A two-step DC-to-DC converter comprises a first converter stage for converting a first voltage to a second voltage, and a second converter stage for converting the second voltage to an output voltage. The first converter stage uses a MOSFET or normally-off JFET to serve as a high-side switch, and the second converter stage comprises a multi-phase modulator using a normally-on JFET to serve as a high-side switch, thereby improving the efficiency of the two-step DC-to-DC converter.

DC-to-DC converter has been widely used in various electronic apparatus to regulate the DC level of the supplied voltage, especially to level the voltage up or down at a desired value.
FIG. 1 shows a simplified conventional multi-phase DC-to-DC converter 10, which comprises multiple channels 12 connected in parallel to the converter output Vout. In each channel 12, a high-side MOSFET 122 is coupled between the input voltage Vin and a phase node 126, a low-side MOSFET 124 is coupled between the phase node 126 and ground GND, and the MOSFETs 122 and 124 are alternatively switched by drive signals UV and LV to generate a phase current I flowing through an inductor L to charge a capacitor Co to thereby generate an output voltage Vout. Due to the requirements to the operating voltage and cost for electronic apparatus, recent arts try to replace the low-side MOSFET 124 with normally-on Junction Field-Effect Transistor (JFET) or normally-off JFET to reduce the conductive impedance and cost. However, the high-side MOSFET 122 is only possible to be replaced with normally-off JFET, but not with normally-on JFET, it is for the reason that at the moment of the converter 10 powered on or powered off, the high-side drive signal UV cannot respond in time, such that if a normally-on JFET is used to serve as the high-side switch, the input voltage Vin will be short to the output Vout at the moment of powered on or powered off, and thereby to damage the load circuit coupled to the output Vout. A normally-on JFET is referred to the one that is conductive between its source and drain when the voltage difference between its gate and source is zero (i.e., Vgs=0), and will turn off when this voltage difference is less than a negative threshold voltage VtN (i.e., Vgs<VtN), while a normally-off JFET is referred to the one that is cut-off between its source and drain when Vgs=0, and will turn on when Vgs is greater than a positive threshold voltage VtN (i.e., Vgs>VtN). It is well known that a normally-on JFET has a lower conductive impedance than that of a normally-off JFET.
On the other hand, in the two-step multi-phase DC-to-DC converter proposed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,839,252 issued to the co-inventor, the supply voltage is first converted to a second voltage by a single-phase or multi-phase voltage converter, and then a multi-phase voltage converter is used to convert the second voltage to the output voltage, such that the ripple is minimized, and the product of the inductance and capacitance is reduced. As a result, the efficiency is improved. However, the prior two-step multi-phase DC-to-DC converter did not teach to use JFET to serve as the high-side switch of the voltage converter.

High-efficiency two-step DC-to-DC converter


Disclosed are a monomer of iridium complex having a fluoro group as a functional group, a monomer of carbazole derivative having a hydroxy group as the functional group, and a copolymer containing the monomers in its main chain. The iridium complex used as a phosphorescent material and the carbazole derivative having an excellent hole transporting capability are synthesized as the monomer to form the copolymer. The content of iridium complex is easily controlled, and the carbazole derivative and iridium complex are contained in the main chain during the copolymer formation, thereby capable of manufacturing a light emitting device with higher heat resistance and chemical stability.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an organic light emitting material, more specifically, a copolymer having each monomer in its main chain, in which an iridium complex used as a phosphorescent material and a carbazole derivative having an excellent hole transporting capability are synthesized as the monomer.
2. Description of the Related Art
An organic light emitting device is a self-emissive display device that emits light by electrically exciting a fluorescent or phosphorescent organic compound. The organic light emitting device is advantageous in that it may be driven by a low voltage, manufactured in a thin film type, and has a wide viewing angle and fast response speed. Hence, the organic light emitting device can solve problems found in existing liquid crystal displays. Therefore, it has attracted attention as a next-generation display.
The organic light emitting device can be prepared by sequentially depositing a hole injecting layer, a hole transporting layer, a light emitting layer, an electron transporting layer, an electron injecting layer, and a cathode electrode on an anode electrode provided on a transparent substrate. All materials used in the organic light emitting device should have the preferred characteristics such that they have a high purity and are prepared by vacuum deposition. Further, the materials should exhibit high thermal stability at a glass transition temperature and thermal decomposition temperature, and be amorphous substances in order to prevent the deterioration of the device by crystallization due to Joule heat generated during device operation. The materials should also have good adhesion strength to other layers, but not move to other layers {Appl. Phys. Lett. 73, 1998, 729, Mat. science and Eng. R, 39, 2002, 143, Adva. Eng. Mat. Pro. Rep. 2002, 4, 453, Macromolecule 2003, 36, 9721, Adv. Mater. 2005, 17, 1109}.
Electrons in a compound may be in a singlet excitation state or a triplet excitation state. A probability of singlet state is a quarter, and the probability of triplet state is three quarters. Fluorescence occurs as the electron drops from the singlet state to the ground state, and phosphorescence occurs as the electron drops from the triplet state to the ground state. Therefore, the limit value of the internal quantum efficiency of light emitting material using fluorescence is 25%, and the limit value of the internal quantum efficiency of light emitting material using phosphorescence is 75%.
Further, the theoretical limit value of the internal quantum efficiency reaches to 100% in the energy transfer from the triplet excitation state to the singlet excitation state. The light emitting material, in which the luminous efficiency is improved by using such properties, is a phosphorescent material.
As the phosphorescent material, an organic metal compound is preferable, which has a transition metal with a high atomic number as a central atom undergoing intersystem crossing or energy transfer from the singlet or triplet excitation state to the triplet excitation state. It was found that as energy transfer is generated using an iridium compound as a sensitizer, the efficiency is rapidly increased {Inorg. chem. 1991. 30. 1685, NATURE 2000, 403 750-753, Appl. Phy. Lett. 77, 2000, 2280, Adv. Eng. Mat, 4, 2002, 453, J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2003, 125, 7379}.
In a single layer device having a structure of ITO(Indium-Tin-Oxide)/PVK(Poly-Vinylcarbazole)/Al, the maximum light emitting wavelength of purple color is 426 nm, and partially in the near UV region. A carbazole-based polymer is used to improve the luminous efficiency or color stabilization of organic light emitting device. In the case of using the system of blending other polymer with PVK (Polyvinylcabazole), the luminous efficiency is often rapidly increased, as compared to the case of using no PVK. In addition to a hole transporting characteristic, PVK forms a new light emitting species such as exciplex by interaction with a low molecular or high molecular weight material, thereby moving the light emitting wavelength {Syn. Mat. 1996. 80 271, Appl. Phys Lett 77, 2000, 2280, Adv. Mater. 2000, 12, 1949 Chem. Mater. 2004, 16, 442, Chem. Mater. 2004, 16, 4736}.
Many studies have been made on light emitting materials in the form of copolymer of the light emitting material and hole transporting material. It has been reported that the light emitting materials in the form of copolymer prevent phase separation and ionic aggregation, thereby capable of manufacturing a light emitting device, in which energy transfer to the light emitting material is efficient and stable, and its efficiency is excellent {Adv. Mater. 1999, 11, 285 J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2003, 125, 636, Organic Elctronics. 2003, 4, 105, Thin Solid Film. 2003, 353, 57, IEEE. 2004, 10, 115, Macromolecule 2006, 39, 349, J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2006, 128(20), 6647}.

Iridium complex, carbazole derivatives and copolymer having the same

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology


Nanomaterials are incorporated within a material, such as within a metal-based material. As may be implemented in accordance with various embodiments, nanomaterials are introduced to a metal-based material in a liquid state, and the metal-based material and nanomaterials are cooled from the liquid state to a viscous state. The metal-based material is stirred in the viscous state to disperse the nanomaterials therein, and the metal-based material is used in the viscous state to maintain dispersion of the nanomaterials as the metal-based material cools.

Material properties such as strength and ductility are important for a multitude of applications. One approach to enhancing the properties of metal-based materials involves the introduction of additional materials to metal. Recently, very small particles having dimensions in the nanometer scale have been introduced to metal-based materials.
While nanometer-scale materials ("nanomaterials") such as nanoparticles and nanoplatelets can be useful in a variety of applications, such nanomaterials often align to grain boundaries or gather in clusters, which can limit the ability to enhance various properties of metal-based materials. For example, incorporating nanoplatelets such as graphene sheets into metal alloys can be difficult due to large surface areas, thin sheet geometry and high surface energy, which can lead to agglomerations. Moreover, nanomaterials are difficult to handle, as they tend to float to the surface of the molten metal and/or agglomerate, such that the nanomaterials do not stay dispersed in the metal. Accordingly, nanocomposite materials (e.g., a matrix to which nanomaterials have been added to improve one or more material properties) are challenging to produce in large, industrial size quantities.
These and other problems have been challenging to a variety of materials, and to methods for making those materials.

Nanomaterial-based methods and apparatuses


A method for a computer system includes receiving a geometric description of an object to be rendered in a first image and a second image, and performing a plurality of rendering operations for the object for the first image and for the second image, wherein the plurality of rendering operations includes a first plurality of rendering operations and at least a second rendering operation, wherein the second rendering operation for the object for the first image and the second rendering operation for the object for the second image are substantially similar, wherein the first plurality of rendering operations is performed for the first image, wherein the first plurality of rendering operations is performed for the second image, and wherein the second rendering operation is performed once for both the first image and for the second image.

The present invention relates to computer animation. More particularly, the present invention relates to techniques and apparatus for efficient rendering of related image frames.
Throughout the years, movie makers have often tried to tell stories involving make-believe creatures, far away places, and fantastic things. To do so, they have often relied on animation techniques to bring the make-believe to "life." Two of the major paths in animation have traditionally included, drawing-based animation techniques and physical animation techniques.
Drawing-based animation techniques were refined in the twentieth century, by movie makers such as Walt Disney and used in movies such as "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" (1937) and "Fantasia" (1940). This animation technique typically required artists to hand-draw (or paint) animated images onto a transparent media or cels. After painting, each cel would then be captured or recorded onto film as one or more frames in a movie.
Physical-based animation techniques typically required the construction of miniature sets, props, and characters. The filmmakers would construct the sets, add props, and position the miniature characters in a pose. After the animator was happy with how everything was arranged, one or more frames of film would be taken of that specific arrangement. Physical animation techniques were developed by movie makers such as Willis O'Brien for movies such as "King Kong" (1933). Subsequently, these techniques were refined by animators such as Ray Harryhausen for movies including "Mighty Joe Young" (1948) and Clash Of The Titans (1981).
With the wide-spread availability of computers in the later part of the twentieth century, animators began to rely upon computers to assist in the animation process. This included using computers to facilitate drawing-based animation, for example, by painting images, by generating in-between images ("tweening"), and the like. This also included using computers to augment physical animation techniques. For example, physical models could be represented by virtual models in computer memory, and manipulated.
One of the pioneering companies in the computer aided animation (CA) industry was Pixar, Pixar developed both computing platforms specially designed for computer animation and animation software now known as RenderMan®. RenderMan® was particularly well received in the animation industry and recognized with two Academy Awards®.
One of the named inventors of the present invention co-developed the original RenderMan® software. During this time, he made several engineering assumptions which affected the operation of the software. One assumption was that a geometric description of scene stored in memory was relatively small. The geometric scene description typically included the geometric description of a location, objects, object placements, and the like. He also assumed that the resolution of the output image frame was large and could not be economically stored in computer program memory.
In light of these assumptions, when it came time to render a frame, the geometric scene data would first be moved from disk memory to program memory. The frame would then be subdivided into a series of smaller frame portions, termed buckets, and portions of any object appearing in a bucket, would then be rendered. This process would then be repeated for the remaining buckets in the frame, until the frame was rendered. The process would thus render all objects in one frame, before beginning the next frame. In some respects, the animation process of RenderMan® was similar to the traditional animation techniques, mentioned above, in that one frame would be rendered at a time. Although parallel processing techniques were available and implemented, each frame would still be individually and separately rendered distinctly from other frames.
In light of the above, the inventors of the present invention have realized that it is desirable to make further enhancements in the area of animation software to facilitate the process of making animated features.


A cleaning composition and method which may be used to clean a variety of household objects. Such objects may include floor surfaces (including carpets), counter surfaces, bathroom surfaces, clothing, and utensils. In one embodiment, the composition consists essentially of water, vinegar, slaked lime, and alum. In another embodiment, the composition consists essentially of vinegar, lime juice, tamarind, slaked lime, and rock alum.

Cleaning compositions of various kinds are used in a typical household. These include specialized cleaners for use in cleaning floors; counter surfaces and table tops; bathroom fixtures and surfaces; cookware (including pots, pans and silverware); carpets and the like. A need always exists for more effective compositions and methods for one or more of these cleaning applications.
The present invention satisfies this need and provides other, related, advantages.

Cleaning composition and method comprising alum, vinegar and slake lime


An apparatus and method for increasing available ports on a voice router is provided. A first gateway and a second gateway are assigned a single port number for a data stream, the direction of packet flow is identified to determine a destination gateway. The destination gateway is one of the first and second gateways, depending on the direction of the packet flow. The packets are then forwarded to the destination gateway. The voice router can further consolidate RTCP streams from a plurality of gateways into a single port on the voice router.

A. Technical Field
The present invention relates generally to network address translation, and more particularly, to address translation of voice packets within a Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) connection.
B. Background of the Invention
The popularity of VoIP as a method for providing telephone service across networks is continually increasing. VoIP systems provide telephone connections by transmitting audio packets between two telephone devices via a packet-switched network (e.g., TCP/IP network). This increase in VoIP popularity is primarily due to two reasons: the relatively inexpensive cost of a VoIP telephone call and recent networking advancements causing an increase in the quality of VoIP communication.
VoIP lets service providers offer long-distance services to clients at much lower rates than traditional phone companies. VoIP also uses networks more efficiently than the traditional public switched telephone network used by the traditional phone companies. One reason for this increase in efficiency is the ability of VoIP to time-division multiplex voice data (i.e., telephone connections) together on a single line within a network. Thus, the bandwidth utilization increases within a packet switched network allowing more telephone connections to occur simultaneously.
A few years ago, the quality of a VoIP connection was lacking due primarily to packet delay occurring as voice packets traveled across these networks. This problem was primarily caused by the inefficiency of the Internet over which the VoIP connections occurred. Internet events such as bottlenecks, jitters and discarding packets reduced the quality of a VoP telephone conversation occurring across the Internet. However, the increase of large private networks, more controlled Internet backbones, and more efficient routing protocols have greatly reduced these problems. Accordingly, the quality of a VoIP telephone conversation today has drastically improved. Some providers have also chosen to avoid the public Internet because of the difficulty in ensuring end-to-end control of service quality. These providers have created managed networks on which VoIP connections may be easily controlled and new VoIP technology may be more easily implemented. As the popularity of VoIP continues to grow, other issues need to be addressed, such as security, network interoperability and compatibility, to ensure the future success of VoIP.
FIG. 1 illustrates a traditional VoIP connection using the public Internet 130. A first telephone 105 is coupled to a first gateway 110 via a first analog connection 107. A second telephone 115 is coupled to a second gateway 120 via a second analog connection 117. A computer or other computing device (not shown) may reside between the telephones 105, 115 and the gateways 110, 120. Accordingly, the analog signal from the telephone 105, 115 is converted to a digital format by these computers (not shown). The first gateway 110 and the second gateway 120 are coupled to each other via the Internet 130. Additionally, the telephones 105, 115 may be digital telephones, such as ISDN phones or VoIP phones, that convert an audible signal to a digital signal prior to transmission to a gateway. A gatekeeper 140 may be used to set up the telephone connection.
The telephone connection is established by the first gateway 110 receiving a connection request from the first telephone 105 that includes a destination telephone number. This destination telephone number may be a ten-digit telephone number similar to those used over traditional publicly switched telephone networks. In response, the first gateway 110 requests a destination network address from the gatekeeper 140 corresponding to the destination telephone number. This conversion allows the first gateway 110 to locate the second gateway 120 on the Internet 130. Typically, this conversion results in a network address, such as an IP address that differentiates the second gateway 120 from other gateways on the Internet 130.
A set-up procedure is initiated by the first gateway 110 in which the second gateway 120 is provided the address of the first gateway 110. This set-up procedure results in a connection on which data, particularly voice packets and control data, are transmitted between the gateways 110, 120. This data may travel through multiple networks and multiple routers/switches within these networks in order to reach the correct destination. As described above, oftentimes the quality of this connection is lacking due to the characteristics of the Internet 130. Congestion and failures, within these networks, may drastically reduce the rate at which this data travels in an established connection and may increase the number of packets that are lost or discarded prior to reaching a particular destination address.
The established connection between the first gateway 110 and the second gateway 120 presents various security concerns. A large number of these issues are caused by the visibility of the gateways 110, 120 within the connection. Specifically, the IP addresses of the gateways 110, 120 are known by each other. This visibility compromises the security of all of the devices attached to a network having a visible gateway. Accordingly, a hacker may access devices on the network, other than the telephone or computer participating in the connection, through the gateways 110, 120. For example, after gaining access to the network through a gateway 110, 120, a hacker may access an unauthorized networked device through techniques such as IP spoofing or other commonly used hacking methods. Accordingly, network providers prefer to mask their gateway addresses from outside devices in order to further secure the network against hacking and other unauthorized access to their networks.
FIG. 2 illustrates the use of prior art proxies 235, 240 to mask gateway addresses within a VoIP connection. An example of these types of proxies would be a firewall such as the Cisco PIX firewall. Other network devices such as proxy servers and SOCK (TCP/IP Socket) servers may be used to build firewalls or other masking devices. Network security problems (e.g., hacking) are amplified when a publicly accessible or visible gateway is connected as part of a larger private network. The visibility of a gateway may allow individuals to hack into the large private network and cause a large amount of damage by accessing other devices connected to the network. Oftentimes, a device on a network, such as storage and computing devices, is not sufficiently protected from access within the network. Thus, if a hacker gains access to a network through a gateway, then other devices on that network may be extremely vulnerable and easily accessed by the hacker. Accordingly, private network operators prefer that internal gateway addresses be hidden from external network devices, such as external gateways. Proxies are used to accomplish this goal.
The first telephone 105 is connected to a first network gateway 212(a) via first analog connection 107. This first network gateway 212(a) resides in a large private network 210 that contains multiple gateways 212(a)-(d). The second telephone 115 is connected to a second network gateway 222(a) via second analog connection 117. This second network gateway 222(a) resides in a second large private network 220 that also contains multiple gateways 222(a)-(d). The first gateway 212(a) is coupled to a first proxy 235 and the second gateway 222(a) is coupled to a second proxy 240.
The first and second proxies 235, 240 hide the addresses of the first and second gateways 212(a), 222(a) from each other. Specifically, the first proxy 235 is aware of the network addresses of the first gateway 212(a) and the second proxy 240, but not the second gateway 222(a). The second proxy 240 is aware of the network addresses of the second gateway 222(a) and the first proxy 235, but not the first gateway 212(a). Thus, communication between devices on the first network 210 and the second network 220 occur through the proxies 235, 240 while maintaining a level of privacy from each other.
The first and second proxies 235, 240 require that packets traveling through the VoIP connection may be modified multiple times. Specifically, in order for the first and second proxies 235, 240 to extract and analyze information from a packet header (e.g., port number). Once this information is extracted, a new header is usually put on the packet and it is compressed. Thereafter, the packet is transmitted from a proxy. Because voice packets travel through multiple proxies 235, 240, the number of packet manipulation operations increases. Thus, there is a need to reduce the number of proxy devices within a VoIP connection. This need is further highlighted by the high cost of networking devices such as proxy devices.
Communication between the first proxy 235 and the second proxy 240 may occur using an IP suite protocol implementing either TCP or UDP depending on the type of data within packets. UDP is generally used for VoIP telephone connections due to the time sensitivity of the VoIP connection. Accordingly, sockets are established between the first and second proxies 235, 240. A socket is a combination of an IP address and a port that creates a device-to-device path on which packets may be transmitted and received. Thus, a proxy or other networking device may have numerous ports that provide communication paths on which packets may travel.
Oftentimes, a simple packet translation method will not properly switch a voice packet along a VoIP connection. For example, this switching process may be complicated if the networks on which the first and second gateways 212(a), 222(a) are not directly compatible. Generally, voice traffic is transmitted according to the H.323 standard, an ITU real-time standard for transmission of voice over networks. However, there are variations in the implementation of the H.323 standard by network providers that may cause incompatibilities between networks. These variations often require packet modification operations to occur within a proxy to provide smooth voice traffic between the incompatible networks.
In order to perform packet translation and switching operations in connections between to directly incompatible networks, a proxy must be able to identify the type of network from which the packet was sent and to which the packet is destined. Also, the proxy must be able to identify the packet type (e.g., RTP) in order to perform packet translation and switching operations. Once this information is identified, the proxy may modify the packet so that it is able to effectively travel through a network to a destination gateway.
As previously described above, it is important to try and reduce the number of switches, routers and other networking devices within a VoIP connection for two primary reasons. First, networking devices are expensive and the initial cost as well as the management cost may be significant. Second, each networking device increases the possibility of errors such as packets being discarded or failure as well as causes an additional delay within a VoIP connection. As a result, researchers have been developing technology that reduces the number of networking devices within a network.
Accordingly it is desirable to provide network address translation within a network device that masks both ends of a VoIP connection from each other. Additionally, it is desirable to provide network address translation within a network device that facilitates VoIP connections between different types of networks and that processes different types of packets within a VoIP connection. Furthermore, it is desirable to provide network address translation within a network device that increases the number of VoIP connections that may be served by the network device.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Port reduction for voice over internet protocol router


A desiccant-assisted air conditioning system utilizes a compressor (10), a condenser coil (11), an evaporator coil (13), supplemental desiccant coils (19, 20) connected therewith, and damper (18A, 19B) and valve arrangements that direct air and refrigerant through the system coils in several different thermodynamic operating paths. The system combines, transfers and reverses thermodynamic energies between the desiccant, the refrigerant and the crossing air, and simultaneously maximizes the refrigerant vapor compression closed cycle and desiccant vapor compression open cycle. The desiccant coils (19, 20) not only provide an effective gas phase change in their crossing air streams, but also simultaneously provide endothermic and exothermic energy exchanges between the air streams and the passing refrigerant that maximize the operating efficiency of the compressor, condenser coil, and evaporator coil, conserves energy, and produces quality conditioned air output.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to desiccant-assisted air conditioning systems and processes, and more particularly to an air conditioning system utilizing a compressor, a condenser coil, an evaporator coil, supplemental desiccant coils, and damper and valve arrangements that direct air and refrigerant through the system in several different thermodynamic operating paths and cycles for significantly improved efficiency and energy conservation.
2. Background Art
The control of humidity in indoor environments plays a very important role in providing indoor air quality. Reducing the volume of moisture indoors can reduce the growth of microbiological organisms such as mold, mildew and bacteria, which require moisture to thrive. Airborne contaminants are also often carried with the moisture in the supplied air streams. Most conventional air conditioning processes and systems do not effectively control humidity, nor provide adequate delivery air conditions, in anticipation of the various changes and demands of the indoor or outdoor environments. Although conventional systems provide dehumidification, it is an uncontrolled byproduct of its evaporator coil cooling process, and results in the inadequate control of humidity, and excessive energy consumption, and can also result in building and or space content damage.
In the refrigerant compression closed cycle of the conventional air conditioning system, a compressor compresses refrigerant gas to increases its pressure and temperature, in an isentropic adiabatic process. The refrigerant is then passed through a condenser coil where the superheated compressed refrigerant dissipates its heat to the crossing air stream condensing the refrigerant into a high-pressure liquid, which then flows through a metering device or expansion valve that restricts the high-pressure liquid and creates a reverse refrigerant adiabatic effect, after which, the refrigerant is discharged or suctioned to an evaporator coil at lower refrigerant temperature and pressure conditions, which enable the evaporator coil to absorb heat from the crossing air that is forced through the coil by the evaporator fan. The air exiting the evaporator coil is discharged as cool air and the refrigerant absorption process changes the refrigerant from liquid-gas to gas, which is then suctioned back to the compressor to complete the closed cycle. Increasing the refrigerant conditions of the evaporator, or lowering the condensing refrigerant temperature and pressure improves the compressor and system performance and energy consumption.
In the air cooling process, the conventional finned evaporator coil provides dehumidification only if the saturated vapor conditions are achieved in its crossing air, and additional cooling is typically necessary to augment moisture removal. This accomplished by lowering the refrigerant pressure and temperature by increasing the compressor capacity or lowering the crossing air stream volume in the evaporator. Efficient heat transfer of a coil is dependent upon the temperature differential between the refrigerant temperature relative to the temperature of the crossing air. The accumulation of water on the evaporator fins serves as an excellent conductor for transferring heat energy to its crossing air stream. The temperature of the water on the fins tends to become lower quickly, because of its direct conductive energy exchange, and at lower temperatures it consequently crystallizes and freezes; it becomes an insulator and diminishes energy transfer capabilities and effectiveness. The ice build can also restrict the air path and further diminish the conductive thermal energy transfer capabilities and efficiencies of the refrigerant.
Thus, if frost becomes a problem, the system requires sequencing to a defrost mode, which stops the refrigeration cooling effects. Added heat energy is often required to accelerate the ice melting effect, or depending upon the temperature of the crossing air, the air itself may be utilized to defrost the accumulated ice. Defrosting or non-continuous cooling can adversely affect the air quality and/or comfort level in the conditioned space. Additional cooling is needed to compensate for any added heat provided by the defrost process and circumstances.
A conventional heat pump also utilizes finned coils and operates on the same principle as an air conditioning system, except that it provides a reversing valve and other controls that reverse the refrigerant flow between the evaporator and condenser coil so that outdoor heat exchanger coil becomes the evaporator and the indoor coil becomes the condenser. This enables the suctioned refrigerant to absorb the remaining heat from the outdoor air and the compressed refrigerant to dissipate its heat at the indoor coil which then heats the conditioned space through its crossing air stream. In the heating mode, the refrigerant cooling cycle takes place through the outdoor coil. At low outdoor temperatures, frost tends to build on the finned coil and lessens the system efficiencies, as previously described; a defrosting mode to remove the frost build up becomes necessary, which is accomplished by re-reversing the refrigerant flow.
Desiccant assisted air conditioning systems are also known in the art, which typically incorporate a rotating desiccant wheel that rotates between two air streams to provide dehumidification or humidification by alternating the energy in a gas phase change process. In such systems, the air (process air) delivered to the interior of a space to be conditioned space crosses the desiccant material, which attracts and holds moisture. As the desiccant wheel rotates, the moist desiccant material enters the regeneration air stream where it is heated to release moisture, which is then vented away. Because humidity is a function of vapor pressure, desiccant materials have the ability to remove or add moisture adiabatically; a reversible thermodynamic process in which the energy exchanges result in substantially constant enthalpy equilibrium. The total desiccant open cycle is somewhat similar to a refrigerant vapor-compression cycle. In a desiccant and air system the heated regeneration air adds energy to the moistened desiccant in a de-sorption process and releases moisture in the regenerating crossing air stream in an adiabatic cooling process. When the desiccant rotates to the process air stream the pre-conditioned desiccant enables the sorption of water and dehumidifies the crossing process air. Adiabatic re-heat then is released in the air stream and completes the desiccant vapor-compression open cycle.
Mathiprakasam, U.S. Pat. No. 4,430,864 discloses a hybrid vapor compression and desiccant air conditioning system utilizing an air thermodynamic cycle for simultaneous removal of the sensible and latent heats from the room return air. The system employs a pair of heat exchangers having a desiccant material thereon, which replace the conventional condenser and evaporator. The refrigerant, room and outside ambient air flows are selectively routed to the heat exchangers to allow one heat exchanger to operate as an evaporator to effect cooling and drying of the room return air while the other heat exchanger acts as a condenser of the refrigerant and regenerates the desiccant material thereon. The heat exchangers are switchable between evaporator and condenser modes allowing for continuous conditioning of the room return air.
The desiccant coils in U.S. Pat. No. 4,430,864, provide a somewhat effective conductive energy transfer to occur, but the desiccant serves primarily to accumulate water. The process re-uses the condensing energy to regenerate its desiccant, which slightly benefits the refrigeration cycle and performance by allowing refrigeration absorption to accelerate and augment some dehumidification in the crossing process air of the desiccant coil. However, the transferable energy provided by the desiccant upon switching is far from being maximized. The pre-wetted desiccant coil upon switching provides a total cooling effect, but most of its interchangeable energy merely replaces what a conventional condenser can already do effectively. Very little refrigerant adiabatic cooling effect is added to augment the compressor performance. The same is true in the process air stream. The pre-dried desiccant merely replaces what a conventional evaporator coil can already do effectively, and is still dependent upon high refrigerant temperature and pressure conditions for the removal of sensible and latent energy in its air stream. The amount of absorbed refrigerant energy from the pre-dried desiccant and crossing air is the direct result of the total average coil temperature and vapor-pressure conditions of its desiccant and crossing air. The total coil average temperature and the average regeneration refrigerant energy transferred to the desiccant is definitely not maximized and the pre-dried desiccant condition elevates very little in proportion to the total average refrigerant conditions and results in a less effective refrigerant adiabatic cooling effect in the refrigeration cycle to augment the compressor efficiency. In the coil switching process, the inefficient total coil average temperature can produce a situation where the regenerated desiccant has insufficient dryness and acts as a heat sink in the process air stream, which results in re-heating the crossing process air and wasted heat energy. A system with only two desiccant coils that replace the conventional evaporator and condenser is also disadvantageous in that it does not provide steady constant air delivery conditions when switching the coils.
Dinnage et al, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,557,365, 6,622,508, 6,711,907, Published Patent Application 2004/0060315, and Published Patent Application 2005/0050906 disclose systems utilizing rotary desiccant wheels, and utilizing rejected condenser heat as energy to regenerate the desiccant. In general, the basic refrigeration system incorporates part of the condenser coil in the regeneration air stream prior to the desiccant wheel and the evaporator coil prior to the desiccant wheel, in the process air stream. The refrigerant energy is re-used to regenerate the desiccant and the evaporator provides refrigeration capacity and conditions the process air prior contacting the wheel. As with most desiccant wheel systems, this process has limitations in effective cooling. The regeneration entering air is low in temperature, and the vapor-pressure conditions are provided to the desiccant externally in a gas phase change process, rather than heating it directly by the internal refrigerant. Energy is also consumed by continuously rotating the desiccant wheel.
Forkosh et al, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,487,872, 6,494,053, 6,546,746, Published Patent Application 2004/0112077, and Published Patent Application 2005/0211207 disclose dehumidification and air conditioning systems utilizing liquid desiccants. Dehumidifying systems based on liquid desiccants dehumidify air by passing the air through a tank filled with desiccant. The moist air enters the tank via a moist air inlet and dried air exits the tank via a dried air outlet. In most liquid desiccant systems, a shower of desiccant from a reservoir is sprayed into the tank and, as the desiccant droplets descend through the moist air, they absorb water from it. The desiccant is then returned to the reservoir for reuse. This causes an increase in the water content of the desiccant. Water saturated desiccant accumulates in the reservoir and is pumped therefrom to a regenerator unit where it is heated to drive off its absorbed water as vapor. Regenerated desiccant, which heats up in this process, is pumped back into the reservoir, for reuse. Since the water absorption process leads to heating of the air and the regeneration process heats the desiccant, substantial heating of the air takes place during the water absorption process.

Desiccant-assisted air conditioning system and process


Filled plastic molded articles based on polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), which articles resemble granite, are prepared by preparing a casting resin suspension comprising: (A) 20-80 parts by wt. (pbw) of a liquid PMMA polymer precursor; (B) 0-75 pbw of a non-metallized particulate filler; (C) 0-5 pbw, based on the sum of components (A) and (B) of a polymerizable organosilicon compound; and (D) 0-2 wt. % of at least one pigment or colorant; suspending metallic appearing particles of a platelet-like stratified silicate (SS) in the particle size range of 20-500 .mu.m in an amount of 1-35 pbw, based on the sum of components (A) and (B); polymerizing the suspension under free radical conditions in a polymerization mold; and removing the polymerized article from the mold.

1. Field of the Invention:
The invention relates to high filler content plastic molded articles which resemble granite, which articles are based on polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and contain decorative pigments.
2. Discussion of the Background:
High filler content plastic resins which resemble various rocks have been long known (see 1992, Ullmann's Encyclopedia of Industrial Chemistry, 5th Ed., Vol. A 20, pub. VCH, pp. 494-500).
In this connection, imitation marbles and granites have achieved particular industrial interest and importance.
Thus, Ger. Pat. 2,627,081 discloses an imitation granite based on irregular distribution of two discrete types of filler particles in a PMMA matrix, which particles are namely
(1) colored or colorless, non-translucent particles; and PA1 (2) colored or colorless, translucent or transparent particles; PA1 A) 80-20 parts by weight (pbw) of a liquid PMMA polymer precursor; PA1 B) 0-75, preferably 40-75 pbw of a (non-metallized) particulate filler; PA1 C) 0-5 pbw (based on the sum of A and B) of a polymerizable organosilicon compound, as an adhesion promoter; and PA1 D) 0-2 wt. % of one or more pigments or colorants; wherewith the aforesaid metallic-appearing particles are of a platelet-like stratified silicate (SS) in the particle size range 20-500 micron, used in the amount of 1-35 pbw (based on the sum of A and B); and wherewith the freeradical polymerization is carried out to completion. Preferably, the sum of A and B is 100 pbw. PA1 a large number of light-reflecting particles which are fixed at or near the surface but in a nonuniform arrangement, and PA1 similarly distributed pigment particles. Molded articles prepared by the present method also meet requirements for mechanical and wear characteristics, e.g. for application in health and sanitary applications, for use in kitchenware, use in decorative panels, and the like.
wherewith both types of particles have minimum particle size (taken as the minimum dimension) >200 micron. An index of refraction n.sub.D of the PMMA material and the filler material of 1.4-1.6 is prescribed.
PCT OS WO 91/11,404 discloses an imitation granite which is colored and which is comprised of:
(i) a matrix containing PMMA and particles of aluminum oxide trihydrate, which particles are of length <100 micron; (ii) PMMA particles in the 100-5,000 micron size range, filled with 50-70 wt. % of aluminum oxide trihydrate and up to 2.5 wt. % of a colorless-to-white pigment; (iii) PMMA particles in the 100-5,000 micron size range, filled with 0.1-2.5 wt. % black pigment; and (iv) PMMA particles in the 100-5,000 micron size range, filled with pigments of other colors. The tendency of the larger particles to settle is countered by the use of rheologically effective additives.
The teaching of PCT OS WO 90-01,470 (the same applicant as WO 91/11,404) is different as to the particle sizes and pigment(s).
Ger. OS 38 21 116 discloses colored polyacrylate plates with a stone appearance. The precursor of the matrix polymer is homogeneously colored. A pulverized acrylic resin, also colored but of a color different from that of the matrix polymer, is subsequently added and distributed into the matrix polymer. After conclusion of the polymerization, the molded articles in which the original pulverized acrylic resin has settled are removed from the mold. However, the existing methods of manufacturing molded plastic articles which resemble granite involve relatively complex systems and procedures.

Method for producing high filler content plastic molded articles which resemble granite


In a data reproducing device using a read channel of a PRML system, during a period of a continuous reproducing operation mode for continuous reproduction processing of adjacent data sectors, a restart RG generator switches a restart read gate signal RRG ON in synchronization with switching ON of a reference read gate signal RG. Therefore, when data is reproduced from a data sector before continuous data sectors, data reproduction processing is started by means of the restart read gate signal RRG equivalent to the reference read gate signal RG. When data is continuously reproduced from a next data sector adjacent to the previous data sector, the restart RG generator keeps the restart read gate signal ON for a predetermined period of time before the reference read gate signal RG is generated.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a data reproducing device used in, for instance a hard disk drive, and having, in particular a read channel of a PRML system.
2. Description of the Related Art
Conventionally, as shown in FIG. 19, a hard disk drive (HDD) is provided with a read channel 200 for performing reproducing processing, by which recorded data is reproduced by inputting a read signal read from a disk 100 by means of a head 101. Recorded data is write data of, for instance a NRZ (non return to zero) code output from a disk controller (HDC) 2 when this is recorded in the disk 100. During a data recording operation, the recorded data (NRZ data) is modulated to a write signal of a RLL (run length limited) code by means of an ENDEC (encoder and decoder) and sent to the head 101.
A number of tracks TR are constructed in the disk 100 and each track TR is provided with a plurality of data sectors arrayed in a circumferential direction. In a CDR (constant density recording) system, as shown in FIG. 19, a plurality of data sectors DS0 and DS1 are disposed between servo areas SA0 and SA1. The number of data sectors per track is different from zone to zone including a plurality of tracks. A zone is equivalent to a group when a number of tracks TR are divided into a plurality of groups in a radial direction of a disk. By means of such a data format structure, it is possible to make data recording densities almost uniform among the zones. In the servo areas SA0 and SA1, servo data are recorded so as to position the head 101 in an access target position (target track).
The read channel is, as shown in FIG. 19, for reproducing a read signal RS output from a head amplifier 1 and outputting reproduced recorded data NRZ data to the HDC2 together with a read clock (synchronous clock signal) RC output from a read PLL (phase locked loop) 12. The head amplifier 1 is for amplifying a read signal read by means of the head 101.
With an increase in a HDD storage capacity in recent years, there has been presented, as a technique for realizing a high recording density of a disk, a read channel employing a signal processing technique called a PRML (Partial Response Maximum Likelihood) system.
The read channel of this PRML system is a circuit including a PR (Partial Response) equalizer (PRE) 6 and a viterbi decoder 9 of a maximum likelihood decoding system for selecting a most reliable string for reproduction of precorrelated data strings. The PRML system is advantageous compared with a conventional peak detecting system in that it is excellent in a S/N characteristic and an error rate is extremely low.
In addition to the above-described circuit elements, the read channel is provided with a variable gain amplifier (VGA) 3 gain-controlled by means of an automatic gain controller (AGC) 8, a low-pass filter (LPF) 4, a AID converter 5, a synch byte detection circuit 7, a ENDEC (including a NRZ decoder) 10, a write clock generation circuit 11 and a clock switching circuit 13.
The VGA 3 holds a level of a read signal RS from the head amplifier 1 constant. The LPF 4 eliminates high-pass noises from the read signal RS. The A/D converter 5 converts the analog read signal RS into digital data.
The synch byte detection circuit 7 searches, as shown in FIG. 20A, a synch byte area (SB) of each data sector constituting a track format on a disk and outputs a detected signal SBD thereof to the HDC 2. Here, a format shown in FIG. 20A means not a track format on a disk but a format of the read signal RS read by means of the head 101. Each data sector is provided with a data area (DATA) in which user data (recorded data) is recorded. In the CDR system, the numbers of data sectors respectively arrayed between the servo areas are not the same. As described later, there is a format in which a data sector is divided sandwiching the servo area (data split).
In the synch byte area (SB), there is recorded information for acquiring synchronization when NRZ data is demodulated by byte unit by means of the decoder 10. A VFO area (PLL synch area) is for acquiring synchronization of a data identifying window and preamble data consisting of a synchronous pattern of a predetermined frequency. That is, the read PLL 12 executes an operation of phase acquisition within the range of the preamble data recorded in the VFO area. In FIG. 20D, a time Tac of the read PLL 12 indicates a phase acquisition time thereof.
The read channel usually starts data reproducing processing in synchronization with a start timing signal called a read gate RG supplied from the HDC 2. That is, as shown in FIG. 20B, data reproducing processing is started when the read gate RG is switched ON (logical level "H") and stopped when this is switched OFF (logical level "L").
In the HDD, a sector signal (pulse signal) SP for detecting a lead portion of each data sector is generated. The sector signal SP is generated by means of a main controller composed of a logic circuit of a gate array and a CPU. That is, the main controller is provided with a sector signal generator for generating the sector signal SP by using a signal read from the servo area by means of the head 101. The HDC 2 switches the read gate RG ON in synchronization with inputting of the sector signal SP when data reproducing processing is started.
With the read gate RG switched ON, as shown in FIGS. 20D and 20E, the read PLL 12 starts the phase acquisition operation and the AGC 8 starts an operation of controlling a gain of the VGA 3 so as to make stable an amplitude of the read signal RS in a high-speed follow-up mode (time Tag). The synch byte detection circuit 7 starts searching of a synch byte area (SB) (time Tss).
The ENDEC 10 outputs, as shown in FIGS. 21A and 21B, the NRZ data to the HDC 2 during the period of switching ON of the read gate RG to switching OFF. The HDC 2 switches the read gate RG OFF after recognizing ECC (error checking and correction) data. In FIG. 21C, "RC" is a timing chart indicating a state of controlling performed by a read lock RC output from the read PLL 12. "W" during the OFF period of the read gate RG (T6 and T7) means that the read PLL 12 is locked in a write clock pulse WC from the write clock generator 11.
The clock switching circuit 13 changes, when the read gate RG is switched OFF, a switch to an output side of the write clock generation circuit 11. When the read gate RG is ON, the clock switching circuit 13 changes the switch to an output side of the PR equalizer 6 so as to supply a synchronous clock in the VFO area of the read signal RS to the read PLL 12. "D" shown in FIG. 21C means digital data output from the A/D converter 5 with the read clock RC as a sample clock while the read gate RG is ON.
As mentioned above, the HDC 2 switches the read gate RG OFF after recognizing the ECC data. This ECC data is first input to the read channel 200 and output to the HDC 2 after a passage of proper delaying time. This is caused by circuit delaying of the viterbi decoder 9 or the ENDEC 10.
In particular, in the read channel of the PRML system, the NRZ decoder of the viterbi decoder 9 or the ENDEC 10 is constructed by a high-speed logic circuit, and in order to reduce power consumption an operational speed of the decoder is reduced by executing bit interleave processing and byte interleave processing in parallel.
Also, in the read channel of the high-speed PRML system, a pass-memory length of the viterbi decoder is made long structurally because of an increase in the number of taps for FIR (finite impulse response) filters (digital filter) constituting the digital system PR equalizer and thus circuit delaying time is further increased.
In the read channel having such a large decoder circuit delay, in particular when data are continuously reproduced from the adjacent data sectors, a synch byte detection error is generated and this will most likely cause a data reproducing error.
As a specific example, as shown in FIG. 20B, when the read gate RG is switched OFF to the previous data sector and this is switched ON to the next data sector, the HDC 2 switches the read gate RG ON to the next data sector after recognizing the ECC data of the previous data sector delayed equivalent to circuit delaying of the decoder. Therefore, the synch byte detection circuit 7 cannot search a synch byte area (SB) of the next data sector and this may cause a synch byte error (FIG. 20F). When the synch byte error occurs, as shown in FIG. 21C, a locking operation of the read PLL is not allowed and this will cause error data in the NRZ data.
In order to solve these problems, as shown in FIG. 22A, enlarging of a gap area of the data sector (GAP) 90 may be considered. In such a sector format, as shown in FIG. 22F, even when data are continuously reproduced, a synch byte area (SB) of the next data sector can be surely searched. Also, as shown in FIG. 23B, accurate NRZ data can be output. However, if the gap area (GAP) is made large, this will cause reduction in data format efficiency and a data recording density.

Apparatus for reproducing data having a restart read gate signal generator in a disk storage system


A system and method of providing increased security for compiled program code. Compiled program code is installed in a computer having type enforcement capability. The compiled program code is allowed to execute and type enforcement violations are logged. The execution environment of the compiled program code is then modified to prevent recurrence of the logged type enforcement violations.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to computer security, and more particularly, to an apparatus and method for providing increased computer security to previously compiled computer software.
2. Background Information
There has been an explosion in the growth of computer networks as organizations realize the benefits of networking their personal computers and workstations. Increasingly, these networks are falling prey to malicious outsiders who hack into the network, reading and sometimes destroying sensitive information. Exposure to such attacks has increased as companies connect to outside systems such as the Internet.
To protect themselves from attacks by malicious outsiders, organizations are turning to mechanisms for increasing network security. One such mechanism is described in "SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING SECURE INTERNETWORK SERVICES", U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/322,078 filed Oct. 12, 1994 by Boebert et al., the discussion of which is hereby incorporated by reference. Boebert teaches that modifications can be made to the kernel of the operating system in order to add type enforcement protections to the operating system kernel. This protection mechanism can be added to any other program by modifications to the program code made prior to compiling. It cannot, however, be used to add type enforcement protection to program code after that program code has been compiled.
A number of software vendors keep close guard over their source code (in order, e.g. to protect trade secrets). Such vendors may refuse to provide a source code level version of their programs to facilitate adding additional computer security mechanism. What is needed is a way of adding computer security protection to compiled program code to increase secure operation of such code.

System and method for securing compiled program code


A television advertisement system whereby a viewer retrieves product placement contact information for a product, that has been promoted on the viewer's television by using a wireless remote control device. The invention provides the means for a viewer to easily obtain in-hand product contact and detailed information which can then be used at-will. Teletext data, which contains product information, is associated with a product's video signal and is automatically decoded and stored in the television's or TV set-top box's memory. The viewer retrieves on demand the product's teletext data stored in memory by using a remote control device. The product data is transferred to and stored in a remote control device's memory. The data is displayed on the remote's screen. The data stored in the remote control can be used to contact an advertiser for further information, or to purchase a product or service. This is achieved by wirelessly transferring pertinent contact information from the remote control to various communication devices, such as a computer, a telephone, a television set-top box, an electronic game console, etc.

1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to a system for receiving television product placement advertisement associated teletext contact data and for a viewer to obtain on demand the teletext contact data in-hand using a television remote control device.
2. Description of Related Art
Currently product placement is the promotion of branded goods and services within the context of a television show or a movie (i.e. in a theater, or on a television set), rather than as an explicit advertisement. The brand names of product placement are visible to the viewer. Through product placement, advertisers hope that viewers will take note of the products used by the cast members, and thereby consider using the products themselves.
Whenever a product placement advertisement (ad) appears on a television (TV) and the viewer is interested in following up on the promoted product, today he must either remember the product, which generally displays no contact or detailed information, or scribble down the product name on a piece of paper. The problem then is to locate where the viewer can find the product of interest. In today's electronically networked world there are internet search engines, such as Google, Yahoo, etc., to help locate the products of interest. Even this electronic search-and-locate method is somewhat awkward, because a person is presented with many choices regarding the searched-and-found product and hence must further filter the presented search results for the precise information that the person is looking for.
The current invention uses a readily available feature of TV signals, namely teletext. Generally in the USA, teletext is not greatly used, as it is in Europe and other global regions. In the USA closed captioning (CC) is commonly available on most TV sets and all TV set-top boxes. Closed captioning is a specific use of teletext in the USA, i.e. as a government mandated aid to deaf TV viewers.
Product placement advertisement information, for example contact data, pricing, detailed descriptions, etc. are embedded by the current invention in a TV (or movie) signal, wherein the product placement advertisement appears as associated teletext data.
Rainsford teaches in U.S. Pat. No. 7,158,676 ('676) an interactive system that provides a video program with associated interactive content, which relates to the content of the displayed video program. The '676 patent does not teach retrieving and storing the interactive content in a television's remote control device, nor does it teach the use of teletext for embedding the interactive content of the video. The '676 patent teaches that a viewer interacts immediately with pertinent video content and its associated site on the internet.
Bates et al. teaches in U.S. Pat. No. 6,774,908 ('908) an interactive system that provides a video program with associated interactive content, which relates to the content of the displayed video program. The '908 patent teaches the programmatic locating of images in the stream of video frames, after initial image identification, and insertion of pertinent associated data. The '908 patent does not teach retrieving and storing the interactive content in a television's remote control device, nor does it teach the use of teletext for embedding the interactive content of the video. The '908 patent teaches that a viewer interacts immediately with pertinent video content and its associated site on the internet.

Television system to extract television product placement advertisement data and to store data in a remote control device


A vibration control device of a plate-like member 11 includes: a plurality of piezoelectric element actuators 14; at least one piezoelectric element sensor 15; and a control circuit 17 that performs feedback control of operation of the piezoelectric element actuators 14 based on an output voltage of the piezoelectric element sensor 15 so as to suppress vibration of the plate-like member 11. A layout of the piezoelectric element sensor 15 and the piezoelectric element actuators 14 is set such that anti-resonance occurs in an output voltage of the piezoelectric element sensor 15 in a range where the vibration frequency of the plate-like member 11 is equal to or less than a predetermined value. Therefore, generation of noise can be prevented at the frequency. As a result, a gain can be increased at a control target frequency. Therefore, vibration can be suppressed, and noise can be reduced.

An apparatus in which a piezoelectric element sensor (piezoelectric element for detection) and a piezoelectric element actuator (piezoelectric element for vibration control) are fixed to a peripheral wall surface of a damper of a suspension device of an automobile, the piezoelectric element sensor detects its own deformation caused by vibration of the damper as a voltage signal, the voltage signal is amplified with an amplification circuit, and the piezoelectric element actuator is driven to stretch and compress the damper to suppress the vibration is disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-206257.
By the way, if a piezoelectric element actuator and a piezoelectric element sensor are fixed to a surface of a plate-like member, and feedback control of an input to the piezoelectric element actuator is performed from a circuit based on a voltage signal output from the piezoelectric element sensor that detects strain generated on a surface of the plate according to film surface vibration of the plate-like member, the vibration of the plate-like member can be suppressed, and noise generated by the vibration can be reduced.
In order for the piezoelectric element actuator to exhibit a vibration control effect, it is necessary to set a feedback gain to a value larger than 0 dB. However, as described in detail in the section of Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention, when the feedback gain is set to a large value in order to further obtain a vibration control amount, the vibration is amplified in a frequency range of 100 Hz or less to generate noise disadvantageously.

Plate-like member vibration control device


Methods and apparatus to evenly clamp semiconductor substrates in a transfer mold process are disclosed. A disclosed split mold base includes a first plate having a first surface, a second plate having a second surface opposite the first surface, and a plurality of springs that are disposed between the first and second plates to distribute a clamping pressure applied by a mold press.

Integrated circuits are made on thin wafers (e.g., silicon, silicon carbide, sapphire, etc.) and include a plurality of contacts to interface with other circuits and devices. To facilitate coupling integrated circuits into electronic systems and protect them from the environment, the integrated circuits are attached to a substrate (e.g., a lead frame) and are then encapsulated into a mold (e.g., epoxy resin) that includes one or more electrical contacts (e.g., leads, solder balls, bumps, contacts, etc).
To encapsulate integrated circuits, one or more semiconductor devices attached to a lead frame are clamped at high pressures (e.g., 2500-3000 psi) into a mold chase having channels in communication with one or more gates. Generally, the mold chase is formed by clamping two mold bases together with a mold press. The mold chase includes cells with one or more corresponding integrated circuits of the lead frame contained therein. The mold chase is clamped at high pressure to prevent a liquid mold compound injected into the mold chase from bleeding out of cells contained therein.
A solid mold compound is supplied to the mold chase. A plunger applies pressure to the mold compound, causing the solid mold compound to convert into a liquid mold compound. The pressure from the plunger forces the liquid mold compound into the channels of the mold chase such that the liquid mold fills the cells of the mold chase via the gates associated with the channels. The liquid mold flows into the cells of the mold chase and fills the same to thereby encapsulate the integrated circuits of the lead frame. After a time, the liquid mold within the cells cures to form rigid housing(s) over the lead frame(s) and the associated integrated circuit(s).
In conventional mold systems, a main cylinder provides a clamping pressure to center the mold chase. Newer mold systems include a main cylinder and auxiliary cylinders that provide clamping pressure to one or more sides. The mold chases may also include support structures (e.g. pedestals) on one or more surfaces. To distribute clamping pressure in such mold chases, shimming of up to 0.2 mm may be inserted between the support structures.


An electrode for use in hydrogen generation comprising a conductive base and a coating layer formed thereon of a composition obtainable by thermally decomposing, in the presence of an organic acid, a mixture comprising at least one type of platinum compound.

In the process of the electrolysis of sodium chloride based on an ion exchange membrane method, the reduction of energy consumption is one of the most important issues. A detailed analysis of the voltage involved in the electrolysis of sodium chloride based on an ion exchange membrane method shows that the voltage includes, in addition to the theoretically required voltage, the voltage due to the ion exchange membrane, the overvoltages of the anode and cathode, and the voltage dependent on the distance between the anode and cathode in the electrolysis vessel.
As for the overvoltages of the electrodes among these various voltages, as far as the overvoltage of the anode is concerned, the so-called insoluble electrode referred to as the DSA (Dimension Stable Anode), provided with a coating layer of a platinum group oxide, reduces the overvoltage to a level lower than 50 mV or less such that no further improvement can be expected.
On the other hand, as far as the cathode is concerned, such conventionally used materials as mild steel, stainless steel and nickel exhibit overvoltages ranging from 300 to 400 mV. Accordingly, the activation of the surfaces of these materials has been studied for the purpose of reducing the overvoltages.
Examples include a highly active cathode produced from an oxide by thermal spraying of nickel oxide, cathodes utilizing Raney nickel based metals, cathodes taking advantage of composite plating with nickel and tin, and cathodes based on composite plating of active charcoal and oxides; all of these cathodes have been attempted to be applied to the cathode for use in hydrogen generation in caustic soda.
However, for the purpose of reducing the electrolysis voltage, it is necessary to further reduce the overvoltage, and accordingly electrodes based on various concepts have been proposed.
In JP-B-3-75635 (EP129734B), a layer of a heterogeneous mixture composed of a platinum group oxide and nickel oxide has been formed as a coating layer on a conductive metal base and thus a cathode having a low overvolatage has been made.
In U.S. Pat. No. 4,668,370, composite plating with a noble metal oxide and metallic nickel actualizes a low overvoltage and enhances the durability of the coating layer. In JP-B-6-33481 and JP-B-6-33492 (U.S. Pat. No. 4,900,419 or EP 298,055B), a composite substance composed of platinum and cerium is adopted as an electrode coating material, permitting enhancement of the poisoning resistance against iron.
In U.S. Pat. No. 5,645,930 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,882,723, ruthenium chloride, palladium chloride and ruthenium oxide are applied onto a conductive base, the base thus processed is calcined in the air, and thereafter subjected to electroless plating with nickel, thus improving the coating strength.
In JP-A-11-140680, an electrode coating layer mainly composed of ruthenium oxide is formed on a metal base, and further a porous and low-active protective layer is formed on the surface thereof, thus improving the electrode durability.
In JP-A-11-158678, an electrode coating layer is formed which is provided with a coating layer of ruthenium oxide, nickel and a rare earth metal capable of absorbing hydrogen formed on a metal base by pyrolysis, and thus electrolytic oxidation is prevented by maintaining the cathode at the hydrogen absorbing potential against the reverse current caused by the termination of the electrolysis.
In JP-A-11-229170, an electrodeposited nickel layer is provided in which ruthenium oxide is dispersed, the surface of the layer is coated with a conductive oxide composed of titanium oxide, and thus the resistance to mercury poisoning is improved.
However, even in the above described examples, the electrode operating life is short so that as matters stand, indeed, further elongation of the electrode operating life is an objective.
In WO01/28714, the interior of the coating layer is made porous and hence the surface area is made larger so that the resistance to the impurities found in alkali is improved, and a cathode having a low overvoltage is formed.

Electrode for use in hydrogen generation


A back pressure valve assembly for use in a well casing string. The valve assembly comprises a housing with a stationary and a floating plate therein. The floating plate is moveable between an open position spaced from the stationary plate and a closed position engaging the stationary plate. Fluid flow downwardly through the valve assembly tends to move the floating plate toward the open position, and fluid flow upwardly through the valve assembly tends to move the floating plate toward the closed position. A finger or key may be used to prevent rotation of the floating plate with respect to the housing.

The present invention relates generally to well casing fill apparatus and methods, and more particularly, to such an apparatus having a floating plate back pressure valve therein.
In the construction of oil and gas wells, a well bore is drilled into one or more subterranean formations or zones containing oil and/or gas to be produced. In most instances, after the well bore is drilled, the drill string is removed and a string of casing is run into the well bore while maintaining sufficient drilling fluid in the well bore to prevent blowouts. The term "casing string" is used herein to mean any string of pipe which is lowered into and cemented in a well bore including, but not limited to, surface casing, liners and the like.
During casing running operations, the casing string must be kept filled with fluid to prevent excessive fluid pressure differentials across the casing string and to prevent blowouts. In the past, fluid was added to the casing string at the surface after each additional casing joint was connected to the string and lowered into the well bore. Alternatively, casing fill apparatus have been utilized at or near the bottom end of the casing string to allow well fluids to enter the interior of the casing string as it is run down the well bore.
While these casing fill apparatus have been used successfully, they are relatively complex and have certain limitations. Generally, most of the prior devices include a spring-loaded, poppet-style back pressure valve which is used after the casing is positioned in the well bore to allow fluid to be pumped downwardly through the casing string while preventing reverse flow. In order to fill the casing string as it is run into the well bore, the back pressure valve must be held in an open position until the string reaches the desired location in the well bore. Typically, a shearable member holds the valve open and then is sheared when it is desired to use the valve. Not only does this arrangement require a number of precise parts, but the shearing of the shearable member requires an additional step in the process. The cost of these prior casing fill apparatus is not insignificant.
There is a need, therefore, for a casing fill apparatus that is more simple in construction and which allows filling of the casing string while running it in but does not require the step of shearing a shearable member to allow the device to operate as a back pressure valve once in the desired operating position. The present invention solves these problems by providing a simple moving or floating plate which cooperates with a stationary plate to allow flow in one direction but prevent undesired reverse flow. It also still allows the casing string to fill while running it into the well bore.

Floating plate back pressure valve assembly


Disclosed are methods of treating colorectal cancer that involve administering a composition comprising an effective amount of miR-451a to cells in the colorectal cancer and further treating the colorectal cancer cells with ionizing radiation. Also disclosed are methods of predicting whether a colorectal cancer in a subject will respond to ionizing radiation. These methods involve measuring the RNA expression of miR-451a, miR-1322, miR-133-3p, miR-1, miR-205-5p, miR-4521, CAB39, EMSY, or MEX3C in the sample and measuring the RNA expression of the same marker in a control.

In 2016, an estimated 134,000 patients will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Among the rectal cancer subset, patients with locally advanced disease, staged as T3-T4 and or node positive, receive neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy (CRT) and subsequent surgery (Nelson H et al, J Nat Cancer Inst 93, 583 (2001) and Kalyan A et al, Gastroenterology Report 2016; both of which are incorporated by reference herein). While 10-25% of patients have complete response to CRT, the remaining patients undergo extensive tumor excision that leads to considerable quality of life issues (Maas M et al, Lancet Oncol 11, 835 (2010); incorporated by reference herein). Moreover, response to CRT is an independent predictor of overall survival in colorectal cancer (Agarwal A et al, Cancer 119, 4231 (2013); incorporated by reference herein) highlighting the importance of improving CRT response rates. It is known that several tumor intrinsic factors govern responses to CRT including specific gene expression programs with distinct significance ascribed to microRNAs (miRs) (Rodel C et al, Int J Rad Oncol Biol Phys 55, 1341 (2003) and Eschrich S A et al, Int J Rad Oncol Biol Phys 75, 489 (2009); both of which are incorporated by reference herein). miR-processing machinery is frequently mutated in colorectal cancers, and miRs have been implicated in several pathological processes associated with colorectal cancer progression including cancer stemness and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) (Amirkhah R et al, Genes Chrom Cancer 54, 129 (2015) and Schetter A J et al, J Am Med Assoc 299, 425 (2008); both of which are incorporated by reference herein). Emerging evidence suggests that microRNAs (miRs) modulate gene expression programs in response to radiation and confer variable sensitivity and efficacy to modern high dose ionizing radiation therapy (Mueller A K et al, Rad Res 185, 668 (2016); incorporated by reference herein).

Compositions and methods used in diagnosing and treating colorectal cancer


An apparatus and method provide protection for a synchronous generator in a power system. The method includes deriving a plurality of generator safe operating boundary data expressions from power system data and/or user-defined inputs. The power system data may include a plurality of generator data supplied by a manufacturer of the generator and/or power system parameters such as power system equivalent impedance. Each generator safe operating boundary data expression may relate to a generator capability curve, a steady-state stability limit curve, a minimum excitation limiter curve, an over excitation limiter curve, or an user-defined curve. The method also includes calculating an active power value sum and a reactive power value sum based on generator three-phase currents and voltages, comparing these sums to at least one of the plurality of generator safe operating boundary data expressions, and to provide protection and/or alarming functions for the generator based on this comparison.

The present invention generally relates to synchronous generators, and more specifically, to an apparatus and method for providing generator protection for a synchronous electrical generator in a power system.
Synchronous electrical generators ("synchronous generators") are used in many applications requiring alternating current (AC) power generation. For example, electric utility systems or power systems include a variety of power system elements such as synchronous generators, power transformers, power transmission lines, distribution lines, buses, capacitors, etc. to generate, transmit and distribute electrical energy to loads. A synchronous generator operates to, for example, convert mechanical rotation via a prime mover (e.g., shaft rotation provided by a coal powered steam turbine) into AC current via electromagnetic principles. After suitable conditioning, the alternating electrical current is transmitted and distributed as three-phase electric power to a variety of loads.
As is known, synchronous generator design is based on Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction and includes a rotational portion for inducing an electromotive force (EMF) in a stationary portion. The rotational portion is driven by the prime mover. More specifically, the rotational portion, or rotor, includes a field winding wrapped around a rotor body, and the stationary portion includes a stator having an armature winding. The rotor body, typically made of steel, may have a salient pole structure (i.e., poles protruding from a shaft) or a cylindrical structure.
In operation, EMFs are induced in the armature windings of the stator upon application of DC current to the field winding of the rotor. That is, direct current is made to flow in the field winding. This results in a magnetic field, and when the rotor is made to rotate at a constant speed, the magnetic field rotates with it. Accordingly, as the moving magnetic field passes through the stator winding(s), an EMF is induced therein. If the stationary armature includes, for example, three stationary armature windings, they experience a periodically varying magnetic field, and three EMFs are induced therein. These three EMFs conform a three-phase system of voltages. Thus, for 60-Hz AC systems, in a two-pole machine, the rotor has to rotate at 3600 revolutions per minute with three armature windings displaced equally in space on the stator body to generate three-phase electric power.
As the generator electric load increases, the generator demands more mechanical power from its prime mover and more current flows through the stator winding, and therefore more electric active power is delivered from the synchronous generator to the power system. By increasing the current to the rotor winding, the synchronous generator produces more reactive power, also called reactive volt-amperes (VARs), which, in effect, can raise the power system voltage. Conversely, by decreasing the current in the rotor winding, VARs are absorbed by the generator, effectively lowering the power system voltage. As is known, we express in Watts or Megawatts the active power delivered to or consumed by a load, while VAR or MVAR is the imaginary counterpart of the Watt or Megawatt and represents the reactive power consumed or generated by a reactive load (i.e., a load having a phase difference between the applied voltage and the current).
Generator capability curves ("capability curves") are typically provided by a generator manufacturer to define the operating or thermal limits of a particular synchronous generator at different cooling pressures. Each capability curve represents the synchronous generator capability limit for a pressurized coolant (e.g., hydrogen) circulating to cool the stator and rotor windings. More cooling enables more armature current to flow during synchronous generator operation, while less cooling enables less current to flow. Additionally, over excitation limiter (OEL) curves and minimum excitation limiter (MEL) curves are typically included with the manufacturer-provided capability curves. Steady state stability limit (SSSL) curves may further be determined with generator impedance data and power system parameters.
Because there are limits to the amount of current that can flow through the stator and rotor winding, the operating limits reflected in the capability curves are imposed on the amount of Watts and VARs that the synchronous generator can deliver to the power system. There is also a minimum value of current that must flow in the rotor field to maintain generator stability, and this imposes a limit on the amount of VARs that the synchronous generator can absorb for each delivered active power value. Thus, the operating limits graphically illustrated by the capability curve(s) include an active power component "P" expressed in Megawatts (MW) and a reactive power component "Q" expressed in Mega VARs (MVARs). As long as the P, Q operating point of the synchronous generator (i.e., as long as the amount of Watts and VARs flowing out of or into the generator) is within its safe operating limits, or inside its capability curve, the synchronous generator will operate within safe limits.
Although the operating limits defined by capability curves are utilized by power generating station operators to ensure safe synchronous generator operation, it has been suggested to utilize these curves to influence excitation control of a synchronous generator in real time. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,264,778, entitled "Apparatus Protecting a Synchronous Machine from Under Excitation," issued on Nov. 23, 1993, describes a microprocessor based voltage regulator system that provides a minimum limit on excitation that is defined using one or more straight line segments approximating the associated machine capability curves. Such a minimum limit on excitation prevents the excitation of the synchronous generator from falling below a predetermined P-Q characteristic. The microprocessor based voltage regulator system of the U.S. Pat. No. 5,264,778 is included in a control system of the synchronous generator.
It has also been suggested that synchronous generator operation may be improved via use of a visual display that reflects synchronous generator operation with respect to its capability curves. U.S. Pat. No. 5,581,470, entitled "Apparatus for Visually Graphically Displaying the Generator Point of a Generator in Reference to its Capability Curve Including Digital Readouts of Watts, VARs and Hydrogen Pressure," issued on Dec. 3, 1996, describes a computer-based meter that provides a real time graphical display which visually indicates an operating point in relation to a capability curve(s) of a synchronous generator during operation. The operating point(s) and capability curves are defined and displayed based on measurement signals from Watt, VAR and hydrogen pressure transducers.
Synchronous generator outages or failures due to power system faults, abnormal operating conditions, and the like, can be some of the costliest in the power system. Accordingly, protective devices are operatively coupled to the synchronous generators and their outputs in order to measure currents and voltages indicative of synchronous generator operation. Such protective devices are referred to hereinafter as protective relays, and typically include a variety of protective functions or elements.

Apparatus and method for providing protection for a synchronous electrical generator in a power system

Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc.


A packaging system (10) and method for supplying and distributing dunnage products to multiple packing stations (14, 16) is characterized by a supply of dunnage products (12), a plurality of packing stations (14, 16), and a distribution assembly (20) that selectively distributes the dunnage products from the supply (12) to selected ones of the packing stations (14, 16). The supply of dunnage (12) may include a converter (22) that converts sheet stock material into a relatively less dense dunnage product. The distribution assembly (20) includes a conveyor (40), an alignment device (50) downstream of the conveyor (40), and a tiltable dunnage product support surface (60) below the alignment device (50). The alignment device (50) controls the descent of a dunnage product therethrough to the support surface (60). The support surface (60) is tiltable to selectively direct the dunnage product toward respective packing stations (14, 16).

In the process of packing an article in a container for shipping from one location to another, a dunnage product is typically placed in the container with the article. This dunnage product can be as simple as a sheet of paper or other sheet material. By converting the sheet material into a dunnage product having enhanced properties for a specific application, however, such as cushioning, blocking and bracing, or void fill, a more desirable dunnage product is produced.
A machine that converts the sheet material into a dunnage product may be referred to as a converter. Exemplary converters are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,717,613; 5,487,717; 5,123,889; 5,542,232; 5,593,376; 5,637,071; 5,902,223; and 6,026,632. These converters, of a type referred to as cushioning conversion machines, convert sheet stock material, such as paper in multi-ply form, into relatively lower density cushioning pads. These are not the only types of converters, of course.
Converters typically discharge dunnage products in a predetermined discharge direction through an exit to a transitional zone, such as a holding area or a staging area, from which the dunnage products may later be removed for insertion into a container for packaging purposes.

Packaging system with dunnage delivery assembly


A semiconductor structure and its fabrication method are provided in the present disclosure. The method includes providing a layer to-be-etched, including first regions and second regions. The method further includes forming a plurality of discrete first sacrificial layers on the layer to-be-etched, where a plurality of openings is between the plurality of first sacrificial layers and includes first openings on the first regions. The method further includes forming initial sidewall spacer structures on sidewalls of the plurality of first sacrificial layers, where the initial sidewall spacer structures include first sidewall spacers, and the first sidewall spacers fill the first openings. The method further includes, using the first sidewall spacers as an alignment mark, forming a first mask layer on the layer to-be-etched and the initial sidewall spacer structures, where the first mask layer exposes a portion of the layer to-be-etched and a portion of the initial sidewall spacer structures.

With the continuous development of semiconductor process technology, process nodes have gradually reduced, and the conventional structures of metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) field effect transistors cannot meet the performance requirements of semiconductor devices. A fin field effect transistor (FinFET), as a multi-gate device, has attracted extensive attention. As the process nodes are further reduced, the process for forming the FinFET also encounters a variety of challenges. Therefore, there is a need to improve the performance of the existing FinFET.

Method of manufacturing a semiconductor structure by forming a mask layer using side wall spacers as an alignment mark

SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING INTERNATIONAL (SHANGHAI) CORPORATION

SEMICONDUCTOR MANUFACTURING INTERNATIONAL (BEIJING) CORPORATION


A vibrating inertial sensor is provided, micro machined in a plane thin wafer, allowing the measurement of an angular position or of an angular speed. The sensor comprises two vibrating masses suspended by springs with identical stiffness in X and Y and coupled together by identical stiffness springs in X and Y, and at least excitation transducers and detection transducers disposed on at least one of the masses. The mobile assembly consisting of a vibrating mass and the parts of transducers fastened to this mass has a generally symmetric structure with respect to an axis of symmetry OX and with respect to an axis of symmetry OY.

The fabrication of these micro-machined sensors, also called MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical-Systems) sensors, uses techniques of collective micro-machining, etching, doping depositions, etc., similar to those which are used for the fabrication of electronic integrated circuits, allowing low production costs.
Such MEMS inertial sensors produced on a silicon or quartz wafer by micro-machining are already known. The structure is planar, in the plane of the silicon or quartz substrate in which it is etched.
These sensors consist of several vibrating mobile masses linked together and to their support by elastic elements in such a way as to constitute an excitation resonator, or primary resonator, and a detection resonator, or secondary resonator, the two resonators being coupled together by the Coriolis acceleration. These sensors have means of excitation, of detection, and often of balancing. In these sensors, the masses are generally excited in vibration in the plane XY of the wafer, perpendicularly to an axis Z, termed the "sensitive axis" of the gyrometer. When the gyrometer rotates about its sensitive axis, the composition of the forced vibration with the angular rotation vector produces, through the Coriolis effect, forces which set the mobile masses into natural vibration perpendicularly to the excitation vibration and to the sensitive axis; the amplitude of this natural vibration is proportional to the rotation speed. The natural vibration is detected by a detection transducer, whose electrical signals are utilized by an electronic circuit to deduce therefrom a value of the angular speed about the sensitive axis.
Various structures of MEMS vibrating inertial sensors are known which define the shapes and dispositions of the various elements of the structure. These various elements will typically be the vibrating elements, the mechanisms for suspending these elements, the coupling mechanisms; the excitation and detection electrostatic transducers allowing actual measurement and the electrostatic transducers allowing various balancings or compensations making it possible to improve the precision of the measurement.
These structures are devised to satisfy various constraints with regard to measurement precision and to low energy losses, while remaining within the domain of MEMS fabrication technologies.
The performance of such sensors may be degraded by the energy losses of the resonators to the exterior. To limit these energy losses, the excitation resonator of most gyrometers is balanced to first order by the use of two masses vibrating in phase opposition, like a tuning fork. The useful vibration mode in phase opposition is separated from the parasitic in-phase mode by virtue of a central elastic coupling element which introduces a stiffness between the two masses. An example of such a sensor is described in patent FR2846740. However, energy losses persist in such sensors, since the secondary resonator is not balanced by construction. Therefore, this mode transmits a torque to the support of the tuning fork, thereby rendering this mode sensitive to the conditions of fixing to the support and to the exterior disturbances transmitted by the support.
Tuning fork gyrometer structures comprising elastic means of coupling between the branches of the tuning fork are well known and described in the patent literature. In these structures, the vibrations of the masses in phase opposition are therefore utilized by separating the useful vibration mode from the parasitic modes. To improve the measurement precision, these structures propose various adjustment or compensation means, be it by construction and/or through the use of electrically controlled compensation or adjustment elements.
Structures with double tuning fork, using four masses, have also been proposed so as to compensate by construction the defects of balancing of the secondary resonator of the single tuning fork structure. Patents FR2859527 and FR2859528 give examples thereof.

MEMS angular inertial sensor operating in tuning fork mode