Compositions and methods comprising at least one biguanide compound and at least one statin combined with at least one additional active agent in fixed dose combinations are provided for reducing cardiometabolic risk, and for the treatment of cardiovascular disease, wherein the biguanide compound is formulated for delayed release.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) generally includes coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease and peripheral arterial disease, and is the major cause of morbidity and mortality in the Western world. (Brunzell et al. Lipoprotein Management in Patients with Cardiometabolic Risk, Diabetes Care 2008 31: 811-822). Notwithstanding significant improvements in therapeutic options over the last few decades, the initial presentation of coronary arterial disease in particular manifests as sudden death in up to one-third of patients. Id. Accordingly, better and more effective intervention options are still needed to prevent atherosclerosis and/or reduce its rate of progression once the disease process is initiated.
To more effectively address this rapidly growing public health problem the American Diabetes Association and the American College of Cardiology Foundation have jointly developed and advocated for the treatment of cardiometabolic risk (CMR), which refers to a high lifetime risk of CVD. (Eckel et al. Preventing Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes, Diabetes Care 2006 29:1697-1699). Notably, the risk factors for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes often cluster, including obesity, insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, dyslipoproteinemia and hypertension. When patients have one or more of these risk factors and are physically inactive or smoke, their cardiometabolic risk increases even further.
Lipoprotein abnormalities, including elevated triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol, and increased LDL are common findings in patients with CMR. As such, administration of therapeutic agents directed at lowering LDL cholesterol such as, e.g., statins can reduce the risk of CVD events in diabetic patients, and in non-diabetic patients having other CVD risk factors. Even with adequate cholesterol lowering, however, many patients on statin therapy still have significant CVD risk. (See Brunell, supra). Accordingly, more effective therapies are clearly still needed to better address this multivariate and complex series of disorders.
The impact of certain hypoglycemic agents such as pioglitazone and glimepiride on atherosclerotic plaque formation in diabetic patients has been evaluated. The PERISCOPE study compared pioglitazone with glimepiride in diabetics; atherosclerotic plaque volume was measured and followed over time. Nissen et al. Comparison of pioglitazone vs glimepiride on progression of coronary atherosclerosis in patients with type 2 diabetes". JAMA 2008 299 (13): 1561-73. Glimepiride therapy had highly significant progression of plaque volume over time of 0.73 percent. In comparison, pioglitazone had a −0.16 percent regression in plaque volume. Notably, however, to date, no oral anti-diabetic drug has been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications. Id.
Metformin is commonly prescribed for glycemic control in patients having type II diabetes, and has also been shown to improve serum lipids, decreasing triglycerides, free fatty acids, and LDL-cholesterol and modestly increasing HDL-cholesterol. (Bailey & Turner Metformin. N Engl J Med. 1996 Feb. 29; 334(9) Unfortunately, however, metformin also produces significant gastrointestinal complications that have restricted its use beyond diabetic patients per se, and it is further contraindicated in patients having hypoxic conditions caused by, e.g. respiratory or heart failure. Moreover, conventional dosing strategies require a gradual dose escalation from 500 mg bid up to 1000 mg bid for a daily maximum dose of 2000 mg, with further uptitration to as much as 3000 mg/day to achieve appropriate glycemic control, severely limiting the ability of formulators to combine it with additional active agents in fixed dose combination therapies. To date, it has proven difficult to effectively combine metformin with multiple active agents in the same single-dose formulation.
Clearly then, there continues to be a need for more comprehensive approach to reducing cardiometabolic risk in general, and for treating and/or preventing cardiovascular disease in particular.

Compositions comprising statins, biguanides and further agents for reducing cardiometabolic risk


A printing apparatus including: a first nozzle group including a first and third nozzles which ejects a first liquid; and a second nozzle group including a second nozzle which ejects a second liquid, in which, when an ejection state of the liquid ejected from the one nozzle which belongs to the first nozzle group is abnormal, complementation is performed using complementation modes of a first complementation mode that increases the amount of a liquid to be ejected from the first nozzle instead of allowing the one nozzle to eject the liquid, a second complementation mode that increases the amount of the liquid to be ejected from the second nozzle instead of allowing the one nozzle to eject the liquid, and a third complementation mode that increases the amount of the liquid to be ejected from the third nozzle instead of allowing the liquid to be ejected from the one nozzle.

1. Technical Field
The present invention relates to a printing apparatus, a method of controlling a printing apparatus, and a control program of a printing apparatus.
2. Related Art
In a printing apparatus that forms an image on a medium by ejecting an ink from a nozzle, there is a case in which the ink is not normally ejected from the nozzle due to thickening of the ink. When ejection abnormality which is a state in which an ink is not normally ejected from a nozzle, that is, the ejection state of the ink from the nozzle becomes abnormal occurs, dots which are expected to be formed by the ink ejected from the nozzle are not formed and the quality of an image formed on a medium is degraded. In order to prevent degradation of the image quality caused by unformed dots, various techniques related to complement in which, in a case where ejection abnormality occurs in one nozzle, dots are formed by ejecting an ink from another nozzle instead of allowing the one nozzle to eject an ink have been suggested.
For example, a technique of complementing the nozzle with another nozzle by increasing the amount of ink to be ejected from another nozzle adjacent to the one nozzle in the case where ejection abnormality occurs in one nozzle is suggested in JP-A-9-024609.
Further, a technique of complementing the one nozzle with another nozzle by increasing the amount of ink to be ejected from another nozzle ejecting another color of ink in a case where ejection abnormality occurs in one nozzle ejecting one color of ink is suggested in JP-A-2004-174816.
As disclosed in JP-A-9-024609, in the case where one nozzle is complemented with another nozzle adjacent to the one nozzle, dots formed by another nozzle are formed in a position different from that of dots formed by the one nozzle. That is, the complementing method disclosed in JP-A-9-024609 is not suitable for a printing process for which accuracy in a position or a shape of an image to be formed on a medium is required such as in a case of printing a bar code or a blueprint. That is, in the case where an image for which accuracy in the position or the shape thereof is required is printed, the image quality of the image to be printed is further degraded when the complementation is performed compared to a case where the complementation is not performed.
Further, as the technique disclosed in JP-A-2004-174816, in the case where one nozzle is complemented with another nozzle ejecting an ink having a color different from that of the ink ejected from the one nozzle, the color of dots formed by another nozzle becomes different from the color of dots formed by the one nozzle. That is, the complementing method disclosed in JP-A-2004-174816 is not suitable for a printing process for which accuracy in a color of an image to be formed on a medium is required such as a case of printing a photo. That is, in the case where an image for which accuracy of the color thereof is required is printed, the image quality of the image to be printed is further degraded when the complementation is performed compared to a case where the complementation is not performed.
As described above, in the case where nozzles are complemented in a printing apparatus according to a single complementing method, the image quality of an image to be formed on a medium may be further degraded when compared to an image to be formed when ejection abnormality has not occurred (in the case where nozzles are not complemented).
Further, in the case where a nozzle is complemented in a printing apparatus according to a single complementing method, when ejection abnormality occurs in another nozzle for complementing one nozzle in which ejection abnormality occurs, the complementation cannot be performed. In the case where complementation cannot be carried out although that ejection abnormality occurs, the image quality of an image is further degraded compared to an image to be formed in the case where ejection abnormality has not occurred.

Printing apparatus, method of controlling printing apparatus, and control program of printing apparatus


A non-aqueous electrolyte cell that excels in the high-temperature cycle characteristics and that is without the possibility of solution leakage. The non-aqueous electrolyte cell includes a polymer electrolyte. This polymer electrolyte is a polymerization of a prepolymer included in a prepolymer electrolyte that includes a non-aqueous solvent, an electrolyte salt, and the prepolymer. The prepolymer includes a polyester-based monomer. The polymer electrolyte further includes a vinylene carbonate derivative and cyclic acid anhydride.

(1) Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an improvement of non-aqueous electrolyte cells for the purpose of improving the high-temperature cycle characteristics.
(2) Description of the Prior Art
In recent years, there has been a rapid reduction in the size and weight of mobile information terminals such as mobile telephones and notebook personal computers. Under the circumstances, much attention is being paid to non-aqueous electrolyte cells that utilize gelled non-aqueous electrolytes (polymer electrolytes).
The non-aqueous electrolyte cells use a gelled non-aqueous electrolyte for the electrolyte and hence do not suffer solution leakage, making it possible to use a more light-weight outer casing body such as an aluminum laminate film. Such cells realize a significant reduction in weight compared with known cells using metal cans.
The non-aqueous electrolyte cells use a prepolymer electrolyte that is a mixture of a non-aqueous solvent, an electrolyte salt, and a polyether-based monomer (prepolymer). The polyether-based monomer has at its molecular edge a polymerizable functional group such as acrylate and methacrylate. The cells are produced by polymerizing the prepolymer within the cell outer casing bodies with the use of heat, UV rays, a polymerization initiator, or the like. The non-aqueous electrolyte cells thus obtained excel in ion conductivity.
However, the non-aqueous solvent contained in the gelled non-aqueous electrolyte is problematic in that it is reduced and decomposed at the negative electrode, and thus causes gas generation. With the progress of the charge and discharge cycles, the gas accumulates between the electrode and the electrolyte and thus degrades the contactivity thereof. This increases internal resistance, resulting in degraded cell cycle characteristics.
Known techniques to inhibit the degradation of the cycle characteristics attributed to the above reason include adding vinylene carbonate derivatives in the electrolyte. According to this technique, the vinylene carbonate reacts with the negative electrode and forms a stable coating film thereon, which inhibits the reaction of the negative electrode and the non-aqueous electrolyte. This is claimed to reduce gas generation. However, this technique presents another problem; the vinylene carbonate is oxidized and decomposed at the positive electrode, again resulting in gas generation.
Techniques to enhance the ion conductivity of a high-molecular solid electrolyte include one disclosed by patent document 1. This is a technique of blending a metal salt of Ia group of the periodic table in a polymer of polyester (meth)acrylate in which at least part of the hydroxyl groups of polyester polyol is converted into (meth)acrylic ester. Patent document 1 thus tries to obtain a flexible high-molecular solid electrolyte that has high ion conductivity and electrochemical stability.
Patent document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2000-311516 (Abstract)
However, even the high-molecular solid electrolyte obtained by this technique is reduced and decomposed at the negative electrode when temperature becomes high, which still causes gas generation. This reduces the contactivity of the electrode and the electrolyte, resulting in degraded cycle characteristics. Thus, this technique is still problematic.

Nonaqueous electrolyte cell with improved high temperature characteristics


Configuration of a new point code connected to a SS7 network through a MTP level 3 aligned link, involves listening to point code status massages originating from distant point codes and forwarded on said link. When a message originating from an unknown distant point code is received, the table of distant point codes is updated with the point code number of the distant point code; at the same time, a primary route to the new distant point code through the link may be created. Therefore, configuration and testing of a new point code within an existing SS7 network, without having to re-enter the full network architecture, is facilitated.

A telecommunications network consists of a number of switches and application processors interconnected by transmission circuits; in traditional networks, signalling systems use dial pulse and multiple frequency tones to transmit calls and circuit related information. These signalling systems lack the capability to handle additional services to the user. It was therefore suggested to provide a separate signalling network in addition to the traditional network used for routing communications. Common Channel Signalling was devised for such a signalling network. It is a signalling method, in which a sigalling channel conveys signalling information by means of labelled messages; examples of common channel signalling systems are CCITT Signalling System no. 7, and various national versions such as the Bell Communications Research (Bellcore) and AT&T SS7 standards. SS7 architecture is detailed in these standards, or in SS7 Basics of Toni Beninger, Telephony, Div. Intertec Publishing Corp., Sept. 1991. SS7 is designed to provide an internationally standardised, general-purpose signalling system. The invention is discussed in the rest of the specification in the preferred embodiment of SS7 protocol.
SS7—as an example of Common Channel Signaling protocol—is comprised of several layers. It comprises three MTP (Message Transfer Part) levels entitled MTP Level 1 to MTP Level 3. MTP level 1 corresponds to the OSI layer 1 (physical layer); MTP Level 2 corresponds to OSI layer 2 (Data Link layer), and MTP level 3 corresponds to the bottom of OSI layer 3 (Network layer). SS7 also comprises a Signalling Connection Control Part (SCCP) corresponding to the top of OSI layer 3. Further layers are provided, but their description is not necessary for the understanding of the present invention.
MTP Level 1.
MTP Level 1 is known as the signalling data link. A signalling data link is a bi-directional transmission path for signalling, comprised of two data channels operating together in opposite directions at the same data rate.
For operating properly under MTP Level 1, a given point code should know the type of MTP Level 1 protocol used on the SS7 network, as well as the different parameters of this protocol, such as clock signal configuration, bit encoding type, used cable instance.
MTP Level 2.
MTP Level 2, together with MTP Level 1, provides a signalling link for reliable transfer of signalling messages between two directly connected signalling points. Message formats comprise three types of signal units: message signal units (MSU), link status signal units (LSSU) and fill-in signal units (FISU). Fill-in signal units are normally transmitted when not MSUs or LSSUs are being transmitted; this allows the SS7 network to receive immediate notification of signalling link failure.
In addition to defining these three types of messages, MTP Level 2 provides an initial alignment procedures (IAP); these procedures occur when a signalling link is activated for the first time or restored after a link failure. There is provided a normal alignment procedure, and an emergency alignment procedure. A "proving state" is provided included in both procedures to measure error rates, ensuring that a reliable link is established. A SS7 point code issuing a request for alignment under the normal IAP expects to receive an answer within a time predetermined by a timer.
For operating properly under MTP Level 2, a given point code should know the time slot in case a time division multiplex is used.
MTP Level 3.
MTP Level 3 provides the functions and procedures related to message routing and network management. MTP Level 3 handles these functions assuming that signalling points are connected with signalling links are described in MTP Level 1 and MTP Level 2. More specifically, after MTP Level 2 alignment is carried out, a SS7 point code issues a signalling link test message (SLTM).
One problem with SS7 devices is that they need to be configured for proper operation within an existing SS7 network. This requires a large SS7 protocol knowledge, a complete documentation and some time. This problem appears not only when a new SS7 platform is installed, but also whenever a new SS7 device is added to an existing netwrok, or modified in an existing network. In other words, apart from the installation problem, there is a problem in dynamically configuring a SS7 platform.

Auto-configuration process for a point code in a common channel signaling network

Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.


An omnidirectional exercise device including a platform having a top surface and a bottom surface with the top surface extending generally in a first plane. At least one omnidirectional movement assembly is secured relative to the bottom surface such that the platform is supported for omnidirectional movement. A hand securement assembly, which may be in the form of a glove member, is positioned along the top surface and configured to secure a user's hand relative to the top surface such that the user's hand is substantially parallel to the first plane. Each exercise device may include one or more stoppers extending from the bottom of the platform to selectively immobilize the device. A pair of the omnidirectional exercise devices may be joined together to form a system wherein both devices move omnidirectionally in unison.

Over the years physical exercise has grown in popularity to improve the health and physical appearance of a person and also to reduce stress. There are a many forms of physical exercise that may be employed by a person such as: strength training, aerobics, calisthenics, and plyometrics to name a few. A common strength training exercise is the traditional push-up. In performing a push-up, a user assumes a prone position, and lifts the body using the arms. Through this exercise, the weight of the body serves as the main source of resistance to the muscles, particularly the pectoralis muscles, which are used in performing the push-up. However, greater muscle training efficiency may be obtained by activating additional muscle groups while performing the push-up. This is accomplished by modifying the standard up-down motion of the push-up to include various secondary movements such as: leg raises, one-armed push-ups, various hand positions, hip raises and the like. By using such modifications, the user activates various secondary muscle groups, which in turn significantly increase the effectiveness of the physical exercise. Additionally, alternating between push-up exercises and cardiovascular activity may provide additional benefits.
Additionally, exercise efficiency can be further enhanced by random activation of these secondary muscle groups, which induces muscle confusion. It is known that performing the same exercise over and over cause the human body to adapt to these exercise motions and thereby causing a diminishing return by performing the same exercise repeatedly. Consequently, by employing muscle confusion that randomly activates various secondary muscle groups during a particular exercise, the human body is less likely to adapt to the exercise motions and thus receives greater benefit from the exercise.
There are several known devices in the prior art that seek to enhance the overall effectiveness of performing various exercises and in particular the traditional push-up. These devices commonly seek to facilitate one or more secondary motions, which in turn activate additional muscle groups during the core exercise. While these devices have shown some benefits, the devices typically provide a limited specialized activity or require conversion of the device to switch between exercises. Additionally, such devices have typically changed the required positioning of the user's hands and/or wrists away from the natural push-up position.

Omnidirectional exercise device and system


A circuit board connector is provided. The circuit board connector includes: a connector housing which is mounted on a circuit board; and a terminal which is press-fitted into the terminal press-fitting hole of the connector housing. The terminal includes: a terminal connecting portion which is disposed through the rear side of the connector housing to be connected to a mating connector; a press-fitting portion to be fixed to the connector housing; a board fixing portion fixed to the circuit board by soldering; and a coupling portion extending and bent toward a side of the circuit board to couple the press-fitting portion with the board fixing portion. The circuit board connector also includes a stress absorbing portion provided with a center hole which is provided on a midway of the coupling portion so as to absorb a stress by being deformed.

1. Technical Field
The present invention relates to a circuit board connector which is mounted on a circuit board.
2. Background Art
Examples of this type of circuit board connector are shown in, for example, JP-A-2006-100231 and JP-A-2005-116230. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a circuit board connector described in JP-A-2006-100231. FIGS. 9A and 9B are schematic diagrams of terminals of the connector.
As shown in FIG. 8, the circuit board connector is comprised of a resin-made connector housing 101 having in its front portion a fitting port 102 for fitting to a mating connector, as well as a multiplicity of metallic terminals 110A and 110B which are press-fitted from the rear side into terminal press-fitting holes 104 in a rear wall 103 of the connector housing 101 and are fixed therein.
Of the two kinds of terminals 110A and 110B, the terminal 110A shown in FIG. 9A is press-fitted into the terminal press-fitting hole 104 in the upper stage of the connector housing 101, while the terminal 110B shown in FIG. 9B is press-fitted into the terminal press-fitting hole 104 in the lower stage of the connector housing 101.
Each of the terminals 110A and 110B has at its front end a terminal connecting portion 111 which is disposed through the rear wall 103 of the connector housing 101 and extends therefrom toward the front side so as to be connected to the terminal on the mating connector side. Further, in the rear of the terminal connecting portion 111, each of the terminals 110A and 110B has a press-fitting portion 112 which is fixed to the connector housing 101 by being press-fitted in the terminal press-fitting hole 104. Furthermore, in the rear of the press-fitting portion 112, each of the terminals 110A and 110B has a board fixing portion 117 which is fixed to a circuit board by soldering through a connecting portion 119 which extends by being bent toward the circuit board side.
With this type of circuit board connector, there has been a problem in that since the terminals 110A and 110B are press-fitted into and fixed in the connector housing 101, in a case where a thermal contraction difference has occurred between the circuit board and the connector housing owing to a thermal cycle or the like, stresses are undesirably generated in the terminals 110A and 110B, possibly inducing cracks in the portions of the board fixing portions 117 which are soldered to the circuit board.


An instruction scanning unit for a superscalar microprocessor is disclosed. The instruction scanning unit processes start, end, and functional byte information (or predecode data) associated with a plurality of contiguous instruction bytes. The processing of start byte information and end byte information is performed independently and in parallel, and the instruction scanning unit produces a plurality of scan values which identify valid instructions within the plurality of contiguous instruction bytes. Additionally, the instruction scanning unit is scaleable. Multiple instruction scanning units may be operated in parallel to process a larger plurality of contiguous instruction bytes. Furthermore, the instruction scanning unit detects error conditions in the predecode data in parallel with scanning to locate instructions. Moreover, in parallel with the error checking and scanning to locate instructions, MROM instructions are located for dispatch to an MROM unit.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to the field of superscalar microprocessors and, more particularly, to instruction dispatch mechanisms within superscalar microprocessors.
2. Description of the Relevant Art
Superscalar microprocessors are capable of attaining performance characteristics which surpass those of conventional scalar processors by allowing the concurrent execution of multiple instructions. Due to the widespread acceptance of the x86 family of microprocessors, efforts have been undertaken by microprocessor manufacturers to develop superscalar microprocessors which execute x86 instructions. Such superscalar microprocessors achieve relatively high performance characteristics while advantageously maintaining backwards compatibility with the vast amount of existing software developed for previous microprocessor generations such as the 8086, 80286, 80386, and 80486.
The x86 instruction set is relatively complex and is characterized by a plurality of variable byte length instructions. An x86 instruction includes from one to five optional prefix bytes followed by an operation code (opcode) field, an optional addressing mode (Mod R/M) byte, an optional scale-index-base (SIB) byte, an optional displacement field, and an optional immediate data field.
The opcode field defines the basic operation for a particular instruction. The default operation of a particular opcode may be modified by one or more prefix bytes. For example, a prefix byte may be used to change the address or operand size for an instruction, to override the default segment used in memory addressing, or to instruct the processor to repeat a string operation a number of times. The opcode field may be one or two bytes in length. The addressing mode (Mod R/M) byte specifies the registers used as well as memory addressing modes used by the instruction. The SIB byte is used only in 32-bit base-relative addressing using scale and index factors. A base field of the SIB byte specifies which register contains the base value for the address calculation, and an index field specifies which register contains the index value. A scale field specifies the power of two by which the index value will be multiplied before being added, along with any displacement, to the base value. The next instruction field is the optional displacement field, which may be from one to four bytes in length. The displacement field contains a constant used in address calculations. The optional immediate field, which may also be from one to four bytes in length, contains a constant used as an instruction operand. The shortest x86 instructions are only one byte long, and comprise a single opcode byte. The 80286 sets a maximum length for an instruction at 10 bytes, while the 80386 and 80486 both allow instruction lengths of up to 15 bytes.
The complexity of the x86 instruction set poses difficulties in implementing high performance x86 compatible superscalar microprocessors. One difficulty arises from the fact that instructions must be aligned with respect to the parallel-coupled instruction decoders of such processors before proper decode can be effectuated. In contrast to most RISC instruction formats, the x86 instruction set consists of variable byte length instructions. The variable byte length nature implies that the start bytes of successive instructions within a line are not necessarily equally spaced, and the number of instructions per line is not fixed. As a result, employment of simple, fixed-length shifting logic cannot in itself solve the problem of instruction alignment. Although scanning logic has been proposed to dynamically find the boundaries of instructions during the decode pipeline stage (or stages) of the processor, such a solution typically requires that the decode pipeline stage of the processor be implemented with a relatively large number of cascaded levels of logic gates and/or the allocation of several clock cycles to perform the scanning operation.
Another problem related to the detection of variable byte length instructions is incurred by microprocessors which define certain complex instructions as microcode instructions. "Microcode instructions", as used herein, are instructions which are not directly decoded by the parallel-coupled instruction decoders of the superscalar microprocessor. Instead, microcode instructions are routed to a microcode unit which decomposes the microcode instructions into simpler operations which may be decoded by the parallel-coupled instruction decoders. The microcode instructions, therefore, must be detected prior to decode of the instructions and routed to the microcode unit.
Certain microprocessors may employ predecoding as a method for locating variable byte length instructions. However, particularly if a cache line may be partially predecoded, the predecode data may be invalid for a given cache line fetched for dispatch within the microprocessor. A method for validating the predecode data is therefore needed.

Microcode scan unit for scanning microcode instructions using predecode data


One end of a fuse is connected to a ground point via a transistor N1A, and the other end thereof is connected to a node VaA. For example, at a fuse connection case, when INTV=“H” is input to the gate of the transistor N1A, the node VaA becomes “L.” At INTV=“L”, a transistor P1A having a low “on” resistance turns ON, and the node VaA is quickly precharged. At INTV=“H”, the transistor N1A turns ON, and the node VaA is quickly discharged.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to a fuse latch circuit that latches a fuse state during a power-on initialization time period, and more particularly to a fuse latch circuit to be used with a redundancy-functionality-containing memory or a redundancy-functionality-containing memory embedded microcomputer, for which stable operation, low current consumption, and chip size reduction are demanded.
2. Description of Related Art
FIG. 1 shows an example of a conventional fuse latch circuit. FIG. 2 shows an example system using fuse latch circuits, one of which is shown in FIG. 1.
A fuse latch circuit group 110 is configured of 240 fuse latch circuits L0, L1, . . . , L239. An internal circuit 12 outputs respective control signals CNT0, CNT1, . . . , CNT239 in accordance with respective output signals FUSEOT0, FUSEOT1, . . . , FUSEOT239 of the fuse latch circuits L0, L1, . . . , L239.
Each fuse latch circuit Ln (where n=0, 1, . . . , 239) is configured of high "on" resistance p-channel MOS transistors P1 and P2, inverters INV1 and INV2, a resistor R, a fuse (such as an aluminum fuse) AL-fuse, and capacitors C1 and C2.
The capacitor C1 has the function of setting a node Va to a power supply level (VDD) at the power-on time. The capacitor C2 has the function of setting a node Vb to a ground level (VSS) at the power-on time. However, during system initialization, the node Va becomes the ground level, and the node Vb becomes the power supply level.
Other example fuse latch circuits are disclosed in, for example, Jpn. Pat. Appln. KOKAI Publications No. 2002-298594, No. 2000-311496, No. 2002-175696, No. 05-41096, and No. 2002-093188.
Fuse Connection Case
FIG. 3 shows operation of the fuse latch circuit shown in FIG. 1 in a fuse connection case (non-disconnection case).
First, in a time T1 or immediately before the system initialization, since a control signal INTV is set to an "H" level, the node Va becomes a ground level ("L" level). At this time, also the output signal FUSEOTn of the fuse latch circuit Ln becomes the "L" level.
At a system initialization time T2, since the control signal INTV becomes the "L" level, the p-channel MOS transistor P1 is set to an ON state. Consequently, the node Va enters a precharge state, and a current path occurs in the route "power supply→transistor P1→node Va→resistor R→fuse AL-fuse→ground point."
A let-through current in units of one fuse latch circuit in the above-described state is about 25 μA. However, assumptions are made that the power supply level (VDD) is about 3.3 V, and the temperature is normal temperature.
The system shown in FIG. 2 has the 240 fuse latch circuits L0, L1, . . . , L239. Individual operation timings of the fuse latch circuits L0, L1, . . . , L239 are identical to one another, so that a let-through current ivdd of about 6 mA in total flows across the overall system.
Consequently, the let-through current ivdd arises the probability of a power-supply potential fall. In addition, power consumption in a memory or a memory embedded microcomputer employed by the system is increased.
Further, to prevent potential variations in the node Va due to the let-through current ivdd, such a manner as to set a circuit threshold value of an inverter INV1 is frequently practiced. In this case, however, if the circuit threshold value of the inverter INV1 increases to the power supply level, a failure mode takes place. More specifically, the output signal FUSEOTn is set to "L" while it inherently is to be "H" in the system initialization time T2.
Fuse Disconnection Case
FIG. 4 shows operation of the fuse latch circuit shown in FIG. 1 in a fuse connection case.
First, in the time T1 or immediately before the system initialization, since the control signal INTV is set to an "H" level, the node Va becomes the ground level ("L" level). At this time, also the output signal FUSEOTn of the fuse latch circuit Ln becomes the "L" level.
At the system initialization time T2, since the control signal INTV becomes the "L" level, the p-channel MOS transistor P1 is changed to the ON state. Consequently, the node Va enters a precharge state. Precharge of the node Va requires a sufficiently long precharge time in association with the capacitance (=large) of the capacitor C1 and a conductance gmA (=high) of the high "on" resistance p-channel MOS transistor P1.
For the reason described above, when, for example, a pulse width of the control signal INTV, i.e., the time T2, is excessively short, the potential of the node Va is unable to reach a predetermined precharge level. As a consequence, a failure mode takes place in which the potential of the node Va remains unable to exceed the circuit threshold value of the inverter INV1, and the output signals FUSEOTn that should inherently becomes "H" changes to "L."
In addition, for example, when the pulse width of the control signal INTV varies, the redundancy functionality is disabled in a state where the pulse width is narrow. Consequently, faulty data is transferred to a system bus to be used as data such as instruction data or control data, so that a system failure is induced.
FIG. 5 shows an example layout for five units of the fuse latch circuits shown in FIG. 1.
Fuses AL-fuse are formed in a fuse area. In a transistor area, p-channel MOS transistors P1 and P2 and inverters INV1 and INV2 are formed in a transistor area. Wirelines W1, W2, and W3 are formed in a wireline area; resistors R are formed in a resistor area; and capacitors C1 and C2 are formed in a capacitor area.
The size necessary for one of the fuse circuits is about 588 μm2 (i.e., about 73.2 μm×about 8.04 μm=about 588 μm2). Therefore, in the system shown in FIG. 2 having 240 fuse latch circuits, the area required for the fuse latch circuit group is about 141,247 μm2 (i.e., about 73.2 μm×about 8.04 μm×240 units=about 141,247 μm2).
In recent years, there is the tendency of using an increased number of fuse latch circuits in one system, consequently increasing the ratio in the occupation area of a fuse latch circuit group in a memory-macro control circuit. Consequently, the chip size is increased in, for example, a memory or memory embedded microcomputer in which the system is mounted.
Accordingly, for an integrated circuit such as a memory or memory embedded microcomputer having fuse latch circuits, it is important to implement system stabilization and low current consumption by eliminating let-through current during the initial operation time. In addition, it is important to arrange the configuration not causing erroneous operation even when the pulse width of the control signal for initializing the system is narrow and to reduce the layout area of the fuse latch circuits.


Systems and techniques to enable secure and efficient recovery of encrypted content may include accessing a public key of a user and another user and encrypting data using the public keys. The another user may be the user's manager. Systems and techniques may include generating a session key, encrypting data using the session key, and encrypting the session key using the public keys of at least two users. A data structure such as a directory may be accessed to obtain information such as one or more public keys.

Information protection poses a complex problem for individuals and businesses. Businesses in particular may find it difficult to protect information from unauthorized access and at the same time allow easy access by authorized users.
For example, it may be difficult to ensure that encrypted information may be recovered in the event that the key to decrypt the information is unavailable. If the key or keys necessary to access the information are lost (e.g., if a hardware cryptographic device is misplaced or if a key stored in a memory or magnetic medium is lost when the memory is inaccessible for some reason), the data may become either temporarily or permanently inaccessible.
Key escrow systems may be used to enable content recovery of encrypted information. Key escrow systems store a key to access encrypted information in a safe location so that the encrypted information may be later recovered. For example, an employee may have a key for decryption of data. The same key may also be stored in a central repository and may be accessed when needed by an appropriate person.
Alternately, "master key" encryption systems may also be used to enable data recovery. A master key system may encrypt data using both a user's public key and a master public key. In a corporation, each employee may have a personal public key, and may access the company public key for encrypting electronic documents. Either of the user's private key or the company private key may be used to decrypt the data, so that if the user's key is unavailable for some reason, the data may still be accessed.
Like reference symbols in the various drawings indicate like elements.


The present invention comprises an improved antifreeze coolant composition with certain additives that serve to increase the thermal stability of the glycol component of a glycol/water coolant composition and to reduce the tendency of the glycol component to degrade under elevated thermal conditions. These additives comprise organic compounds with a carboxylic acid moiety and a hydroxyl moiety, and also tricarballylic acid. Another aspect of this invention concerns a method for improving the stability of the glycol component of a glycol/water coolant composition in engine cooling/heating systems by formulating a glycol/water coolant composition with the thermal stability additive to form an improved coolant composition, and contacting the engine cooling/heating system with the improved coolant composition.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an engine antifreeze coolant composition which improves the thermal stability of the glycol component of a glycol/water coolant composition in engine cooling/heating systems.
2. Background of the Invention
It is well known to use heat transfer fluids in heat exchanging systems, such as the central heating circuits and engine cooling systems of internal combustion engines and diesel engines. Generally, the heat transfer fluid contacts various metals, alloys and other components that form the different parts of the heat exchanging circuits in these systems. Most typically, coolants that are used in the internal combustion engines and heavy duty diesel engine applications are relied upon to remove the excess heat produced by the internal combustion process.
The coolants, which are also referred to as antifreeze compositions, usually comprise a water-soluble organic fluid to lower the freezing point of the heat transfer fluid. The water-soluble organic fluid is also referred to as an organic freezing point depressant. This water-soluble organic fluid is typically a glycol, for example, monoethylene glycol or monopropylene glycol. Other equivalent glycols can also be used, such as 1,3-butylene glycol, hexylene glycol, diethylene glycol, glycerin, dipropylene glycol and 1,3propanediol. Corrosion inhibitors are also generally added to the antifreeze compositions.
Glycol-based antifreeze compositions are generally diluted with water in order to prepare a ready-to-use aqueous heat transfer fluid. The weight ratio of the amount of the organic freezing point depressant component to that of water in the antifreeze composition is determined by the desired freezing point temperature of the antifreeze composition. Specific combinations of water and organic freezing point depressant components are chosen for desired heat transfer, freezing point and boiling point properties.
Antifreeze coolant compositions also contain additives to prevent corrosion, foaming and scale formation, as well as dyes for fluid identification purposes, and buffering agents to control the pH of the composition.
A current trend in engine manufacture is toward higher efficiency and reduced environmental impact. Higher efficiency can be achieved by increasing power output while reducing engine size and weight. This in turn has the effect of increasing the thermal load to the engine cooling system while often reducing the volume of the cooling system. Such changes result in higher coolant operating temperatures. However, gains in efficiency are often accompanied by increased degradation of the coolant.
The antifreeze coolant composition can degrade in a number of ways. Higher temperatures can accelerate the depletion of the coolant's corrosion inhibitors, prematurely shortening the useful life of the coolant. Thus, corrosion inhibitors which undergo chemical reaction to protect metal surfaces can undergo reaction at accelerated rates at elevated temperatures. For example, nitrite inhibitors added to protect cast iron typically convert to nitrate in use and will convert the iron surfaces to a passivated state. Higher temperatures will accelerate the conversion of nitrite to nitrate, resulting in inhibitor depletion followed by reduced iron surface protection and increased iron corrosion. Ultimately, coolant life is shortened.
Moreover, the coolant base fluid, often composed of glycols can itself degrade to glycol breakdown products such as formate and glycolate through a process of oxidation, perhaps catalyzed by metal surfaces. These oxidation products tend to be acidic and can themselves attack cooling system components. Thus, the presence of glycolates and formates can enhance iron corrosion processes.
Prior art automotive and heavy-duty coolant technology was designed for use at temperatures that typically ranged from about 180-220° F., while heat rejecting surfaces that emanate heat and need to be cooled, such as the engine block, turbo chargers, exhaust gas coolers and fuel injectors, can develop surface temperatures which contact the coolant that range from about 230° F. to about 275° F. As trends continue, it is expected that coolant operating temperatures will increase to greater than 230° F. and that the temperature of the heat rejecting surfaces can be on the order of about 450° F. to about 600° F.
At the temperatures for which they were designed, prior art coolants resist metal corrosion by means of inorganic or carboxylate inhibition. They are also effective to some extent at buffering against the deleterious effects of acidic glycol breakdown products. However, at the anticipated increase in operating temperatures of automotive cooling systems, prior art corrosion protection, inhibitor depletion and glycol stability can be negatively impacted.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,851,419 to Miyake et al discloses an antifreeze composition containing a succinic acid derivative in combination with a benzoic acid derivative to provide improved corrosion protection and greater buffering capacity. Improved buffer capacity is exemplified by titrating the antifreeze composition with acid and noting that increased acid is needed to reduce the pH of the coolant. When glycol degrades to acidic product, the composition will resist pH drop due to enhanced buffer capacity.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,241,016, to Hirozawa discloses a process of inhibiting the corrosion of metals, especially aluminum, using hydroxybenzoic acids as corrosion inhibitors in combination with an organosiloxane silicate copolymer and pH buffering agents capable of buffering in the pH range of 9 to 11.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,460,478, to Mohr et al. discloses a coolant composition containing an orthosilicate ester in a pH range of 6 to 8 containing between 25 to 4000 ppm silicon. Mohr also discloses hydroxybenzoate as a corrosion inhibitor.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,085,793, to Burns et al discloses an antifreeze composition wherein hydroxybenzoates are used for corrosion protection. The antifreeze composition comprises glycol and at least one hydroxyl-substituted aromatic carboxylic acid, having the carboxyl radical proximate to the hydroxyl radical. Also disclosed is a process for inhibiting metal corrosion. The corrosion inhibitor comprises hydroxybenzoate and at least one of borates, silicates, benzoate, nitrates, nitrites, molybdates, thiazoles, and a aliphatic diacid or its salt.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,718,836 to Nakatani discloses a coolant composition containing calcium and/or magnesium salts as well as other corrosion inhibitors, including benzoates.
European patent 0 348 303 discloses improved corrosion protection at elevated temperatures from the addition of salicylate or acetylsalicylate to glycol based antifreeze coolants. The examples show increased pH in comparative coolants when thermally aged due to the formation of basic degradation products. The addition of salicylate appears to repress increase in basicity as indicated by the repressed pH rise during thermal treatment. Repression of metal corrosion is also noted. Although pH rise is undesirable because it indicates metal corrosion, a pH drop also is a matter of concern because an overly acid coolant will itself induce corrosion of metal to which it is exposed. Therefore, preventing the formation of acidic products is an important and different function than prevention of metal corrosion.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,387,360 to Uekusa et al discloses an antifreeze coolant composition comprising glycols as the main constituent, for example, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, hexylene glycol, diethylene glycol and glycerin. Uekusa's water-free antifreeze composition also includes at least one conventional corrosion inhibitor except silicates, and about 0.005 weight % to about 0.5 weight % of citric acid and/or its corresponding salts.
Uekusa discloses that when an organic acid other than citric acid and its salts, or a tribasic acid, or a dibasic acid is employed in place of citric acid, the resulting coolant has little corrosion inhibiting effect, whether or not the organic acid has a hydroxyl group in the molecule. Uekusa also notes that when the amount of citric acid or its corresponding salts are less than 0.005 weight %, the resulting coolant does not have a satisfactory corrosion preventing effect on metallic materials such as aluminum alloys, resulting in increased weight loss of metallic materials due to corrosion. Uekusa further notes that when the concentration of citric acid or its corresponding salts is greater than 0.5 weight %, the resulting coolant does not have desirable corrosion preventing properties, resulting in increased weight loss of cast aluminum test pieces due to corrosion. The surface of the cast aluminum alloys also turns black. Uekusa does not address the influence or effect of citric acid and its corresponding salts or other additives in a glycol/water antifreeze coolant composition on glycol stability in high temperature applications.

Antifreeze coolant composition for high temperature applications


A position detecting device includes: a liquid having a free surface; a light source configured to irradiate a light flux toward the free surface of the liquid; a dark field pattern provided between the liquid and the light source and configured to form a pattern of the light flux irradiated by the light source; a light-receiving sensor configured to detect the pattern of the light flux reflected by the free surface of the liquid; and an arithmetic unit configured to calculate a position of the pattern from results of detection of the light-receiving sensor, add the results of the detection of the light-receiving sensor in an X-direction and a Y-direction of the light-receiving sensor, and calculate the position of the pattern from an output obtained by adding the results of the detection in the X-direction and the Y-direction.

The present invention relates to a position detecting device which utilizes a liquid having a free surface. More particularly, the invention relates to a position detecting device suitable for an inclination sensor device of a surveying apparatus and which has a compact structure, and to the inclination sensor device of the surveying apparatus using the position detecting device.
JP2000-105119A discloses a position detecting device and a surveying apparatus using the position detecting device, which includes: an emission optical system; a dark field pattern; a liquid; a projection optical system; a first light-condensing element; a second light-condensing element; a first light-receiving sensor; and a second light receiving sensor.
According to the position detecting device and the surveying apparatus of JP2000-105119A, the emission optical system emits a light flux from a light source in parallel, and the dark field pattern includes transit portions, through which the pattern forming light flux from the emission optical system is passed, and arranges the transit portions two-dimensionally in a pattern therein. The liquid, having a free surface, reflects the pattern forming light flux, and the projection optical system projects the pattern forming light flux reflected by the free surface of the liquid. The first light-condensing element structures a part of the projection optical system and condenses the pattern forming light flux in a first direction, and the second light-condensing element also structures a part of the projection optical system and condenses the pattern forming light flux in a second direction which is different from the first direction. The first light-receiving sensor receives projection images of the dark field pattern formed by the pattern forming light flux condensed by the first light-condensing element, and the second light-receiving sensor receives the projection images of the dark field pattern formed by the pattern forming light flux condensed by the second light-condensing element.
Thereby, the position detecting device and the surveying apparatus of JP2000-105119A detects positions of the projection images of an X-direction and positions of the projection images of a Y-direction based on a light-receiving signal of the first light-receiving sensor and a light-receiving signal of the second light-receiving sensor, so as to obtain movement amounts of the projection images from a reference position. The position detecting device and the surveying apparatus of JP2000-105119A also converts the obtained movement amounts of the projection images to an angle of inclination.
The JP2000-105119A further discloses an inclination sensor device of the surveying apparatus utilizing such a position detecting device.
According to the position detecting device and the inclination sensor device of the surveying apparatus utilizing the same of the JP2000-105119A, however, because the pattern forming light flux, reflected from the free surface of the liquid, is made to condense in the directions different from each other by utilizing the first light-condensing element and a cylindrical lens as the second light-condensing element each structuring the part of the projection optical system, and then the condensed light fluxes are received by the first light-receiving sensor and the second light-receiving sensor, respectively, there are problems that the structure of the projection optical system is complicated, and the position detecting device and the inclination sensor device are difficult to achieve compactification.

Position detecting device and inclination sensor device of surveying apparatus using the same


Event information of a computing device is obtained. The event information characterizes events occurring at the computing device. Two or more of the events are grouped into an event group. The event group defines an activity. The event group is classified to classify the activity. The activity and one or more related activities are chained into a sequence. The sequence defines a behavior. Context is added to the sequence to determine a contextual behavior. A security threat is detected based on the contextual behavior.

Computing systems may be subject to various security threats, such as data leakage, data corruption, unauthorized access, and/or unauthorized control. Detection of security threats based on detection of particular events at a computing system may require individual events and different combinations of events to be coded. Further, identifying individual events occurring at a computing system may not provide comprehensive information on what is occurring at the computing system. Such analysis of events may not provide comprehensive threat information.

Multi-layer data model for security analytics

Beijing DiDi Infinity Technology and Development Co., Ltd.


A first information handling system may detect a reboot condition for the first information handling system. The first information handling system may transmit a first notification to a second information handling system, notifying the second information handling system that the first information handling system is going to reboot. The first information handling system may transmit a second notification to a third information handling system, instructing the third information handling system to age out old root information. The first information handling system may then reboot.

As the value and use of information increase, individuals and businesses seek additional ways to process and store information. One option available for such a purpose is the information handling system (IHS). An information handling system generally processes, compiles, stores, and/or communicates information or data for business, personal, or other purposes thereby allowing users to take advantage of the value of the information. Because technology and information handling requirements vary between different users or applications, information handling systems may also vary regarding what information is handled, how the information is handled, how much information is processed, stored, or communicated, and how quickly and efficiently the information may be processed, stored, or communicated. Variations in information handling system build and capabilities allow for information handling systems to be general or configured for a specific user or specific use such as financial transaction processing, airline reservations, enterprise data storage, or global communications. In addition, information handling systems may include a variety of hardware and software components that may be configured to process, store, and communicate information and may include one or more computer systems, data storage systems, and networking systems.
Information handling systems may be connected to facilitate information sharing. For example, client information handling systems, such as personal computers, laptops, tablets, servers, routers, switches, such as top of rack (TOR) switches, and other information handling systems may be connected to each other via intermediary information handling systems, such as routers and switches, to facilitate transmission and receipt of information. As the number of interconnected information handling systems increases, the complexity of networks of intermediary information handling systems, to facilitate information sharing, also increases.
Information handling systems may, from time to time, encounter conditions requiring a system reboot. For example, an information handling system may encounter one or more errors, which may be resolved by a system reboot. Alternatively or additionally, software, hardware, and/or firmware may be updated, and such updates may require a system reboot to apply the updates to the system. Rebooting an information handling system may cause a lapse in service. For example, if an intermediary information handling system reboots, communication between a client information handling system and one or more other information handling systems may be interrupted. Even if multiple intermediary information handling systems are connected to the client information handling system to provide redundancy, communication between the client information handling system and other information handling systems may be temporarily interrupted, while connections between the client information handling system and intermediary information handling systems are reconfigured.
Shortcomings mentioned here are only representative and are included simply to highlight that a need exists for improved information handling systems. Embodiments described herein address certain shortcomings but not necessarily each and every one described here or known in the art. Furthermore, embodiments described herein may present other benefits than, and be used in other applications than, those of the shortcomings described above.

Notification and transfer of link aggregation group control in anticipation of a primary node reboot


A computer system has a mass storage device storing a file enabler associated with a file system for enabling file operations, a firmware memory storing a firmware routine, and a second memory. The computer system also has a microprocessor connected to load the file enabler stored on the mass storage device into the second memory and allow the firmware routine to access the file enabler stored in the second memory in file operations. The computer system may be a portable computer, and the firmware routine may be a hibernation routine.

The invention relates to using firmware.
A typical portable computer has a battery for furnishing power to the computer when AC power is unavailable. When the battery becomes substantially discharged, a user of the computer may not have sufficient time to save data before the complete discharge of the battery and corresponding shut down of the computer.
The portable computer may have firmware to prevent data loss due to power failure, such as a hibernation routine incorporated into a Basic Input/Output System (BIOS). The BIOS is located in a Read Only Memory (ROM) of the computer and contains systems programs for interfacing higher level software, such as an operating system (e.g., MS-DOS), to hardware of the computer. The hibernation routine is executed by a central processing unit (CPU) of the computer when circuitry of the computer detects the battery has become almost discharged. The hibernation routine transfers the contents of a system memory and the states of computer devices, i.e., hibernation data (which would be lost when power is shut down) to a disk drive (where they can survive when power is lost) of the computer before the complete discharge of the battery. When power is restored to the computer, the hibernation routine restores the contents of the system memory and the states of the computer devices that existed prior to the hibernation.
The hibernation routine may store the hibernation data to the disk drive as a file pursuant to a file system (e.g., a file allocation table (FAT) system), or the hibernation routine may store the hibernation data to a reserved hibernation data partition of the disk drive which is not organized in accordance with a particular file system.


An ink jet ink composition comprising an aqueous media and a pigment dispersion comprising a specific carbon black pigment and a polymeric dispersant wherein said polymeric dispersant is a copolymer comprising at least a hydrophobic methacrylate or acrylate monomer containing an aliphatic chain having greater than or equal to 12 carbons; and a hydrophilic methacrylic or acrylic acid monomer; wherein said copolymer comprises at least 10% by weight of the methacrylate or acrylate monomer and at least 5% by weight of the methacrylic or acrylic acid monomer; and wherein the copolymer comprises, in total, 20 to 95 weight % of hydrophobic monomer.

Ink jet printing is a non-impact method for producing printed images by the deposition of ink droplets in a pixel-by-pixel manner onto an image-recording element in response to digital signals. There are various methods that may be utilized to control the deposition of ink droplets on the image-recording element to yield the desired printed image. In one process, known as drop-on-demand ink jet, individual droplets are projected as needed onto the image-recording element to form the desired printed image. Common methods of controlling the ejection of ink droplets in drop-on-demand printing include thermal bubble formation (thermal ink jet (TIJ)) and piezo electric transducers. In another process known as continuous ink jet (CIJ), a continuous stream of droplets is generated and expelled in an image-wise manner onto the surface of the image-recording element, while non-imaged droplets are deflected, caught and recycled to an ink sump. Ink jet printers have found broad applications across markets ranging from desktop document and photographic-quality imaging, to short run printing and industrial labeling.
Ink compositions used in ink jet printers can be classified as either pigment-based in which the colorant exists as pigment particles suspended in the ink composition, or as dye-based in which the colorant exists as a fully solvated dye species that consists of one or more dye molecules. Pigment-based inks are often preferred over dye-based inks because they possess better fade resistance to light and gas, especially ozone, as compared to printed images with dye-based inks. The pigment particles of pigment-based ink compositions, when printed onto photo-glossy receivers suitable for photographic image quality, typically reside at the surface of the receiver material. Images produced from such pigmented inks exhibit high optical density and good gloss when the dispersion particle sizes are less than about 130 nanometers. When the dispersion pigment particle sizes are less than about 75 nanometers extremely high gloss can be achieved. Image durability is very good when the pigmented inks are comprised of polymeric dispersions or contain additional binders. However, the same pigmented ink compositions, when printed onto uncoated (plain) papers typically used in the home or office environment for routine printing, often provide less density and inferior density consistency as compared to dye-based inks. This is a result of the pigment particles of the pigment-based ink compositions migrating into the interior of the plain paper. The extent of this particle migration varies from paper to paper and depends on the plain paper manufacturing process. Consequently, the pigment particles printed onto such papers receive reduced illumination by incident light, and light scatter that occurs within the plain paper further diminishes the density formed by the pigment particles. In contrast, appreciable colorant in the dye-based ink compositions is absorbed by the paper fibers at or near the surface of the plain paper, which results in higher optical density.
The process of preparing pigment-based ink compositions usually involves two sequential steps: (a) a milling step, conducted in the presence of a dispersing agent, to break up crude pigment aggregates into primary pigment particles that are stabilized by the dispersing agent, and (b) an ink formulation step in which the stabilized pigment dispersion particles are diluted with ink components such as water and water miscible organic compounds (humectants, surfactants, binders, etc.). It is well known in the art that the choice of dispersant in the milling step is critical as it facilitates de-aggregation of the pigment agglomerates and stabilization of the pigment particles as they are being broken up by the mechanical and kinetic energy being provided in the milling process. The choice of dispersant ultimately affects the primary particle size achievable and also determines many of the final physical properties of the dispersion, such as viscosity and surface tension. The dispersant also strongly influences the stability of the dispersion to various ink additives, the jetting quality of the ink, and the final printed image resistance to degradations associated with wet and dry physical abrasion, light and gas fade, and water-fastness.
In the case of organic pigments an efficient dispersion process usually provides a dispersion that exhibits the primary particle sizes associated with the pigment (primary pigment particle sizes are usually determined by the chemical nature of the pigment and its preparative process). Industrial carbon carbon black pigments, however, have many important physical and chemical parameters that can affect the dispersion particle sizes, recorded image quality, and ink performance on various receivers. Important parameters, as described in Carbon Black, Science and Technology, 2d, ed., J. Donnet et al, Marcel Dekker, Inc. 1993, include, primary particle size, aggregate structure as determined by DBP (dibutyl phthalate) oil absorption, and volatiles content. These parameters are determined by the carbon black manufacturing process and any oxidative post treatments the carbon may be subjected to such as those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,347,632; 5,609,671; 5,718,746; 5,928,419; and 6,503,311. For instance, it is known that channel and gas blacks have high DBP oil absorption and high volatiles content whereas furnace blacks have low DBP oil absorption and low volatiles content. Typical DPB absorption values for pigment blacks utilized in printing inks range from about 45 to 125. Carbon pigments, especially, have found wide application in the printing of black text, graphics and photographic images. Today, virtually all black pigment-based ink compositions used in the printing of text, graphics or most photographic quality images are comprised of carbon pigment dispersions of particle size in the sub-micron range.
For the printing of high quality black and white photographic images, writing systems utilizing pigment-based inks sometimes rely on the use of so-called process blacks (printing of CMY pigments) to form a neutral color or, alternatively, on the use of black ink comprised of a surfactant- or polymer-dispersed carbon black for the imaging of neutral colors. Conversely, beginning in the early 1990's much of the desktop ink jet printing industry has adopted the use of black inks comprised of surface functionalized, self-dispersed carbon black pigments for the printing of black text as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,630,868 to J. Belmont et al, U.S. Pat. No. 5,672,198 to J. Belmont and, in T. Lüthge, G. Tauber, R. McIntosh, W. Kalbitz, and S. Lüdtke, Proc. NIP 20: Int. Conf. on Digital Printing Tech., 2004, IS&T, Springfield, Va., pp 753-757. Pigment inks comprised of self-dispersed black dispersions have provided high text density owing to the efficient aggregation and retention of the carbon black pigment particles at the surface of almost all types of image receivers (plain papers or photo-glossy). As described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,630,868 or Lüthge et al, black inks comprised of such carbon black dispersions exhibit higher optical densities on plain papers as compared to inks comprised of surfactant or polymer dispersed carbon black pigments.
In the case of printing of high quality photographic images onto photo-glossy receivers, high gloss and good durability (resistance to image smear) are of paramount importance whereas the requirements associated with printing of black text/graphics onto plain or other uncoated papers usually center on high visual density and good water fastness and smear resistance. Unfortunately, inks comprised of self-dispersed carbon black pigments such as those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,630,868, and Lüthge et al, that are highly suitable for text printing show poor smear resistance on uncoated papers and these same inks lack sufficient gloss and image durability to be useful for the printing of high quality photographic images onto photo-glossy papers. Pigment inks that are suitable for printing of photographic quality images onto photo-glossy papers lack the density and density uniformity across the various plain papers often used in desktop ink jet printing. As a consequence ink jet writing systems typically possess a black ink dedicated to the printing of black text/graphics and a separate set of inks dedicated to photo-printing
Thus, a major challenge for pigmented ink compositions comprised of polymer-dispersed pigment particles is to provide high density when printed onto uncoated (plain) papers, while simultaneously providing high density, gloss, and image durability on glossy papers and photo-glossy ink jet receivers. One such approach is to use a mixture of pigments dispersed by dissimilar means in the same ink as described in U.S. Patent Application Number 2005/0223938A1. However, this approach has the drawback that two separate pigment dispersions must be manufactured and formulated into a single ink composition.
In addition to the art cited above additional approaches that utilize high molecular weight polymeric dispersants and latexes in the pigmented ink compositions have been employed in drop-on-demand piezoelectric printers directed at photographic quality pictorial image reproduction (U.S. Pat. No. 6,713,531 B2; U.S. Pat. No. 6,180,691 B1; U.S. Pat. No. 6,866,707 B2). Such inks provide high density on uncoated papers and high density, durable images of modest gloss on photo-glossy receivers. Unfortunately, pigmented inks of such compositions cannot be utilized in thermal ink jet since heaters become easily fouled and small diameter nozzles clogged. Other approaches relying on polymeric dispersants containing high hydrophobic to hydrophilic monomer ratios, not suited for aqueous milling processes, have also been disclosed (U.S. Pat. No. 5,798,426 A issued to Anton et al.). Approaches to modify the uncoated paper compositions by incorporating cationic species capable of binding the pigment particles near the surface of the uncoated receiver have also been employed. Such approaches typically increase the cost of the receiver or complicate the paper making process and have not generally been utilized in uncoated receivers commonly used in the home or office.
U.S. Patent Application 2005/0143491 describes certain block copolymers to be utilized in a non-aqueous ink jet ink. U.S. Pat. No. 5,679,138 A, U.S. Pat. No. 5,651,813 A, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,985,017 A describe the preparation of aqueous pigment-based ink compositions for ink jet printing wherein pigment particles are dispersed with surfactants and have an average particle diameter of less than 100 nm. Although these ink compositions are very useful for photographic-quality imaging, the ink compositions therein may not possess sufficient durability on photo-glossy receivers nor provide high density on a variety of receivers, including uncoated papers. U.S. Patent 2005/0004261 A1, U.S. Patent 2004/0127619 A1, U.S. Pat. No. 6,245,832 B1, U.S. Pat. No. 5,085,698 A, and U.S. Pat. No. 4,597,794 A describe aqueous pigment-based ink compositions for ink jet printing wherein pigment particles are dispersed with polymeric materials derived from hydrophobic and hydrophilic monomers. Use of these dispersants and milling processes provides dispersions that frequently have particle sizes equal to or greater than 100 nm. Pigment-based ink compositions produced from such dispersions do not yield the necessary density on uncoated papers. U.S. Ser. No. 10/891,316, filed Jul. 14, 2004, describes the preparation of aqueous pigmented ink compositions for ink jet printing wherein the pigment particles are dispersed with random copolymers and have an median particle diameter less than about 100 nm. While these pigment-based ink compositions provide high durability and density in drop-on-demand image printing applications, they lack the necessary density on uncoated papers. It is not appreciated in the art that the choice of polymeric dispersant, especially the choice of certain monomer types, will markedly influence the interaction of the pigment particles in pigment-based ink compositions with the surface of uncoated papers.
Generally, polymeric dispersants have been selected for their ability to provide stable pigment dispersions and pigmented ink compositions that enable improved performance on photo-glossy receivers while providing good jetting quality within the printing architecture they must operate. Examples of carbon blacks dispersed with polymers are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,184,148; 5,686,508; 5,919,294; 6,383,278; 6,551,394 and U.S. Patent Application Number 2005/0042164A1. Typically, inks comprised of such polymer-dispersed carbon black pigments lack sufficient density and density uniformity when printed onto uncoated papers. In addition, it is not appreciated in the art that key physical and chemical parameters related to carbon black when polymer dispersed with specific polymer of structures described in U.S. Ser. No. 11/206,588, filed Aug. 18, 2005, can greatly enhance the interaction with and aggregation of carbon black particles on the surface of uncoated papers.
There remains the need for 1) a single black ink, useful in thermal and piezoelectric ink jet drop-on-demand printing and continuous ink jet printing, in which the black ink is able to meet all of the important requirements for plain paper printing while at the same time satisfying the important requirements for photo-printing on glossy receivers; 2) a black ink for text and graphics printing which is water-fast and smear resistant; 3) a black ink of carbon black dispersion with an average particle size of less than about 125 nm for improved jetting quality and reliability in ever-decreasing print head nozzle diameters; and 4) a "universal" black pigment-based ink that can simplify system design and enable opportunities for new hardware and writing system architectures.

Polymeric black pigment dispersions and ink jet ink compositions


A work transfer apparatus for a transfer press or a press, with which an optimal die can be designed for each process, is provided. For this purpose, the work transfer apparatus for a transfer press includes at least a pair of lift beams (13), carriers (15) movable along a longitudinal direction of the lift beam, paired sub-carriers (50) movable in a carrier moving direction, power transmission means (51, 54) for transmitting carrier driving force to the sub-carriers, and a cross bar (17) which is laterally spanned between the sub-carriers and provided with work holding means (18) capable of holding a work.

A transfer feeder for transferring a work between the working stations in succession is conventionally placed in a transfer press including a plurality of working stations in a press main body. The transfer feeder includes a pair of parallel transfer bars at left and right with respect to a work transfer direction, and each of the transfer bars has a long length to extend along all the working stations.
As a conventional transfer feeder, the one is disclosed in, for example, in Japanese Patent Laid-open No. 11-104759, and according to the Laid-open Patent, a pair of left and right transfer bars are constituted by long integrated bars extending along all the working stations. The transfer bar is provided with a plurality of suction tools with predetermined spaces from each other in the work transfer direction to be ascendable and descendable, and movable in the lateral direction (clamp direction) and the longitudinal direction (transfer direction) by a linear motor. As a result, it is made possible to correspond to a change of the work in the clamp/unclamp direction by the aforementioned suction tools when transferring a work.
As another example of the prior art of the transfer feeder, for example, the one disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-open No. 10-314871 is cited. According to the Laid-open Patent, in the transfer feed bar drive device, the transfer bar (feed bar of the same Laid-open Patent) includes a feed carrier, to which the transfer bar is connected so as to be movable up and down and in the lateral direction and restricted in the movement in the longitudinal direction, and a feed unit for moving the feed carrier back and forth by a linear motor.
As still another example of the prior art of the transfer feeder, the one is disclosed in for example, Japanese Patent Publication No. 7-73756. According to the same Patent Publication, a plurality of carriers are provided at a pair of vertically movable guide rails at left and right with respect to the work transfer direction (corresponding to the aforementioned transfer bar) to be independently movable by a linear motor. The cross bar is spanned between the carriers opposing each other with each working station between them, a work is sucked with the work holding means including the cross bar, and the cross bar is moved along the guide rail by the aforementioned linear motor, whereby the work is transferred.
However, the above-described conventional transfer bar has the following problems.
The transfer bars described in Japanese Patent Laid-open No. 11-104759 and Japanese Patent Laid-open No. 10-314871 are each constituted by an integrated bar extending along all the working stations, and there is only one system of the driving source in the feed direction. Consequently, adjustment of each stroke of the feed, lift, and work transfer height (so-called feed level) of each process has limitation to some extent. Namely, concerning the feed stroke, the transfer pitch (distance between the processes) is constant, and therefore the work transfer is difficult in the transfer press in which the pitches between the adjacent working stations differ. In addition, the die has to be designed so that the distances between the processes are equal, which causes the problem that it is difficult to design an optimal die in consideration of the interference curve and the like. Further, concerning the lift and work transfer height, they have to be equal between the respective working stations, which makes it difficult to design an optimal die corresponding thereto.
The transfer bar described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 7-73756 is constituted so that a plurality of carriers can be self-propelled independently by the respective linear motors. However, there arises the problem that the lift stroke and the work transfer height cannot be adjusted for each process since the transfer bars (guide rails) are constituted by integrated bars extending along a plurality of working stations as described above.

Work transfer method for transfer press and work transfer apparatus for transfer press or press


A retraction spring assembly having: a) pad clip having a lock channel and one or more assembly locks; b) a retraction spring affixed to the pad clip with two or more lock arms residing within the lock channel and a plurality of energy storage portions; and first and second retraction arms; wherein the one or more assembly locks are configured to receive the two or more lock arms and bias the retraction spring into an assembly position; during the brake apply, movement of the first and second retraction arm is toward each other and results in energy being stored in the body portion; and during the brake release, the energy stored in the body portion is released and transferred to both the first and second retraction arm to result in movement of the first retraction arm and the second retraction arm away from each other.

Typical disc brake systems include a support bracket, two or more brake pads, a caliper, and a rotor. The two or more brake pads are mounted and located adjacent to the support bracket so that the brake pads move axially toward and away from the rotor. The disc brake system may include a pad clip that attaches to the support bracket and to a portion of one or more of the brake pads so that the brake pads are held in the support bracket. The disc brake system may include one or more springs that attach to the brake pads and pad clips to assist in retracting the brake pads. The spring and pad clip form a retraction spring assembly. The addition of one or more pad clips and/or one or more springs may require modifications to be made to the support bracket, brake pads, caliper, or combination thereof so that the spring and/or pad clip may be used. In addition, these springs may not be used with existing braking systems because the spring does not fit without the modifications discussed above. Examples of springs, clips, and other retraction devices are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,364,455; 4,491,204; 5,249,647; 5,511,638; 5,537,103; 6,378,665; 6,920,965; 7,308,974; 7,467,693; 8,393,441; 8,397,880; and 9,261,152; U.S. Patent Application Nos. 2002/0189911; PCT Publication No. WO 2011/126125; and Japanese Patent No. 56021633U, all of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.
One challenge faced by brakes is providing a reaction point between a brake pad and a retraction spring which limits tilting or rotation about the reaction point during a brake release or brake apply. During a brake apply, a piston and brake pad typically move axially toward the rotor to generate the brake force. During a brake release, a brake pad typically moves axially away from the rotor to release the brake force. In these configurations, a reaction point may be created at the surface of the brake pad in contact with the retraction spring. If the reaction point is located above or below a height of a piston adjacent to the brake pad, the axial force of the piston upon the brake pad causes the brake pad to tilt or rotate about the adjacent piston. For example, if a reaction point on a brake pad is located above a height of an adjacent piston, during a brake apply or brake release, the brake pad pivots about the upper surface of the piston. The pivoting motion may result in a drag force generated between the brake pad and rotor, even during a brake release. A drag force may cause uneven wear in the brake pad, increased fuel consumption, or even brake squeal and rattle. Dedicated retraction spring assemblies (e.g., separate retraction springs and pad clips per brake pad may provide for contact between a brake pad and a retraction spring within a contact surface defined by a height of the piston, such as the retraction spring assembly of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/711,493. Notwithstanding the above, there is still a need for a retraction spring which is able prevent tilting of opposing brake pads, extend over a rotor gap, and/or contact opposing brake pads within a contact region defined within a height of an adjacent piston.
Another challenge which can be faced by one-piece retraction springs which extend over a rotor gap is the retraction spring may interfere with assembly of a brake. Generally, these one-piece retraction springs have two retraction arms. The retraction spring assembly is typically installed prior to a rotor residing within a rotor gap and may even be installed before the opposing brake pads. The two retraction arms may then reside within the rotor gap. Typically, to avoid interference of the retraction arms with the installation of the brake pads, the retraction arms are designed to contact the brake pads along an upper region of an inner facing surface. The contact in the upper region may result in the tilting or pivoting motion of the brake pads during axial movement. Thus, there is a need for a one-piece retraction spring which is able to be installed prior to the brake pads while preventing interference during assembly of the brake pads.


A plastic spacer/riser to increase usable height of a reclosable fastening system, such as 3M™ Dual Lock™ or Velcro® hook and loop products. The spacer/riser is adapted to be held in place on an external substrate with hot-melt glues sonic welds, pressure-sensitive adhesives, acrylic foam tape, or screws.

The present invention relates generally to a reclosable fastener riser/spacer device, and methods of constructing and using same.
More particularly, the present invention relates to an extruded plastic spacer/riser device to increase the usable height of reclosable fastening systems, such as, for example, 3M™ Dual Lock™ or Velcro® hook and loop products, and methods of constructing and utilizing same.
The tern "reclosable fastener" as used herein means 3M™ Dual Lock™ fasteners, Velcro® hook and loop fasteners, and any other fastener that is selectively reclosable.
Typically, reclosable fastening systems, such as, for example, 3M™ Dual Lock™ or Velcro® hook and loop products, are limited in their overall height or thickness in application.
Many times there is a need to increase the overall height or thickness of these fasteners.
For example, when using a reclosable fastener for fastening together the headliner of an automobile and the sheet metal portion roof of the automobile, oftentimes there is a space or gap between the parts of the reclosable fasteners which might necessitate the pushing in of the headliner, resulting in an uneven look with creases and folds and the like.
The present invention provides a device to increase the overall height, allowing more versatility in the use of reclosable fasteners in many different applications.
It is a desideratum of the present invention to avoid the animadversions of conventional reclosable fastening systems which are limited in their overall height or thickness in application.

Reclosable fastener riser/spacer, and methods of constructing and utilizing same


Grain or legume material is precooked by a low moisture process and preconditioned by hydrating to a total moisture content of from about 10% to about 40% by weight, passed through a cooking extruder and, during such passage, hydrated to a total moisture content of from about 10% to about 40% by weight, extruded and dried. The products of the invention are crisp curls, puffs and chips. The extruded cooked material may also be ground and agglomerated to prepare powders which will not cake or lump.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention is broadly concerned with an improved, energy-efficient method for cooking and processing cereal grains and legumes into full-flavored powders, chunks and snack foods. More particularly, the invention is concerned with such a method in which the grain, bean, pea or lentil is precooked, minimally hydrated, extruded, and dried to a predetermined moisture level. Advantageously, all varieties of grains and dry edible beans, peas and lentils may be processed and the resulting cooked products have superior organoleptic properties.
2. Description of the Related Art
Beans, and legumes are cooked and powdered in order to prepare convenience foods, such as instant soups and stews and bean dips, as well as snack products, such as chips. In conventional processes for making instant bean powders, the beans are sorted and cooked by boiling in water, then dehydrated on a drum dryer and ground to a fine powder. Because such processes generate waste cooking water and require an extra dehydration step to remove the excess moisture absorbed during vat cooking, they are energy intensive, and thus more expensive.
Such vat-cooked and drum-dried instant bean powders also typically present poor flavor profiles when compared with freshly cooked bean products. In effect, the boiling water used in vat cooking extracts from the beans the volatile compounds which impart their distinctive flavor. The full bean flavor is lost when the cooking water is discarded. In addition, an overcooked taste is generally imparted because the beans are actually cooked twice, once by boiling in the vat, and again by the drum dryer. Not infrequently, the drum dryer imparts a bitter, charred flavor as well.

Method for processing grain and legume fully-cooked powders and snacks


Steam heating used with conventional heating techniques achieves a rapid boiling point. An intelligent electronic control system which uses sensors placed at various points in the system to monitor and/or control cooking, interacts with the Internet to determine cooking steps, powers embedded electronics in vessels by RF energy, and adjusts the heating temperatures of the contents of the vessel as a function of time. A stove will provide configurable tubes with a coupling unit at their end to attach various steam wands easily moved into position that provide this steam to vessels placed on a grill. Delicate cooking of comestibles can be achieved by maintaining a controlled temperature or cycling the temperature to maximize cooking without losing significant nutrients of the comestibles. Small coupling holes introduce steam at the bottom surface of a vessel to efficiently cook comestibles. The coupling holes have a radius which stratifies the Young-Laplace equation.

Mankind has been cooking and preparing meals for thousands of years, each culture increasing the method and techniques of preparing meals. Cultures from all over the world provide a rich background of the various ways of preparing meals, many cooked in vessels to hold the comestibles in a secure place over a fire or an equivalent heat source. Various vessels with a variety of possibilities have been developed, such as a: pot, pan, wok, karihi, kettle, saucepan, cooking pot, coffee maker, cup, etc. The composition of these vessels has varied from metal, glass, Pyrex, ceramic, plastics, etc., where the typical user can be an adult, a child, a student, a cook, a chef, a fast food preparer, etc. Various heat sources have been developed including flames formed from natural gas, electrical conductive heating as by a coil, RF microwave, or their equivalent. Many of the comestibles held in a vessel are comprised of water, milk, fluid, wine, stock, beer, soup, stew, sauce, vegetables, fruits, meats, wheat, rice, or liquid extracts of a solid comestible being cooked. The end resulting products of using these inventive techniques presented herein can be served as meals, snacks, prepared foods, drinks, etc., for breakfast, lunch, dinner and in-between nourishment for home, restaurants, and cafeterias, etc. The method of cooking can include: boiling, simmering, stewing, steeping, infusion, steaming, smothering, poaching, or coddling.
Many of these cooking techniques require water being brought to a hot temperature so the meals can be prepared. Some quick meals are in fact not so quick. For instance, boiling eggs or preparing noodles or spaghetti requires the water in the vessel holding these comestibles to approach or reach the boiling point. Once the water is at this temperature, the cooking time starts and the meal can be prepared quickly from this time point. However, 3 or 4 minutes are typically spent waiting at the stove for the water to reach this particular time point. In many cases, this consume wastes as much as 50% of the total time spent preparing the fast meal from the very start to the very end.
In other meal preparations, the comestibles become scorched to the interior surfaces of the cooking vessel: bringing milk to the proper temperature for hot chocolate often causes scorching at least at the milk-air-surface interface alongside the vertical walls of the vessel. In some cases, the entire common surface interface between the milk and surface of the vessel becomes scorched. Considerable effort and time can be spent to remove the remnants of the scorching from the vessel.
A desirable feature of the innovative techniques helps to eliminate this concern. Microwaves ovens have helped to significantly reduce the time to prepare a meal. Microwaves heat comestibles from the inside out. Although the techniques presented in this specification are applicable to be used alongside with microwaves, these techniques also reduce the time to prepare meals in many conventional cooking technologies other than microwaves. These methods and techniques are herein presented.

Method and apparatus for quickly cooking comestibles


A private communication system and an allocated, private communication terminal equipment that is not directly connectable, i.e. that is "external", has a respective terminal equipment emulation unit allocated to it. This terminal equipment emulation unit pair are connectable to one another at least via a public dialed communication network, where the connection of at least one message path and of an additional signaling path is controlled via the public dialed communication network and the switching of the paths suited to the terminal equipment emulation unit pair is checked. With the assistance of the terminal equipment emulation unit pair, isolated or external communication terminal equipment can be connected without diminishing the scope of performance features of private communication networks. Misconnections and false signalings are avoided by checking the connection suited to the terminal equipment emulation unit pair with the assistance of a specific check procedure.

The invention is directed to a communication arrangement with a private communication system to which private communication terminal equipment that are not directly connectable are allocated.
Private communication networks are formed by private communication systems that are partly or fully integrated with one another. The integrating of the private communication systems is partially achieved via private property and partially via public communication networks. In particular, the public analog and the integrated services digital telephone communication network--referred to in the field as the ISDN network--as well as digital data networks--for example, the packet network or a synchronous through-connection network--particularly represent public communication networks. The private communication systems can be differently designed in view of their configuration size; however, a uniform signaling is provided in the private communication network. Since the signaling in private communication networks comprises substantially more signaling versions compared to the signaling in the public communication networks (particularly caused by the additional performance feature control), consequently additional signaling information are to be communicated, and additional signaling paths or signaling channels conducted via the public communication networks are required. EP0 642 282 A1 discloses that the additional signaling path between communication systems is to be realized with the assistance of an additional means over an analog telephone communication network, over a separate channel of a data communication network, or by an overlay connection over a telephone connection.
In private communication networks, further, isolated or a few communication terminal equipment units, i.e. communication terminal equipment units that cannot be connected to a communication system via private property are connected to a private communication system. The advantageous, additional performance features of a private communication network, however, should thereby be preserved. Up to now, exclusively used transmission lines, i.e. hard-wired connections in public communication networks, have been provided for the connection of such "isolated" communication terminal equipment to a communication system. Such exclusive lines are available without limitation for a transmission of information and are intrusion-proof since every connection on an exclusively used line is unambiguously reached only by the private communication network own communication system. The exclusivity of the transmission lines, however, represents a substantial financial expense for the connection of an "isolated" communication terminal equipment unit. It is also known to bring such "isolated" communication terminal equipment to a private communication system via dialed connections of a public communication network. This, however, means a substantial limitation of the performance features useable by the communication terminal equipment and, due to signaling errors or bad controls in the public communication networks, an unambiguous allocation of private communication system to private communication terminal equipment is also no longer possible.

Network emulator for private communication terminal equipment