A method for making a field emission lamp generally includes the steps of: (a) providing a cathode emitter; (b) providing a transparent glass tube having a carbon nanotube transparent conductive film and a fluorescent layer, wherein the carbon nanotube transparent conductive film and the fluorescent layer are both disposed on an inner surface of the transparent glass tube; (c) providing a first glass feedthrough, a second glass feedthrough, and a nickel pipe, wherein the first glass feedthrough has an anode down-lead pad and an anode down-lead pole connected to the anode down-lead pad, and the second glass feedthrough has a cathode down-lead pole; (d) securing the nickel pipe to one end of the cathode emitter and securing the other end of the cathode emitter to one end of the cathode down-lead pole of the second glass feedthrough; and (e) melting and assembling the first and second glass feedthroughs to ends of the transparent glass tube respectively.

1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to a method for making a field emission lamp.
2. Discussion of Related Art
Electrical lamps for daily living usually include incandescent lamps and fluorescent lamps. Since Thomas Edison invented the first viable incandescent lamps in 1879, the incandescent lamps have a long history for simple fabrication thereof. However, an incandescent lamp emits light by the heating of a tungsten filament and most of the electric energy used to power the lamp is converted into heat and thereby wasted. Therefore, a main shortcoming of the incandescent lamp is the low energy efficiency. Thus, the fluorescent lamps are widely used.
A typical conventional fluorescent lamp generally includes a transparent glass tube. The transparent glass tube has a white or colored fluorescent material coated on an inner surface thereof and a certain amount of mercury vapor filled therein. In use, electrons are accelerated by an electric field and the accelerated electrons collide with the mercury vapor. This collision causes excitation of the mercury vapor and this excitation causes radiation of ultraviolet rays. The ultraviolet rays are absorbed by the fluorescent material and the fluorescent material emits visible light. Compared with the incandescent lamps, the fluorescent lamps have relatively high electrical energy utilization ratios. However, when the glass tube is broken, the mercury vapor is prone to leak out therefrom, and thus, is poisonous and noxious to humans and is environmentally unsafe.
To address the above problems, a kind of fluorescent lamp (i.e., field emission lamp) without mercury vapor has been developed, as can be referenced in an article entitled "A Full Sealed Luminescent Tube Based on Carbon Nanotube Field Emission" and authored by Mirko Croci et al (page 329-336, Vol. 35, Microelectronics Journal 2004). A conventional cold cathode field emission lamp generally includes a transparent glass tube, a cathode, an anode, and glass feedthroughs. The glass feedthroughs are disposed on the ends of the glass tube. The cathode includes a cathode emitter and an electron emission layer formed thereon, and the anode includes a transparent conductive film and a phosphor layer. The transparent conductive film is formed on an inner surface of the glass tube and the phosphor layer is formed on the transparent conductive film facing the electron emission layer. In use, a strong electrical field is provided to excite the cathode emitters. A certain amount of electrons are emitted from the cathode emitters and then accelerated towards and collides with the fluorescent layer of the anode, thereby producing visible light.
The field emission lamp does not adopt mercury vapor, and is safe for humans and environmentally friendly. Furthermore, the field emission lamp adopts a cold cathode, thereby providing a high electrical energy utilization ratio and low energy consumption.
Conventionally, the fabrication of the field emission lamp includes the process of fabricating the cathode emitters, forming the anode, and encapsulating the glass tube. The encapsulation procedure includes connecting the glass feedthroughs with the ends of the glass tube to seal the glass tube. Currently, a colloid is used to connect the glass feedthroughs to the glass tube. However, this sealing method has a poor encapsulation effect and thus affects the performance life of the field emission lamp. Moreover, this method is complicated and time-consuming and not suitable for mass production of the field emission lamp. And thus the field emission lamp has a relatively high cost.
What is needed, therefore, is a method for making a field emission lamp that overcomes the above-mentioned shortcomings, ensuring a high degree of vacuum in the field emission lamp, thus providing a better field emission performance during the use thereof.


A well tool for use in a wellbore can include a motor for performing a well operation. The well tool can include a switch that is couplable between the motor and a wireline. The switch can be toggleable between (i) a first operational state for providing the power to the motor by coupling the motor to an external power source and (ii) a second operational state for decoupling the motor from the external power source. The well tool can include a motor controller coupled to the switch for toggling the switch between the first operational state and the second operational state in an arrangement configured to impart, on the wireline, multiple current pulses including data encoded in the current pulses according to an encoding scheme.

A wellbore can be drilled from a subterranean formation for extracting hydrocarbons (e.g., oil or gas) from the subterranean formation. Various well tools can be positioned in the wellbore for performing well operations. For example, a well tool that includes a sensor can be positioned in the wellbore for measuring characteristics of the wellbore.

Downhole telemetry using motor current spikes


There are disclosed an artificial marble containing pellet-shaped transparent chips, obtained by coating the outer surface of an internal transparent resin layer with a resin layer containing a filler having a high specific gravity using co-extrusion, and a process for preparing the same. The artificial marble using the transparent chips as coloring chips, thus not causing the occurrence of layer separation of the transparent chips, which conventionally occurred in an artificial marble using transparent chips made of a single component, being distinguished from a conventional artificial marble made of combination of the single-colored chips, and expressing a pattern similar to a natural granite.

In general, compared to a natural marble, artificial marbles made of acrylic resin have various advantages, such as a fine external appearance, a high processability, a lightweight, and a high strength, thus being widely used as materials for counter tables and other interior products. However, the artificial marbles have a limit to express a similar pattern to that of the natural marble or granite from the general combination of single-colored opaque chips.
The artificial marbles made of acrylic resin are manufactured by mixing a filler, such as aluminum hydroxide, calcium carbonate, or a silica, other pigments, and a hardening agent to a syrup mixture, which is obtained by mixing a monomer, such as methylmethacrylate, with polymethyl methacrylate, casting the mixture using forming die or a continuous steel belt, and hardening the obtained product.
In order to form a pattern and a color of the artificial marble, pigments and chips are used. The chips are generally made of the same resin as that of the artificial marble, and pigments and fillers are put into the resin composite so that the chips have the same specific gravity as a raw material composite for the artificial marble, to which the chips are applied. Then, the chips are manufactured through the same process as the artificial marble, and are crushed so that the crushed chips have various colors and particle sizes.
Specifically, when an artificial marble containing the above chips is manufactured, the occurrence of layer separation due to a difference of specific gravities between the artificial marble and the chips needs to be minimized. Thus, after the specific gravity of the chips is adjusted using an inorganic filler, such as coal or aluminum hydroxide, so that the specific gravity of the chips is equal to that of a base material of the artificial marble, various pigments are put into the resin composite for the chips. Then, the resin composite is formed in a plate shape, and is crushed into the chips. When the chips are made of acrylic resin, the chips become opaque due to the filler added to the raw material of the chips, thus being incapable of imitating quartz of natural granite or marble.
Further, when transparent chips manufactured using a transparent polymer made of a single component without the addition of a filler are applied to an artificial marble, the size and the supply amount of the chips contained in the marble are limited due to chip separation caused by a difference of specific gravities between the chips and the raw material composite for the artificial marble. Accordingly, the above transparent chips cannot imitate quartz contained in the natural marble.
Korean Patent Registration No. 491874 discloses an artificial marble containing (A) an artificial marble slurry at an amount of 100 parts by weight containing acrylic resin syrup at an amount of 100 parts by weight, an inorganic filler at an amount of 120˜200 parts by weight, a crosslink agent at an amount of 2˜10 parts by weight, and a polymerization initiator at an amount of 0.1˜10 parts by weight, and (B) marble chips at an amount of 5˜70 parts by weight containing acrylic resin syrup at an amount of 100 parts by weight, an inorganic filler at an amount of 100˜150 parts by weight, a crosslink agent at an amount of 2˜10 parts by weight, and a polymerization initiator at an amount of 0.1˜10 parts by weight, wherein the mixture rate of the inorganic filler in the artificial marble slurry is higher than that in the marble chips by 20˜50 parts by weight. The marble chips obtained by adding the inorganic filler to the acrylic resin, disclosed in the above Patent, are opaque, thus being incapable of imitating quartz in a natural marble or granite.
Accordingly, in order to overcome the above technical limitation of the conventional artificial marble, the present inventor(s) has invented an artificial marble containing transparent chips, obtained by coating transparent polymeric resin, such as acrylic resin or PET with a high specific gravity resin layer containing a filler using co-extrusion and cutting the obtained extrudate, so that the transparent chips have a specific gravity similar to that of a raw material composite for the artificial marble, thereby allowing the transparent chips to exhibit transparency like quartz or high-purity silica contained in a natural marble, and thus expressing a pattern more similar to that of the natural marble, compared to a conventional artificial marble containing chips made of opaque or semi-transparent single component.

Artificial marble containing transparent chip using co-extrusion and process for preparing the same


Electrical power consumption is saved in a low-cost scanner for reading bar code symbols by oscillating one of the scanner components either by mechanical power alone or by a low-power electrical drive.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention generally relates to a scanning arrangement in a scanner operative for repetitively scanning indicia having parts of different light reflectivity, for example, bar code symbols, and, more particularly, to operating such a scanning arrangement under low electrical power or mechanical power conditions to minimize usage of electrical power.
2. Description of Related Art
Various optical readers and optical scanners have been developed heretofore to optically read bar code symbols applied to objects in order to identify the object by optically reading the symbol thereon. The bar code symbol itself is a coded pattern comprised of a series of bars of various widths and spaced apart from one another to bound spaces of various widths, the bars and spaces having different light reflecting properties. The readers and scanners electro-optically decoded the coded patterns to multiple digit representations descriptive of the objects. Scanners of this general type have been disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,251,798; 4,360,798; 4,369,361; 4,387,297; 4,593,186; 4,496,831; 4,409,470; 4,460,120; 4,607,156; 4,673,805; 4,736,095; 4,758,717; 4,760,248; 4,806,742; 4,808,804; 4,825,057; 4,816,661; 4,816,660; 4,835,374, 4,845,350; 4,871,904; 4,896,026; D-306,434; and D-306,435, as well as pending U.S. patent applications Ser. Nos. 193,265 now U.S. Pat. No. 5,124,540, now abandoned; 265,149 now abandoned; 264,693; 367,335 now U.S. Pat. No. 5,124,539 and 392,207 now abandoned, all of said patents and patent applications having been assigned to the same assignee as the instant invention and being hereby incorporated herein by reference.
As disclosed in the above-identified patents and applications, a particularly advantageous embodiment of such a scanner resided, inter alia, in emitting a light beam, preferably a laser beam, emitted from a light source, preferably a gas laser or a laser diode, and in directing the laser beam to a symbol to be read. En route to the symbol, the laser beam was directed to, and reflected off, a light reflector of a scanning component. The scanning component moved the reflector in a cyclical fashion and caused the laser beam to repetitively scan the symbol. The symbol reflected the laser bear incident thereon. A portion of the incident light reflected off the symbol was collected and detected by a detector component, e.g. a photodiode, of the scanner. The photodiode had a field of view,and the detected light over the field of view was decoded by electrical decode circuitry into data descriptive of the symbol for subsequent processing. The cyclically movable reflector swept the laser beam across the symbol and/or swept the field of view during scanning.
There were several different types of scanning components disclosed in the above patents and applications. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,251,798 disclosed a polygonally-shaped multi-faced wheel having mirrored outer surfaces on each of its faces. The wheel was mounted for rotation so that each mirrored outer surface was, in turn, positioned in an optical path along which the incident laser beam was directed to the symbol to be scanned. An electrical motor continuously rotated the mirrored wheel at a uniform angular rate during scanning.
Other scanning components disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,251,798 were a bimorph or ferroelectric-type oscillating element, as well as a speaker-type oscillating element, each element having an oscillatable mirror. In each case, electrical power was continuously applied to each scanning element in order to reciprocatingly oscillate the mirror.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,387,297 and 4,496,831 disclosed a high-speed scanning component including an electric motor operative for reciprocatingly oscillating a reflector in opposite circumferential directions relative to an output shaft of the motor. Here, again, electrical power was continuously applied to the motor during scanning U.S. Pat. No. 4,387,297 also disclosed a penta-bimorph scanner which also required continuous electrical power during scanning.
The light reflector need not have been a single planar mirror, but, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,760,248, could have been an optical component having a construction which was part concave and part planar. The reflector could be driven by an electrical motor in alternate circumferential directions along arc lengths less than 360.degree. as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,496,831, or, in a variant construction, could be rotated completely around an axis as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,816,661.
In still another variant construction, as described in U.S. Ser. No. 193,265 filed May 11, 1988, rather than using a reflector to effect the scanning action, the reflector was eliminated altogether in a so-called "mirrorless" design in which one or more of the other scanner components were jointly or separately moved relative to one another to effect a reciprocating scanning action driven by an electrical motor. The other scanner components included a light source component, e.g. a laser diode, and/or optical components, e.g. a focusing lens, and/or the photodetector component, e.g. a photodiode.
In all of the above-described scanners, no matter whether a reflect or scanner was oscillated in alternate circumferential directions or completely around an axis of rotation, and no matter what the configuration of the resulting scan pattern on the symbol, e.g. a single scan line, a set of multiple parallel or intersecting scan lines, an X-shaped pattern, a Lissajous pattern, a curvilinear pattern (see U.S. Ser. No. 138,563 filed Dec. 28, 1987), etc., the scanning component was energized and driven by electrical power which was continuously applied during scanning. This represented a large electrical current drain, particularly when an electrical motor was employed as a prime mover since the motor drew the most electrical current of all the electrical components in the scanner. In scanners of the hand-held type, wherein substantially all of the scanner components, including a set of batteries, were mounted on-board a hand-held head, the high current drain reduced the working lifetime of the on-board batteries.
To round out this discussion, electro-optical wand- or pen-type readers have also been used to scan bar code symbols. These readers were manually positioned on, and dragged across, the symbol. These readers had no on-board scanning components. Scanning was effected by the user by the manual act of dragging a reader tip across, and in contact with, the symbol. In addition, non-contact hand-held heads have been proposed for reading symbols. Such non-contact heads were held at a distance from the symbol. However, scanning was effected not by any on-board scanning component, but by flicking one's wrist in a direction across the symbol.

Bar code symbol scanner with reduced power usage to effect reading


A method uses a hybrid neural network including a self organizing mapping neural network (SOM NN) and a, back-propagation neural network (BP NN) for color identification. In the method the red, green and blue (RGB) of color samples are input as features of training samples and are automatically classified by way of SOM NN. Afterwards, the outcomes of SOM NN are respectively delivered to various BP NN for further learning; and the map relationship of the input and the output defines the X,Y, Z corresponding the x, y and z values of a coordinate system of the standard color samples of RGB and IT8. By way of the above learning structure, a non-linear model of color identification can be set up. After color samples are self organized and classified by SOM NN network, data can be categorized in clusters as a result of characteristic difference thereof. Then the data are respectively sent to BP NN for learning whereby-the learning system not only can be quickly converged but also lower error discrepancy in operation effectively.

This invention presents a method using a hybrid neural networks including a self-organizing mapping neural network (SOM NN) and a back-propagation neural network (BP NN) for color identification. In the method RGBs ( red, green, blue) of color samples are input as features of training samples and are classified by SOM NN. Afterwards, the outputs of SOM NN are respectively delivered to various BP NN for further learning; and RGBs of the color samples onto corresponding XYZs of IT8. By the way of the above learning structure, a non-linear model of color identification can be set up. After color samples are self-organized-and classified by SOM NN, data can be categorized in clusters as a result of characteristic-difference thereof. Then the data are transmitted to BP NN. This learning system not only can be quickly converged but also lower error discrepancy in operation effectively.
This invention could be widely applied in color quality control and color proof task. No matter in the printing industry, scanner and CCD (charge coupled device) that are image processing devices and must be connected to the above equipment responsible for color quality control and proof task whereby color discrepancy and mal-quality problems can be overcome. In particular, color is not linear data in nature and the discrepancy in brightness and color hue can not be simply solved by linear approaches, or image infidelity can be more serious in practical operation.
Therefore, the primary object of the present invention is to provide a device a method using a hybrid neural networks, including a self-organizing mapping neural network (SOM NN) and a back-propagation neural network ( BP NN), for RGBs to XYZs color transformation. This technique could apply for color identification, color quality control and color proof task. SOM NN could classify input RGBs to different categories. Each categories of SOM NN will link a BP NN to perform a supervising learning. The learning cycle will stop until reaching a desired inferred XYZs.
Anther object of this invention is to provide a method for color identification using a intelligent system to process color calibration in error tolerance, self-organization and efficiency. This technique reveals a new intelligent solution to solve a color complex problem. This technique actually superiors to a traditional color transformation like a 3xc3x973 matrix.
One further object of the present invention is to provide method for color identification wherein self-learning process can continue in BP NN until a preset termination condition is met in each BP NN for satisfactory color identification.

Hybrid neural networks for color identification


A recliner or lift and recliner chair is provided having a recline or lift and recline chair mechanism with preferably with at least one recline or lift-recline actuator that controls a reclining movement or a lifting and reclining movement. The chair mechanism has a recline or lift-recline base, a seat and a back connected thereto. For additional functionality, a cradle assembly is provided in order to provide a cradling movement to the recline or lift-recline base. The cradle assembly can be provided by a system of standoffs and pivot connections, which can be direct or use links, or can be configured with a track and roller or slide system in order to achieve a desired cradling movement. A cradle actuator is connected between the cradle base and the recline or lift-recline base. A controller is provided that controls movement of the cradle actuator and preferably at least one recline or lift-recline actuator.

Recliner chairs and lift chairs have been on the market for years, with the utility of recliners being primarily for use in living rooms and family rooms, while lift chairs are used by the handicapped, elderly, or disabled to assist them in moving from a reclined or sitting position to a standing position. While a substantial number of today's recliners are still manually operated, a growing number of recliners, and almost all lift chairs, utilize one or more actuators to move the footrest, back frame, and seat frame into various positions with respect to each other including reclining positions within a specified range, as well as to physically lift the chair while tipping it forward to aid the occupant to stand up. In one known chair type, independent movement of the footrest and backrest is accomplished through the use of separate actuators, while other chairs utilize a single interconnected actuator to cause the footrest and backrest to move together or simultaneously.
In addition to the usual television watching and other relaxing positions, a few known chairs can also be moved or pivoted into certain special positions. One of these is the so-called Trendelenburg position, wherein the occupant's legs are situated so that they are higher in relation to the ground than the heart. This position is useful particularly for those having certain circulatory, kidney, or other ailments, since in such position gravity assists the flow of blood from the legs back to the heart. Another special position is the so-called "zero gravity" or 90/90 position. To achieve such position, the chair is moved so that the head and torso are at a slight upward angle, the legs up to the knee are bent at a similar opposite upward angle, and the knees are bent so that the lower area of the legs is angled similarly to the torso. The zero-gravity position approximates the position or posture that astronauts assume when sleeping in a weightless environment. The primary benefit of such position is reduced pressure on the spine, which often relieves back pain at least to some extent.
One known lift and recline mechanisms developed by the assignee of the present invention that addresses some of the issues with respect to positioning the back frame relative to the seat frame is described in U.S. Pat. No. 9,016,788, which is incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth. Other known lift and recline mechanisms use one or two actuators are also known from U.S. Pat. No. 8,308,228 and U.S. Patent Application Publication 2001/0035668
One specific issue that is not addressed by these known lift and recline mechanisms is that extra lift may be required for certain users, as well as that further positions that provide comfort to a user in the reclined position may be desirable, but are limited by the specific travel path of the lift and recline mechanism.

Recliner or lift and recliner chair with variable lift profile


A method and an apparatus for controlling a handover in a wireless communication system are provided. The method of operating an eNodeB (eNB) for controlling the handover of terminal in the wireless communication system includes receiving, by the eNB, a message indicating a link connection failure between a neighboring eNB and a Mobile Management Entity (MME), and restricting an execution of a handover based on a link connection between the neighboring eNB and the MME.

In a wireless communication system, a terminal may register a specific Mobile Management Entity (MME) through an access process, and the terminal may receive a service via a corresponding MME in an MME pool area of the specific MME. Herein, an MME pool implies a group of unique MMEs in a Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN), and the MME pool area is an area managed by the MME pool. That is, when located inside the MME pool area, the terminal may receive a service without having to change a serving MME, and when located outside the MME pool area, the terminal must change the serving MME. For example, in a state where the terminal receives a service from a first eNodeB (eNB) and if a channel state between the terminal and the first eNB deteriorates or a movement of the terminal is detected, then the terminal may perform an X2 handover and/or an S1 handover so that the service can be provided from a neighboring second eNB.
The X2 handover implies a handover performed based on an X2 link between one eNB and another eNB in a state where the serving MME of the terminal is maintained. The S1 handover is a handover performed based on an S1 link between the eNB and the MME. When the terminal is not located outside the MME pool area, the serving MME may not be changed, and when the terminal is located outside the MME pool area, the serving MME may be changed.
As described above, the handover for supporting the service of the terminal may be performed based on the S1 link according to a situation. Therefore, upon a failure of an S1 link connection, there is a need to propose a detailed method for handling a handover using a corresponding S1 link.
The above information is presented as background information only to assist with an understanding of the present disclosure. No determination has been made, and no assertion is made, as to whether any of the above might be applicable as prior art with regard to the present disclosure.

Apparatus and method for controlling handover in wireless communication system


Methods are disclosed utilizing the optically pure (+) isomer of cisapride. This compound is a potent drug for the treatment of gastro-esophageal reflux disease while substantially reducing the concomitant liability of adverse effects associated with the racemic mixture of cisapride. This compound is also useful in treating or preventing emesis while substantially reducing adverse effects associated with racemic cisapride. The optically pure (+) isomer of cisapride is also useful for the treatment of dyspepsia and such other conditions as may be related to the activity of (+) cisapride as a prokinetic agent, such as gastroparesis, constipation, post-operative ileus, and intestinal pseudo-obstruction, without the concomitant liability of adverse effects associated with the racemic mixture of cisapride. The (+) isomer of cisapride also exhibits longer duration of action than does racemic cisapride and is useful for treatment of disorders of the central nervous system.

2.1 Steric Relationship and Drug Action
Many organic compounds exist in optically active forms, i.e., they have the ability to rotate the plane of plane-polarized light. In describing an optically active compound, the prefixes D and L or R and S are used to denote the absolute configuration of the molecule about its chiral center(s). The prefixes d and 1 or (+) and (-) are employed to designate the sign of rotation of plane-polarized light by the compound, with (-) or 1 meaning that the compound is levorotatory. A compound prefixed with (+) or d is dextrorotatory. For a given chemical structure, these compounds, called stereoisomers, are identical except that they are mirror images of one another. A specific stereoisomer may also be referred to as an enantiomer, and a mixture of such isomers is often called an enantiomeric or racemic mixture.
Stereochemical purity is of importance in the field of pharmaceuticals, where 12 of the 20 most prescribed drugs exhibit chirality. A case in point is provided by the L-form of the beta-adrenergic blocking agent, propranolol, which is known to be 100 times more potent than the D-enantiomer.
Furthermore, optical purity is important since certain isomers may actually be deleterious rather than simply inert. For example, it has been suggested that the D-enantiomer of thalidomide was a safe and effective sedative when prescribed for the control of morning sickness during pregnancy, while the corresponding L-enantiomer has been believed to be a potent teratogen.

Methods for treating disorders associated with the central nervous system using opticallly pure (+) cisapride


Embodiments of an embedded mm-wave radio integrated circuit into a substrate of a phased array module are disclosed. In some embodiments, the phased array module includes a first set of substrate layers made of a first material. The mm-wave radio integrated circuit may be embedded in the first set of substrate layers. A second set of substrate layers may be coupled to the first set of substrate layers. The second set of substrate layers may be made of a second material that has a lower electrical loss than the first material. The second set of substrate layers may include a plurality of antenna elements coupled through vias to the mm-wave radio integrated circuit.

Due to an increasingly crowded frequency spectrum, electronic device manufacturers have relatively recently become interested in the integration of radios capable of frequencies of 60 GHz and above. Millimeter-wave (mm-wave) radios integrated into electronic devices may provide short range, high-speed transfer of data with data rate in the order of several Gigabits per seconds (Gbps).
One problem with attaching mm-wave radio dies to stacks of substrate materials is that the mm-wave dielectric material used in the substrate can be relatively expensive as compared to other materials, hence limiting the mass-adoption of such radios in consumer electronics. Additionally, traditional substrate materials can exhibit poor electrical performance (e.g., electrically lossy) at mm-wave frequencies as compared to other types of dielectric materials.
There are general needs for adding mm-wave radio dies to a stack of substrates.

Embedded millimeter-wave phased array module


A canopy support for beds and method wherein the side members and transverse members are all constructed of tubular metal, intermediate of the side members being equipped with L-shaped flanges at the ends thereof for locking insertion into the slots of the side members.

This invention relates to a canopy support for beds and method of assembly and, more particularly, to a canopy support featuring a unique locking means between the side and transverse members.
Canopy supports for beds have been known for a long time and historically were constructed of wood. For the most part, such canopy frames had a central arch in the side members giving a distinctive and eye pleasing appearance.
More recently, other materials of construction have been employed for the canopy supports--for example my U.S. Pat. No. 3,311,118 dealt with a support constructed of metal. In view of the fact that the canopy frames were made at one place, sold at another, and erected in the home of the purchaser at still another place, it was most desirable to have "knock-down" supports for convenience of handling and shipping. This emphasized the need for having secure connections between the various parts.
In the interest of reliability and economy, the art made use of other materials of construction such as plastic as seen in my U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,741,225; 4,004,306; 4,068,333 and 4,074,377. Persisting throughout all of the art development was the concern about having a reliable connection between the various parts of the canopy support--it being imperative that the "knock-down" support, when assembled, be secure in view of the fact that it was positioned over a sleeper.
Quite apart from the concern over safety, there has been a continuing and expanding interest on the part of consumers for canopy beds. Many consumers have been concerned about the cost as well as the potential difficulty of self-assembly. Virtually everyone has had the experience of the difficulty in assembling many products, not only children's toys at Christmastime. Cost, of course, is determined not only by the complexity of manufacture but the weight and bulk of the article for the various stages of shipment.
All of these interrelated problems have been solved according to the instant invention which makes use of tubular metal for the various components of the canopy support free of the costly and difficult to manipulate clips or other attaching means and which is secure when assembled against accidental detachment or disassembly. More particularly, the intermediate transverse members are equipped with L-shaped flanges which fit into slots in the side members. The side member sections are initially positioned with the arch portions in a horizontal plane and one leg of the L-shaped flange inserted therein. Then, after the intermediate members are connected at both ends to opposite side member sections, the sections are rotated to place the arch portions in a vertical plane, i.e., in final orientation. This causes the inner leg of the L-shaped flange to be positioned in the slot whereby the outer leg serves as a positive lock. Thus, the canopy support is economically manufactured, lightweight for further economy, easily assembled, and most importantly, safe when assembled. All of these beneficial results from the novel construction and operation which is now set forth in greater detail in the ensuing detailed description.


A limited angle torque motor and control circuit are adapted to convert an electrical demand signal of varying magnitude into a motor shaft position relating to the magnitude of the demand signal. More particularly, a bidirectional motor is provided having two stator coils wound in phase opposition, so that the torques produced by the currents in the opposedly wound coils are summed such that the coil having the greater current controls the direction of rotor rotation. A position sensor provides feedback of the present shaft position; the magnitude of the feedback signal being indicative of motor shaft position. Finally, an electronic control circuit which is responsive to both the demand signal and the shaft position signal is provided and has two outputs for simultaneously driving the current in each respective stator coil. A summing means is included in the control circuit for combining the shaft position signal and demand signal so as to produce an error signal. The error signal, in turn, is input to a modulator that creates a differential between the two control circuit outputs to drive the two stator coil currents, thereby causing the motor shaft to rotate toward the desired shaft position.

1. Field of the Art
The present invention relates to control of electrical actuators, and more particularly to the control of limited angle electric torque motors.
2. Discussion of the Related Art
Limited angle torque motors are known and used for a variety of applications, including engine speed control. In this application, a limited angle torque motor may be used, for example, to control the operation of a fuel valve. The motor may be coupled to the fuel valve so that controlled rotation of the motor shaft through a given angle translates a controlled movement to the fuel valve, between fully closed and fully open positions. As greater engine speed is desired, the angular position of the motor is controlled to further open the fuel valve, limited by a maximum speed, fully open valve position. Likewise, when a decrease in engine speed is desired, the motor is controlled to move the fuel valve toward its closed position.
In this and similar applications, precision control of the motor is required in order to achieve satisfactory operation of a controlled device (fuel valve in the foregoing example). A variety of motors and controllers are presently known to provide controlled operation of control devices in applications such as the above-described speed control application. However, various shortcomings are known to persist in the approaches presently known.
For example, mechanically operated torque motors are known to be used in applications for controlling bidirectional movement of a controlled device. In these motors, a mechanical return, such as a spring, is used to urge the motor shaft in one direction toward a fixed or limit position, while electrically operative motor torque is used to actively drive the motor shaft in the opposite direction toward a second fixed or limit position. By way of illustration, a spring may be disposed to motivate a fuel valve to its closed position, while the motor actively drives the valve toward its fully open position. When the mechanical biasing force exceeds the torque applied by the motor, then the controlled device moves toward its closed position. Similarly, when the torque applied by the motor exceeds the mechanical biasing force, then the controlled device is motivated toward its fully open position. The controlled device may be maintained in an intermediate position by balancing the electrically operative torque applied by the motor with the mechanical biasing forcing.
Unfortunately, a number of shortcomings persist when such mechanically operated torque motors are used, particularly in precision control applications. One problem arises from the variable torque applied by the mechanical bias to the motor shaft, since the return force of a spring, for example, varies with the extension of the spring. Therefore, as the spring or other mechanical biasing mechanism extends throughout the range of motion defined by the limit positions of the controlled device, the force or opposing torque applied against the motor shaft is known to vary. Accordingly, the motor controller must be designed to compensate for the varying torque applied against the motor shaft as the motor is driven to effect movement of the controlled device, which complicates the design and increases the cost of the controller.
Another shortcoming of this approach results from the variable torque of the mechanical biasing mechanism over the life of the device. A spring, for example, after being stretched and relaxed a number of times, will realize a change in its elasticity, thereby resulting in a corresponding change in the torque that opposes the motor torque. As this occurs, the controlled application suffers a decrease in efficiency. To more particularly describe this phenomenon, consider that the controller is generally designed to account for various factors such as the inertia of the motor, as well as the opposing force applied by the mechanical biasing mechanism. As this opposing force changes over time, a corresponding degradation in performance of the controller is realized.
A related shortcoming is noted in the variation in force applied by the mechanical biasing mechanism at various operating temperatures. That is, the elasticity, and therefore the torque, of the mechanical biasing mechanism is affected by temperature changes. While some temperature compensation can be designed into the controller, such an approach unduly complicates the controller design and elevates its cost.
Another shortcoming in mechanically biased motors is noted in the excessive power consumption, and the related problems of heat dissipation. The motor current draw, and therefore power consumption, must be sufficient to offset the opposing force of the return spring, which is a substantially constant value, notwithstanding the elasticity variations noted above. This constant offset current not only increases the motor operational costs, but also gives rise to heat dissipation concerns.
A further shortcoming of a mechanically biased motor is noted in its transient response. Where the particular controlled application requires a fast response time, mechanically operated torque motors are not a favored choice. Except for the elasticity variations noted above, the torque applied by the mechanical biasing means against the motor shaft is substantially constant. Therefore, a large mechanically applied bias force will result in a fast response time in the mechanically biased direction, but will result in a slower response in the opposing, motor driven direction. Similarly, a small mechanically applied force increases the response time in the opposing, motor driven direction, but will correspondingly decrease the response time in the mechanically biased direction. Accordingly, the chosen biasing mechanism it typically selected by a compromise to realize moderate performance and efficiency in both directions.
Stepper motors provide an alternative motor design sometimes utilized in bi-directional motor applications. While stepper motors generally have a relatively simple digital or pulsed controller design, their performance is belied by the discontinuous rotation of the motor shaft in discrete increments, rather than a uniform rotation. Accordingly, stepper motors typically provide an unsatisfactory solution for applications that demand high-precision continuous movement of the controlled device. High resolution stepper motors are known, however, to provide a fine step resolution, but are very expensive and thus usually cost prohibitive. Additionally, the drive circuitry for stepper motors is generally more complex and therefore expensive to operate over a wide range of operating conditions--e.g., voltage, current, temperature, position resolution, etc.
A further shortcoming in the prior art is noted in analog control circuits directed to control mechanical torque motors. Specifically, analog control circuits are generally more complex and expensive than their digital counterparts. In addition analog controllers are more sensitive to temperature changes. Although they can be designed to operate effectively over a desired temperature range, such an approach complicates the design and elevates the controller cost.

Bi-directional electric torque motor and driver


A sparking rollerskate includes a clam shell like shoe portion and a wheel assembly. The wheel assembly supports a plurality of rolling wheels together with an internal flint supporting mechanism. One of the skate wheels further includes an abrasive drum which receives the end portion of the flint to provide a spark producing action as the wheel is rotated. The wheel assembly and clam shell like shoe portion are configured to provide a captivating attachment of the wheel assembly to the shoe portion when the clam shell halves thereof are closed. The shoe portions define internal cavities which captivate the wearer's foot during the assembly process to facilitate attachment of the roller skate thereto.

Rollerskating has proven to be an extremely popular and long lasting sport and amusement activity through the years. Rollerskating is enjoyed extensively among virtually all children and adults. In the early versions of rollerskates, the typical structure included a foot supporting platform which in turn supported a pair of transversely oriented axles each supporting a pair of freely rolling wheels yielding a stable rectangular arrangement of skate wheels for each skate. Rollerskates have been provided using structures which attach to the wearer's shoe through a clamping arrangement and in shoeskate versions in which a dedicated shoe or boot is integrally secured to the skating platform.
In recent years, a different structure of rollerskate has emerged in which the rolling wheels are supported in an in-line arrangement rather than the rectangular arrangement of earlier skates. This in-line skate has provided a skating action which is somewhat like ice-skating and, at the same time, somewhat like rollerskating.
In both types of rollerskates, the shoe portion resembles a high boot adapted to receive the wearer's foot and a mechanism such as lacing, multiple buckles or hook and loop fabric attachments which permit the boot to be opened to receive the foot and tightened to secure the skate to the wearer's foot.
Manufacturers of childrens' toy dolls often find successful products can be achieved by facilitating a doll action which mimics the actual activities of children and adults. In the case of rollerskates, this situation has proven to be extremely successful. Doll manufacturers have provided a great variety of dolls which either skate alone or which can be fitted with rollerskates and manipulated by the child user. The recent emergence of in-line skates has been mirrored in the skating dolls provided by manufacturers.
Several problems, however, are encountered when employing both conventional rectangular arranged rollerskates and in-line rollerskates for use on dolls. One problem is found in the assembly or attachment of the rollerskate to the doll. In essence, doll's feet and ankles are seldom sufficiently articulated to move into a shoe receptacle in the manner achieved by actual human wearers. Another problem arises out of the ever present need to maximize the play value or excitement which all toys including skating dolls are subjected to.
In their desire to provide a successful rollerskating doll, practitioners in the art have developed a great number of skating dolls and skates for use therewith. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 1,790,423 issued to Hooks sets forth a ROLLERSKATE in which a conventional rollerskate includes at least one wheel equipped with an abrasive outer disk. A flint support member comprises an elongated spring metal structure supported in a nonrotating fashion to urge a pair of conventional flints against the abrasive disk. As the skater skates, the disk rotates with the skate wheel against the flints and provides a sparking action.
U.S. Pat. No. 2,051,000 issued to Heppner sets forth an SIREN EQUIPPED ROLLERSKATE in which an otherwise conventional rollerskate supports a siren sound producing element having a rotating drive wheel coupled thereto. The siren unit is pivotally supported proximate the rear skates wheels and is movable to engage the drive wheel thereof with the rotating skate wheels and energize the siren unit.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,086,788 issued to Vislocky sets forth a SPARKING ATTACHMENT FOR ROLLERSKATE in which an abrasive disk is supported upon the interior vertical surface of a skate wheel. An axle attachment mechanism is secured to the skate axle proximate the abrasive disk and supports an extending flint which is forced against the abrasive disk to provide sparking action during skating.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,286,806 issued to Bergstein sets forth an ROLLER SKATING SPARK GENERATOR having an auxiliary rolling wheel supporting an abrasive drum therebetween. The rolling wheel is supported just above the plane of the skate wheels and a resilient flint support urges a flint against the abrasive drum. The auxiliary wheel and abrasive drum remain motionless and removed from the skate surface until the skater pivots his or her heel upwardly raising the toe wheels of the skate and engaging the auxiliary wheels to rotate the drum against the flint and produce sparks.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,363,502 issued to Bakerman sets forth an ILLUMINATIVE SKATE WHEEL rotatably mounted upon a skate axle and having illumination means enclosed therein.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,394,037 issued to Kuntz sets forth an SPARK GENERATING ROLLERSKATE ASSEMBLY having a pair of abrasive disks supported upon the interior surfaces and inwardly facing therefrom of a pair of skate wheels. A flint support extends downwardly between the skate wheels and includes a pair of outwardly extending flint members which engage the abrasive disks.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,648,610 issued to Hegyi sets forth LIGHT EMITTING ROLLERSKATE WHEELS in which a permanent magnet is fixed upon a rollerskate proximate one of the rotating skate wheels. An inductively powered lamp is supported within the skate wheel and is energized to illuminate the lamp as the inductive portion thereof passes through the magnetic field of the permanent magnet during skating.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,834,407 issued to Salvo sets forth a PYROTECHNIC DEVICE FOR A SKATEBOARD in which a plurality of pyrotechnic members are supported upon the rear portion of a skateboard in a downwardly extending manner. The pyrotechnic elements are abraded by the underlying surface such as pavement or the like during skateboard operation to produce sparks.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,028,058 issued to Olson sets forth a HUB AND BRAKE ASSEMBLY FOR IN-LINE ROLLER SKATE in which a foot receiving shoe and skate assembly are combined to support a plurality of rolling skate wheels in an in-line arrangement. A brake member is supported upon the rear portion of the wheel support mechanism and extends downwardly to provide a high friction braking member.
While the foregoing described prior art rollerskates and rollerskating dolls have in some cases enjoyed commercial success and improved the state of the art for skating dolls, there remains a continuing need for evermore improved and exciting rollerskates and methods of assembly therefor.

Foot attached rollerskate or similar article and assembly method therefor


An on-board system for providing traction control for a variable-load bearing vehicle having tracks subject to slippage is disclosed. The system includes a member(s) configured to be activated by an operator of the vehicle with an operator-to-vehicle interface or alternatively, automatic control without operator intervention, based only on measured actual vehicle tread speed, without obtaining actual vehicle speed. Member activation serves to control engine power level sufficient to reduce the slippage. Automatic control, after operator activation, is linked to at least one look-up table having predetermined power level values to provide the engine power level control, required to reduce the slippage.

Track type tractors, with a blade attached to the front thereof (e.g., bull dozers), are used to cut, lift or move material out of the ground or structures and to push the material to a new location. The amount of material that can be cut or moved is partly dependent and determined by vehicle weight, blade design, track-tread design, and the environment (coefficient of traction for the soil). For a given vehicle design, the primary large determinative variable is the condition of the soil, whether: wet/moist/dry, loose/compact, sand/clay, etc. This variable and types of soil condition have a significant impact on the effective coefficient of traction (COT). The higher the COT the more load the vehicle can push because it is easier to maintain traction (track tread engagement with the soil) before the vehicle loses traction with a "spinning out". The term "track" as used herein includes tracks, treads and wheels on the vehicles subject to "slip" or loss of traction.
Prior art expedients, such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,340,339, involve local sensors or electronics which automatically limit fuel supply and/or limit torque, to, among other things, reduce stress in components to prevent component damage. None of these or other expedients of the prior art, describe devices or means, which enhance slippage control and smoothness of vehicle operation, without relying on actual vehicle speed measurement. In addition, the prior art has not disclosed or used expedients which permit the intervention of an operator to initiate or otherwise allow an operator, with microprocessor or electronic control to more closely enhance slippage control and smoothness of vehicle operation.

System and method for reduced track slippage


A blade (8) partitioning a cylinder chamber (41) within a cylinder (4) into a compression chamber (X) and a suction chamber (Y) is integrated with a roller (7) so as to protrude radially outwardly of the roller (7). A circular support member (11) having a receiving recess (11a) for receiving the tip of the blade (8) is rotatably provided on the cylinder (4). The roller (7) is rotated with respect to an eccentric shaft portion of a driving shaft (22) to which the roller (7) is fitted and normally fed with lubricating oil. By this arrangement, relative movement between the blade (8) and the roller (7) is eliminated so that power loss due to friction which would be caused by the relative movement can be reduced. Besides, gas leak from the rear chamber of the blade (8) to the suction chamber (Y) and the compression chamber (X) can be eliminated. Also, gas leak from the compression chamber (X) to the suction chamber (Y) can be reduced. Thus, volume efficiency and indication efficiency can be increased.

A rotary compressor conventionally available is described, for example, in Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open Publication No. 114082/1986. This conventional compressor, as illustrated in FIGS. 24 and 25, has a compression section A disposed within a sealed casing and driven by a motor. The compression section A comprises: a cylinder C having a cylinder chamber B; a roller E fitted to the eccentric shaft portion of a driving shaft D extending from the motor, so that the roller E orbits within the cylinder chamber B; and a blade H disposed at an intermediate portion between a suction port F and a discharge port G both provided in the cylinder C, the blade H being allowed to advance and retreat. The blade H is so arranged that part of the high-pressure gas discharged from the discharge port G acts on the rear side of the blade H as a back pressure to thereby bring the tip of the blade H normally in contact with part of the outer circumferential surface of the roller E, by which the cylinder chamber B is divided into a compression chamber X and a suction chamber Y. Further, the discharge port G is equipped with a plate-like discharge valve I that comes into contact with or disengages apart from the face of a valve seat formed around the exit of the discharge port G to thereby open or close the discharge port G.
With the above arrangement, while the roller E is being revolved within the cylinder chamber B with rotation of the driving shaft D, the gas in the compression chamber X within the cylinder chamber B defined by the blade H is compressed. When this compression process is completed to move to the discharge process, the compressed high-pressure gas is discharged from the discharge port G into the casing by an opening action of the discharge valve I. Then, when the discharge process is completed to move to the suction process, the discharge valve I is closed to thereby close the discharge port G, so that the low-pressure gas is sucked from the suction port F into the suction chamber Y within the cylinder chamber B defined by the blade H. In this way the compression and discharge processes are repeated.
However, with the above-described arrangement that the blade H is held to the cylinder C so as to be allowed to advance and retreat and is subject to a back pressure so that the tip of the blade H is brought into contact with the outer circumferential surface of the roller E, thus bringing the blade H and the roller E into relative movement therebetween, there Would arise a need of urging the tip of the blade H against the outer circumferential surface of the roller E by making a back pressure act on the blade H so that the tip of the blade H is in contact with the circumferential surface of the roller E. Moreover, the contact between the blade H and the outer circumferential surface of the roller E, which is a metal-to-metal contact without any intervening oil, would involve a great friction loss due to the sliding contact between the blade H and the outer circumferential surface of the roller E as well as a great power loss. What is more, because of the arrangement that a back pressure developed by the high-pressure gas discharged from the discharge port G is applied to the rear side of the blade H to bring the tip of the blade H into contact with the outer circumferential surface of the roller E, the high-pressure gas in the rear chamber of the blade H would leak into the suction chamber Y between a side face of the blade H and the blade's sliding recess, as indicated by an arrow a in FIG. 24, unfavorably resulting in a deteriorated volume efficiency. Also, since the compression chamber X varies from low to high pressure, an internal pressure in the compression chamber X lower than the back pressure would cause the high-pressure gas acting on the rear-side chamber to leak into the compression chamber X between a side face of the blade H and the blade's sliding recess, disadvantageously resulting in a lowered indication efficiency. Furthermore, there would be a possibility that the high-pressure gas compressed in the compression chamber X might leak into the suction chamber Y through the contact portion between the tip of the blade H and the roller E, as indicated by an arrow b in FIG. 24, which would add to the gas leak from the side faces of the blade H, resulting in a further lowered volume efficiency.

Rotary compressor having blade integrated in roller


An interlock between two main circuit breakers comprises a bracket mounted to the interior panel transversely of the panel and a sliding interlock member mounted on a forward portion of the bracket, which portion fits within the unmodified opening of a panelboard cover and fills the space within the opening between the two main circuit breakers. Padlock hasps may be provided on the interlock member to additionally lock either or both main circuit breakers in an OFF condition. Tabs on the bracket overlie forward facing surfaces of the main circuit breakers to block removal of the main circuit breakers while the bracket is installed.

This invention relates to electric circuit breaker panelboards and more particularly to such panelboards which incorporate a pair of main circuit breakers for selectively switching the electrical supply to the panelboard between a primary source, such as the utility, and an alternate source, such as a generator. It is necessary that the main circuit breakers be prohibited from being contemporaneously operated to the ON condition. This invention relates particularly to a mechanical interlock for preventing contemporaneous operation of both main circuit breakers to the ON condition.
Mechanical interlocks which interconnect a pair of lever operated switches are well known. The assignee of this application has offered several variations of such interlocks. In circuit breaker panelboards, one such interlock has been mounted on the cover and has slidably interacted with the operator handles of tandemly (transversely) mounted circuit breakers. However, the interlock function is removed with the cover when servicing the panelboard in this version. Another panelboard has a sliding interlock mounted on a bracket which extends along the longitudinal center line of the panel. The ends of the bracket extend along the sides of the respective circuit breakers and are bolted directly to the panel or to the enclosure. One end of the bracket is offset from the center of the panel to clear a bus bar of the panelboard. A different length bracket is required for each panel accepting a different number of circuit breakers which translates into a different length for the panel. It is also necessary to modify the cover opening for the circuit breakers by notching the opening to receive the bracket at each end of the row of circuit breakers since the bracket extends beyond the side surface of the end circuit breakers. Thus, special covers are provided panelboards or loadcenters utilizing this version sliding interlock. The provision of special parts increases the cost of the item, both to manufacture and stock the different parts.

Panelboard having panel-mounted interlock for two main circuit breakers


A method of providing cathodic protection to underground metallic structures which comprises creating an excavation spaced from the underground metallic structure and placing in the excavation a hollow casing having a perforate section, the hollow casing being adapted to hold therein a galvanic anode. The method further comprises establishing an electrical connection between the galvanic anode and the underground metallic structure, placing the galvanic anode in the hollow casing and then filling the excavation and the hollow casing with a filler material. The apparatus of the invention comprises a hollow rigid casing adapted to contain at least one galvanic anode, the casing having a perforate section such that electric current from the galvanic anode can flow out of the casing towards the underground metallic structure. A related method of replacing galvanic anodes is also provided.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a method and apparatus for providing cathodic protection to underground metallic structures using galvanic anodes, and more particularly relates to a casing for holding the galvanic anodes, a method of placing the casing near the underground metallic structure and replacing galvanic anodes.
2. Background Information
Cathodic protection of underground metallic structures is a method of preventing corrosion. Corrosion is a natural process that occurs when a refined metal wants to revert to the ore from which it was derived. For example, iron is not found in its refined state in nature. Therefore, an underground iron or steel pipe is essentially in an unstable state and can be expected to eventually revert to iron ore (corroding).
It is known that corrosion occurs where electric current flows away from the underground metallic structure into the electrolyte. This area is called the anodic area. Conversely, corrosion does not occur at the areas where electric current flows from the electrolyte onto the metallic structure. This is called the cathodic area. Cathodic protection involves providing current to the metallic structure with sufficient magnitude to polarize all the cathodic areas up to the open circuit potential of the anodic areas.
There are various methods of applying cathodic protection. One method is by using an impressed current system. This involves placing an anode in the electrolyte and connecting its positive terminal to a DC power source. The structure to be protected is then connected to the negative terminal of the power source. Because the power source is almost always a rectifier unit, this system is sometimes referred to as a rectifier type system.
An example of an impressed current system is U.S. Pat. No 3,725,669. The apparatus consists of a plastic casing having an upper imperforate section and a lower pipe section with a plurality of openings. The bottom of the plastic casing has a check valve. After lowering the pipe into the bore hole, a wash pipe is threadedly connected to the check valve so that the wash pipe extends through the casing. The end of the hose is connected to a source of clean water which pumps clean water into the hole. This water is pumped in until all of the mud has been cleared from the casing. The hose is then disconnected from the water supply and connected to a hopper containing a carbonaceous slurry material. This carbonaceous slurry is introduced into the area between the bore hole and casing. After this, a plurality of anodes (mounted on a support line) are lowered into the casing. The anodes are connected by electrical conduits to a rectifier unit. When the anodes need to be replaced, the rectifier unit is disconnected, the cap is removed and a hose carrying water (FIGS. 8 and 9) is placed into the casing to fluidize the carbonaceous material. After the carbonaceous material has been fluidized, the anodes are removed, and fresh anodes are placed inside the casing.
The impressed current system, however, is not practical for cathodically protecting underground metallic structures located in the vicinity of other infrastructures. This is because the impressed current system creates electrical interference and can cause detrimental corrosion effects on other metallic underground structures, such as water supply mains, underground electrical and telephone cables and manholes that are in the vicinity of impressed current systems. Thus, impressed current systems are generally found in rural areas where interference is less of a problem.
Additional problems with impressed current systems include the higher cost and extensive installation and maintenance required for these systems. Impressed current systems require electric meters, rectifier cover enclosures, ampere monitoring gauges, electrical breaker switches and lightning arrestors. These components add to the cost of producing, installing and maintaining these systems. Finally, the large rectifier units, being placed above the ground, would further congest already crowded urban pedestrian sidewalks and are unsightly.
Another method of cathodic protection involves using a galvanic anode. In this system, anodes made of materials such as magnesium and zinc are buried in the ground near the metallic structure to be protected. The anodes are then connected to a metallic structure to be protected. Because of the potential differences between the anode and the metallic structure to be protected, current flows from the galvanic anode to the metallic structure to be protected. See U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,527,361; 4,511,444; and 4,623,435.
In order to install a galvanic anode near an underground metallic structure, an area near the structure must be excavated and the galvanic anode buried in the soil. This method is costly and time consuming, especially if installation is to be done in urban areas, extensively paved areas and areas that may accommodate other underground utilities.
The cur cent flow from the galvanic anode provides protective current to the structure until the anode material has been consumed to the point that the amount of current supplied is no longer of practical value. Once consumed, installation of a new anode is required. Because of this, the remains of the spent galvanic anodes must be extracted from the ground and new galvanic anodes put in their place. This involves re-excavating the area where the exhausted anode is placed and placing a new anode in its place and refilling the excavation site. See U.S. Pat. No. 3,186,931. In certain areas, this process often involves tearing up pavement and subsequently restoring the excavation site. Permits and other government approvals must be obtained to perform this work. As will be appreciated, this is a labor intensive task that not only is expensive, but also causes disruption and inconvenience in the excavation area.
Despite the known apparatus and methods, there still remains a need for an apparatus and method of providing cathodic protection to underground metallic structures using galvanic anodes that is simple and effective and requires less time and disruption.

Method for providing cathodic protection to underground metallic structure using galvanic anodes


A high voltage connector assembly is disclosed for terminating a coaxial cable, and comprises plug and receptacle members. The receptacle member has a profiled blind bore of reduced diameter in a forward face thereof, and peripheral contact means at a forward end having a flared mouth portion diverging outwardly from the forward face. The plug member is provided having a frustoconical forward nose portion, a rearward portion, and an integral intermediate annular flange portion. Conductive material is applied to the plug rearward portion, and to rearwardly and outwardly facing surfaces of the plug flange portion. As the plug nose portion is press inserted into the receptacle bore against a rearward surface within the bore, the plug nose portion flexes outwardly along its taper to evacuate the receptacle bore. Further insertion compresses the plug flange against the receptacle forward face and progressively influences the outwardly facing surface of the plug flange outwardly against the contact means flared mouth portion.

1. The Field of Invention
This invention relates to high voltage connectors in general, and in particular to connectors of the type having a tapered plug member for press insertion into a complementarily tapered bore of a receptacle member.
2. Prior Art
In high voltage connectors, especially those designed for the interconnection of time varying potentials, it is critical to provide an air tight seal at the mating interface since the presence of air can destroy the interconnection effectiveness and the interconnection structure itself. However, while stressed air must be eliminated at the interface, unstressed air adjacent the mated rubber plug member is required to provide "breathing space" for the rubber, which expands and contracts in response to temperature variations. The traditional approach to solving the sealing requirement has been to utilize a plug member of tapered forward profile, which is press inserted into a complementarily tapered bore of a receptacle member. Such a configuration is taught by U.S. Pat. No. 3,871,736. Pursuant to this approach, the plug bottoms against a rearward wall within the bore, and progressively flexes outwardly along its taper to thereby evacuate air from the receptacle bore. While this approach has considerable merit, it represents only a partial solution to the industry's problem. For the interconnection of time varying potentials, it is not only desirable to seal the interface between mating connector members within the receptacle bore, but also to continue the seal at the interface to the externally-connected grounding plane. Also, achievement of such a seal can not be at the sacrifice of the above-described unstressed "breathing space" capability.

High voltage hermetically sealed connector


A process is described for purifying an oil-containing liquid to remove aqueous and solid impurities which comprises passing said liquid through a permeable inorganic membrane previously treated by contacting the membrane with an organic reactant selected from the group consisting of a phosphonic acid, a phosphinic acid, a monocarboxylic acid, a dicarboxylic acid, a boronic acid, a phosphoric acid ester and a precursor which decomposes upon contact with said inorganic membrane to form one of said organic reactants whereby the treated membrane is capable of separating aqueous and solid impurities from hydrocarbons in the oil-containing liquid.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a process for the purification of hydrocarbons containing impurities. More particularly, this invention relates to a process for purifying hydrocarbons containing solid and liquid impurities by filtration through an inorganic membrane treated to permit selective permeability of hydrocarbons or aqueous liquids therethrough.
2. Description of the Related Art
In a highly industrialized society such as in the United States, virtually every type of industry uses oil of one kind or another. However, oil is no longer an inexpensive commodity. Therefore, production of crude oil from marginal wells has become a more common practice in recent years. Such recovery of oil from marginal wells often employs water flooding or steam flooding techniques wherein at least a part of the recovered oil contains solid impurities, as well as aqueous impurities. Sometimes, with mechanical processes and/or with addition of chemicals, emulsions are formed between the aqueous liquid impurities, such as water, and the oil, which further complicates the separation and removal of such liquid and solid impurities from the oil.
Furthermore, such marginal crude oils often require desalting to minimize fouling caused by deposition of salts on heat transfer surfaces and corrosion caused by heavy metal compounds, which are typically present in such crude oils. Such desalting is usually carried out by emulsifying fresh water with the crude oil at about 250.degree. F. under sufficient pressure to prevent vaporization. The salts dissolve in the water and the oil/water separation is carried out using chemicals and/or using a high potential electric field across a settling vessel to aid in coalescence of the oil droplets. In theory, this works well but in many cases, it is very difficult to break the emulsion. This drastically drives up the cost of desalting. With good chemical emulsifier control, the crude oil contains only about 0.2% water, but if the water content rises, it can cause major problems in the crude distillation tower and other processing units downstream.
There, therefore, exists a need for an economical process, either for use by itself or in combination with other purification processes such as desalting, for the recovery of the crude oil values from the mixtures reclaimed from such marginal wells.
However, in addition to the reclamation and purification of crude oil values from impure crude oil-containing liquids recovered from marginal oil wells, and on the sludge from oil production, there exists a need for the economical purification and recycling of oil values from used oil-containing products such as motor oil and other lubricating oils, water-based coolants, synthetic hydraulic fluids and hydraulic oils (hydrocarbons), automatic transmission fluids, ester-based liquids, cutting oils, drawing oils, quenching oils and gear box oils. The need for reclamation of the oil values from such materials has become important both because of economics, as well as because of environmental concerns regarding the disposal of such materials. Therefore, the cleaning and reclaiming of oil values from such systems, where the oil has become contaminated, is an important modern process. The purification of refined hydrocarbons, e.g., fuels such as gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel and home heating oils, to remove water therefrom, is also important.
The use of membranes in the filtration/purification of materials has become an important technology. Organic polymers have been employed in the formation of such membranes and the use of inorganic membranes made from metals, glass and metal oxides is well known.
While the use of membrane filtration has become an important technology for separation and/or purification of materials as a whole, it has not enjoyed the same amount of interest in the field of purification and recovery of oil-containing values from impure liquids such as impure crude or refined oils or reclamation of waste oil products.
This is due, in part, to the limitation of organic polymer membranes, when oil-based materials clog such membranes. Subsequent attempts to clean such organic membranes using aggressive chemicals, particularly acids and/or bases, and/or solvents, can result in damage or destruction of the organic membrane material. Also, for many petrochemical processes, membranes must operate in environments of high temperature, pressure and organic solvents which rapidly degrade the performance of such organic membrane.
While the use of inorganic materials as membrane filter/separation media would solve the problem of the use of aggressive chemicals to clean the membrane to remove materials fouling the membrane, such inorganic materials are typically hydrophilic and preferentially pass water while rejecting oils and solids and, therefore, tend to be poor separators of the oil (organic) and aqueous phases usually present in such impure mixtures.
It would, therefore, be highly desirable to provide a process which would permit the economical recovery of oil values from either impure crude oil or spent (waste) oil-based materials, and/or the separation of aqueous impurities from oil values.

Purification of an oil-containing liquid using a surface treated permeable inorganic membrane


A polyester composition containing (A) a polyester, (B) a phosphite of the formula (I):

Polyester molded articles made of polyesters are widely used as casings for electronic components such as relays and connectors, films, etc. in general, the polyester molded articles are manufactured by molding polyesters in a molten state by heating.
However, polyesters may sometimes thermally deteriorated under a high temperature environment. The melt flow rate (MFR) of polyesters which are processed and molded after storage under a high temperature environment tend to increase, and thus, the processing stability of the polyesters are found to be insufficient.
To overcome this problem, JP-A-6-329887 and JP-A-2002-138188 propose a polyester composition comprising a polyester and a phosphate, which composition has superior processing stability even after storage under a high temperature environment.

Abstract: and (C) a neutralizing agent and/or a compound of the formula (II):


A foot piece of elastomeric material is provided for converting a new leg and foot cast and/or an already existing leg and foot cast into a walking cast by permanent attachment of the foot piece to a sole surface of the cast. The foot piece has an upper surface generally conforming to the shape and size of the sole surface of the cast and a layer of uncured adhesive material is provided on the upper surface. The adhesive layer is protected against curing or setting until ready for use by a thin layer of air-impervious film which is stripped or peeled away to initiate curing when the foot piece is pressed or forced against the sole surface of the cast and is held until the adhesive material cures or sets to provide a permanent adhesive attachment of the foot piece on the cast for converting the cast for walking.

The present invention relates to a new and improved foot piece of elastomeric material used for converting a leg and foot cast into a walking cast by permanent attachment of the foot piece to a sole surface of the cast. Initially when a plaster of Paris or fiberglass cast is applied for an injury to the foot or leg of a patient it is not always desirable that the patient be permitted to walk immediately after the cast is in place. Many times a period of from one to six weeks may transpire before the patient would be permitted to walk on the affected leg. Also, it is desirable in some cases that, the cast already in place not be removed and replaced but merely converted into a cast suitable for walking pressure when the patient has healed enough and is ready to walk.
The present invention is designed to provide a simple, economical and effective means for converting an already existing leg and foot cast which may have been in place for several weeks into a cast suitable for permitting the patient to walk with little danger of adding additional stress or trauma to the patient's leg and foot during walking. 2. Background of the Prior Art
U.S. Pat. No. 2,189,053 to Bryant discloses an ambulatory splint having a U-shaped stirrup which must be molded into the original cast when applied so that later on, a foot frame can be attached to the bight portion of the stirrup with screws.
Similarly, in U.S. Pat. No. 2,264,570 to Holden, side members and extension members are impressed into the plaster of Paris along with a bight member below the patient's foot while the cast material is still soft and later on, a foot assembly is attached to the embedded member.
U.S. Pat. No. 2,392,735 to Hahn discloses a walking device utilizing a metal U-shaped frame with side members joined to a transverse bottom member and at the upper ends the side members are provided with curved sections which along with guide members are wrapped within the plaster of Paris impregnated gauze as the cast is applied.
The Gersh et al. U.S. Pat. No. 2,480,849 discloses a surgical cast having a support with leg straps embedded in the cast and a bight of a U-shaped element is attached to exposed lower end portions of the straps to support a walking pad.
U.S. Pat. No. 2,526,205 to Doerschler discloses a walker wherein a foot piece is secured to the lower end of a cast by means of a plaster of Paris impregnated bandage wrapped around the foot and leg and passed through a slot in the foot piece while the plaster of Paris is still wet or soft. Similarly, a plurality of U-shaped wires are also passed through the foot piece and up into the soft plaster of Paris which hardens to secure the foot piece in place.
U.S. Pat. No. 2,762,367 to Rubin discloses a walking aid for a splinted human leg wherein a walking stirrup is embedded in the cast with a cradle beneath the patient's foot and subsequently a walking aid is secured thereto by means of bands extending around the patient's foot.
U.S. Pat. No. 2,888,919 to Unkauf discloses a walking heel adapted to be implanted within a plaster of Paris cast to support the heel of the patient during walking or standing.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,481,332 to Arnold discloses a walker and cast reinforcement wherein a rotatable ground engaging cleat is mounted on the lower side of the cast having a mounting element secured in the cast.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,613,674 to Volz discloses a foot and leg walking cast having a rocker-shaped base with a rounded, ground engaging base and thin side flaps of flexible material which are wrapped around the cast and secured in place with plaster of Paris impregnated gauze strips.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,641,639 to Padilla discloses an ambulatory brace assembly including an open faced cast formed of rigid material and lined with soft material wherein a pair of retainers are at the front of the leg on the open side of the cast and a U-shaped support having legs and a bight is provided securable by flexible straps having "Velcro" R type hook and loop fasteners thereon and wrapped around the cast at two different elevations.
Renfrew U.S. Pat. No. 4,966,135 discloses an orthopedic cast cover for protection of a casted limb from water, etc.
British Patent Specification No. 673,716 discloses a walking plaster appliance for use by orthopedic patients having a relatively thick sole of rubber and side flaps which are laced into place around the cast.
German Pat. No. 885,599 discloses a loop of flexible material having a thickened lower sole portion for walking wherein the toe and front portion of the patient's casted foot is inserted within the loop.
Rubber walking heels for use with leg and foot casts are disclosed at page 40 of Richards Mfg. Co. catalog dated 1966 and received in Group 33, May 9, 1966.


This invention relates to an electrochemical device which comprises a molding containing as a main ingredient a copolymer (Z) and at least two mutually insulated electrodes in joint with the molding, wherein the copolymer (Z) comprises a polymer block (A) having as a main unit an aromatic vinyl compound unit and a polymer block (B) being incompatible with the polymer block (A), and has ion-conducting groups on the polymer block (A). The electrochemical device of the invention can be used particularly as an actuator device.

In the fields of medical instruments, micromachinery, etc., need for miniature and lightweight actuators increases. Further, also in the fields of industrial robots, personal robots, etc., need for lightweight and flexible actuators increases.
It is said that since when an actuator is miniaturized, friction and viscosity become dominant than inertial force, a mechanism to convert energy into motion utilizing inertial force, as in motors and engines, is hard to use as an actuator for microminiature machines. As kinds of microminiature actuators in view of actuation mechanisms so far proposed, an electrostatic attractive force-type one, a piezoelectric one, an ultrasonic one, a shape memory alloy-type one, etc. are known. An electrostatic attractive force-type actuator is one wherein a plate or rod as one of the electrodes is attracted to the counter electrode, and one wherein one of the electrodes is bent by applying a voltage of the order of 100 V between the electrode and the other counter electrode scores of μm apart from the former electrode is known. A piezoelectric actuator is one wherein a voltage of hundreds to thousands is applied to the piezoelectric element made of a ceramic such as barium titanate or lead zirconate titanate to make the device expand and contract, and one capable of controlling a displacement of the order of nm is known. As an ultrasonic actuator, one to operate by causing dislocation with a combination of ultrasonic oscillation generated by a piezoelectric element or the like and frictional force is known. A shape memory alloy-type actuator largely changes in shape in accordance with temperature, and operates by changing temperature. However, these types of actuators have problems that since they are made of inorganic substance(s) such as metal(s) or ceramic(s), there is a limitation in softening and/or lightening thereof; and since they are complicated in structure, their miniaturization is not always easy; and so on.
As an actuator capable of overcoming the above problems, polymer actuators draw attention recently. For example, polymer actuators utilizing change in the shape of the hydrated polymer gel due to stimulation such as temperature change, pH change or application of electric field are devised (e.g., refer to JP-A-63-309252). However, since the change in shape of hydrated polymer gels due to various stimulations is generally very slow, and, further, the mechanical strength of hydrated polymer gels is low due to their not uniform crosslinkage structure, further improvement is necessary for actually utilizing such a polymer actuator as an actuator.
In order to overcome the above problems, a polymer actuator is devised which is composed of an ion exchange resin membrane and electrodes jointed to both surfaces thereof, and wherein an electric field is applied to the ion exchange resin membrane to bend and deform the membrane (e.g., refer to JP-B-1966645).
However, in the above-mentioned polymer actuators, an ion exchange resin containing fluorine atoms such as a sulfonic acid groups-containing fluororesin membrane (e.g., Nafion made by DuPont Co.) is often used, but there are problems that it has a large bad influence on the environment and the costs of the ion exchange resin or the membrane made of the resin are high. In the above JP-B-1966645, as an example not containing fluorine atoms, a polymer actuator using a polystyrenesulfonic acid membrane is exemplified, but there are problems that its size is very small, its shape is limited because the polystyrenesulfonic acid membrane is in a crosslinked state, and, further, its dynamic strength is poor due to its not uniform crosslinkage structure.