The hand tool for applying free-flowing pasty materials includes a container with a displaceable base and a nozzle, a piston engagable with the displaceable base to force the free-flowing pasty material from the container, and a guide device for supporting and for guiding the hand tool on the base. The guide device can be contained in a single exchangeable structural unit attached to a cylinder holding the container and includes a first housing part mounted in a telescoping manner in a second housing part fastened to the cylinder; a rotatable wheel connected rotatably to the first housing part, the distance of the rotatable wheel from the nozzle being adjustable because of the mounting of the first housing part in the second housing part in a telescoping manner; and a first drive including an electric motor in the first housing part connected to drive the wheel rotatably and to thus provide a controlled movement of the hand tool over the base during application of the free-flowing pasty material when the wheel contacts the base. The guide device also includes a selecting device for choosing a wheel rotation direction by selecting a motor rotation direction.

The invention relates to a hand tool and, more particularly, to a hand tool having a guide device for applying a free-flowing pasty material to a base.
A hand tool for applying a free-flowing pasty material, an adhesive and/or a sealant, comprises a container with a nozzle and displaceable base, a piston device for forcing the material from the nozzle and guide means supporting and guiding the hand tool during operation.
Such a hand tool is known from U.S. Pat. No. 3,550,815. A hand tool constructed according to this patent is provided with a drive for delivering free-flowing material through a nozzle. The drive is an electric motor which moves a piston in a cylinder via a gear unit and accordingly moves the free-flowing material located in the pressing cylinder to the nozzle. A roller is arranged directly in front of the nozzle, which roller serves to distribute the material when placed on a base, e.g. on a workpiece to be treated.
It is difficult to achieve a uniform application of the material along the length of the surface to be treated with this hand tool, especially in working positions which are uncomfortable for the worker and when the surfaces to be treated are uneven or irregular. In such cases, application with the known hand tool results in interruptions and irregularities or messiness. This is especially unacceptable for visible surfaces.

Automatically guidable hand tool for applying free-flowing pasty materials to a base


A frequency setting system for a radio transmission apparatus of the type transmitting a signal in the form of bursts and changing transmission frequency burst by burst. A frequency division data signal representative of a frequency division number and a strobe signal representative of frequency setting are fed to a frequency synthesizer. The timings for generating the frequency division data signal and strobe signal are determined with no regard to the locking time of the frequency synthesizer which is dependent on the kind of the synthesizer, frequency, etc.

The present invention relates to a frequency setting method for a radio transmission apparatus of the type which transmits a signal in bursts and changes the transmission frequency burst by burst.
Radio transmission apparatuses of the type described include one which determines a transmission frequency in response to an output of a frequency synthesizer which is implemented with a PLL (Phase Locked Loop) system. Specifically, the frequency synthesizer changes the frequency of its output by changing a frequency division number. The frequency division number is given as a frequency division data signal which is applied to the frequency synthesizer. A strobe signal is also applied to the frequency synthesizer for determining the frequency division number timing.
The problem with the prior art frequency setting method described above is that the locking time necessary for the frequency synthesizer to lock the phase varies with the kind of the synthesizer, the size of change in frequency between successive bursts, and so forth. It follows that the timings for feeding the frequency division data signal and subsequent strobe signal to the frequency synthesizer have to be controlled in matching relation to a particular configuration of the apparatus.

Frequency setting method for radio transmission apparatus


A non-volatile semiconductor memory device that includes an address buffer block, a matrix of memory cells, and an output buffer block. The address buffer block receives input signals external to the memory device, that in a first operating mode are controlled by devices outside to the memory device, and transmit signals to the matrix of memory cells, which are adapted to decode the received signals and to transmit in turn output decoded signals through the output buffer block. A command block is provided that is activatable through an external control signal and once activated, it puts the memory device in a second operating mode in which the command block receives at least a part of the signals in output of said matrix of memory cells and, after having processed them, transmits internal address signals to the address buffer block. This provides a feedback inside the memory device capable of making the same able to autonomously execute a succession of instructions stored in the matrix of memory cells.

The present invention relates to a non-volatile memory capable of executing a program independently from a microprocessor.
The families of the non-volatile memories, among which are the EEPROMs and the Flash EEPROM, share a fundamental property: They all effect a conversion of binary codes. Such conversion is performed by decoding the code that is introduced in input, getting a number of distinct signal lines, resulting from all the possible combinations of the bits of the input code; these lines are then encoded in the desired output word through a circuit called an encoder. The memory matrix produces therefore the desired functional relationship between input and output.
From this point of view it is reasonable to classify a non-volatile matrix as a combinatorial circuit, not as a sequential circuit because the outputs depend entirely from the actual inputs and not from the preceding history of the circuit. What is stored is the functional relationship between inputs and outputs.
In the electronic devices comprising microcomputers, that is computers in which a microprocessor is present, the non-volatile memory is used to store the program that must be performed by the microprocessor.
The microprocessor is an integrated circuit that contains a control unit and an arithmetic-logic unit and has an internal state that is usually controllable from the outside through a programmable fixed memory.
The microprocessor is a very complex unit, capable of performing programs involving operations of calculation, of comparison of data, of timing and other usually essential operations in the actual electronic devices.
The structure of a microcomputer essentially consists of a central processing unit (microprocessor), a memory, and input/output devices. The program that must be performed by the microprocessor is stored in a non-volatile memory. During operation the microprocessor extracts the instructions from the memory, performing them in succession and elaborating therefore the data according to the program. During elaboration the results of the same can be provided to the outside through the output devices. The memory has therefore the purpose to preserve the program, i.e., the instructions and the data necessary to the operation of the microprocessor.
In FIG. 1 there is schematically represented a block diagram of a microcomputer in which a non-volatile memory 1 is present that contains the control program of the system, a microprocessor 2, a RAM memory 3 that temporarily stores instructions and data, these last written in memory locations each one having a respective address. Also present is an input/output I/O unit 4 that receives signals 5 of input and output. The various elements are connected by a data bus 6, bidirectionally carrying the data among the different sections of the microcomputer, and by an address and control bus 7, unidirectional and adapted to transmit the address of the memory location which is desired to be read or written, or of the input or output device that must be activated, and to carry the control signals necessary for example to enable the memory to operate in reading or writing or to enable the circuits of input-output interface.
In FIG. 2 the functional structure of the non-volatile memory 1 of FIG. 1 is schematically shown. The input signals 8, comprising control and address signals, are sent through input buffers 10 to a matrix of memory cells 11 that decodes them and sends respective coded signals 9 to output buffers 12 connected to the data bus 6.
The elements shown in FIG. 2 are present in any non-volatile memory and they constitute the fundamental structure thereof, even if other functional blocks are generally foreseen, such as for instance circuits of control or verification.
In several applications, the power of calculation, essential for instance in a computer, is not necessary and the execution of a program is reduced to the simple execution in sequential way of the instructions contained in the memory. For instance, the distributors of drinks perform a sequential program, which uses in reality few instructions, performing only a series of timed operations that, in principle, do not require the use of a microprocessor. Other examples are found in appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines or refrigerators, which perform some identical cycles in time that need not a great flexibility.
The present invention provides a non-volatile memory configured to behave as a RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) machine, performing a limited set of instructions that substantially make the non-volatile memory a sequential machine. This additional intelligence of the non-volatile memory does not pose it at the same level of a microcontroller; however, it could allow the memory itself to perform some simple tasks, leaving more difficult tasks to the microprocessor.
Additionally, such memory would, if the particular application makes it possible, avoid the use of a microprocessor with a significant reduction of costs.
The present invention provides a non-volatile memory semiconductor device having an address buffer block, a matrix of memory cells, and an output buffer block, the address buffer block receiving input signals external to the memory device, that in a first operating condition are controlled by devices external to the memory device, and transmitting signals to the matrix of memory cells, adapted to decode the received signals and to transmit in turn decoded signals in output through the output buffer block. Further included is a command block, activatable by an external control signal that, once activated, sets the memory device in a second operating condition in which the command block receives at least a part of the signals in output from the matrix of memory cells and, after having processed them, transmits internal address signals to the address buffer block to get a feedback inside the memory device suitable for making the memory device able to perform a succession of instructions memorized in the matrix of memory cells autonomously.

Non-volatile memory capable of autonomously executing a program


In a method of processing milt obtained from male cod fish, 5 Kg. of the milt is placed in a hot water bath equipped with automatic temperature control set at a temperature of 60 degrees C. to 80 degrees 1C. and heated for 8 to 10- seconds. The heated milt is then placed in a cold water bath consisting of 20 liters of water containing dissolved vitamin C in a concentration of 1% to 2% and at a temperature automatically controlled at 2 degrees C. to 3 degrees C. and maintained in the cold water bath for 8 to 10 seconds. The cooled milt is then vacuum packed in 200 g packages and placed in a freezer cooled by liquid nitrogen to -150 degrees C. to -170 degrees C. for 15 to 20 minutes. For storage, the frozen milt is placed in heat-insulated containers of polysterene foam plastic and placed in cold storage. To thaw the frozen milt, the heat-insulated container containing the milt is exposed to room temperature for 36 to 42 hours.

The conventional method of processing cod milt consists of solidifying the milt by rapid freezing and then thawing it just before preparation of the cuisine. However, when the cod milt is rapidly frozen, the moisture in the milt expands and ruptures the outer membranes. When the milt is thawed, the ruptured outer membranes permit liquid containing nourishment to leave the milt, thereby ruining its taste. Moreover, preserving the frozen milt for extended periods results in a change of color to greenish brown, which reduces the commercial value of the milt by 50%.


A portable planar abrading or honing apparatus embodying components including modified elongated planar support block with flared ends each with holding arrangements and attached to the blocks planar surface are optional material support bases that assist various tensioned flexible abrasive material, described as abrasive tapes that facilitate manual grinding or honing and sharpening of edges upon the abrasive surface.

The project evolved from the inventor using honing stones and other tools such as files to sharpen edges of various implements toward lightening the load and fewer sharpening tools in remote places and wanting to also produce the useful convex edge using a single simple, light and compact apparatus.
This evolved planar sharpening apparatus directly relates to portable, simple and compact sized objectives and the need to be capable of multiple sharpening tasks, such as axe, machete, knife, razor and others.
Essentially light compact size and flat for comfortable pocket carry and versatile for users in a range of environments from home and workplace to remote places where simple to use and maintain are beneficial features to combine the functions of a file, honing stone, leather strop and convex edge sharpener into one sharpening apparatus.
Solution was to adapt sandpaper for use as it is lightest of all sharpening surfaces so it should be used.
Prior art It is known that emeries, sandpapers, linishing belts and other abrasive agents supported on flexible backing material that can optionally be waterproof are commonly used for sharpening by laying them on a flat surface that can be optionally resilient or non-resilient.
For simplification these abrasives on flexible backing material variations are generally referred to in the present document descriptions and claims as simply abrasive tape.
The advantages of the abrasive tape for this sharpening apparatus are light weight, compact sized and available in different types with various optional grits for specific or general sharpening purposes and easily portable and extra replacements are readily available with the user.
The sharpening apparatus simply holds the abrasive tape on top its planar surface.
Abrasive tapes are easily exchangeable by replacing finally worn out abrasive tapes for new so sharpening can resume. Replacements can be sourced on shop shelves and best available in the form of abrasive rolls or belts, sheets can be cut to fit.
The sharpening apparatus optionally sharpens straight or convex edges (see FIG. 1) and variations of these while held on a bench or hand held.
The sharpening apparatus is made for work in remote places but not excluding its usefulness inside the workshop and is also practical for food preparation and household use.


A technique facilitates clamping operations by providing mechanical advantage. According to an embodiment, a clamping system comprises a clamp having a plurality of clamp segments with surfaces oriented to securely hold and clamp mating features, e.g. mating hubs, of adjacent components. The clamping system also may comprise an actuator coupled to the clamp to enable selective shifting of the clamp between an open position to receive the mating features and a closed position in which the clamp segments are contracted together to secure engagement of those features. A driver is coupled to the actuator to enable movement, e.g. shifting, of the actuator when opening or closing the clamp. The actuator facilitates operation of the driver via, for example, an ROV by providing mechanical advantage and thus increasing the clamping force applied by the clamp to the mating features.

Hydrocarbon fluids such as oil and natural gas are obtained from a subterranean geologic formation, referred to as a reservoir, by drilling a well that penetrates the hydrocarbon-bearing geologic formation. The well may be drilled at the surface or at a subsea location and the flow of fluids may be handled by several different types of equipment. In subsea operations, for example, a variety of subsea components may be disposed on the seabed. Examples of such subsea components comprise subsea wellheads, subsea trees, flowlines, jumpers, and/or various other types of subsea components. The flowlines and jumpers may be coupled to various components via engagement of hubs which are secured together by a clamp. Certain existing clamps may be actuated between open and closed configurations via rotation of a lead screw threadably coupled with adjacent segments of the clamp. Individual lead screws may be rotated by a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) to set the clamp, but limitations exist with respect to the amount of torque which may be applied by the ROV.

Clamping system having mechanical advantage


An electromagnetic driving apparatus of an objective lens in an optical data recording and reproducing apparatus including a movable carriage, and an objective lens holder which supports the objective lens to converge laser beams onto the optical disc and which is supported on the carriage to move in focusing and tracking directions. Focusing and tracking coils are provided on the objective lens holder, together with a magnetic circuit including permanent magnets and a yoke member. The yoke member is made of a single piece including a magnetic shield wall having a laser transmission hole opposed to the optical disc, a plurality of yoke walls extending substantially perpendicularly to the magnetic shield wall towards the carriage, and a plurality of mounting flanges extending from the yoke walls to lie on the carriage, so that the mounting flanges can be secured to the carriage.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an optical data recording and reproducing apparatus that optically reads data from or writes data onto an optical disc. More precisely, the invention relates to a driving apparatus that electromagnetically drives an objective lens thereof.
2. Description of Related Art
In a known optical disc apparatus, such as an opto-magnetic disc apparatus, an objective lens is supported by a carriage that is movable in a radial direction (i.e., tracking direction) of the optical disc. The objective lens is elastically movable in the tracking direction and the focusing direction. A tracking coil and a focusing coil are used to drive the objective lens in the tracking and focusing directions. The tracking coil and focusing coil are provided on a lens holder which holds the objective lens. A magnetic circuit, which constitutes an electromagnetic driving circuit together with the tracking and focusing coils, is provided on the carriage. The focusing and tracking coils are supplied with predetermined directions and intensities of electric current to drive the objective lens holder in a manner such that the laser beams converged by the objective lens correctly trace the recording track of the optical disc.
In the known electromagnetic objective lens driving apparatus, the magnetic circuit on the carriage includes a permanent magnet and a cantilever type yoke member which is secured at one end thereof to the carriage. The yoke member can be opened at the free end side thereof adjacent to the optical disc upon assembly. Thus, assembly can be simplified. Upon assembling, the permanent magnet, and the lens holder, etc., are accommodated in the yoke member, and thereafter, the latter is covered by a magnetic shield plate.
The carriage on which the lens holder and the magnetic circuit are provided should be as light and small as possible in view of the desire for fast access times. The same is true for the magnetic circuit. Namely, the permanent magnet and the yoke member of the magnetic circuit must be as light and small as possible. This however reduces the mechanical strength, thus resulting in occurrence of resonance which has an adverse influence on the precision of the tracking and focusing operations.
Furthermore, in the conventional electromagnetic driving apparatus, there is a large number of components, including the yoke member and the magnetic shield plate separate from the yoke member. This complicates the assembling operation.
The primary object of the present invention is to eliminate the drawbacks of the prior art as mentioned above, by providing a simple, small and light electromagnetic driving apparatus of an objective lens, which has a sufficient mechanical strength and fewer components, and in which no resonance tends to occur.

Electromagnetic objective lens driving apparatus of optical data recording and reproducing apparatus including a one-piece yoke member


An implantable drug infusion device which features an improved flow regulator which permits the flow rate to be independent of reservoir pressure within a given pressure range. The flow regulator features a membrane having a hole, the membrane itself positioned above a bottom layer such that sufficient deflection of the membrane causes the membrane to engage against the bottom layer. As liquid flows through the hole a drag force is applied to the edge of the hole resulting in a deflection of the membrane. Once contact is made between the membrane and the bottom layer, then flow reduced. In a further embodiment the bottom layer features a variable flow channel such that upon membrane deflection flow may only proceed through the hole and through the flow channel. By tailoring the shape and length of the variable flow channel the flow characteristics of the regulator versus pressure may be adjusted. In a further embodiment the flow regulator also features a flow sensor integrated therewith. This integrated sensor provides a measurement of flow and may be coupled to the flow regulator to provide feedback thereto.

Implantable drug infusion devices are used to provide patients with a constant or programmable long term dosage or infusion of a drug or any other therapeutic agent. Essentially such device may be categorized as either active or passive.
Active drug or programmable infusion devices feature a pump or a metering system to deliver the drug into the patient's system. An example of such an active drug infusion device currently available is the Medtronic SynchroMed.TM. programmable pump. Such pumps typically include a drug reservoir, a peristaltic pump to pump out the drug from the reservoir, and a catheter port to transport the pumped out drug from the reservoir via the pump to a patient's anatomy. Such devices also typically include a battery to power the pump as well as an electronic module to control the flow rate of the pump. The Medtronic SynchroMed.TM. pump further includes an antenna to permit the remote programming of the pump. Needless to say, in view of these various components, the cost as well as the size of active drug infusion devices is greater than desired.
Passive drug infusion devices, in contrast, do not feature a pump, but rather rely upon a pressurized drug reservoir to deliver the drug. Thus such devices tend to be both smaller as well as cheaper as compared to active devices. An example of such a device includes the Medtronic IsoMed.TM.. This device delivers the drug into the patient through the force provided by a pressurized reservoir. In particular, this reservoir is pressurized with a drug to between 20 to 40 psi (1.3 to 2.5 bar) and is used to deliver the drug into the patient's system. Typically the flow path of the drug from the reservoir to the patient includes a flow restrictor, which permits a constant flow rate. The flow rate, however, is only constant, if the pressure difference between reservoir and patient does not change. Factors that could impact this pressure difference include temperature, pressure-volume dependence of reservoir and altitude, among others. The selected pressure for the reservoir is thus typically quite high, so that absolute pressure changes only cause small and acceptable errors in flow rate. This also requires, however, the drug to be injected into the reservoir using still higher pressure. This is often a very difficult to achieve using a hand operated syringe.
In addition such devices present challenges to accurately deliver a precise dosage of drug to the patient. As the amount of drug is removed from the reservoir, the pressure in the reservoir drops. This, in turn, affects the flow rate such that only over a limited pressure range will the flow rate be constant. Still further, because the ambient pressure changes in which the patient exists (due to weather or altitude for example) the resistance to drug infusion likewise changes, further affecting the flow rate. Temperature will also have a similar impact.
Thus there is a need for a drug infusion system which will permit the drug flow rate to be independent of reservoir pressure within a given pressure range.

Implantable drug infusion device having a flow regulator


The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition that provides long-term stability of a hydrolytically labile antipsychotic agent.

U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,734,416 and 5,006,528 disclose aripiprazole, 7-{4-[4-(2,3-dichlorophenyl)-1-piperazinyl]butoxy}-3,4-dihydro-2(1H)-quinolinone or 7-{4-[4-(2,3-dichlorophenyl)-1-piperazinyl]butoxy}-3,4-dihydro carbostyril, as an atypical antipsychotic agent useful in the treatment of schizophrenia, bipolar disease, depression and other CNS disorders. Aripiprazole has the following chemical structure:

Aripiprazole is sold under the tradename Abilify®. It acts as a dopamine D2 partial agonist, serotonin 5-HT1A receptor agonist and is an antagonist of the serotonin 5-HT2A receptor. Abilify® is currently administered orally on a once-a-day dosing schedule as Abilify® (aripiprazole) Tablets, Abilify Discmelt® (aripiprazole) Orally Disintegrating Tablets and Abilify® (aripiprazole) Oral Solution. In one embodiment, Abilify® Injection for intramuscular use is a rapid-acting solution product for treating agitation associated with schizophrenia and bipolar disease. Poor and variable patient compliance with a once-a-day dosing schedule of psychiatric drugs has been reported.
Olanzapine (1,2-methyl-4-(4-methyl-1-piperazinyl)-10H-thieno[2,3-b][1,5]benzodiazepine) is a second generation antipsychotic drug marketed as Zyprexa®. It is useful for the treatment of disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, psychotic depression, and Tourette syndrome. This active pharmaceutical ingredient acts as an antagonist on 5-HT2 serotonin receptors as well as the D1/D2 dopamine receptors, while also exhibiting anticholinergic and antimuscarinic properties. Olanzapine belongs to the benzodiazepine family, and has the following structure:

This compound is disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,229,382 and 6,169,084. An extended release intramuscular injection product containing the water-insoluble salt olanzapine pamoate monohydrate is approved for use in schizophrenia.
Long-term stability is a critical consideration of drug formulation, expiry, shelf-life, and manufacturing. As such, stable pharmaceutical formulations that do not result in drug degradation of these and other antipsychotics through, e.g., hydrolysis and/or oxidation, are desired.

Pharmaceutical compositions having improved storage stability


An enhanced "800" service automatically provides a second communications path between a customer and a business in order to provide additional product information, such as video information, to the customer. For example, upon receipt of a customer telephone call on a B-channel of an ISDN facility, premise switching equipment, of the business, automatically receives the customer's network address. This address is used to automatically setup the second communications path to the customer.

The present invention relates to telecommunications systems and particularly to "800" telecommunications networks.
In any business, providing information to a customer is often critical in order to allow the customer to make an informed decision about buying a product or service from the business. In providing such information to the customer, the business is typically concerned about any costs the customer must bear in order to obtain the information and the type of information provided to the customer. In particular, a business which relies on a telephone call for contact with the customer is concerned about the cost of the telephone call to the customer and the type of information conveyed through the telephone call.
Since a customer who has to pay for a telephone call to a business in order to inquire, i.e., receive information, about a product or service may be less inclined to make the telephone call to the business, two alternative methods currently exist to eliminate this cost. A business may use an outward bound telecommunications service (e.g., the AT&T MEGACOM.RTM. service), i.e., where the business is the calling party thereby eliminating the cost of the telephone call to the customer, the called party. However, since the telephone call is initiated by the business, the business typically calls customers which may not be interested in the products or services of the business. As a result, some percentage of the telephone calls to customers are actually wasted. An alternative to an outward bound telecommunications service is an "800" telecommunications service, i.e., one which allows a customer to be the calling party, at no cost to the customer. An "800" telecommunications service is provided to a subscribing business by a telecommunications network. As a result, interested customers are provided with an incentive to call a business in order to inquire, i.e., get information, about the products and services of the business.
Once a telephone call is established between the calling party and the called party, by an outward bound or an "800" service (thereby eliminating the cost to the customer in obtaining the information), the business is concerned about the type of information that is conveyed through the telephone call. In current outward bound or "800" services, the business typically provides another person, i.e., a representative of the business to provide verbal, or audio, information to the customer in order to assist the customer in making a buying decision.


Provided is a piezoelectric material having high Curie temperature, high insulation property, and high piezoelectric performance, the piezoelectric material including a perovskite-type metal oxide represented by the general formula (1): xBaTiO3-yBiFeO3-zBi(M0.5Ti0.5)O3, where M represents at least one kind of element selected from the group consisting of Mg, Ni, and Zn, x represents a value satisfying 0.25≦x≦0.75, y represents a value satisfying 0.15≦y≦0.73, and z represents a value satisfying 0.02≦z≦0.60, provided that x+y+z=1 is satisfied in which the perovskite-type metal oxide contains V, and content of the V is 0.0005 mol or larger and 0.0050 mol or smaller with respect to 1 mol of the perovskite-type metal oxide. In addition, provided are a piezoelectric element, a liquid discharge head, an ultrasonic motor, and a dust removing device, which use the piezoelectric material.

A commonly used piezoelectric material is an ABO3-type perovskite metal oxide such as lead zirconate titanate (hereinafter referred to as "PZT"). However, it is considered that PZT, which contains lead as an A-site element, may cause environmental problems. Therefore, a piezoelectric material with a lead-free perovskite-type metal oxide has been desired.
Barium titanate is known as a piezoelectric material of a lead-free perovskite-type metal oxide. PTL 1 discloses barium titanate prepared by two-step sintering technique using a resistance heating apparatus. PTL 1 describes that a ceramics with excellent piezoelectric property can be obtained when nano-sized barium titanate powder is sintered by the two-step sintering technique. However, the barium titanate has a problem in that it is not suitable for device operation at high temperature because its Curie temperature is as low as 125° C.
In addition, NPL 1 discloses a solid solution of barium titanate and bismuth ferrite as an attempt to increase the Curie temperature of barium titanate. However, as the solid solution amount of the bismuth ferrite increases, the Curie temperature increases while piezoelectric performance is conspicuously decreased. At the same time, there has been a problem in that the DC conductivity increases, that is, the insulation property deteriorates.
In other words, it is difficult to achieve all high Curie temperature, high piezoelectric performance, and high insulation property at the same time in a piezoelectric material of the lead-free perovskite-type metal oxide.

Piezoelectric material, piezoelectric element, liquid discharge head, ultrasonic motor, and dust removing device


A tool chest, including specific locations therein for placement of various tools, the chest having a compartmented case and hinged cover, a row of hooks from which some tools are hung and a perforated shelf through which some other of the tools are fitted, and the cover in a closed position preventing the tools from falling out of the compartments, off the hooks and out of the shelf holes in case the chest is overturned.

This invention relates generally to tool chests. It is well known that most tool chests such as are used by mechanics and, carpenters or other craftsmen, are loaded with a large variety of tools, so that if the chest is accidently turned over, all the tools are displaced from their proper locations inside the chest, and finding a specific tool is then more difficult. This is therefore in need of an improvement.


A broadhead having a ferrule, an elastic collar, and a plurality of blades pivotally coupled to the ferrule. A first biasing force exerted by the collar on each blade retains the blade in a retracted position, and a second biasing force exerted by the collar on each blade retains the blade in a first deployed position.

Typical prior art broadheads utilize a collar for retaining the blades in a retracted or "closed" position during flight. The blades typically have a notch or a cut into which the collar is positioned for retaining the blades in the retracted position. Upon impacting a target, a force exerted on the blades shatters or breaks apart the collar releasing the blades. This then allows the blades, and the cutting edge in particular, to "open" into a swept-back or "laid back" position. Accordingly, the cutting edges form an obtuse angle relative to the longitudinal axis extending to the distal end or tip of the ferrule. Stated differently the cutting edges form an acute angle relative to the longitudinal axis extending to the proximal end of the ferrule or the shaft of the arrow. As such, the cutting radius of prior art broadheads is defined by the distance between the outermost end or tip of a cutting blade and the longitudinal axis of the ferrule.
Accordingly, there exists a need for increasing or maximizing the cutting radius of a broadhead.


An electrical power distribution system includes a first bus bar and a clamp mounted to the first bus bar. The clamp includes a fixed base and a movable plate that define a track therebetween along a broad face of the first bus bar. The track receives a second bus bar therein such that the broad face of the first bus bar engages a corresponding broad face of the second bus bar. The clamp includes a lever connected to both the movable plate and the first bus bar. Pivoting movement of the lever in a locking direction forces linear movement of the movable plate relative to the first bus bar towards the fixed base such that respective inner sides of the movable plate and the fixed base sandwich the second bus bar therebetween to secure the second bus bar in engagement with the first bus bar.

The subject matter herein relates generally to electrical connector systems that are used for electrically connecting a bus bar to another bus bar or to a cable, and, more specifically, to a bus bar clamp that can be used in an electrical power distribution system, such as a server rack.
Electrical server racks may include multiple trays of at least one server on each tray that are stacked within a section of the rack. The rack may include one or two power module trays and multiple server trays. Each power module tray is configured to distribute electrical power (e.g., current) to the server trays via a bus bar assembly mounted within the rack. For example, the power module receives power from a power source, converts the power to direct current (DC), and distributes the DC power to the server trays along the bus bar assembly. The bus bar assembly includes at least one primary or main bus bar which extends across multiple server trays. Each power module tray includes at least two branches or connecting bars that extend between the power module tray and the bus bar in order to deliver power to the bus bar.
Conventionally, when a tray, such as a power module tray or a server tray, is loaded into the rack in a certain position, the branch bar extending from that tray is permanently affixed to a main bus bar in the rack. For example, the branch bar may be aligned with the main bus bar to overlap a portion of the main bus bar, and the two bars may be permanently connected to each other along the overlapping area. The two bars may be permanently connected by installing fasteners, such as bolts or rivets, through both of the bars within the overlapping area, or by welding or soldering the bars together. Such permanent connections may satisfy the requirement for providing an electrically conductive path that can provide electrical power between the corresponding tray and the main bus bar, but are not modifiable. For example, once the branch bar of a power module tray is affixed to the main bus bar within the rack, the tray cannot be moved to a different position within the rack. If there is a desire to rearrange the position of the power module tray in the rack, such as to move the power module tray from a top position of the rack to a bottom position or a middle position within the rack, then the entire bus bar assembly of the rack may have to be replaced, and a new network of bus bars has to be assembled.
A need remains for a bus bar clamp that allows removable connection to a main bus bar in a bus bar assembly that does not damage the main bus bar and provides sufficient mating forces on the mating bars to enable low contact resistance at the mating interface.


A set of solutions satisfying a constraint for an auction winner-determination problem are computed by generating a graph of paths, wherein each path represents a solution to the auction winner-determination problem that satisfies the constraint.

Auctions traditionally include the sale of goods from a seller to a buyer. A typical auction includes multiple buyers bidding on a good, referred to as a forward auction. Another type of common auction is a reverse auction or procurement auction, in which multiple sellers compete to sell goods to a single buyer. For example, a procurement auction may include a buyer that needs several lots of several different goods. The buyer receives bids from many sellers for supplying at least a portion of the needed goods at a particular price. Often, the buyer will expend a significant amount of resources, including time, money and other resources, to select a cheapest combination of winning bids to supply all the needed lots of all the goods. Furthermore, a buyer in a procurement auction may have constraints on selecting winning bids. For example, a buyer may want to purchase a certain number of lots from a particular seller or a buyer may want to set a limit on the number of lots that can be purchased from any given seller. Given a large number of bids and constraints, the process of selecting winning bids becomes even more difficult.

Constraint satisfaction for solutions to an auction winner-determination problem

Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.


Disclosed is an endoscope including: a four-color separation prism configured to separate light from an object into three primary colors of light and infrared light; four image sensors configured to convert optical images of the separated three primary colors of light and an optical image of the separated infrared light into electrical signals; and an output device configured to output the converted electrical signals.

1. Field of the Invention
This disclosure relates to an endoscope and an endoscopic system.
2. Description of the Related Art
In the related art, an endoscopic system in which a three-color separation prism is used is known. An endoscopic system disclosed in Japanese Patent Unexamined Publication No. 2013-116353 acquires a captured color image in which a site in the body is expressed in a combination of three colors, that is, red (R), green (G), and blue (B), and performs image processing on the captured image to emphasize the designated wavelength component.
Meanwhile, when an IR light (infrared light) component is added to an image in addition to the three R, G, and B colors, the image quality of the image captured by an endoscope is not good enough in the endoscopic system disclosed in Japanese Patent Unexamined Publication No. 2013-116353.

PANASONIC INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT CO., LTD.


An antenna device includes a first insulating base portion including a spiral antenna pattern, and a second insulating base portion including at least two conductor wires. An insulating layer configured to insulate the conductor wires from the antenna pattern is provided between a first end and a second end of the antenna pattern in a planar view. The insulating layer includes a cut or an opening allowing at least one of the first end and the second end of the antenna pattern to be exposed toward the conductor wires. Electrode portions of the conductor wires are electrically and mechanically connected to the first end and the second end, respectively, of the antenna pattern by a conductive material in the cut or the opening of the insulating layer. The second insulating base portion is more flexible than the first insulating base portion.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an antenna device preferably for use in a non-contact communication system, for example, an NFC (near field communication) system, and a communication terminal apparatus including the antenna device.
2. Description of the Related Art
Recently, an antenna device for use in a non-contact communication system using a band of 13.56 MHz is incorporated in a portable terminal. In such an antenna device, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2013-13144, Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2008-205557 and Japanese Patent No. 4218635, a coil pattern spiraling on a plane is used as an antenna.
In order to connect both ends of the coil pattern spiraling on a plane to other circuits, normally, either of the ends is led to the outside through a via-hole conductor because it is necessary to insulate the ends from each other. However, it takes time and labor to form a via-hole conductor in a substrate, and the formation of a via-hole conductor complicates a manufacturing process.
There is a demand for an antenna device that can avoid degradation of the antenna characteristics. More particularly, in a case where a magnetic member, which is a component of an antenna device, is a sintered body, prevention of cracks of the sintered body is demanded in order to prevent degradation of the antenna characteristics. Also, it is demanded that an antenna device keeps good antenna characteristics even when the antenna device is located at a shorter distance from a communication counterpart, for example, another antenna.
As for an antenna device, further, the following features are required. A magnetic field generated from an antenna pattern is prevented from propagating to other conductor wires. In a bending process, the conductor wires easily bend, and stress concentration is avoided. Wiring disconnection is avoided, and connection reliability is improved. The strength is improved.

Antenna device and communication terminal apparatus


A processing apparatus is provided that includes NVRAM and one or more processors configured to process a first set and a second set of instructions according to a hierarchical processing scope and process a scoped persistence barrier residing in the program after the first instruction set and before the second instruction set. The barrier includes an instruction to cause first data to persist in the NVRAM before second data persists in the NVRAM. The first data results from execution of each of the first set of instructions processed according to the one hierarchical processing scope. The second data results from execution of each of the second set of instructions processed according to the one hierarchical processing scope. The processing apparatus also includes a controller configured to cause the first data to persist in the NVRAM before the second data persists in the NVRAM based on the scoped persistence barrier.

Non-volatile memory (e.g., read only memory (ROM)) and non-volatile storage devices maintain stored data when power is interrupted (e.g., battery is drained, computer is shut down, or computer is restarted). Due to certain limitations however, non-volatile memory is inefficient (e.g., increased cost and data access time) for use as main memory or primary storage. While use of random access memory (RAM), such as dynamic RAM (DRAM) and static RAM (SRAM) as main memory offers advantages over non-volatile memory, such as more efficient accessing of data, RAM is volatile memory which does not maintain its stored data when power supplied to the memory is interrupted.
Non-volatile memory types, such as non-volatile random access memory (NVRAM), continue to emerge as a replacement for, or as a supplement to, volatile RAM. Reliability of these non-volatile memory types as a main memory replacement or supplement is facilitated by the recoverability of persistent data structures to maintain instruction order after power is restored to the non-volatile memory.

Scoped persistence barriers for non-volatile memories


The thin rubbery layer resulting from the photopolymerization of a thin layer of an aqueous solution of acrylic monomer(s) is face surface coated with a coating of an alkali metal sulfite and/or metabisulfite, and is then shredded, dried and ground to provide acrylic polymer/copolymer from which virtually all residual monomer has been depleted and which is well suited for use as a polymeric flocculant.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to the preparation of water-soluble, high molecular weight organic polymers/copolymers especially adapted as polymeric flocculants for the treatment of waste and other impure waters, and, more especially, to the preparation of high molecular weight, water-soluble acrylic polymers or copolymers essentially devoid of residual monomer or monomers.
2. Description of the Prior Art
It is well known to this art that, for reasons of toxicity, it is exceedingly important to utilize for water treatment, e.g., water purification, organic water-soluble polymers or copolymers containing but very slight amounts of residual monomer or monomers. Indeed, different government regulations have set an acceptable upper limit on the content of residual monomer or monomers (particularly in the case of acrylamide polymers or copolymers) at 0.05% by weight, with respect to the weight of the dry polymer.
The preparation of acrylic polymers or copolymers by photopolymerization under ultraviolet irradiation too is well known to the prior art. Compare U.S. Pat. No. 4,178,221 which features the preparation of water-soluble acrylic polymers of high molecular weight containing little or no free monomer. According to this particular process, an aqueous solution of acrylic monomer or monomers is continuously deposited onto a support in the form of a thin layer, said solution containing a photopolymerization promoter in an amount of 0.005 to 1% by weight with respect to the total weight of the monomer or monomers, and also containing less than 1 mg oxygen per liter of solution; the thin liquid layer is then subjected to irradiation at wavelengths between 300 nm and 450 nm for 1 to 20 minutes, the average power of such radiation being between 20 and 300 watts/m.sup.2, the gaseous atmosphere enveloping the thin liquid layer having an oxygen content of less than 5% by volume, and the support being cooled in order to facilitate heat removal. Next, the thin layer thus subjected to the onset of photopolymerization is maintained on the cooled support and under an atmosphere free of oxygen and is then exposed to a second radiation stage, at wavelengths between 300 and 450 nm for 1 to 20 minutes, the average power of such radiation being between 300 and 2000 watts/m.sup.2 ; thence, in order to effect removal of the residual monomers present in the resulting, at least partially solidified thin layer, the same is stripped from the support and subjected to yet another stage of irradiation, preferably in a cool air atmosphere, said irradiation being at wavelengths of between 300 and 450 nm for 30 minutes to 3 hours, and with the average power of active radiation being between 20 and 300 watts/m.sup.2. The resultant film is subsequently cut into fragments, dried and ground into powder. This process yields polymer having a content of residual monomer or monomers of less than 0.05%. However, it displays the disadvantage of requiring a lengthy period of third-stage irradiation (30 minutes to 3 hours) under conditions differing from those of the earlier irradiation stages. Thus, such prior art process is both time consuming, as well as expensive.
It too has been postulated that the aforesaid lengthy period of irradiation of from 30 minutes to 3 hours could be avoided by simply extracting the residual monomer(s) with any suitable solvent, such as dilute methanol. And indeed the ultimate product of photopolymerization may be treated with methanol to dissolve the residual monomers, but this is a lengthy, costly and difficult operation, especially in light of the hazardous and toxic character of methanol.
Other techniques are also known for reducing the residual monomer content of water-soluble polymers, e.g., those featuring the use of the alkali metal sulfites or metabisulfites. Such sulfites or bisulfites are post-polymerization additives, being introduced after completion of the polymerization into aqueous mixtures containing the polymer, the polymer then being dried. If such compounds are present during polymerization, however, they interfere with the polymerization catalyst and upset the process equilibrium. Utilization of such compounds may thus be considered to be confined to already polymerized products. It is also known that it is fundamentally impossible to attain the desired results by interacting the sulfite or bisulfite with a powder of the polymeric flocculant, such as that obtained after drying. In the case wherein a solid, rubbery product is obtained after polymerization, and still containing a high proportion of residual monomer or monomers (0.5% of acrylamide monomer, for example), no means are provided by the prior art for interreaction between the sulfite or bisulfite and the product of photopolymerization.
Hence, it will be seen that a serious need exists in this art for a facile and speedy process for the preparation of water-soluble acrylic polymers or copolymers having a very low residual content of starting material monomer or monomers, and especially for the preparation of such polymers/copolymers well suited as markedly effective polymeric flocculants.

Photopolymerized acrylic polymer essentially devoid of residual monomer(s)


A marine vessel which uniquely combines tumblehome-like and trimaran-like attributes in an integrative form describing two underside channels comprises a medial major hull and a pair of lateral minor hulls. The port and starboard minor hulls, each generally describing an inverted triangular cross-section, have respective outside surfaces which slope in tumblehome fashion (downwardly outwardly). The major hull has port and starboard outside surfaces which can slope in any fashion, whether tumblehome or nontumblehome. The outside surfaces of the minor hulls are parallel to the vessel""s centerline, whereas the outside surfaces of the major hull aftwardly slant toward the centerline. The minor hulls"" respective outside surfaces and the major hull""s outside surfaces generally converge at longitudinally equivalent port and starboard locations, at which locations the major hull""s outside surfaces commence to forwardly slant toward the centerline so as to generally converge at the vessel""s bow tip.

The invention described herein may be manufactured and used by or for the Government of the United States of America for governmental purposes without the payment of any royalties thereon or therefor.
The present invention relates to marine and naval engineering and architecture as pertains to shapes and configurations of ships, boats and other water vessels, more particularly to hull forms of such vessels.
The term xe2x80x9ctumblehomexe2x80x9d (alternatively spelled xe2x80x9ctumble homexe2x80x9d or xe2x80x9ctumble-homexe2x80x9d) refers to a property of a water vessel""s hull wherein its topside, or some portion thereof, is inclined inward. Generally according to conventional tumblehome-type monohull designs, the two sides of the vessel are sloped, above the maximum beam (widest width or breadth), toward the middle or center of the vessel. These known monohull tumblehome hull designs typically are beset with certain undesirable characteristics. They have a poor righting arm, since the tumblehome feature decreases the water plane area as the ship heels (tilts to one side; lists). They have poor damage stability, because the above-water volume is limited by the tumblehome feature. They have restricted useable superstructure volume and width at the deck level. They are characterized by unusual sea-keeping responsiveness along with ongoing concern regarding the dynamic stability in a seafaring way; this is probably attributable to the broad transom (which has large above-water volume associated therewith) in combination with the wave-piercing bow (which has limited above-water volume associated therewith).
To some extent, trimarans are intended to reduce or eliminate the stability problems associated with conventional monohull tumblehome designs. A trimaran configuration includes three separate hulls, usually a main hull and two much smaller, pontoon-like or float-like hulls (sometimes called xe2x80x9coutriggersxe2x80x9d) on each side. A main drawback of a typical trimaran design relates to the fact that the large separation distance between the main hull and the outer hull amplifies the bending moment. Hence, each cross-structure connecting the main hull to an outer hull (outrigger) must be strong enough to handle the large bending moments caused by hydrodynamic loads. Consequently, the cross-structures represent significant increases in structural weight.
In view of the foregoing, it is an object of the present invention to provide a tumblehome-type hullform which is more stable than conventional tumblehome-type hull forms.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a tumblehome-type hullform which is characterized by greater internal volume than is typical conventional tumblehome-type hull forms.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a tumblehome-type hullform which has better sea-keeping characteristics than is typical of tumblehome-type hull forms.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a tumblehome-type hullform which is more stable than conventional tumblehome-type hullforms, but which is lighter than conventional trimaran hullforms.
Typically according to the present invention, a water vehicle such as a water transportation vehicle has a length, an imaginary lengthwise axis, a port side and a starboard side. The vehicle is about equivalently configured on each of its sides. The vehicle comprises a tumblehome outer surface, an inner surface and a junctional surface. The inner surface generally is located more proximate the lengthwise axis than the tumblehome outer surface. The junctional surface joins each of the tumblehome outer surface and the inner surface so as to generally be interposed between the tumblehome outer surface and the inner surface.
In accordance with many embodiments of the present invention, a hull comprises a back- section and a front section. The hull is characterized by a length and by an imaginary horizontal plane passing therethrough. The back section includes a pair of lateral fins and a medial portion between the lateral fins. The medial portion includes a pair of medial faces. Each fin includes a lateral tumblehome face and a crosswise face. Each crosswise face at least substantially is sloped at a smaller angle with respect to the imaginary horizontal plane than are the medial faces and the lateral tumblehome faces. Each crosswise face and a lateral tumblehome face form an at least substantially horizontal fin edge. Each crosswise face and a medial face form an at least substantially horizontal junctional corner. Each crosswise face at least substantially is sloped at an angle with respect to the imaginary horizontal plane which, to at least a substantial degree, gradually increases in accordance with the forward lengthwise direction of the hull.
In accordance with the present invention, the medial faces can be sloped in a tumblehome or conventional (nontumblehome) fashion. According to some of the embodiments wherein the medial faces are sloped in tumblehome fashion, the medial tumblehome faces and the lateral tumblehome faces at least substantially are sloped at at least substantially the same at least substantially constant angle with respect to the imaginary horizontal plane.
A typical hull configuration according to this invention has an imaginary centerline and comprises a stern surface, an outer starboard tumblehome surface, an inner starboard surface, an outer port tumblehome surface, an inner port surface, a starboard obliquely downfacing surface and a port obliquely downfacing surface. The outer starboard tumblehome surface, the inner starboard surface, the outer port tumblehome surface, the inner port surface, the starboard obliquely downfacing surface and the port obliquely downfacing surface each extend from the stern surface in a generally forward direction. The starboard obliquely downfacing surface connects the outer starboard tumblehome surface and the inner starboard surface. The port obliquely downfacing surface connects the outer port tumblehome surface and the inner port surface. The outer starboard tumblehome surface and the outer port tumblehome surface are each approximately parallel to the centerline. Proceeding from the stern surface in a generally forward direction, the inner starboard surface tumblehome and the inner port surface diverge from the centerline in approximately equivalent fashion.
The inner starboard surface and the inner port surface are each disposed: (i) vertically (i.e., in nontumblehome fashion); or, (ii) nonvertically, equivalently and oppositely angled upwardly away from the centerline (i.e., in nontumblehome fashion); or, (iii) nonvertically, equivalentsly and oppositely angled upwardly toward the centerline (i.e., in tumblehome fashion). According to some embodiments wherein the inner surfaces are tumblehome surfaces, the outer starboard tumblehome surface, the inner starboard tumblehome surface, the outer port tumblehome surface and the inner port tumblehome surface each define approximately the same tumblehome angle. Generally, according to inventive embodiments wherein the inner surfaces, as welt as the outer surfaces, are tumblehome surfaces, the outer starboard tumblehome surface, the starboard obliquely downfacing surface and the inner starboard tumblehome surface define, from an aft perspective, an approximate N-shaped starboard profile wherein the outer starboard tumblehome surface reaches a greater elevation than does the inner starboard tumblehome surface; the outer port tumblehome surface, the port obliquely downfacing surface and the inner port tumblehome surface define, from an aft perspective, an approximate reverse N-shaped port profile wherein the outer port tumblehome surface reaches a greater elevation than does the inner port tumblehome surface. Proceeding from the stern surface in a generally forward direction, the N-shaped starboard profile and the reverse N-shaped port profile each narrow in breadth in approximately equivalent fashion.
The present invention uniquely features a dual (both-sided) tumblehome, trimaran-like, integral hullform design. According to typical inventive embodiments, the inventive hullform includes a medial hull and two outrigger-analogue hulls which are integrally associated with the medial hull. According to typical inventive practice, there are no cross-structures for connecting the outrigger-analogue hulls to the medial hull; all three hulls are closely integrated into what is essentially a monohull hullform. According to many inventive embodiments, the inventive hullform is characterized by two tumblehome surfaces (one port, one starboard); one tumblehome surface is described by each outrigger-analogue hull, and two nontumblehome surfaces are described by the medial hull. According to other inventive embodiments, the inventive hullform is characterized by four tumblehome surfaces (two port, two starboard); two tumblehome surfaces are described by the medial hull, and one tumblehome surface is described by each outrigger-analogue hull.
The inventive dual tumblehome monohull hullform affords greater sea-keeping, stability and capacity (space or volume) vis-a-vis the conventional tumblehome monohull vessel, while also affording lesser structural weight vis-a-vis the conventional trimaran vessel. In comparison with conventional hulls, the inventive hull features a relatively moderate transom width; effectively in certain respects, the inventive hull""s transom width is the width of the transom at the rear of the inventive medial hull. Stability and seakeeping are furthered by the inventive vessel""s combination of the two lateral outrigger-analogue hulls and the medial hull characterized by a moderate transom width. The double (two-sided) tumblehome arrangement, on both sides of the inventive vessel, serves not only to reduce signatures but also to architecturally render, together with an upper portion of the medial hull, a kind of curtain over two mirror-image tunnels extending forward from the transom. The inventive hullform lends itself to application to a variety of types and sizes of vessels (ships, boats, etc.) and to association with a variety of types and sites of propulsion means. Depending on the inventive embodiment, the vessel""s topside can be xe2x80x9copenxe2x80x9d or xe2x80x9cclosed.xe2x80x9d
As compared with a conventional tumblehome monohull vessel, the tumblehome monohull vessel according to the present invention has superior characteristics, especially in terms of stability, internal volume and sea-keeping. The tumblehome monohull vessel according to the present invention also has superior characteristics as compared with a conventional trimaran vessel, especially in terms of structural weight. In terms of stability and sea-keeping, when the inventively configured vessel heels it advantageously acts to attain additional water plane area and additional righting force. In terms of internal volume, the inventively configured vessel inherently advantageously provides additional space by virtue of its structurally augmentative quality.

The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy


A method and a circuit for detecting an electric arc in an electric circuit supplied with AC current during a supply period includes measuring at least one input signal (S) among a current (I) and an input voltage (U) of the electric circuit, supplying a warning signal (A1) to indicate that an electric arc occurs when the input signal (S) is constant over at least one portion of the supply period, digitally sampling the input signal (S) during the measurement thereof according to predetermined levels and, to identify that the input signal (S) is constant, determining the frequency at which each level is reached by the input signal (S) over a predetermined time window, comparing the frequency of each level with a predetermined warning threshold, and issuing the warning signal if the frequency of at least one of the levels is higher than the warning threshold.

The present invention relates to a method for detecting an arc in an electrical circuit, to a detection circuit implying the said method and to a switching device comprising such a circuit.
In the description herein below, the references between square brackets ([ ]) refer to the list of references presented at the end of the text.
In electrical circuits, certain faults may lead to the generation of undesirable electrical arcs. Two main types of faults are differentiated.
The first type of fault occurs when a gap is created between two elements of the circuit in the path of the current. At low voltage, no current flows; however, with a voltage that depends in particular on the width of the spacing, an arc is established in the spacing and the current flows. This is then referred to as a fault of the series arc type. In the case of an alternating current, an arc is established upon each half-alternation.
The second type of fault occurs when a spurious conductor tends to short-circuit the current source of the electrical circuit. Here again, a gap subsists between a main conductor and the spurious conductor. With a low voltage, no current flows between the two conductors, but when the voltage increases, an arc is established in the gap and the current flows forming a short-circuit. A similar phenomenon can occur when a conducting liquid simultaneously wets two conductors with different potentials. This is then referred to as a fault of the parallel arc type.
Local heating takes place which can be dissipated if the arc is not frequent, but which may lead to destructive consequences if it occurs frequently or in a repeated fashion. Moreover, the power supply for the circuit is weakened. Furthermore, the short-circuit current can also heat the spurious conductor and cause a fire.
A protection device for an electrical circuit has already been provided comprising a device for detecting an electrical arc. The document EP 1 845 599 A1 [1] shows one example of such devices. The detection is based on the measurement of the power supply current and voltage of the electrical circuit and on the digital analysis of these signals. Several detection units compare the values of the signals, of their derivative and of their integration to thresholds in order to supply signals for assisting the decision, each detection unit being adapted to one particular type of electrical arc. Decision means receive the signals for assisting the decision in order to supply a control signal for opening the electrical circuit and rendering it safe.
In another document [2], a circuit for detecting an electrical arc is applied to the semiconductor power control. In this document, the use is also provided of decision means receiving the results from several detection units. In one of them, a detection by interpolation of the input signal taken from between the current and the voltage is provided. The signal is under-sampled then interpolated by a polynomial. Subsequently, the interpolation is compared with the original signal and a warning is generated if the difference exceeds a predetermined threshold.
Even though this method of detection works well, it requires many complex calculations to be carried out, which accordingly requires a high-performance, and hence costly, detection circuit.
The invention aims to provide a method for detecting an electrical arc that is simple to implement, efficient and does not require significant processing means.

Method and circuit for detecting an electric arc in a circuit, and switching device using such a circuit


A method executed by one or more digital devices operating in a networked environment includes the step of storing a network address for each digital device of a set of digital devices within a networked environment. A Uniform Device Descriptor file is associated with each digital device of the set of digital devices. Each Uniform Device Descriptor file characterizes a set of attributes associated with its corresponding digital device. Specified attributes in a search request are matched with attributes in a Uniform Device Descriptor file to render a selected digital device.

This invention relates generally to the operation of digital devices in a networked environment. More particularly, this invention relates to an Extensible Markup Language (XML) based technique to identify and operate a networked digital device.
Digital devices continue to proliferate. A digital device is an object with a digital circuit that processes digital data. Examples of digital devices include computers, printers, scanners, pagers, digital cameras, fax machines, digital copiers, personal digital assistants, digital appliances, digital telephones, digital projectors, and digital video recorders. The foregoing list is exemplary, the invention is applicable to additional devices, many of which will be developed in the future.
When a digital device is connected to another digital device, it is necessary to specify a common operating system and connectivity scheme. If a common operating system and connectivity scheme are not used, various device drivers must be used to emulate a common scheme. This results in substantial administrative and maintenance expenses for digital devices. Many digital devices do not have the memory or computing power to execute a set of diverse device drivers. As a result, it is not practical to form networked connections between digital devices, unless all of the digital devices share a common operating system and connectivity scheme. This limitation curtails the utilization of digital devices.
It would be highly desirable to provide a mechanism to more fully exploit the use of digital devices. In particular, it would be highly desirable to provide a technique for linking a digital device to a network regardless of the connectivity scheme and operating system used within the network. Ideally, such a scheme would allow easy identification of a digital device within a networked environment. It would also be desirable to utilize the scheme to support the administration and maintenance of digital devices in a networked environment.
The method of the invention is implemented with one or more digital devices operating in a networked environment. The method includes the step of storing a network address (e.g., an Internet Protocol (IP) address or a Uniform Resource Locator (URL) link) for each digital device of a set of digital devices within a networked environment. A Uniform Device Descriptor file is associated with each digital device of the set of digital devices. Each Uniform Device Descriptor file characterizes a set of attributes associated with its corresponding digital device. Specified attributes in a search request are precisely matched with attributes in a Uniform Device Descriptor file to render a selected digital device.
The apparatus of the invention is a computer readable memory to direct one or more digital devices in a networked environment to function in a specified manner. A digital device list specifies a network address for each digital device of a set of digital devices within a networked environment. A set of Uniform Device Descriptor files includes individual Uniform Device Descriptor files, each of which characterizes a set of attributes associated with a corresponding digital device of the set of digital devices. A search module matches specified attributes in a search request with attributes in a Uniform Device Descriptor file to render a selected digital device.
The invention provides a technique for linking a digital device to a network regardless of the connectivity scheme and operating system used within the network. The invention utilizes a web browser to identify digital devices within a networked environment. The web browser can also be used to operate digital devices within the networked environment. The scheme of the invention also supports the administration and maintenance of digital devices in the networked environment. As discussed below, embodiments of the invention operate without a web browser, yet still exploit the benefits of the invention.

Apparatus and method for identifying a digital device based on the device""s uniform device descriptor file that specifies the attributes of the device in a XML document in a networked environment


An open-ended ratchet wrench including a handle joined to a crescent-shaped end portion. Rotatable within the crescent-shaped head portion is a jaw member that is rotatable within the crescent-shaped head portion, the jaw member being rotatable about an axis which passes through the crescent-shaped head portion. A spring biased ratchet member is displaceable in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation of the jaw member and is configured to engage and disengage the jaw member to either limit rotation of the jaw member in one direction and one direction only and in a release position to allow the jaw member to rotate freely in either direction.

The invention relates to a universal open end ratchet wrench for tightening or loosening nuts, bolts and fasteners.
Ratchet wrenches are well known. Most ratchet wrenches utilize a socket, where the socket includes an opening formed in the shape of a specific fastener size, for example, a half inch hexagonal bolt or a 14 mm twelve point bolt head. Most ratchet wrenches are sold with a variety of sockets, each socket designed to fit a specific sized bolt or nut.
In such wrenches, the wrench includes means for securing the socket to a ratchet mechanism such that a variety of sockets may be interchangeably attached to the wrench. In recent years, ratchet wrenches and sockets have been standardized where the ratchet wrench includes a protruding shank that is 3/8 inch square and the socket has a 3/8 inch square opening to accommodate the shank. Another standard size ratchet wrench shank is 1/2 inch square with the sockets having corresponding 1/2 inch square openings.
Typically, a ratchet wrench selectively allows the socket to rotate freely in one direction, but inhibits rotation in the reverse direction so that as a bolt is tightened or loosened, the wrench does not need to be removed from the bolt.
Open end wrenches have been used for over a century. Open end wrenches typically have a U-shaped opening at one end with opposed parallel faces that are manufactured to fit one single bolt or nut size. Open end wrenches allow a technician or handyman to engage a bolt or nut when only a radial face of the bolt or nut is exposed. A drawback to an open end wrench is that the user must constantly remove the wrench from the bolt or nut and reposition the wrench in order to tighten or loosen the bolt or nut.
Also well known are open end ratchet wrenches where the ratchet wrench includes a rotatable element that has a gap formed therein to allow the wrench to slide over a bolt or nut in a manner similar to an open end wrench. Examples of such wrenches are shown in the following patents:
U.S. Pat. No. 4,479,409 to Antonius
U.S. Pat. No. 3,927,582 to Hertelendy et al.
U.S. Pat. No. 2,851,914 to Zeckzer
U.S. Pat. No. 2,712,256 to Fish
U.S. Pat. No. 2,699,082 to Viets
U.S. Pat. No. 2,691,315 to Brame
U.S. Pat. No. 2,649,823 to Markovich
U.S. Pat. No. 2,376,575 to Cronan
U.S. Pat. No. 923,942 to Brockway.
Open end ratchet wrenches have the obvious advantage over traditional open end wrenches of enabling a workman to progressively turn a nut or bolt without having to continually remove and reposition the wrench.
Problems with previous open end ratchet wrenches relate to the ratchet mechanism itself. For instance, in U.S. Pat. 2,376,575 to Cronan, the wrench includes a ratchet member having a circular shape with a gap formed therein for receiving a bolt or nut. The rotatable ratchet member has teeth formed on its outer circumference which become exposed as the ratchet member rotates. The teeth are damaged easily when left in an exposed position. The teeth may also present a safety hazard. For instance, if left exposed, the protruding teeth might puncture the skin of the user, or cause abrasions to skin in contact with them.
Another disadvantage to the Cronan '575 wrench is the inclusion of four pawls in the ratchet mechanism. The design is complicated in execution, making it difficult to assemble and repair. Further, the pawl members when worn slightly, may fail to engage the ratchet teeth on the rotatable wrench member in concert, thus making failure of one or more of the pawl members more likely.
Yet another shortcoming of the wrench disclosed in the Cronan '575 patent is that the radially extending ratchet teeth make it necessary to increase the overall diameter of the open end of the ratchet wrench. A wide diameter end is undesirable because it limits the applications where the wrench can be utilized, in particular, in small spaces where there is a finite amount of space near a bolt or nut.
A further disadvantage to the designs in the prior art lies in the likelihood that the rotatable element in the ratchet mechanism may eventually become bent or warped, in which case, rotation of the element may become limited or may be impossible altogether.


In one embodiment, a method is disclosed for allocating memory for a processor unit in a group of processing units. The method can include receiving a memory allocation request where the request can indicate a number of binary segments to be stored. The method can determine if the number indicates a nonstandard allocation, and locate an unallocated memory address based on a multiple of the number if the number indicates a nonstandard allocation. The method can also include locating an unallocated memory address from a pool of memory addresses, where the pool of addresses includes the integer multiples of the binary segments and excludes addresses that are two times the number of binary segments such that the address can be utilized to determine the allocation.

One popular multi-unit parallel processor configuration is a single instruction stream, multiple data stream (SIMD) architecture. In a SIMD system, the same instruction is provided to all active processing units. Each processing unit can have its own set of registers along with some means for the processing unit to receive unique data. In newer multiprocessor chips, many small processing units (PU's) sometime called "synergistic processing elements" (SPE's) can be implemented where each SPE is generally a reduced instruction set computer that utilizes a simpler set of instructions. An SPE can have a greatly reduced memory allocation. In a multi-processor configuration each processor can have a relatively small memory allocation such as only 256K of memory.
After the processing unit processes an instruction and produces a result, the result must be stored in this relatively small memory space. This memory will typically be utilized for text, data, and stack, and heap operations. A heap can be a collection of dynamically allocated variables or an area used for allocation of storage whose lifetime is not related to the execution of the current routine and an area allocated by system software and system extensions to hold frequently used instructions. A stack can be a data construct that uses data on a last-in, last-out basis.
Memory allocation hardware and software in larger computers is very complex. However, when smaller processing units and memory systems are utilized, a sophisticated memory allocation algorithm cannot be utilized due to the lack of space for such overhead. Yet, having such a small memory space creates even a greater requirement for efficient usage of memory or memory allocations.
During operation, and when a requestor such as a PU needs to store data or utilize memory, the requestor (i.e. PU) can request a specific amount of memory and a requestee or allocator can process the request and return an address or a block of addresses to the requestor. A requestee can be a PU and may not be dedicated hardware but can be software that runs on the same hardware (i.e. same processing unit). The allocator can identify areas of memory that are available or "freed" and return these addresses to the requestor. The requestor can then send the data to memory, storing the data at the address that was allocated by the allocator. This is commonly referred to as dynamic memory allocation where areas of memory are used then freed and the allocator can track statuses of memory locations and return addresses to a processing unit based on locations in memory that are free. Static memory allocation is faster but inflexible because it has fixed limits.
Data alignment and memory allocation is generally the way data is arranged and accessed in computer memory. Data alignment is a fundamental, yet difficult issue for all modern computers. Different computer languages handle data storage allocation and data alignment very differently where some implementations have considerable overhead and are very complex. Often, a memory system will operate or be optimized to operate (i.e. store and retrieve data) on a sixteen byte basis. This is typically based on the size of the memory bus, register sizes etc. Dealing with smaller data segments can pose significant problems for an allocator. For example, when only four bytes need to be stored, the system may write only four bytes to an area that has 16 byte available. When this occurs and the four bytes are later retrieved, data structure alignment can also create additional inefficiencies.
When returning an allocation for use, the memory allocator will often use some space in front of the allocated memory or elsewhere in a structure for internal use. This is often referred to as a "header." A header typically contains information such as the size of the allocation. Because this header is only used internally by the memory allocator, the header is considered "overhead" and reduces the usable free memory that can be allocated.

International Business Machines Corporation


Technologies for collaborative optimization include multiple Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices in communication over a network with an optimization server. Each IoT device selects an optimization strategy based on device context and user preferences. The optimization strategy may be full-local, full-global, or hybrid. Each IoT device receives raw device data from one or more sensors/actuators. If the full-local strategy is selected, the IoT device generates processed data based on the raw device data, generates optimization results based on the processed data, and generates device controls/settings for the sensors/actuators based on the optimization results. If the full-global strategy is selected, the optimization server performs those operations. If the hybrid strategy is selected, the IoT device generates the processed data and the device controls/settings, and the optimization server generates the optimization results. The optimization server may provision plugins to the IoT devices to perform those operations. Other embodiments are described and claimed.

Current Internet-of-Things (IoT) systems may include a community of IoT devices and/or associated sensors and actuator end nodes. Typical use cases for such systems include optimization or coordination of the settings and controls for the IoT devices (or associated sensors/actuators). Typical systems may use cloud computing servers to perform optimization algorithms on aggregated device data and relay the resulting optimized settings or controls back to the source IoT devices. Any change in the division of the computational workload between the IoT devices and the remote cloud servers may require manually re-architecting or otherwise redesigning the system.

Technologies for adaptive collaborative optimization of internet-of-things systems


Systems and methods for providing a mixture of drilling fluid and beads into a flow of drilling fluid, e.g., flowing in a conduit or flowing upwardly within an annulus of a riser, the method in certain aspects including: introducing an initial stream including a mixture of drilling fluid and beads into a hydrocyclone; processing the initial stream with the hydrocyclone producing a first stream and a second stream, the first stream containing drilling fluid and beads and the second stream containing drilling fluid; and feeding the first stream to shale shaker apparatus and/or to centrifugal liquid/liquid separator apparatus producing a primary stream and a secondary stream, the primary stream including beads and drilling fluid; and feeding the primary stream into the conduit or into an annulus of the riser.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention, in at least certain embodiments, is directed to methods for efficiently recovering beads or spheres from a dual density drilling fluid; to systems useful in such recovery; and to dual gradient drilling systems and processes that use such bead or sphere recovery methods.
2. Description of Related Art
The prior art discloses a variety of systems for providing drilling fluids (often referred to as "drilling mud") for oil and gas drilling applications and methods and apparatus for varying the density of mud in deep water oil and gas drilling operations. In many such methods drilling mud drives drill bits, maintains hydrostatic pressure, and carries away particulate matter, debris, and drilled cuttings. In many methods drilling mud is pumped down the drill pipe and provides the fluid driving force for a drill bit and then it flows back up from the bit along the periphery of the drill pipe in an annulus between the drill pipe and a tubular or an open hole's interior for removing the particles drilled away by the drill bit. Mud returning to the surface is cleaned to remove the particles, debris, drilled cuttings, etc. and recycled down into the wellbore.
In many prior art methods, density of the drilling mud is monitored and controlled to maximize the efficiency of the drilling operation and to maintain a desired hydrostatic pressure. A well is drilled in many typical operations using a drill bit mounted on the end of a drill stem inserted down the drill pipe. Mud is pumped down the drill pipe and through the drill bit to drive the bit. A gas flow can also pumped and/or other additives are also pumped into the drill pipe to control the density of the mud. Mud passes through the drill bit and flows upwardly along the drill string inside the open hole and casing, carrying the drilled cuttings etc. to the surface. U.S. Pat. No. 5,873,420 discloses an air and mud control system for underbalanced drilling which provides, among other things, for a gas flow in the tubing for mixing the gas with the mud in a desired ratio so that mud density is reduced to permit enhanced drilling rates by maintaining the well in an underbalanced condition.
Formation pressure on earth formations increases as a function of depth due to the weight of the overburden on particular strata. This weight increases with depth so the prevailing or quiescent bottom hole pressure is increased in a generally linear curve with respect to depth. As the well depth is doubled, the pressure is also doubled. When drilling in deep water or ultra deep water this is further complicated because of the pressure on the sea floor by the water above it. High-pressure conditions exist at the beginning of the hole and increase as the well is drilled. A balance must be maintained between the mud density and pressure and the hole pressure or the pressure in the hole will force material back into the well bore and cause what is commonly known as a blowout in which gases in the well bore flow out of the formation into the well bore and bubble upward. When the standing column of drilling fluid is equal to or greater than the pressure at the depth of the borehole the conditions leading to a blowout are minimized. When the mud density is insufficient, the gases or fluids in the borehole can cause the mud to decrease in density and become so light that a blowout occurs which can bring drilling operations to a halt and cause significant damage and injury. Usually blowout preventers or BOP's are installed at the ocean floor to minimize a blowout from an out-of-balance well. One primary method for minimizing blowout is the proper balancing of the drilling mud density to maintain the well in balance at all times. While BOP's can contain a blowout and minimize the damage to personnel and the environment, the well is usually lost once a blowout occurs, even if contained. Proper mud control techniques can reduce the risk of a blowout and obviate the need to contain a blowout once it occurs. In certain methods, to maintain a safe margin, the column of drilling mud in the annular space around the drill stem is of sufficient weight and density to produce a high enough pressure to limit risk to near zero in normal drilling conditions, but this can slow the drilling process. Underbalanced drilling is sued in some prior art methods to increase the drilling rate.
The need to provide a high density mud in a well bore that starts several thousand feet below sea level in deep water or ultra deep water drilling can present a variety of problems. Pressure at the beginning of the hole is equal to the hydrostatic pressure of the seawater above it, but the mud must travel from the sea surface to the sea floor before its density is useful. To maintain mud density at or near seawater density (or 8.6 PPG) when above the borehole and at a heavier density from the seabed down into the well is desirable. Pumps have been employed in certain prior art methods near the seabed for pumping out the returning mud and cuttings from the seabed above the BOP's and to the surface using a return line that is separate from the typical subsea riser system, a system which is expensive to install, requiring separate lines, expensive to maintain and very expensive to run.
In typical offshore drilling, a riser extends from the sea floor to a drill ship and drilling fluid is circulated down the drill stem and up the borehole annulus, the casing set in the borehole, and the riser, back to the drill ship. The drilling fluid performs several functions, including well control. The weight or density of the drilling fluid is selected so as to maintain well bore annulus pressure above formation pore pressure, so that the well does not "kick", and below fracture pressure, so that the fluid does not hydraulically fracture the formation and cause lost circulation. In deep water, the pore pressure and fracture pressure gradients are typically close together. In order to avoid lost circulation or a kick, it is necessary to maintain the drilling fluid pressure between the pore pressure gradient and the fracture pressure gradient.
The drilling fluid hydrostatic pressure gradient in conventional riser drilling is a straight line extending from the surface. This hydrostatic pressure gradient line traverses across the pore pressure gradient and fracture pressure gradient over a short vertical distance, which can result in having to set numerous casing strings. The setting of casing strings is expensive in terms of time and equipment. Various prior art systems—called dual gradient drilling systems—disclose attempts to decouple the hydrostatic head of the drilling fluid in the riser from the effective and useful hydrostatic head in the well bore. In dual gradient systems, the hydrostatic pressure in the annulus at the mud line is equal to the pressure due to the depth of the seawater and the pressure on the borehole is equal to the drilling fluid hydrostatic pressure. The combination of the seawater gradient at the mud line and drilling fluid gradient in the well bore results in greater depth for each casing string and a reduction of the total number of casing strings required to achieve any particular bore hole depth.
Various methods in the prior art have been proposed to produce an efficient and effective dual gradient system. In one method drilling fluid returns are continuously dumped at the sea floor. This is not safe, environmentally practical or economically viable. In another method, gas lift is used involving injecting a gas such as nitrogen into the riser. This requires no major subsea mechanical equipment, but it has some limitations. Since gas is compressible, the depth at which it may be utilized is limited and extensive surface equipment may be required. Also, because the gas expands as the drilling fluid reaches the surface, surface flow rates can be excessive.
Another prior art attempt to create an effective dual gradient system is pumping the drilling fluid from the underwater wellhead back to the surface. Several pumping systems have been suggested, including jet style pumps, positive displacement pumps, and centrifugal pumps. Sea floor pump systems provide the flexibility needed to handle drilling situations, but they have the disadvantage of high cost and reliability problems associated with keeping complex pumping systems operating reliably on the sea floor.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,536,540 issued Mar. 25, 2003 and U.S. Patent Application 20030070840 published Apr. 17, 2003 disclose, among other things, methods and apparatus for controlling drilling mud density at or near the sea bed of wells in deep water and ultra deep-water applications. By combining the appropriate quantities of drilling mud with a base fluid of lesser density, a riser mud density at or near the density of seawater may be achieved. No additional hardware is required below the surface. The riser charging lines are used to inject the low-density base fluid at or near the BOP stack on the seabed. The cuttings are brought to the surface with the diluted mud and separated in the usual manner. The diluted mud is then passed through a centrifuge system to separate the heavier drilling mud from the lighter base fluid.
Another prior art method employs the injection of low-density particles such as glass beads into the returning fluid in the riser above the sea floor to reduce the density of the returning mud as it is brought to the surface. Glass beads are injected above the BOP stack. U.S. Pat. No. 6,530,437 discloses such methods in which a multi-gradient system for drilling a well bore from a surface location into a seabed includes an injector for injecting buoyant substantially incompressible, e.g. glass beads, articles into a column of drilling fluid associated with the well bore. In one such method, the substantially incompressible articles are hollow substantially spherical bodies. All patents and applications referred to herein are incorporated fully herein for all purposes.