink and the yellow ink. When these two inks are used to develope red color as above, a problem arises that sharp printing quality and vivid colors are difficult to achieve due to a landing error of superposition.

Water-based ink set for ink-jet recording and ink-jet recording method


A venetian blind assembly is described, for use in a glazed door having a rectangular window insert mounted therein and forming a primary glazing. In the improved assembly a rectangular frame is provided with a secondary glazing mounted within the rectangular frame, and a venetian blind mounted completely within the frame so as to be between the primary and secondary glazings when the assembly is secured to the door. Holding clips engage the exterior of the rectangular frame and are held in place by screws which are engaged in holes used for the securing of the rectangular window frame insert into the main door body of the door. Alternatively, an additional frame may be secured to the door around the window insert of the door and the double glazed unit with the venetian blind therein may be held to this additional frame by means of snap-on clips.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to venetian blind assemblies for glazed doors. More particularly, the present invention relates to venetian blind assemblies and secondary glazing for glazed doors.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Very often hinged doors to buildings have a window formed therein which is either a half-light (in the upper half of the door) or a full-light extending over the majority of the area of the door. It has been traditional to cover these glass lights with some form of window covering to ensure privacy and for decorative reasons.
A disadvantage of any window covering on such an application is they are liable to more damage than the coverings for windows in the wall of building, firstly because of their proximity to humans passing through the door as well as the opening and closing action of the door itself. While it has been thought desirable instead of having a conventional curtain or draw blind, to have a venetian blind, problems have been found when fitting a venetian blind over the "window" in a glazed door.
Not only are such blinds subjected to considerable abuse and damage due to the door opening and shutting, particularly when the door slams in the wind, but also, because people pass in close proximity to the blind itself, damage to the blind occurs and such damage and dirt appearing on the blind are readily visible.

Venetian blind assembly for a glazed door