A multiplier configured to execute division and square root operations by executing iterative multiplication operations is disclosed. The multiplier is configured to complete divide-by-two and zero dividend instructions in fewer clock cycles by detecting them before or during the first iteration and then performing an exponent adjustment and rounding the result to the desired precision. A system and method for rapidly executing divide-by-two and zero dividend instructions within the context of a multiplier that executes division and square root instructions using iterative multiplication are also disclosed.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to the field of microprocessors and, more particularly, to floating point units configured to perform division operations.
2. Description of the Related Art
Microprocessors are typically designed with a number of xe2x80x9cexecution unitsxe2x80x9d that are each optimized to perform a particular set of functions or instructions. For example, one or more execution units within a microprocessor may be optimized to perform memory accesses, i.e., load and store operations. Other execution units may be optimized to perform general arithmetic and logic functions, e.g., shifts and compares. Many microprocessors also have specialized execution units configured to perform more complex arithmetic operations such as multiplication and reciprocal operations. These specialized execution units typically comprise hardware that is optimized to perform one or more particular arithmetic functions. In the case of multiplication, the optimized hardware is typically referred to as a xe2x80x9cmultiplier.xe2x80x9d
In older microprocessors, multipliers were implemented using designs that conserved die space at the expense of arithmetic performance. Until recently, this was not a major problem because most applications, i.e., non-scientific applications such as word processors, did not frequently generate multiplication instructions. However, recent advances in computer technology and software are placing greater emphasis upon multiplier performance. For example, three dimensional computer graphics, rendering, and multimedia applications all rely heavily upon a microprocessor""s arithmetic capabilities, particularly multiplication and multiplication-related operations. As a result, in recent years microprocessor designers have favored performance-oriented designs that use more die space. Unfortunately, the increased die space needed for these high performance multipliers reduces the space available for other execution units within the microprocessor. Thus, a mechanism for increasing multiplier performance while conserving die space in needed.
The die space used by multipliers is of particular importance to microprocessor designers because many microprocessors, e.g., those configured to execute MMX(trademark) (multimedia extension) or 3D graphics instructions, may use more than one multiplier. MMX and 3D graphics instructions are often implemented as xe2x80x9cvectoredxe2x80x9d instructions. Vectored instructions have operands that are partitioned into separate sections, each of which is independently operated upon. For example, a vectored multiply instruction may operate upon a pair of 32-bit operands, each of which is partitioned into two 16-bit sections or four 8-bit sections. Upon execution of a vectored multiply instruction, corresponding sections of each operand are independently multiplied. FIG. 1 illustrates the differences between a scalar (i.e., non-vectored) multiplication and a vector multiplication. To quickly execute vectored multiply instructions, many microprocessors use a number of multipliers in parallel.
Another factor that may affect the die space used by multipliers within a microprocessor is the microprocessor""s ability to operate upon multiple data types. Most microprocessors must support multiple data types. For example, x86 compatible microprocessors must execute instructions that are defined to operate upon an integer data type and instructions that are defined to operate upon floating point data types. Floating point data can represent numbers within a much larger range than integer data. For example, a 32-bit signed integer can represent the integers between xe2x88x92231 and 231xe2x88x921 (using two""s complement format). In contrast, a 32-bit (xe2x80x9csingle precisionxe2x80x9d) floating point number as defined by the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) Standard 754 has a range (in normalized format) from 2xe2x88x92126 to 2127x(2xe2x88x922xe2x88x9223) in both positive and negative numbers. While both integer and floating point data types are capable of representing positive and negative values, integers are considered to be xe2x80x9csignedxe2x80x9d for multiplication purposes, while floating point numbers are considered to be xe2x80x9cunsigned.xe2x80x9d Integers are considered to be signed because they are stored in two""s complement representation.
Turning now to FIG. 2A, an exemplary format for an 8-bit integer 100 is shown. As illustrated in the figure, negative integers are represented using the two""s complement format 104. To negate an integer, all bits are inverted to obtain the one""s complement format 102. A constant of one is then added to the least significant bit (LSB).
Turning now to FIG. 2B, an exemplary format for a 32-bit (single precision) floating point number is shown. A floating point number is represented by a significand, an exponent and a sign bit. The base for the floating point number is raised to the power of the exponent and multiplied by the significand to arrive at the number represented. In microprocessors, base 2 is typically used. The significand comprises a number of bits used to represent the most significant digits of the number. Typically, the significand comprises one bit to the left of the radix point and the remaining bits to the right of the radix point. In order to save space, the bit to the left of the radix point, known as the integer bit, is not explicitly stored. Instead, it is implied in the format of the number. Additional information regarding floating point numbers and operations performed thereon may be obtained in IEEE Standard 754. Unlike the integer representation, two""s complement format is not typically used in the floating point representation. Instead, sign and magnitude form are used. Thus, only the sign bit is changed when converting from a positive value 106 to a negative value 108. For this reason, some microprocessors use two multipliers, i.e., one for signed values (two""s complement format) and another for unsigned values (sign and magnitude format). This places further constraints upon the die space used by each multiplier.
Another crucial factor that may affect the amount of die space allocated to a multiplier is the number of other functions that the multiplier is capable of executing. If a particular multiplier is capable of executing other types of instructions, e.g., division and square root functions, it may be allocated more die space because it alleviates the need for additional hardware, e.g., a dedicated division circuit.
For the reasons set forth above, a method for increasing multiplier performance and utility while conserving die space is needed.
The problems outlined above may in part be solved by a multiplier configured in accordance with the present invention. In one embodiment, the multiplier may be configured to execute divide-by-two operations and zero dividend operations using fewer multiplication iterations than normal division instructions. As used herein, normal division instructions are division instructions which do not have a zero dividend or integer power of two divisor. In another embodiment, the multiplier may also be configured to perform a back multiplication operation after multiplying the reciprocal of the divisor with the dividend.
In another embodiment, the multiplier is also configured to execute simple independent multiplication operations and complex iterative operations concurrently. The ability to perform iterative calculations advantageously allows the multiplier to perform calculations such as division and square root, thereby reducing die space constraints. The ability to concurrently execute these iterative instructions with multiplications instructions may improve the throughput of the multiplier while reducing the need for using more than one multiplier.
In one embodiment, the multiplier may comprise a plurality of pipeline stages, some of which are idle for particular clock cycles during the execution of a complex iterative operation. The multiplier may be configured to generate a control signal indicative of the occurrence of these idle clock cycles. The control signal may then by used to select and route independent simple multiplication instructions to the multiplier for execution during the idle clock cycles. In another embodiment, the multiplier may also be configured concurrently execute two independent complex iterative calculations. The multiplier""s availability during a particular clock cycle to perform a second instruction concurrently may be a function of the type of iterative operation being performed and the number of clock cycles between the particular clock cycle and the first clock cycle during which the multiplier began executing the first complex iterative operation. In some embodiments, the multiplier may be configured to store the intermediate products produced by the iterative calculations. Advantageously, some embodiments of the multiplier may be configured to compress these intermediate products before storing them, further conserving die space.
A method for executing independent multiplication and iterative instructions concurrently is also contemplated. In one embodiment the method comprises beginning execution of an iterative instruction in a pipelined multiplier, wherein the iterative instruction requires a first number of clock cycles to complete. A control signal is asserted during the first number of clock cycles if the multiplier will be available to begin execution of an independent multiplication instruction in a predetermined number of clock cycles. Upon detecting an asserted control signal, an independent multiplication instruction is dispatched to the multiplier. Execution of the independent multiplication instruction may begin and complete before the iterative instruction has completed executing.
In another embodiment, the multiplier may also be configured to perform signed and unsigned scalar and vector multiplication using the same hardware. The multiplier may also be configured to calculate vector dot products. The multiplier may receive either signed or unsigned operands in either scalar or packed vector format and accordingly output a signed or unsigned result that is either a scalar or a vector quantity. Advantageously, this embodiment may reduce the total number of multipliers needed within a microprocessor because it may be shared by execution units and perform both scalar and vector multiplication. This space savings may in turn allow designers to optimize the multiplier for speed without fear of using too much die space.
In yet another embodiment, the multiplier may be configured to output the results in segments or portions, which may be rounded. This may advantageously reduce the amount of interface logic and the number of bus lines that may be needed to support the multiplier.
In still another embodiment, the speed of the multiplier may be increased by configuring the multiplier to perform fast rounding and normalization. This may be accomplished configuring the multiplier to calculate two version of an operand, e.g., an overflow version and a non-overflow version, in parallel.


Example embodiments relate generally to an apparatus operable to couple a pair of implantation rods that are surgically implanted adjacent to a plurality of vertebrae. Each implantation rod is secured by at least one fastener element having a head. The apparatus comprises at least one main assembly, said main assembly operable to move relative to a head of one of the fastener elements when not in a locked position. The apparatus also comprises a center link extending in an axial direction, said center link operable to move relative to the main assembly when not in a locked position. The main assembly is operable to receive the center link and a head of one of the fastener elements and secure the center link and the head relative to the main assembly when in a locked position.

The spinal column is a highly complex interconnection of individual bones coupled together to provide, among other things, protection of the nervous system, while also enabling collective movements in a plurality of directions.
Due to various genetic and/or developmental occurrences, including diseases, developmental irregularities, trauma, stress, and the like, the spinal column may require surgical intervention. To protect and/or aid in the recovery of a surgically repaired section of the spinal column, there are often situations wherein it is desirable to collectively restrict movement of one or more bones of the spinal column.
Immobilization of a section of the spinal column may be achieved using a variety of known surgically implanted support systems and methods, such as use of posterior surgical implants comprising one or more implantation rods. In general, a surgically-implanted rod is fixedly attached by first threading one or more anchor screws to a pedicle of one or more vertebrae of the spinal column. Each anchor screw is in turn fixedly coupled to the implantation rod at proximate locations along its shaft.
In certain patients, it may be desirable to increase the support and torsional rigidity of the surgically-implanted implantation rod system. These situations may require not only support on the side of the spinal column that is attached to an implantation rod, but also torsional rigidity and support collectively between the implantation rods. To achieve this, patients have been selectively provided with surgically implanted cross connector systems to couple between two implantation rods.


A top of a convertible vehicle includes at least one top element displaceable between a closed position and a storage position. Each of two side portions accommodates a closing system fixing the relevant side portion to a front apron of the vehicle or to a further top element. The closing systems are displaceable between a blocked position and a cleared position. Each closing system includes a locking hook, which interacts with a corresponding locking element and which is pivotable about a hook axis, and a drive unit, which drives a control element pivotable about a pivot axis and mounted at the relevant side portion as well as being connected to the locking hook via a coupling unit. The pivot axis of the control element and the hook axis are oriented with respect to each other in a skew fashion and the coupling unit includes at least one 3-D link.

Such a top is known, for example, from document DE 10 2007 021 083 A1 and constitutes a displaceable top of a passenger car being realized as a convertible vehicle. The top comprises a top element, which may be realized as a rigid lid element and which is displaceable between a closed position for spanning a vehicle interior and a storage position for clearing the vehicle interior to the top. The top element, in relation to a vertical longitudinal center plane of the top on both sides, is provided with a side portion or frame portion, which, in relation to a vertical longitudinal center plane of the top, limits or forms a lateral edge of the top element. In each of the side portions being arranged on both sides, a closing system is accommodated, which includes a hydraulic cylinder, which drives a locking hook via a rocker and a connecting link, said locking hook, in the closed position of the top, being engaged with a locking bolt being arranged to a front apron of the relevant vehicle and the pivot axis of said locking hook being oriented so as to be parallel to the pivot axis of the rocker. The design of the rocker and its mode of coupling to the locking hook require a sufficiently large installation space in the vertical direction of the top. Said installation space is not available in all types of tops.

Top of a convertible vehicle having a closing system


For diagnosing coupled piezo-mechanical systems, methods are used which utilize electrical characteristic curves of the piezo-element that is contained in the piezo-mechanical systems. These electrical characteristic curves contain information about the mechanical condition of the overall piezo-mechanical system, which can be interpreted by suitable evaluating methods. It is thus possible to perform a diagnosis in which malfunctions and failures of the piezo-mechanical system can be detected (e.g. wear or failure of particular components). An important field of application is the diagnosis of fuel injectors which are controlled via piezo-actuators.

The invention relates to a method for evaluating electrical characteristic values of a coupled piezo-mechanical system.
Piezo-elements are being employed with increasing frequency to control mechanical movements, for instance in fuel injectors.
The coupled system formed of a piezo-element, for instance a piezo-ceramic, and a mechanically movable mechanism that is connected to it, is referred to here as a piezo-mechanical system. The piezo-mechanical system can additionally be influenced by another mode of action, for instance by means of a hydraulic system or by an electromagnetically driven motor.
As opposed to an electromagnetic drive as is primarily in use today, the force transmission from the piezo-element to the mechanical moving parts is not performed indirectly via a force field (e.g. a magnetic field), but rather directly via a mechanical coupling (hydraulic system, tappet, etc.).
Another difference is that the piezo-element, as a mechanical-electrical converter, is both part of the mechanical action loop, or subsystem, and part of the electrical action loop, or subsystem. The coupling effect between mechanical and electrical subsystems is approximately linear in a piezo-element (that is, it follows relationships which are relatively easy to describe), unlike in an electromagnetically driven actuator, for example. This means that a modification of a technical parameter (e.g. due to wear or aging) changes the mechanical stiffness of components, thereby exerting a direct influence on the counterforce experienced by the piezo-element.
It is known that the impedance characteristic of the piezo-element as a whole, and the position of impedance maxima and minima in particular, changes when a mechanical influence quantity (such as the pressure on the piezo-element) is modified.
It is the object of the present invention to use the characteristics of a piezo-element to diagnose a piezo-mechanical system.
According to the method of the present invention for diagnosing a piezo-mechanical system which contains at least one piezo-element and a mechanical system controlled by the piezo-element, an electrical piezo-signal which is tapped at the piezo-element is compared to an electrical signal that controls the piezo-element. The condition of the piezo-mechanical system is determined from a deviation of these two signals from one another.
The object is achieved by exploiting the fact that the state of the mechanical subsystem influences the electrical characteristic values of the piezo-element (henceforth, the piezo-signal) in a characteristic fashion on the basis of the mechanical-electrical coupling the via the piezo-element. By measuring and evaluating electrical characteristic values of the piezo-element, it is possible to diagnose the mechanical function of the piezo-mechanical system; that is, to detect malfunctions and failures.
Besides the states of the mechanical subsystem, the state of the electrical subsystem (incl. piezo-element) can be diagnosed by the electrical characteristic values. Thus, for example, short circuits or leaks in the piezo-element lead to altered switching times of the system, owing to the altered impedance of the piezo-element, which times manifest themselves in various ways during the making and breaking phases in the time-dependent behavior of electrical characteristic values.
One diagnosis option is highly advantageous in the automotive field, for example, in which the legal regulation xe2x80x9cOBD2xe2x80x9d stipulates that all parts of an auto that are relevant to its safety and environmental impact must be monitored during the operation of a vehicle with respect to their proper functioning. This applies particularly to fuel injectors, the connection of which directly affects both the emission of pollutants and the reliable operation of a motor.
Another example is aeronautical construction, in which the mechanical movement of actuators, particularly of the elevators and vertical rudders, is determined by electrical signals (xe2x80x9cfly by wirexe2x80x9d). There are airplane constructions in existence which are not fit to fly without a permanent control and monitoring of the mechanical control parts. Malfunctions or damage at a mechanical drive, for instance at a linear drive with a piezoactuator, must therefore be detected early.

Method for evaluating characteristic values of piezo-mechanical systems


A moisture sensor system is described. In one embodiment, the system provides an adjustable threshold level for the sensed moisture level. The adjustable threshold allows the moisture sensor to adjust to ambient conditions, aging of components, and other operational variations while still providing a relatively sensitive detection capability. In one embodiment, the adjustable threshold moisture sensor is used in an intelligent sensor system that includes one or more intelligent sensor units and a base unit that can communicate with the moisture sensor units. When one or more of the moisture sensor units detects a excess moisture the moisture sensor unit communicates with the base unit and provides data regarding the moisture condition. The base unit can contact a supervisor or other responsible person by a plurality of techniques, such as, telephone, pager, cellular telephone, Internet (and/or local area network), etc. In one embodiment, one or more wireless repeaters are used between the moisture sensor units and the base unit to extend the range of the system and to allow the base unit to communicate with a larger number of sensors.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a sensor system for detecting and determining the severity of moisture in building materials, such as wood, drywall, plaster, etc.
2. Description of the Related Art
Maintaining and protecting a building or complex is difficult and costly. Some conditions, such as fires, gas leaks, etc., are a danger to the occupants and the structure. Other malfunctions, such as moisture in roofs, plumbing, walls, etc., are not necessarily dangerous for the occupants, but can, nevertheless, cause considerable damage. In many cases, an adverse ambient condition such as water leakage, fire, etc., is not detected in the early stages when the damage and/or danger is relatively small. Sensors can be used to detect such adverse ambient conditions, but sensors present their own set of problems. For example, adding sensors, such as, for example, smoke detectors, water sensors, and the like in an existing structure can be prohibitively expensive due to the cost of installing wiring between the remote sensors and a centralized monitoring device used to monitor the sensors. Adding wiring to provide power to the sensors further increases the cost.

Method and apparatus for detecting moisture in building materials


A magnetic memory device includes a first interconnection which runs in a first direction, a second interconnection which runs in a second direction different from the first direction, a magnetoresistive element which is arranged at the intersection of and between the first and second interconnections, and a metal layer which is connected to the magnetoresistive element and has a side surface that partially coincides with a side surface of the magnetoresistive element.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an information reproduction technique using a ferromagnetic body and, more particularly, to a magnetic memory device using a magnetoresistive element and a method of manufacturing the same.
2. Description of the Related Art
A magnetic random access memory (to be abbreviated as an MRAM hereinafter) is a general term for solid-state memories which can rewrite, hold, and read out recording information at any time by using the magnetization direction of a ferromagnetic body as an information recording medium.
A memory cell of an MRAM normally has a structure formed by stacking a plurality of ferromagnetic layers. To record information, the relationship between the magnetization directions of the plurality of ferromagnetic bodies that form the memory cell is set to "parallel" or "anti-parallel". Binary information "0" or "1" is recorded in correspondence with the parallel or anti-parallel state.
A write of recording information is executed by supplying a current to write lines which are laid out in a cross stripe and inverting the magnetization direction of the ferromagnetic body of each cell by a current magnetic field generated by the current. Since the MRAM is a nonvolatile memory, power consumption is zero during holding of recorded information in principle, and recorded information is held even after power-off.
On the other hand, a read of recorded information is executed by using a so-called magnetoresistive effect. In this phenomenon, the electrical resistance of a memory cell changes depending on the relative angle between a sense current and the magnetization direction of the ferromagnetic body of the cell or the relative angle in magnetization between the plurality of ferromagnetic layers.
The MRAM has a number of functional advantages as compared to a conventional semiconductor memory using a dielectric material. More specifically, (1) the MRAM is completely nonvolatile and can be rewritten 1015 times or more. (2) Since a nondestructive read can be executed, and no refresh operation is necessary, the read cycle can be shortened. (3) The resistance against radiation is high as compared to a charge accumulation type memory cell. The degree of integration per unit area and the write and read times of the MRAM would be almost the same as those of a DRAM. MRAMs which have nonvolatility as a remarkable characteristic are therefore expected to be applied to external recording devices for portable equipment, LSI embedded memories, and main memories of personal computers.
MRAMs which are presently considered for practical application use an element that exhibits a tunnel magneto-resistance effect (to be abbreviated as a TMR effect hereinafter) as a memory cell (e.g., Roy Scheuerlein, et al., "A 10 ns Read and Write Non-Volatile Memory Array Using a Magnetic Tunnel Junction and FET Switch in each Cell", 2000 ISSCC Digest of Technical Papers, U.S.A., February 2000, pp. 128-129). The element (to be referred to as an MTJ (Magnetic Tunnel Junction) element hereinafter) that exhibits the TMR effect is mainly constructed by a three-layered structure of ferromagnetic layer/insulating layer/ferromagnetic layer. A current tunnels through the insulating layer. The tunnel resistance value changes in proportion to the cosine of the relative angle of the magnetization directions of the two ferromagnetic metal layers, and takes a maximal value when the magnetization directions are anti-parallel. For example, in a tunnel junction made of NiFe/Co/Al2O3/Co/NiFe, a magnetoresistance change rate more than 25% is observed in a low magnetic field of 50 Oe or less (e.g., M Sato, et al., "Spin-Value-Like Properties and Annealing Effect in Ferromagnetic Tunnel Junctions", IEEE Trans. Mag., U.S.A., 1997, Vol. 33, No. 5, pp. 3553-3555). As a structure of an MTJ element, a so-called spin valve structure is known in which an anti ferromagnetic body is arranged adjacent to one ferromagnetic body to fix the magnetization direction to increase the magnetic field sensitivity (e.g., M Sato, et al., "Spin-Value-Like Properties and Annealing Effect in Ferromagnetic Tunnel Junctions", Jpn. J. Appl. Phys., 1997, Vol. 36, Part 2, pp. 200-201). Another known structure has two tunnel barriers to improve the bias dependence of the magnetoresistance change rate (e.g., K Inomata, et al., "Spin-dependent tunneling between a soft ferromagnetic layer and hard magnetic nano particles, Jpn. J. Appl. Phys., 1997, Vol. 36, Part 2, pp. 1380-1383).
When the above MTJ element is applied to an MRAM, each memory cell has a planar structure shown in FIG. 57 or 58. As shown in FIG. 57 or 58, MTJ elements 19 are laid out at the intersections of and between word lines 10 and bit lines 23. A switching element (not shown) such as a MOS transistor is connected to the lower surface of each MTJ element 19 through a lower metal layer 13 and contact 12.
In the prior-art MRAM, the lower metal layer 13 is formed such that it exists even outside the side surfaces of the MTJ element 19 and contact 12. That is, a margin is generated in consideration of misalignment to the MTJ element 19 and contact 12. To separate adjacent cells, the lower metal layers 13 are formed at minimum pitches A and B. Under these circumstances, it is difficult to reduce a pitch X′ or X″ between the word lines 10 or a pitch Y′ or Y″ between the bit lines 23 by a predetermined amount or more. This problem becomes more conspicuous as the cell size is required to be smaller.

Magnetic memory device and method of manufacturing the same


An apparatus for optically measuring toner density, having a rotary member which rotates and retains a developer constituted by a toner and a carrier by magnetic force, a transparent detection window which is disposed at a position where the developer retained on the rotary member rubs said detection window through rotation of said rotary member, a detection device which illuminates the developer through the detection window and detects the amount of reflected light from the developer and the magnitude of variations of the amount in response to rotation of the rotary member, and a warning device which issues an abnormal warning when the magnitude is smaller than a predetermined reference value, and a method for optically measuring toner density by using the apparatus.

In an image forming device which uses a two-component powder developer constituted by a toner and a carrier, it is required to supply the toner to the developer on the basis of a result of detection of weight-mixture ratio of the toner to the carrier (hereinafter, referred to as "toner density"), so as to keep constant density of an image by compensating the toner consumed by image formation.
Therefore, conventionally, in a known method for measuring the toner density, the toner density in the developer is measured on the basis of amount of reflected light from the developer which is constrained by magnetic field, and which is illuminated through a transparent detection window (hereinafter, this method is referred to as "optical detection method"). Further, it is proposed as a kind of the optical detection method to make the transparent detection window and the toner electrically repulsive with each other by applying window bias having a polarity identical with that of the charged toner to the transparent detection window in order to prevent the toner from adhering to the detection window.
However, the charging amount in the developer varies with humidity and deterioration degree of the developer. More specifically, the charging amount decreases when the developer becomes wet on account of rise of humidity. On the other hand, the charging amount increases when the developer becomes dry on account of drop of the humidity. Further, the charging amount decreases with the deterioration of the developer caused by agitation etc., while the charging amount increases when the developer is not affected by the agitation etc., and when the developer is fresh.
When the charging amount decreases, attraction force between the carrier and the toner becomes weak, so that they separate from each other. In this case, the carrier does not adhere to the detection window because it is constrained by the magnetic field. However, the toner separating from the carrier is suspended, and this suspended toner adheres to the detection window because the charging amount of the toner is small and electrical repulsive force between the toner and the window bias is weak. On the other hand, in the case that the charging amount of the carrier becomes large, the toner does not adhere to the detection window because the repulsive force between the toner and the window bias becomes strong, whereas the carrier is released from the constraint of the magnetic field and adheres to the detection window because the electrical attraction force between the carrier and the window bias becomes stronger than the constraint force of the magnetic field.
In the case that when the toner adheres to the detection window, it is judged that the density of the toner is higher than reference density to be compared because the amount of the reflected light from the developer increases. Therefore, there arises a problem that the density of the image drops because the toner is not replenished in spite of dropping of real toner density. On the other hand, in the case that the carrier adheres to the detection window, it is judged that the toner density is lower than the reference density because the amount of the reflected light from the developer decreases. Therefore, there arises a problem that the developer overflows from a development apparatus resulting in contamination of the interior of an image forming machine because the toner is replenished excessively in spite of required toner density being actually maintained.

Method and apparatus for optically measuring toner density


A lubricant composition which comprises a major amount of a lubricating oil base stock and a minor amount of a benzotriazole of the formula: ##STR1## where R and R.sup.1 are hydrocarbyl groups having from 1 to 30 carbon atoms. The load-carrying properties of the benzotriazoles of the formula (I) are activated by subjecting the lubricant composition to load-carrying conditions.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to stress activated high load additives and to lubricant compositions containing such additives. The load additives are activated under high load conditions such as engine operating conditions.
2. Description of the Related Art
Lubricants typically require the presence of additives to protect moving parts from the adverse effects of friction. Load-carrying additives are commonly added to oils and greases to improve the ability of the oil or grease under friction producing stress to protect from wear and damage to moving metal parts. For example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,144,180; 4,456,539 and 4,626,368 disclose triazole derivatives having a phosphorous moiety directly bound to the triazole ring system. These additives show load-carrying, antioxidant or antiwear properties and are active without regard to operating conditions.
Some of the problems presented by many typical additives relate to seal degradation and lubricant incompatibility. It would be desirable to have a high load lubricant additive which becomes activated only under the stress of operating conditions thereby avoiding prolonged contact of active species with seals and other sensitive components.

Stress activated high load additives for lubricant compositions


A device for taking length and depth measurements during surgery. The device comprises a first longitudinal member and a second longitudinal member telescopically positioned within the first longitudinal member. The second longitudinal member may have a front part connectable thereto. The front part may have an opening, a passageway, and a moveable piece in the passageway. The device may also have a sliding member for moving the moveable piece between a first position where a portion of the moveable piece is outside the front part to a second position where the entire moveable piece is within the front part. The first and second longitudinal member may be locked with respect to one another. The prevent invention also discloses methods of using the device to take length and depth measurements during surgery.

Bone screws are commonly used in osteosynthetic repair of, for example, bone fractures. Frequently, bone screws are screwed into a bone perpendicular to its longitudinal axis. In so doing, the bone screws may penetrate into an opposite bone wall. However, the tip of the screw should not protrude excessively into the surrounding soft-tissue for this may result in irritation of or damage to the soft parts. An accurate determination of length of the borehole is therefore important for choosing the bone screw, which is to be inserted into a pre-drilled borehole.
In previously known devices for measuring length or depth, a piston with a hook was introduced through a borehole and engaged an opposite bone wall on the soft-tissue side. Subsequently, a measuring sleeve was shifted on the piston in the direction of the bone surface until the front end of the measuring sleeve came into contact with this surface. However, in so doing, the danger exists that the hook may slip off the opposite bone wall and, consequently, the displacement of the measuring sleeve may pull the hook into the bone. This may result in incorrect length measurements and, consequently, may result in the selection of a bone screw of the incorrect length.
The invention solves this problem and is designed to provide a length or depth measurement device, which enables a hook to extend beyond the opposite bone wall after the piston is moved into the borehole so that a positive connection to the bone can be achieved. Moreover, reading the length measurement does not have to occur in situ.

Device for length and depth measurements in surgery


A method of controlling a hybrid HDD to permanently deactivate a non-volatile cache support mode by determining whether a limit in the use of a non-volatile cache is passed, and a recording medium and apparatus suitable for the control method. The control method of a hybrid hard disk drive having a hard disk and a non-volatile cache includes determining whether an erasure number of the non-volatile cache exceeds a usage limit based on the erasure number of the non-volatile cache, and permanently deactivating a non-volatile cache support mode when the erasure number of the non-volatile cache is determined to exceed the usage limit.

1. Field of the Invention
The present general inventive concept relates to a hybrid hard disk drive (HDD) having a hard disk and a non-volatile cache, and more particularly, to a method of controlling a hybrid HDD to permanently deactivate a non-volatile cache support mode by determining whether the limit in the use of a non-volatile cache is passed, and a recording medium and apparatus suitable for the control method.
2. Description of the Related Art
In a hybrid HDD, a non-volatile cache is additionally provided in addition to a typical HDD. The non-volatile cache is embodied by a flash memory. The hybrid HDD is advantageous in the following points as compared to a conventional HDD.
First, a booting time of an operating system (OS) may be reduced. Since files needed for the booting of the OS are copied to the non-volatile cache and used during booting, the booting time may be reduced. The typical HDD requires a time for a spindle motor to rotate up to a specified velocity during a power reset. However, since a host using the hybrid HDD may read the files needed for the booting of the OS from the non-volatile cache not located in the HDD, the booting time may be greatly reduced.
Second, a data access time may be reduced. Data to be used by the host using the hybrid HDD is simultaneously recorded on the non-volatile cache and a hard disk. When the data is read, the non-volatile cache is searched first. If appropriate data is found, the data is read from the non-volatile cache. Considering that recently recorded data is high-possibility accessed, the data access time may be reduced by using the non-volatile cache.
As it is widely known, the flash memory has a limit to how many times it may be used. Unlike a DRAM, writing to the flash memory involves first erasing a corresponding block, and the number of erasing operations is limited. The number of erasing operations of a currently used flash memory is limited to about 100,000.
FIG. 1 is a graph illustrating a relationship between an error of a flash memory and an erasure number limit. As illustrated in FIG. 1, when the erasure number of the flash memory exceeds the erasure limit number, an error, i.e., a data error during recording and reading, sharply increases. Thus, in the hybrid HDD, when the flash memory is used over the limited number of use, that is, when the non-volatile cache is used over an appropriate limit, the non-volatile memory may not be used further.

Hybrid hard disk drive control method and recording medium and apparatus suitable therefore


An apparatus and methods for acoustically analyzing a fluid sample and determining one or more properties of the sample are disclosed by the present invention. The apparatus comprises a chamber, a transmitter positioned within the chamber for transmitting an acoustic signal through the fluid, a reflector movably positioned within the fluid inside the chamber for reflecting the acoustic signal, and a receiver positioned within the chamber for detecting reflections of the acoustic signal. The methods employ the use of a transmitter, a reflector movably positioned within the fluid inside the chamber, and a receiver to characterize the fluid sample based on one or more of its acoustic properties.

Density is the fundamental physical property that can be used alone or in conjunction with other properties to characterize fluids in many industrial processes, such as in the petroleum, chemical and food industries. Laboratory measurements of density can reach accuracies of 0.01% or less, if sufficient care is taken during the transportation and analysis of the fluid sample.
Various methods of measuring the density of a fluid have been proposed however, are not well suited for in situ use. For example, many conventional densitometers are limited by their physical construction if the acoustic transducer(s) are affixed directly to the fluid sample chamber. When the chamber is subjected to extreme in situ pressure, the chamber dimensions may be affected thus, requiring recalibration of the device with each change in the fluid sample pressure. The net effect is a greater degree of uncertainty in the density measurements taken. Various other density measurement devices have been developed to maximize precision while reducing material complexity as discussed in Vol. 49, No. 9, of the September 2002 issue of IEEE Transactions On Ultrasonics, Ferroelectrics, and Frequency Control, titled Ultrasonic Densitometer Using a Multiple Reflection Technique by Ricardo Tokio Higuti and Julio Cezar Adamowski. The accuracy of these devices, however, is also limited by temperature and pressure conditions of the fluid sample, which may alter the dimensions of the device. As a result, these devices may require excessive recalibration with each fluid sample and/or may present unacceptable results at extreme pressures.
Another common ultrasonic method used to measure the density of fluids is based on the measurement of the reflection coefficient at the interface between a reference material and the fluid sample as more fully described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,708,191 and 5,886,250. The '191 and '250 patents each describe methods for determining the density of a fluid sample by means of a material wedge positioned in the fluid. The material properties of the wedge are limited to materials having an acoustic impedance no greater than eleven (11) times that of the fluid sample. These methods are therefore, limited by their material requirements, which may be wholly inappropriate for certain fluids and at in situ conditions.
In the petroleum industry, reservoirs are usually several thousands of feet from the earth's surface and are typically under extreme pressures reaching several tens of thousands of pounds per square inch. Geothermal temperatures at these depths are on the order of 250° F. or more. Most conventional tools and associated methods are therefore, either inappropriate or impractical for taking density measurements of formation fluid samples from the earth at in situ temperatures and pressures. Consequently, formation fluid samples taken by conventional means, such as by a wireline device, are normally shipped to a laboratory where, under controlled conditions mimicking in situ pressure and temperature, density and other properties may be determined. The fluid properties may substantially impact decisions as to whether production may be economically achieved and, if so, the duration, expense and unit price of such production.
Transfer of the formation fluid sample to the surface environment, however, may induce several irreversible changes in the fluid sample. For example, during the rise of a fluid sample to the surface, both pressure and temperature drop substantially. Pressure and temperature changes may cause certain components of the fluid sample to irreversibly precipitate from solution and/or colloidal suspension, causing the fluid sample to be underestimated by surface testing. Production events such as paraffin or asphaltene deposition may also be avoided by preservation of the formation fluid sample at in situ conditions. For these reasons, preservation of the in situ state of a fluid sample during testing is preferred over mimicking in situ conditions.
One example of a conventional wireline sampling device that addresses this issue is illustrated in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/242,112, published on Apr. 10, 2003 and incorporated herein by reference. The '112 application describes a device or tool for maintaining the single phase integrity of a deep formation well sample that is removed to the surface for testing. Referring to FIG. 1 of the '112 application, the sampling and measuring instrument (tool) 13 is positioned within borehole 10 by winding or unwinding cable 12 from hoist 19, around which cable 12 is spooled. Depth information from depth indicator 20 is coupled to signal processor 21 and recorder 22 when instrument 13 is disposed adjacent an earth formation of interest. Electrical control signals from control circuits 23 are transmitted through electrical conductors contained within cable 12 to instrument 13. The sampling mechanism or tool 13 is comprised of a hydraulic power system 14, a fluid sample storage section 15, and a sampling mechanism section 16. Sampling mechanism 16 includes a selectively extensible well wall engaging pad member 17, a selectively extensible fluid admitting sampling probe member 18, and bi-directional pumping member 19. Within the sample storage section 15 are one or more sample accumulation chambers 30. FIG. 2 schematically illustrates a fundamental configuration of accumulation chamber 30. While improving on the preservation of in situ conditions of the fluid sample, this tool does not address other problems associated with analyzing the formation fluid sample at a lab, such as:
i) limitations on the available number of fluid samples using conventional wireline devices;
ii) transport delays;
iii) deterioration of fluid samples by improper handling and conditioning;
iv) delayed use of test results for field appraisal (hydrocarbon potential) and well planning;
v) limitations on lab conditions and instruments; and
vi) export restrictions.
Some fluid properties, however, may be analyzed in situ as illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 6,683,681 B2, issued Jan. 27, 2004 and incorporated herein by reference. The '681 patent describes an apparatus and method for measuring the refractive index of fluids along a continuum, for measuring attenuated reflectance spectra, and for interpreting the measurements made with the apparatus to determine a variety of formation fluid parameters. This device, however, may require more complex and sophisticated equipment than is necessary or desired to determine certain physical parameters of a formation fluid sample-particularly acoustic velocity.
Other conventional techniques may propose an estimated or simulated pressure, volume and temperature (PVT) of the fluid sample based upon pressure gradients and geochemical parameters of the fluid sample in situ. Conventionally proposed index and/or estimate techniques may be limited, however, by the physical properties of the fluid sample that must be analyzed and their accuracy, which may depart as much as 10-15% from laboratory values.
There is, therefore, a need for a device capable of accurately determining fluid properties such as velocity, volume, density, compressibility and viscosity with nominal calibration at in situ conditions. Additionally, there is a need for a device that is simple, efficient, and easily incorporated into conventional wireline fluid sampling tools or any downhole sampling device. Finally, such a device should also be capable of analyzing similar fluid properties in other industries.

Apparatus and methods for acoustically determining fluid properties while sampling


The present invention pertains to a process for the production of a specific crystal modification of a polymorphic, organic substance by precipitation of the specific crystal modification from the aqueous solution of the salt of the polymorphic substances using ordinary water-soluble organic solvents as additives as well as an acid or base.

The present invention pertains to a process for the production of a specific crystal modification of a polymorphic, organic substance by precipitation of the specific crystal modification from the aqueous solution of the salt of the polymorphic substances using ordinary water-soluble organic solvents as additives as well as an acid or base.
The polymorphism of active substances is of great importance for chemical development, process development and the development of formulations. It is known that some organic substances occur in only one crystal structure, others (referred to as polymorphs) in two or more structures (known as modifications or crystal modifications). It is not possible to predict the number of crystal modifications, including their physiochemical properties, particularly their thermodynamic stability, as well as the different behavior after administration in living organisms.
It is known that for some polymorphs a particular modification represents the thermodynamically stable phase throughout the entire temperature range up to the melting point, whereas with other material systems there are one or more transition points at which the stability relationship reverses. In a range apart from this transition point, one particular modification is always thermodynamically stable. All other modifications that exist in this range are metastable and transform themselves sooner or later into the thermodynamically stable modifications. The time in which such a conversion takes place is specific to the material and depends on the kinetics of the material system. The material-specific kinetics also determine which modification is formed during a crystallization or precipitation process. It is not possible to predict the stability relationship of co-existent crystal modifications, especially the existence and location of the aforementioned transition points. Furthermore it is neither possible to predict the kinetics of the conversion of metastable modifications to stable ones nor to predict which modification will be formed in a crystallization or precipitation process. A review of the current state of knowledge regarding these fundamental thermodynamic and kinetic relationships is found in J. Bernstein, R. J. Davey. J. O. Henck. Angew. Chem. Int. Ed., 1999, 38, 3440–3461.
It is known that the formation of metastable modifications can be favored, although the driving force for the formation of the thermodynamically stable phase in a crystallization or precipitation process is the greatest. Since time within which a transformation of co-existent crystal modifications takes place is usually orders of magnitude longer than the time for phase formation in a crystallization or precipitation process, these products, which were formed in a metastable structure, typically remain in this state for the time being during the further production and processing steps. Some known examples of this behavior are given in J. Bernstein et al. (see above). Numerous problems can be caused, particularly with active substances, by using or processing metastable crystal modifications. These problems, caused primarily by undesired and uncontrolled crystal growth (recrystallization), can occur during manufacture, formulation, storage, transport or application and can cause significant changes in bioavailability, caking etc. (J. Halebian, W. McCrone, J. Pharm. Sci. 58 (1969) 911).
An example of such problems is 2-(2-chloro-4-mesyl-benzoyl)cycloliexane-1,3-dione hereinafter referred to as sulcotrione, which has herbicide properties and is used in the production of weed-killers. Sulcotrione occurs for example in two modifications (in this regard, refer to the German patent application no. 10152459.5, which as a whole is to be part of the present application). The metastable modification, hereinafter referred to as modification (I), is the product of a manufacturing process, which follows the description in EP-A2-0 186 117. Since this modification is metastable, it is less suitable for production, formulation, storage and application of this active substance than the stable modification.
Commonly applied methods for reproducible manufacture of the stable modification of a substance are evaporative or cooling crystallization, as well as recrystallization in a carefully selected solvent (see WO 97/49681 A1). The choice of an appropriate solvent is made with the objective of influencing the surface energy of the crystal with the surrounding solution and/or the complex formation of the molecules in the course of the crystallization in order to promote formation of the desired crystal structure (N. Bladgeni. Powder Technology, 121 (2001) 46–52; R. J. Davey et al., Crystal Growth & Design, 1(1), (2001) 59–65; U.S. Pat. No. 5,959,108; U.S. Pat. No. 5,939,555). In WO 01/64672 A1 for example, a process is described for obtaining a specific modification. It is based on the solution of the isomorph in butanone/water (10:1) with subsequent addition of an acid. The disadvantage of such strategies is that a solvent for crystallization found in this manner is only seldom suitable for the preceding process and reaction steps. Consequences of this are cost-intensive measures such as changing the solvent, or recrystallization of an already formed metastable crystal structure is necessary. In particular, such procedures are also usually associated with a significant loss of yield.
Another known method to have a targeted influence on the formation of specific crystal structures of a polymorphic substance is the use of so-called "tailor-made" additives (E. Staab et al., Adv. Mater., 2 (1990) 40). The objective of such "tailor-made" additives is likewise to influence the surface energy of the crystal with respect to the surrounding solution and/or the formation of molecular complexes during crystallization in order to promote the formation of the desired crystal structure (see for example U.S. Pat. No. 5,716,445 A). Characteristic of "tailor-made" additives is a partial conformance or similarity of the molecular structure to that of the polymorphic substance. The advantage of using such "tailor-made" additives compared to the aforementioned strategy is the possibility of use in different solvents, which makes the implementation of such a process simpler. However, as a rule the specifically designed additives must be synthesized exclusively for their use to exercise specific influence on the polymorphism, which makes their development time-consuming and makes the process in which they are used expensive.
It was therefore the task of the present invention to prepare a process for the manufacture of specific modifications that can be used for efficient, cost-effective recovery of specific modifications. In particular it was the task of the present invention to make available a process for obtaining the modification that does not require a change of solvent and/or recrystallization.
The challenge was solved in the present invention by using inexpensive and easy-to-use additives in order to achieve the formation of a specific crystal modification. These additives also show their effect in solvents used in the prior reactions and processing steps, so that a change of solvent and/or additional process steps can be omitted.
It was found that typical organic solvent molecules are outstandingly suitable additives for promoting the formation of specific crystal structures of organic polymorphic substances in acid/base precipitative crystallizations. Surprisingly, the production of specific modifications of polymorphic organic substances succeeds directly by precipitation of the specific crystal modification from the salt of the polymorphic substance in aqueous solution according to the following reaction equation,
whereby the precipitation of the substance in the desired crystal structure is promoted by addition of typical organic, water-soluble solvents as additives.
The term "additive" as it is used here refers to compounds or substances that are added to an existing solution of a substance, whereby the amount (w/w) of the additive applied is preferably less than the amount of substance present in solution. Preferably the additive in an amount that is 0.1 to 20% with respect to the amount of the substance to be precipitated; particularly preferable is an amount of 1 to 10% and especially of 1 to 5%. It does not matter here whether the additive is added to the available solution or whether said solution is added to an available additive or a solution containing the additive.

Method for producing specific crystalline modifications of polmorphous substances


A compact, modular dosing pump system that is capable of microdose and macrodose volume flow rates, reduces or eliminates the need for additional flow control components such as temperature and pressure sensors, and utilizes a wider operational flow range than existing systems while maintaining the level of accuracy and precision exhibited by conventional dosing pump systems is provided. The dosing pump utilizes a pump and flow circuit, and a control system may be used to deliver a range of fluid volumes. The flow circuit utilizes a networked system of fluid paths and valves to route fluid through the dosing pump system in response to a pressure differential between fluid inlet and fluid outlet ports, while the controller monitors and controls the operation of the system.

The present invention generally relates to devices capable of delivering precisely metered fluid volumes. Specifically, the invention includes a pump that may provide both a microdose and macrodose so as to accurately deliver a precise volume of fluid with high resolution adjustment over a wide range of microdose and macrodose volumes. The invention can be configured for use in fields which include medical, pharmaceutical, food and beverage, industrial process, laboratory, and chemical, as well as commercial and consumer applications.
Precise dosing pump systems are complex and expensive systems, are highly specialized, and are limited to particular applications. The highly specialized nature of dosing pumps systems limits their performance capabilities to a narrow range of operation. Furthermore, due to their high cost, dosing pump systems are typically limited to high-end applications in fields such as medical and industrial, while commercial and consumer applications have limited access to the technology.
Generally, dosing pumps are electrically powered devices, and may be operated utilizing several technologies such as solenoids, gears, a diaphragm and peristaltic actuation. Regardless of the pump technology, however, dosing pumps are typically designed for and limited to providing very low flow rates such as 0.01 millileters per minute to 5 milliliters per minute. In these prior systems, the low flow rate is necessary in order to precisely control the output of the fluid. The drawback to the low
flow rate, however, is that dosing pump systems have a limited range of adjustability such that they are not effective to operate outside of the nominal design flow rate. Use of a higher flow rate dosing pump, such as a pump that operates in a range of 20 milliliters per minute to 50 milliliters per minute, in order to expand the range of flow rates is typically not an option because the increased flow rate comes at the loss of accuracy and precision. Therefore, dosing pumps capable of precisely controlling macrodose flow are expensive and highly uncommon.
Both precise microdose pumps as well as macrodose pumps tend to be expensive. Also increasing the cost is the need of certain applications that require both microdosing and macrodosing because more than one pump is required to achieve all of the desired dosing ranges. Current dosing pumps lack the necessary degree of adjustability to cover large ranges of flow rate.
Further drawbacks of prior dosing pump systems are the variety of devices in addition to the pump that are required in order to monitor and control the flow of fluid. Flow meters, adjustable flow controls, pressure sensors, and temperature sensors are all needed in order for dosing pump systems to achieve their precision and monitor flow. These additional components contribute to the complexity and cost of the system, as well as add physical bulk.
The sensitivity of readily available flow sensors, such as turbine sensors, is also not sufficient for accurately determining the flow rate of fluids at microdosing levels, generally within the range of 0.01 millileters per minute to 5 milliliters per minute. In the case of traditional turbine sensor, the microdose flow rate cannot adequately spin the turbine to generate sufficient signal to determine the actual flow rate of the fluid. Thus, In a traditional microdosing system, such flow sensors cannot be utilized because the pump operates to draw in and expel fluid at essentially the same microdosing rate resulting in an input flow and an output flow that are each at microdosing levels. In such systems, a specialized microdosing sensor must be utilized. Microdosing sensors have significant drawbacks such as a high cost, generally thousands of dollars. Additionally, they are often application specific and must be specially designed.
The selection of these components is typically based on achieving a nominal microdose or macrodose flow rate fluid to enable a specific dosing pump to expel fluids of a particular, narrow viscosity range. The design of the particular dosing system is thus limited to a particular flow rate for a particular fluid viscosity. If a change to the nominal flow rate is desired, or the viscosity of the fluid changes, the dosing pump must be re-engineered, or replaced altogether, along other components of the dosing pump system (flow controls, etc.) in order to maintain the precision of the system.
In summary, existing dosing pump systems can be configured to provide accurate, high-precision fluid delivery. However, this is achievable only within a narrow operational range and through the assembly of a complex and expensive flow control system.


A motor includes a power supplying brush, a brush holder, a choke coil, and a power supplying terminal. The brush holder holds the power supplying brush. The choke coil includes a coil portion having a coil shape, an iron core, a first connecting portion, and a second connecting portion. The iron core is inserted into the coil portion. The iron core is longer than an axial length of the coil portion. The iron core has a projecting portion projecting from the coil portion in an axial direction of the coil portion. The first connecting portion extends from an axial first end of the coil portion. The second connecting portion extends from an axial second end of the coil portion. The power supplying terminal is assembled to the brush holder. The power supplying terminal connects with at least one of the first connecting portion and the second connecting portion. At least one of the power supplying terminal and the brush holder includes an iron core holding portion that holds the projecting portion.

The present invention relates to a motor.
Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. H06-311708 describes an example of a motor that includes a choke coil for the prevention of noise.
The choke coil of the motor as described in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. H06-311708 has two connecting portions. One of the connecting portions connects with a pig tail, which is connected with a power supplying brush. The other one of the connecting portions connects with a lead wire. The power supplying brush is held by a brush holding portion arranged at a brush holder. The brush holder is arranged to close an opening portion of a cylindrical yoke housing, which has a bottom. The other one of the connecting portions, which connects with a lead wire extends toward the brush holder.
Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. H06-311708 describes an example of fixing the choke coil to the brush holder though a magnetic body. In this example, the choke coil is attached to the magnetic body, which is fixed to the brush holder. One of the connecting portions of the choke coil is fixed with the brush holder by adhesion. The other one of the connecting portions of the choke coil is swaged with the pig tail by a fixing member fixed with the brush holder. The other one of the connecting portions of the choke coil is connected with the pig tail.
However, when one of the connecting portions of the choke coil is connected with the pig tail and the other one of the connecting portions of the choke coil is connected with the lead wire as described in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. H06-311708, setting the position of the choke coil is likely to be difficult since the pig tail and the lead wire are both flexible members that are likely bent. Accordingly, the choke coil may vibrate at the time of when the motor operates. This may results in the displacement of the choke coil inside the motor. When the choke coil displaces, loads apples to each of the connection between one of the connecting portion of the choke coil and the pig tail and the connection between the other one of the connecting portion of the choke coil and the lead wire. This may results in the connection failure in each connection. In this case, a component dedicated to hold the choke coil may be arranged in the interior of the motor. This would increase the number of components and increase assembling steps.
In addition, as described in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. H06-311708, when the other one of the connecting portion of the choke coil is connected with the pig tail using a fixing member, which is fixed with the brush holder, the other one of the connecting portion of the choke coil is not likely displaced in the interior of the motor since the fixing member supports the other one of the connecting portion of the choke coil. However, since this configuration requires the fixing member, which is dedicated to connect the other one of the connecting portion of the choke coil with the pig tail, the number of components is increased. In addition, since this configuration requires the step of connecting the other one of the connecting portion of the choke coil with the pig tail using the fixing member and a step of fixing the fixing member to the brush holder, the number of the steps of assembling is increased.


A method of fabricating a 3D porous electrode architecture comprises forming a microbattery template that includes (a) a lattice structure comprising a first lattice portion separated from a second lattice portion on a substrate, and (b) a solid structure on the substrate including a separating portion between the first and second lattice portions. Interstices of the first lattice portion are infiltrated with a first conductive material and interstices of the second lattice portion are infiltrated with a second conductive material. Each of the first and second conductive materials fill the interstices to reach a predetermined thickness on the substrate. The solid structure and the lattice structure are removed from the structure, thereby forming first and second conductive scaffolds comprising a porosity defined by the lattice structure and having a lateral size and shape defined by walls of the solid structure.

Microelectronics, microsensors, and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) typically utilize energy sources located off-chip. Integrating microscale energy storage on-chip with microdevices is essential for achieving autonomous devices. Electrical energy for microdevices can be provided by either capacitors or batteries. Capacitors can charge and discharge very quickly, but inherently contain very little energy. Traditional batteries contain large amounts of energy, but cannot charge or discharge quickly. Other power sources, such as fuel cells, are practical for larger systems, but are not easily miniaturized.
Batteries are limited by their maximum power density/discharge rate because of slow kinetics related to ion and electron transport. Reducing the characteristic ion and electron diffusion lengths within the active battery material has proven to be successful in increasing power densities and discharge rates; however, this has also resulted in a substantial decrease in energy density. Miniature batteries have been developed to power cm2 sized devices and microelectronics, but they have not seen widespread adoption due to limits in their energy and power capabilities. Thin-film lithium ion batteries, for example, have high power densities due to thin active material layers (<1 μm), but the total power and energy provided is generally not sufficient to meet the demands of micro devices due to the two-dimensional architecture inherent to thin films. Building into the third dimension—e.g., making thicker active material layers—can boost the energy density; however, electron and ion diffusion lengths concomitantly increase, thereby reducing power density.
3D bicontinuous porous electrodes can enable rapid charge and discharge for lithium ion batteries because of their shortened pathways for both liquid-phase and solid-phase ion diffusions. Recently, this type of porous electrode has been integrated into an interdigitated configuration for microbatteries that can exhibit two times greater energy density and two thousand times greater power density compared to previous structures. Such microbatteries may be realized by independently electroplating anode and cathode active materials on interdigitated 3D porous nickel scaffolds formed from a colloidal template. Although this technology has set a few new records for high power microbatteries, there are several important issues to be addressed. The nickel current collector may grow isotropically instead of vertically during bottom-up deposition, leading to hemispherically shaped electrodes that do not fully utilize the device volume, and thus may not exhibit the maximal energy density. Microbatteries often require tall electrodes (˜100 μm) to achieve high areal energy density. If the electrode width increases simultaneously with height during fabrication, the power performance may be degraded and the areal density limited.

Method of fabricating a three-dimensional (3D) porous electrode architecture for a microbattery

The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois


The present disclosure relates to encoding and decoding apparatus and method using intra prediction. The encoding apparatus includes a reference pixel characteristics extractor for receiving reference pixel(s) included in neighboring blocks of a target block to encode to determine a reference pixel characteristic and determining whether adaptive filtering is applied to the reference pixel(s), based on reference pixel characteristic; a first intra predictor responsive to when the adaptive filtering is determined by the reference pixel characteristics extractor to be applied for comparing between results of performing intra prediction using high-frequency filtered reference pixel and intra prediction using high-frequency-unfiltered reference pixel to output the cost-efficient result along with filtering information indicating whether to perform filtering; and a second intra predictor for outputting the result of performing the intra prediction using the high-frequency-unfiltered reference pixel when the reference pixel characteristics extractor determines that the adaptive filtering is not to be applied.

The statements in this section merely provide background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art.
The state-of-the-art compression standard H.264/AVC enhances coding performance based on predictions using high correlations between neighboring pixels in intra coding.
The intra prediction by H.264/AVC provides a total of nine prediction modes for a block of 4×4 sized unit as illustrated in FIG. 1A, and a total of four prediction modes for a block of 16×16 sized unit as illustrated in FIG. 1B.
Meanwhile, H.264/AVC provides a total of nine intra prediction modes for a block of 8×8 sized unit as with the block of 4×4 sized unit, and first applies a filter for removing high frequency components to reference pixels of the neighboring blocks to be used for the prediction to smooth the reference pixels prior to performing the prediction [Document 1]. In the filtering process, the neighboring pixels may be changed to have values more suitable for the intra prediction to decrease intra prediction errors for target blocks.
However, the filtering for removing high frequency components of the reference pixels attenuates AC components actually present among original pixels, such that it may be difficult to provide details of block data to be predicted and in some cases, prediction performance or efficiency may be relatively more degraded than the case in which the filtering is not applied.
To solve the shortcoming, an adaptive filtering method was proposed by Fraunhofer Heinrich Hertz Institute (hereinafter, referred to as HHI) in HEVC that is a meeting for establishing a standard of the next-generation moving picture compression encoding/decoding device [Document 2].
The adaptive filtering method proposed by the HHI compares the prediction error occurring when the filtering for removing high frequency components is applied to each block for intra prediction against the prediction error occurring without the same filtering applied and as a comparison results, applies the smaller prediction errors to the actual encoding, thereby reducing the prediction errors.
However, the decoding apparatus requires an additional amount of information for each prediction block unit to perform indexing of whether or not to apply filtering, which may rather cause deteriorated compression efficiency for such images that would show little decrement of prediction errors with the adaptive filtering.
[Document 1]
1. Telecommunication Standardization sector of ITU, ""ITU-T Recommendation H.264, Series H: Audiovisual and Multimedia Systems, Advanced video coding for generic audiovisual services"", ITU-T Recommendation H.264, pp. 132-133, November 2007.
2. Martin Winken, Sebastian Boββe, ""Description of video coding technology proposal by Fraunhofer HHI"", Joint Collaborative Team on Video Coding (JCT-VC) of ITU-T SG16 WP3 and ISO/IEC JTC1/SC29/WG11, CfP response proposal JCTVC-A116, April 2010

Encoding and decoding device and method using intra prediction


The invention relates to an open end spinning device comprising a single-motor driven spinning rotor whose cup is rotationally actuated in the rotor housing which is negatively pressurized and closed by a cover element during a spinning process. According to said invention, the rotor house (2) is embodied in the form of a central element which is fixable to the frame of a textile machine and connects the control (3) of the spinning rotor (21) to the carrier (4) for the cover element (6) provided with a fibre band releasing device (23).

This application claims the benefit of German patent application 10340657.3 filed Sep. 4, 2003, herein incorporated by reference.
The invention relates to an open-end spinning device with a spinning rotor, which can be driven by an individual motor and whose rotor cup rotates in the rotor housing to which an underpressure can be applied and which can be closed by means of a cover element during the spinning process.
Such open-end spinning devices are known in various embodiments in connection with rotor spinning devices and have been described in numerous patent applications.
For example, open-end spinning devices have been known for a long time, wherein the different spinning components are arranged in a spinning box frame which, in turn, has been assembled from several individual components.
These known open-end spinning devices, which have for example been described in German Patent Publication DE 32 47 411 C2, have a spinning box frame which consists of at least two lateral frames, which can be fixed in place on the base element of a spinning device, at least two upper bracing elements, as well as at least one lower spacing device.
Here, the lateral frames and the bracing elements are connected with each other by means of a plurality of threaded bolts, wherein the individual components are aligned via fitting bore/fitting pin connections in an elaborate manner.
In connection with such open-end spinning devices, the large number of fitting bores which are required to exactly connect the spinning box frame is disadvantageous inter alia. Moreover, in regard to screw connections there is always the danger that they come loose over time because of the vibrations during the running of the textile machine.
This means that no sufficient rigidity of a spinning box frame with screw connections of this type can be assured over time which, in addition to the rotor seating, must contain the sliver opening device, as well as a cover element for closing off the rotor housing during the spinning operations.
To avoid the above mentioned disadvantages, a shift has been made toward the permanent connection of the various components of such spinning box frames by arc welding.
However, with arc welding there is the danger that, because of heating over large surfaces of the parts to be welded together, warping as a result of thermal stressing of the individual components can occur. The components must therefore be aligned again after welding before the bores for the fitted alignment of the various spinning components can be drilled.
For avoiding such thermal stresses because of heating it has already been proposed to connect the individual components of the spinning box frame by laser welding. German Patent Publication DE 19717 737 A1 describes such spinning box frames, whose components have been connected by means of a laser connecting process.
Since with this method the energy used can be exactly metered, and the area of heat supply can be very exactly localized, no heat effects over large areas of the involved components arise. No warping of the spinning box frame occurs with this method.
However, a spinning box frame by itself already constitutes a relatively expensive component, which is merely used for seating the various spinning components of an open-end spinning device in an exactly positioned manner and for fixing it in place on a machine frame of a textile machine. It has therefore already been attempted in the past to position the spinning components of an open-end spinning device on a textile machine without a special spinning box frame being employed.
German Patent Publication DE 2130 688 A1 describes such an open-end spinning device.
With this known open-end spinning device, the spinning components, some of which are independent of each other to the greatest extent, have been mounted directly on a linear support of the machine base frame of a textile machine. In this case the rotor housing is fixed in place on the upper leg of a U-shaped leg by means of lateral flanges and has a rear cutout, in which a spinning rotor driven by a single motor is seated.
The front of the rotor housing can be closed by means of a cover, which in turn is pivotably seated on the rotor housing.
A sliver opening device is fastened, spaced apart from the rotor housing, on the front of the lower leg of the U-shaped support and is functionally connected with the rotor housing via a fiber guide channel.
However, the selected separated arrangement of the spinning components has not shown itself to be very advantageous during the spinning operation, so that these known open-end spinning devices were never capable of being accepted in actual use.


There is provided a high voltage generating circuit including a circuit for sensing a voltage level of a high voltage for erasing and programming operations, a circuit for generating a given reference voltage, a circuit for comparing the sensed high voltage with the reference voltage, a circuit for applying or blocking a pump signal to a high voltage pump circuit according to the compared signal, a circuit for raising the voltage up to a given level under the control of the pump signal, and an EEPROM fuse circuit connected to the circuit for sensing the voltage level of the high voltage or the circuit for generating the given reference voltage and having stored data, whereby the voltage level of the high voltage finally output may be properly maintained and controlled according to the state of the stored data.

The present invention concerns a high voltage generating circuit for an electrically erasable and programmable semiconductor memory device (hereinafter referred to as "EEPROM"), particularly a circuit for readily adjusting level of the high voltage used in a flash-type EEPROM.
Generally, an EEPROM employs as a memory cell a floating-gate field effect transistor with an insulated floating-gate between a channel and a control gate to which a gate voltage is applied, so as to erase or program data by utilizing the electron tunnel effect between the floating-gate and the active region of the transistor.
In erasing the data, a high voltage of 15 V to 20 V is applied to the gate electrode for the electrons to tunnel from the source or drain region of the transistor to the floating-gate. Additionally, there is usually adopted a method to erase the data of all the memory cells at once in the case of a flashtype EEPROM. In programming, the floating-gate field effect transistor serving as a memory cell is made into a depletion type by grounding a control gate electrode thereof and applying a high voltage to a drain thereof. Hence, the EEPROM generally includes a high voltage generating circuit required for carrying out the above erasing and programming operation.
Referring to FIG. 1 for illustrating a conventional high voltage generating circuit, there are connected in series a plurality of pump circuits 1 which responds to pump clock pulses 4, 4' produced from an oscillator. A pump circuit 1 of a first stage is connected with a NMOS transistor 2 whose drain and gate are commonly connected to a source voltage terminal Vcc. The pump clock pulses 4, 4' have opposite phases.
The output of the pump circuit of a final stage is connected with a high voltage output terminal 10 that is to apply an erasing voltage of high level to the control gate electrode of a memory cell. The erasing voltage is provided through a row decoder to a corresponding word line or through a programming latch circuit (not shown) to a bit line that are connected with the drain of the memory cell.
Between the high voltage output terminal 10 and the source voltage terminal is interposed a N-type pull-up transistor 5 with the drain and gate connected to the source voltage terminal. Also, between the high voltage output terminal 10 and a ground voltage terminal is interposed a N-type clamping transistor 3 with the source and gate connected with the ground voltage terminal.
Each respective pump circuit 1 comprises a pair of capacitors 6, 8 having one electrodes connected to the pump clock pulses 4, 4' and the other electrodes connected to the gates and drains of NMOS transistors 7, 9. The NMOS transistor 2 drops the source voltage Vcc by a threshold voltage Vth thereof. The dropped voltage is applied to the drain and gate of the NMOS transistor 7 of the pump circuit 1 that responds to the pump clock pulses 4, 4' so as to increase the dropped voltage to a given high level. It will be readily appreciated by one having the ordinary knowledge in this art that the level of the high voltage output through the high voltage output terminal 10 depends on the number of the pump circuits 1.
Meanwhile, the pull-up transistor 5 serves to maintain the voltage of the high voltage output terminal 10 at Vcc-Vth when the pump circuits 1 are not operable. Though the clamping transistor 3 is a NMOS transistor, it operates in a breakdown region because the gate thereof is connected to the ground voltage terminal.
In such a conventional high voltage generating circuit, whenever the pump clock pulses 4, 4' are applied to the pump circuits 1, the voltage output of the pump circuits 1 is increased, and the increased voltage is clamped by the clamping transistor 3 in the breakdown level thereof.
Consequently, the clamping transistor 3 directly receives the stress caused by the high voltage output, and therefore it is liable to be destroyed. Moreover, the clamping transistor 3 is affected by the variable factors involved in the manufacturing process thereof, so that the breakdown voltage may not be definitely established, thereby making it difficult to adjust the high voltage level. Thus, after the memory device is manufactured, it is impossible to adjust the high voltage level.

High voltage generating circuit for a semiconductor memory circuit


The present disclosure relates generally to a system and method for substituting images, graphics, video, and other content presented by an Electronic Gaming Machine (EGM during execution of an electronic game. Embodiments can include a mobile application which can be used in the casino environment, for example, and through which players of electronic games may choose different game content either out of a pre-defined set of content that can be updated and/or supplemented over time or by uploading their own such as photographs, icons, graphics, etc.

Electronic Gaming Machines (EGMs) execute a variety of different electronic games such as slots, video poker, video roulette, etc. During execution of these games, various icon, images, graphics, animations videos, sounds, and other content are generated and presented by the EGM. This content is preconfigured for the electronic game and is largely static or non-configurable, especially by a player of the game. As a result, certain games may become stale to the player over time and the player may lose interest in the game.


An image forming apparatus includes a transfer belt onto which a toner image formed on an outer surface of a photosensitive medium is transferred. The transfer belt moves along a predetermined closed path while being supported by a plurality of rollers. A protection unit protects the transfer belt by being attached to at least one of an inner surface and an outer surface of a non-transferring region of the transfer belt. A control unit controls the transfer belt so that an overlapping part where the protection unit is attached to the transfer belt, and a seam part where two ends of the transfer belt are connected stops at a predetermined location after printing. The image forming apparatus substantially prevents partial loss of an image by preventing wrinkles in the transfer belt.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus. More particularly, the present invention relates to an image forming apparatus that prevents degradation of image quality by a transfer belt.
2. Description of the Related Art
Generally, an electrophotographic image forming apparatus is a printing device that prints a black and white or a multicolor image onto a piece of paper by irradiating a photosensitive medium charged to a uniform potential with light to form an electrostatic latent image. The electrostatic latent image is developed with toner using a developing unit. The developed image is transferred and fixed onto the piece of paper.
A conventional electrophotographic image forming apparatus that prints color images includes an exposing unit that emits light corresponding to image information. The exposing unit scans a photosensitive medium to form an electrostatic latent image thereon. Four developing units develop four colors of toner image by supplying toners of cyan (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y), and black (K) color to the electrostatic latent image formed on an outer surface of the photosensitive medium. A transfer belt transfers the toner image from the photosensitive medium to a piece of paper.
FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of an intermediate transfer unit of a conventional image forming apparatus. FIG. 2 is a schematic drawing illustrating a failure to transfer a portion of a toner image formed on a transfer belt. FIG. 3 is a plan view of the transfer belt depicted in FIG. 2.
Referring to FIG. 1, the intermediate transfer unit includes a transfer belt 5, an intermediate transfer roller 14, a plurality of supporting rollers 11, 12, and 13, and a nip roller 15. The supporting rollers 11, 12, and 13 support and rotate the transfer belt 5 that is installed around them. The nip roller 15, also mounted inside the loop made by the transfer belt 5, maintains a predetermined nip a between a photosensitive medium and the transfer belt 5.
The transfer belt 5 is mounted to face the photosensitive medium in a span between the intermediate transfer roller 14 and the nip roller 15 so that the toner image developed on the outer surface of the photosensitive medium can be transferred to the transfer belt 5. A transferring bias voltage for transferring the toner image formed on the photosensitive medium to the transfer belt 5 is applied to the intermediate transfer roller 14.
Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, a protection unit 20 formed to a predetermined thickness is attached to inner and outer surfaces of the transfer belt 5 to protect the transfer belt 5 from damage. When the protection unit 20 is attached to the transfer belt 5, as depicted in FIG. 2, there is an overlapping part 40 where the transfer belt 5 and the protection unit 20 overlap, or a seam part 30 where the transfer belt 5 and the protection unit 20 are joined.
When the seam part 30 is located at a position where a high degree of stress is applied when the image forming apparatus is not in operation, a wrinkle may be formed due to different stretching rates of the transfer belt 5 and the protection unit 20. For example, as depicted in FIG. 2, if the seam part 30 of the transfer belt 5 is located at a supporting roller 11, 12, and 13, a wrinkle can be formed on a boundary face of the seam part 30 due to the different stretching rates. Also, when the overlapping part 40 is located at a position where tension is high, a localized deformation of the transfer belt 5 can occur by the concentration of stress on an edge part 42 that is thinner than other areas of the overlapping part 40, thereby forming a wrinkle on the transfer belt 5. The formation of wrinkles on the transfer belt 5 become more severe when the image forming apparatus is used in hot and humid environments.
When a new printing operation begins with the wrinkled transfer belt 5, a portion of a toner image may not be transferred from the photosensitive medium to the transfer belt 5 during the transfer process.
Although not shown in the drawings, when an electrostatic latent image formed on an outer surface of the photosensitive medium is developed by a developing unit, a strong vibration is generated on a developing roller at the moment a developing roller driving clutch of the developing unit is engaged or disengaged. The vibration is transmitted to the transfer belt 5 through the photosensitive medium. This vibration causes the formation of cross bands on the toner image being transferred from the photosensitive medium to the transfer belt 5.
Also, the toner image is vulnerable to scattering by an electrostatic force of the intermediate transfer roller 14 when transferring the toner image from the photosensitive medium to the transfer belt 5. This results in a blurry or scattered image on paper.
Also, during continuous printing, if the transfer belt 5 begins to wobble, image quality is further deteriorated.
Accordingly, a need exists for an image forming apparatus having an improved transfer belt to prevent poor image quality.

Image forming apparatus having means to prevent image quality degradation


A method of operating an elevator system (10) includes identifying one or more components (46, 48, 50, 52) in an elevator hoistway (14) requiring periodic maintenance and/or inspection and programming hoistway component locations of the one or more components into an elevator car control system. The elevator car (12) is driven to a programmed hoistway component location of a selected component of the one or more components utilizing the hoistway component location programmed into the elevator car control system. The selected component is accessed from inside the elevator car (12) to perform maintenance and/or inspection of the selected component.

The subject matter disclosed herein relates to elevator systems. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to hoistway access control for technicians and/or maintenance personnel.
In current, typical elevator systems, technicians or maintenance personnel often enter the hoistway above or underneath of the elevator car to access elevator system components in the hoistway or to perform maintenance in the hoistway, by entering the hoistway through a hoistway door. In order to protect the mechanics or technicians, etc., during those operations, codes and/or regulations have specified a safety volume and clearance for technicians entering the hoistway resulting in a larger overall volume of the elevator systems. Elevator system customers, however, desire that the elevator system occupy a smaller overall volume. Thus, new elevator systems are being developed in which many maintenance activities can be performed from inside the car, alleviating the need to provide such a safety volume in the pit and/or at a top of the hoistway.

Elevator maintenance from inside elevator car


In accordance with one exemplary embodiment of the invention, there is provided a wooden pallet having parallel ends, parallel sides, a top deck for receiving a load and a bottom deck parallel with the top deck. The pallet further includes at least two continuous stringers between the top and bottom decks to maintain said decks in spaced relationship, the stringers extending longitudinally between the ends of the pallet and wherein each stringer is constructed of continuous wood stock assembled from face laminated, glued scrap wood strips of random length. In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, at least one of the decks comprises a plurality of parallel, spaced apart boards extending transversely between the sides of the pallet and wherein each board is constructed of wood stock assembled from face laminated glued scrap wood strips of random length.

Wooden pallets or skids have long been used as platforms for the shipping and storage of a wide range of goods. A great variety of pallets are in common use; a typical pallet comprises spaced parallel horizontal top and bottom decks attached to at least two longitudinally extending, transversely spaced apart stringers interposed between the decks. Loaded pallet units are conveyed by means of fork lifts having tongs that are inserted at spaced locations between the top and bottom decks of the pallet. Although pallets are designed to withstand shock and heavy loads, because of damage due to rough handling they have limited lives and typically are discarded after only several times of reuse. Because of such turnover, hundreds of millions of wooden pallets are manufactured each year consuming a significant amount of timber. The highly automated process of manufacturing wooden pallets itself generates a large amount of scrap lumber which must be somehow disposed of whether by burning, grinding or otherwise. In any event, such scrap represents an annual waste of many forest acres thus presenting an environmental issue and adding further to the price of increasingly expensive timber.