Disclosed is a test apparatus including: test target sections each having a connector to connect a Device Under the Test (DUT); measuring sections that include measuring devices that have same measuring item respectively; a switch section that switches connection between the test target section and the measuring section under direction of a controller; wherein the controller selects one of the algorithms of connection, 1) searching vacancy of the measuring sections and directs the switch section to make a path between the test target section and the measuring section of vacancy, 2) holding the path that former selected.

1. Field of the Invention
An aspect of the present invention relates to a test apparatus, and for example, to a test apparatus in which a test target section is connected to plural measuring sections by a switch section.
2. Related Background Art
As a test apparatus that measures a characteristic of an object to be tested (DUT: Device Under the Test) such as a semiconductor laser, a network type test apparatus in which plural test target sections that include the object to be tested and plural measuring sections are connected to each other by a switch section is known (for example, see Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2007-271588)

Sumitomo Electric Device Innovations, Inc.


Systems and methods provide for embedding white noise signals representing DTMF digits into a voice data stream.

As network bandwidth and transmission speed increases, it is becoming more common for individuals and corporations to send and receive voice data over packet switched networks such as the Internet or other IP (Internet Protocol) based networks rather than through the traditional circuit switched telephone system. The use of such packet switched networks to send and receive voice or audio data is referred to as VoIP (Voice over IP), IP Telephony, or Internet telephony. VoIP is typically thought to provide benefits such as lower per-call costs, lower infrastructure costs, and easier expandability.
In addition to voice data, VoIP connections may send other audio data such as DTMF (Dual Tone Multi-Frequency) data. DTMF is the system used by touch-tone telephones to indicate which key on a telephone keypad has been pressed. DTMF assigns a specific frequency (consisting of two separate tones) to each key so that it can easily be identified by a receiving system. DTMF data may be used as part of an interactive voice response system in which a user responds to voice prompts by pressing keypads to navigate through various options provided by the system. For example, a user may hear bank account information by calling a number provided by the bank, and pressing keypad numbers in response to prompts to provide account numbers and access codes. Similar systems such as payment systems allow users to enter credit card numbers to make payments over the phone.
Unfortunately, due to the nature of network data transmission, it may be possible for third parties to intercept or "snoop" audio data while it is transmitted on the network. For example, a third party may be able to determine a user's account number and access codes, credit card information, or other private data by scanning audio data transmitted over a network for DTMF tones present in the data. The third party may then use the DTMF data to make unauthorized access to a VoIP user's financial or other private data. While it is possible to encrypt all VoIP data for a particular session, this typically requires more processing power than is desirable in the VoIP environment. As a result, there is a need in the art for the embodiments of the present invention.

Systems and methods to send and receive encrypted DTMF digits in a data flow


A portable video and imaging system includes a camera for capturing video of an event, and a video recording device for recording the captured video of the event. The camera is housed in a first housing, the recording device is housed in a second housing, and the first and second housings are physically separate. Various embodiments provide for the system to be mounted to a user's body, an article of clothing, such as a shirt or a hat, to a vehicle, or to an ancillary component carried by the user, such as a firearm.

1. Field
Embodiments of the invention relate to a portable system for recording videos and still images. More particularly, embodiments of the invention relate to a portable digital video recording system sized to be worn on a user's body and configured to be mounted in a plurality of locations on the user's body, including a clothing article worn by the user, on a device carried by the user, such as a firearm, or in a vehicle. In other embodiments, the portable video and imaging system may be mounted in or on a vehicle.
2. Related Art
Although recording devices for recording video and still images are generally known, the recording device is commonly housed in a single housing that stores a camera, a memory element, and a processing element. The single housing is not mountable to a user's body. Moreover, when the recording device is used for law enforcement where captured video is frequently used as evidence, the loss of captured video due to damage or removal of the single housing of the recording device is problematic.


Systems, methods and devices for indexing, archiving, analyzing and reporting pipe and other void network data. Specifically, multi-dimensional indexing and correlation of spatial, temporal, feature, environmental, uncertainty and/or context-based data is synchronized, indexed and analyzed across a wide variety of pipe networks at various times. The present invention preferably includes data represented at several different levels of reference including: referenced to the sensor with which it was collected; referenced to the robot or platform upon which the sensor is attached; and the world. The structure and functionality of the system provides for extensive querying, trouble-shooting and predictive analysis for pipe networks.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to systems and methods for indexing, archiving, analyzing and reporting pipe and other void data, and more specifically, the present invention is directed to the multi-dimensional indexing and correlation of spatial, temporal, feature and context-based data in pipe and other void networks.
2. Description of the Background
In modern society, there are a great variety of existing and planned networks of pipes and other voids that are used for a wide variety of tasks. In most instances, these pipes degrade over time and are periodically inspected and/or repaired in order to extend the useful life of the pipes. In the present application, the term "pipe" or "pipeline network" will be used to represent all forms of voids and/or networks of voids characterized by at least partially hollow channels through which a robot or other inspection platform may travel. A convenient example used herein is a subterranean network of pipes used for sewers or potable water as is well known to those skilled in the art, but the present invention is not limited to such networks.
Current inspection platforms, for examining and cataloging the internal features of pipeline networks or other networks of voids, typically utilize sensors attached to a mobile base that is tethered to a remote control and data collection station at the surface (for subterranean networks). Sensing is primarily accomplished by imaging sensors such as cameras, lasers and sonar which collect data that is referenced to the tether payout length. This payout length is presumed to represent the current linear offset of the inspection device from the point of ingress into the pipe network. This method results in a pipe data model that utilizes discrete coordinate frames that are derived from data acquisition positions that are referenced to this payout or linear footage of ingress.
However, this is an insufficient model because pipe systems are not one-dimensional, straight networks. Rather, as represented by FIG. 1, pipe systems are typically large, complex networks with many interconnected segments and joints. As represented by the moving coordinate frame (CF) in FIG. 1, as each sensor onboard the inspection device traverses this network, linear footage cannot fully represent the sensor's path through the system as it passes by and through various branches and forks in the pipe. Specifically, as the sensor moves from position CF1 to position CF2 (at the junction of two pipes), the inspection device may travel in either of two directions (represented by CF3 and CF3, in FIG. 1).
Therefore, as shown in FIG. 1, when a sensor encounters a branch in the pipe, footage indexed data becomes ambiguous because points along two or more forward paths will share the same footage values. Specifically, the CF3 and CF3, positions would be characterized by the same payout length, and are therefore ambiguous. Clearly, as more complex pipe networks are explored, the ambiguity problem quickly multiplies and renders the collected data almost meaningless.
Similarly, traditional mobile inspection platforms for inspecting pipe and other void networks utilize a primitive system of fusion between data collected from different sensors. Traditionally, each sensor is sampled and recorded individually, resulting in one or more individual data streams which represent an inspection run. If more than one data stream is collected, the streams may be fused or logically cross-referenced at a data viewer, but there are no inherent links between the various collected data types.
In short, data from multiple sensors may be statically combined in real-time by combining the two streams into a single modified stream (as in the case of adding well-known "screenwriting"), or may be logically combined at a later time (as in the case of annotated image streams). In either case, it is difficult if not impossible to later extricate the "merged" data streams from one another. Moreover, dynamically adding or altering the data types stored in a stream, which is especially useful when analyzing multiple environmental sensors that are recording data on similar spatial locations, is impractical and not currently employed under these traditional systems.
Since there is no way to cross-reference these resultant data streams aside from logical relationships, it is difficult to analyze disparate data streams. In practice, multiple inspection runs with imaging sensors are typically compared qualitatively using feature identification and matching, either by a human or autonomous agent. However, in employing this methodology, a large amount of information about pipe condition is lost due to the insufficient precision of these qualitative comparisons. It has therefore typically been deemed necessary to fuse individual data streams during inspection to better extract information from many individual collection runs and/or many different sensors.
Error modeling is also not addressed by this current data collection model. Each sensor has limits in accuracy that will accumulate and affect other sensor data when multiple data streams from different sensors are fused together. For example, stretch in cables (e.g., payout tethers) can distort measurements of distance, and inaccuracy in position can cause deviations in the expected perspective of imaging equipment. This information is critical in estimating the accuracy of any quantitative data analyses that utilize these sensors, and must be included with the sensor data.
Thus, traditional systems and methods for collecting and analyzing pipe inspection data do not adequately correlate disparate data sets and do not address error modeling. By correlating and indexing various pipe data, the present invention provides more thorough and more reliable data analysis and even provides new types of analysis not heretofore possible. Moreover, the present systems and methodologies are applicable to a wide variety of voids other than the subterranean pipeline networks described herein. For example, the present devices and methodologies could be used with pipes, caves, tunnels, tanks, pipelines, conduits, trenches, subterranean voids, and/or wells, among others.

Spatio-temporal and context-based indexing and representation of subterranean networks and means for doing the same


A method for preparing an iridium tip with atomic sharpness. The method includes tapering an iridium wire to a needle shape and heating the iridium needle in an oxygen atmosphere. Also disclosed is an iridium needle having a pyramidal structure which terminates with a small number of atoms prepared by the methods.

Fabrication of ultra-sharp (i.e., nanometer-sharp and atomically sharp) tips is among the most important prerequisites for producing coherent and bright particle beams (i.e., electron or ion beams) and obtaining valuable information from scanning beam/probe microscopes. The spot size of the particle beam, which depends on the sharpness of the tip, defines the lateral resolution of the microscope. Therefore, an ideal particle beam will be the one originated from a single-atom tip ("SAT") with minimum energy spread and opening angle.
Although tips with atomic sharpness (i.e., a tip formed of a single atom or less than 15 atoms) are highly desirable as they greatly improve the resolution of the microscope, they are difficult to prepare. Conventional methods for preparing single-atom tips in general require special equipments and complicated procedures. For example, a field ion microscope (FIM) or field emission microscope (FEM) is indispensable to monitor the tip in situ so that when the tip reaches its sharpest state (e.g., single-atom sharpness), one can stop the process to prevent the tip from turning blunt again. In addition, tips so prepared are usually not stable thus have short operation lifetimes. Tungsten is frequently used as a material for preparing the single-atom tips. However, at high fields, the tungsten tips will be corroded by chemically active ions such as O2+, N2+, H2O+, which greatly shorten their lifespan. Further, most of the ultra-sharp tips prepared by traditional methods cannot be regenerated.
These drawbacks hinder the ultra-sharp tips from commercial applications. They have so far only been used in the research laboratories. There is a need for stable, regenerable atomically sharp tips, especially single-atom tips and simple, reliable, low-cost methods for preparing them.


Disclosed is a device which, when installed in cooperation with the wall of a shower stall and the front upper edge of a bathtub, prevents water from exiting the gap between a shower curtain and the wall during use of the shower. The device comprises an elongate, generally U-shaped device, one leg of the U-shape or first side wall for sealing engagement with the wall of the stall and the other leg or second wall directed or angled toward the tub. The upper portion of the device on the side wall is cut away to facilitate movement of the shower curtain and rings past the side wall.

Bathtubs come in various shapes and sizes but the more standard tub is generally of rectangular shape. The internal periphery of the tub curves at the corners into the ends, the tap or faucet end of the tub usually being generally vertical, whereas the other or head end of the tub is usually a slanted surface.
It is a common problem for people who shower in such tubs to find that the shower curtain does not effectively close the gaps at the walls, particularly the wall at the head end of the tub.
Various devices have been designed to overcome this problem.
Sliding doors are well known to better enclose the ends of the stall during showers but many people do not like doors on the tub, particularly when some members of the family prefer bathtub washings to showers. The doors block out some light and give the feeling of a person being more confined or enclosed.
Devices have also been developed which are affixed to the wall and they are capable of holding the curtains closer to the wall at the juncture of the wall and tub ends. Nevertheless, these do not prevent water from dripping outside the tub and have often been found to require some finger dexterity in order to have the curtains held appropriately.
U.S. Design Pat. No. 297,157, Aug. 9, 1988 to Eder relates to a bathtub shower splash guard and illustrates a splash guard which is secured to the wall of the shower stall. There is no clear indication that it extends up to the shower curtain area of the stall.
U.S. Design Pat. No. 298,851 to Bourque relates to a combined shower splash guard and soap holder. The Bourque device provides a support arm for a soap dish or a hand grip as part of the design.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,361,915 to Siewert relates to a shower curtain assembly utilizing a two curtain system.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,765,001 to Smith relates to a splash guide for bathtub showers having an extruded plastic strip and flexible panels in a frame device.
Notwithstanding the above, there is a need for a device for a shower stall which is permanently located in cooperation with the wall and tub and which will prevent water from splashing or dripping outside the curtain adjacent the walls, particularly at the head end of the tub and which preferably includes shelving or other support elements for use.


The present invention relates to a system and method for controlling a network access of a network packet on the basis of a thread which is inserted into a process through code injection. The network access control system according to the present invention comprises: a process inspecting unit for detecting a code injection-based thread included in a process; and a network monitoring unit for performing network filtering so as to detect a network packet having access to a network, and, if a communication subject of the detected network packet is the code injection-based thread, blocking the traffic of the detected network packet.

The Internet is a network that uses Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP). With the development of Internet technology, the area of use of the Internet has extended, and thus individuals and general enterprises access the Internet, acquire various types of information, and use the acquired information for their business. However, despite the advantage of the acquisition of information, a variety of types of hacking programs, such as computer viruses, spread across the Internet, and computer viruses, etc. intrude into networks connected to the Internet, so that systems using the Internet are attacked.
As a security technology for preventing illegal intrusion into a system, Microsoft Corporation has basically provided, starting with their Windows XP operating system, an Internet Connection Firewall (ICF) for protecting a computer or a network from intrusion.
An ICF is a security technology that prevents traffic not desired by a computer user from entering a computer from the outside or exiting from a computer to the outside. For this purpose, the ICF constructs a communication-allowed list in the form of a table, tracks an inbound packet (a packet entering a computer from the outside) and an outbound packet (a packet exiting from a computer to the outside) using network filtering technology, and compares those packets with the communication-allowed list. The ICF allows the traffic of a corresponding packet if the corresponding packet is included in the communication-allowed list, and blocks the traffic of the corresponding packet if the corresponding packet is not included in the communication-allowed list. In this case, the process ID and path of a process for which communication has been allowed by a user are stored in the communication-allowed list.
FIG. 1 is an operation flowchart illustrating a conventional method of blocking network access in an ICF.
The ICF analyzes the process information (the process ID and path) of a process that transmits or receives a network packet at step S11. If the corresponding process ID and path are included in a communication-allowed list at step S12, the traffic of the corresponding packet is allowed at step S13. However, if the corresponding process ID and path are not included in the communication-allowed list at step S12, a user is requested to verify whether to allow a packet that is transmitted or received by the corresponding process at step S14. If the user allows the transmission of the packet at step S15, the process ID and path of the corresponding process are included in a communication-allowed list at step S16, and the traffic of the corresponding packet is allowed at step S13. Meanwhile, if the user does not allow the transmission of the packet at step S15, the traffic of the corresponding packet is blocked at step S17.
This conventional method of blocking network access in an ICF has the problem of being unable to block packet traffic when a hacker inserts malware into a process for which communication has been allowed and the malware operates and generates the packet traffic because the conventional method selectively allows and blocks packet traffic based on a process ID.
This will now be described in greater detail.
In general, Internet Explorer (iexplore.exe) is a Web browser program that is widely used under the Windows operating system (OS). Internet Explorer frequently generates traffic, such as an outbound packet or an inbound packet. Accordingly, if the verification of the transmission of a packet generated by Internet Explorer is requested, a user would allow the transmission without particular doubt. In this case, both an outbound packet that Internet Explorer sends to the outside and an inbound packet that is sent from the outside to Internet Explorer are allowed without the additional verification of the user.
Meanwhile, a program, such as Trojan or Zeus, injects malicious code into a process through code injection, and enables the malicious code to generate a thread. Recently, a financial incident occurred in which malicious code inserted into a user computer by a Zeus program divulged financial information, such as bank accounts and passwords, stored in a computer to a hacker and then the hacker accessed the bank accounts of small- and medium-sized enterprises and local autonomous entities using the financial information and then withdrew money therefrom.
For example, it is assumed that, as illustrated in FIG. 2, as malicious code is inserted into Internet Explorer, a thread is generated based on malicious code, and the malicious thread Thread 3 attempts to maliciously divulge information. In this case, an ICF searches a communication-allowed list using a process ID (that is, Internet Explorer iexplore.exe) and then controls the network access of Internet Explorer. That is, if Internet Explorer has been included in the communication-allowed list, the malicious divulgence of information via the malicious thread is allowed. In contrast, if Internet Explorer has not been included in the communication-allowed list, the malicious divulgence of information via the malicious thread is blocked. It will be apparent that the ICF controls the network access of normal packets via other normal threads of Internet Explorer based on process IDs.
Accordingly, if the user allows Internet Explorer to perform network access, the user can access the Internet without inconvenience because normal packet transmission via other normal threads is smoothly performed, but security becomes vulnerable because the network access of a malicious thread included in Internet Explorer is also allowed.
In contrast, if the user does not allow the network access of Internet Explorer, the malicious divulgence of information via a malicious thread can be prevented, but the user has serious trouble using the Internet because normal packet transmission via other normal threads is also blocked.

Network access control system and method


Orthopedic sling support for a leg (or foot) is provided that utilizes a pair of conventional crutches and an adjustable crutch sling assembly. The leg support is preferably comprised of a top cover to which a leg sling is attached by flexible straps, all of which is preferably constructed of light-weight, durable, and washable fabric. The top cover is intended to fit snugly over the shoulder rests of the pair of crutches, and is shaped in such a way as to allow creation of an A-frame structure from which the sling is suspended by connecting straps. The connecting straps are preferably adjustable to allow positioning the leg sling at a desired height for supporting the user's leg.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to an orthopedic sling support, and more particularly to a flexible sling adapted for use with a pair of conventional crutches to enable the user in a sitting or reclining position to support and elevate a leg.
2. Description of the Related Art
In treating a leg injury or surgery, many doctors recommend elevation of the injured leg to facilitate the healing process. Elevation of the limb improves circulation, thus promoting healing and often lessening patient discomfort and pain by reducing the swelling that may accompany a variety of leg injuries. Many people attempt to elevate an injured leg by propping the leg on available furniture or other stationary objects. However, supporting objects such as furniture may not always be available to patients. Thus a need exists for providing a portable means for elevating the injured foot or leg of such a patient.
Specialized devices designed for limb elevation have been proposed, which partially address the needs of a mobility-impaired user for portable elevated support of an injured limb. For example, a combination walking cane/foot rest has been proposed which, in a first position, functions as a conventional cane and, in a second position, functions as a leg rest. Such a device is not convenient for many patients, however, because it is not adaptable for use with a pair of ordinary crutches, which are commonly prescribed for leg injuries. Also known in the art are various attachments to ordinary crutches that may, for example, provide assistance in supporting the weight of a cast on a foot or leg while the user is walking or standing, or be used as a means to secure smaller sized articles to the crutch, thereby allowing the user's hand to remain free to grip the crutches or other objects. Generally, no provision is made in these devices, however, for elevation of a leg of a patient while sitting, independent of furniture or other stationary objects.
In summary, there appears to be no teaching or suggestion in the art of a portable device to support and elevate a foot or leg above the height of a user's hips, which may be desired for some injuries, or by means of a simple, adjustable modification to an ordinary pair of crutches, with which most patients with an injured leg will already be equipped.

Crutch sling leg support apparatus and method


A novel method and structure in which data caching is based on data contents. The method comprises the steps of (a) sending a data request from a processing circuit to a target server; (b) in response to the target server receiving the data request, sending a first response portion of a data response from the target server to the processing circuit; and {circle around (c)} in response to the processing circuit receiving the first response portion, using the processing circuit to examine the first response portion so as to determine whether the processing circuit contains a copy of the data response; and (d) in response to the processing circuit determining that the processing circuit contains a copy of the data response, sending the copy of the data response from the processing circuit to a client machine.

1. Technical Field
The present invention relates to data caching, and more particularly, to compressed Internet data caching based on data contents.
2. Related Art
Typically, from time to time, a client machine may request identical data using different URLs (Uniform Resource Locator). For example, a PC (personal computer) may request a first web page from a first website and later request a second web page from a second website, wherein the first and second web pages contain identical pieces of information (e.g., identical pictures). As a result, the same data will be sent to the PC twice, resulting in a waste of network bandwidth.
As a result, there is a need for a method and structure, in which identical pieces of information at different URLs are sent to the client machine in a way that uses less network (internet) bandwidth than in the prior art.

International Business Machines Corporation


A dispensing system is provided to dispense a fluent product from a container that has an opening to the container interior. A support base is provided for supporting the container with the container opening oriented at least somewhat downwardly to accommodate gravity flow of the fluent material out of the container through the container opening. The support base has (1) a receiving aperture for receiving the container opening, (2) a discharge aperture, and (3) a flow path extending between the receiving aperture and the discharge aperture.

Not applicable.
Not applicable.
Not Applicable
The present invention relates to a system for dispensing a product from a container. This system is designed to permit the container to be supported in an inverted orientation to accommodate gravity flow of the product in and from the container. The system accommodates precise dispensing control of the product. The system is especially suitable for use with a flexible container which is squeezable.
There are a wide variety of packages which include a (1) a container, (2) a dispensing discharge structure extending as a unitary part of, or as an attachment to, the container, and (3) a fluent product contained within the container. Such packages are typically employed for general household or home products, including personal care products such as skin care lotions, liquid soaps, and the like.
Some such packages employ finger-actuated pumps which are especially useful with highly viscous fluids because such pumps can be operated to dispense the product on demand in contrast with a non-pump package wherein the user must wait for the viscous product to flow under the force of gravity when a container is tipped over for dispensing.
There are other types of packages that do not employ a finger-actuatable pump, and which are normally maintained in an inverted orientation with a dispensing structure at the bottom of the package so that the viscous product is generally present at the bottom dispensing structure and available for immediate dispensing. See, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,033,655, 5,655,687 and 5,819,984 which disclose packages that employ a single dispensing valve for discharging a single stream of a fluent product (which maybe a liquid, cream, or particulate product). The package includes a flexible, resilient, slit-type valve at one end of a generally flexible bottle or container. The valve is normally closed and can withstand the weight of the product when the container is completely inverted, so that the product will not flow through the valve unless the container is squeezed.
Bottom dispensing packages and finger-actuatable pump packages do have some drawbacks. For example, a finger-actuatable pump package typically requires that the product be drawn up from the bottom of the container through a downwardly extending dip tube. Some product may remain in the bottom of the container and cannot be completely drawn out of the container through the dip tube. Also, some finger-actuatable pumps tend to drip or xe2x80x9cdroolxe2x80x9d after each dispensing actuation because it is difficult for such pumps to cleanly and sharply cut off the product flow.
Further, if one wants to pack a finger-actuatable pump package for traveling, one must provide for the possibility that the pump could be inadvertently depressed during travel, and that could result in an unwanted discharge of product. Some finger-actuatable pump packages permit the pump to be pushed downwardly into the container and locked in that position to prevent further actuation during travel. However, pushing the pump to the fully actuated, locked-down position typically results in the dispensing of an unwanted amount of product.
Finger-actuatable pump packages have other disadvantages. They are relatively expensive owing to the number of small parts, typically including metal springs and metal ball check valves. Further, in order to refill a finger-actuatable pump package, the pump must be first removed from the container. This can be relatively messy because product typically clings to the pump and dip tube, and some product may tend to drip from the pump and dip tube when the pump is removed to permit refilling of the container.
Dispensing closures on inverted, xe2x80x9csqueezexe2x80x9d-type packages also have some disadvantages. Typically, the inverted dispensing package closure must be relatively large and have a flat surface on which the package sits in order for the package to remain upright and not be easily tipped over. Because the dispensing opening is located within the base profile of such an inverted dispensing package, it is typically difficult to control the quantity of the dispensing flow and the direction of the flow owing to the fact that the discharge opening is not readily visible to the user during such use. Also, during dispensing of fluent product from such a large profile closure, the fluent product can more easily drip on portions of the closure. Further, with an inverted dispensing package, the package must be turned upright to be manually opened and closed for each use unless a dispensing valve is provided.
It would be desirable to provide an improved dispensing package or system in which fluent product could be always immediately available for dispensing until the container is substantially completely emptied. It would be preferable to provide such an improved package with a design that does not require the use of a relatively expensive and complicated finger-actuatable pump.
It would also be beneficial if such an improved dispensing system could operate to dispense fluent product with little or no mess or dribble.
It would also be desirable to provide an improved dispensing system that could readily accommodate refilling of the container with fluent product or that could readily accommodate removal of an empty container and replacement with a full container.
Such an improved dispensing system should also preferably have the capability for facilitating dispensing of the fluent product when the interior of the container is pressurized (e.g., when the container is squeezed or when the container""s internal pressure is increased by other means).
It would also be advantageous if such an improved system could accommodate bottles, containers, or other packaging components having a variety of shapes and that are constructed from a variety of materials.
Further, it would be desirable if such an improved system could accommodate efficient, high-quality, large-volume manufacturing techniques with a reduced product reject rate to produce a system with consistent operating characteristics.
It would also be advantageous if such an improved dispensing system could (1) accommodate two or more constituent fluent materials which could be separately stored prior to use, and (2) subsequently permit the dispensing of the constituent materials together as a combined product. It would also be desirable to provide means for sealing such system to prevent inadvertent discharge of the constituents during manufacturing, shipping, handling, etc. Such a system should be readily operable by the user and not interfere with combining the constituent materials when it is desired to dispense the constituent materials together as a combined product.
The present invention provides an improved system which can accommodate designs having the above-discussed benefits and features.
The present invention provides a system for dispensing a product. The system can accommodate the discharge of fluent materials such as liquids, creams, or particulate matter, including powders.
The dispensing system of the present invention is especially suitable for dispensing relatively viscous material in a manner that provides the viscous material at a discharge aperture for substantially immediate discharge. The user is not required to operate a finger-actuatable pump or to wait for gravity flow of the material to a discharge aperture.
The dispensing system of the present invention allows for substantially precise dispensing control and allows the user to readily observe the discharge of the product at the target area. There is substantially little or no mess or dribble after the desired amount of product has been discharged.
One form of the dispensing system of the present invention readily accommodates refill of the product container or complete replacement of an empty product container with a new, full product container.
According to one embodiment of the invention, the container employed with the dispensing system of the present invention can be readily re-sealed for travel.
The system of the present invention can also be optionally designed to advantageously store a plurality of constituent materials as separate quantities which are not combined during storage. During use, only the amounts of constituent materials that are to be dispensed are combined during the dispensing process.
According to one aspect of the dispensing system of the present invention, the dispensing system is in the form of a support base for supporting a container. The container has an opening to the container interior and is adapted to hold a fluent product. The container need not necessarily be regarded as a part of the dispensing system support base per se. However, according to another aspect of the invention, the container may be regarded as a part of a combination dispensing system.
The support base is adapted to support the container while the container opening is oriented at least somewhat downwardly to accommodate gravity flow of the fluent product out of the container through the container opening. The support base has (1) a receiving aperture for receiving the container opening, (2) a discharge aperture, and (3) a flow path extending between the receiving aperture and the discharge aperture.
In a preferred form of the system, there is a shut-off valve which is located in the flow path between the receiving aperture and the discharge aperture. The valve is manually actuatable between (i) a closed orientation occluding fluent flow through the flow path, and (ii) an open orientation permitting fluent flow through the flow path.
In a preferred form of the invention, at least part of the flow path extends through an elongate spout which accommodates discharge of the fluent product at a target area that is readily accessible and visible to the user.
Further, in a preferred embodiment, the container is a squeezable container which permits the user to squeeze the container to discharge a desired amount of product from the discharge aperture.
In a preferred embodiment, the container is provided with an initial seal, which can be a pressure-openable valve, such as a resiliently flexible, refill valve. Such a valve or other seal initially holds the product in the container. The use of a refill valve or seal permits the container to be refilled. If a refill valve is employed, then a travel seal, such as a rigid closure, is preferably provided over the valve on the container until the container is mounted in the support base.
In a preferred embodiment, the support base includes a discharge spout with a resiliently flexible dispensing valve which opens in response to a differential between the pressure acting against the side of the closed valve facing inwardly and the pressure acting against the side of the closed valve facing outwardly.
In a preferred embodiment, the support base also includes a vent for accommodating the in-venting of air from the ambient atmosphere to the interior of the container so as to accommodate flow of product out of the container. Preferably, such a vent system includes a resiliently flexible vent valve which opens inwardly toward the container in response to a differential between pressure acting against the side of the closed valve facing toward the container interior and the pressure acting against the side of the closed valve facing away from the container interior.
Numerous other advantages and features of the present invention will become readily apparent from the following detailed description of the invention, from the claims, and from the accompanying drawings.


We disclose a cosmetic box inspired by the traditional Asian design. The box comes equipped with electrical apparatus for drying and sterilizing make-up. A fan is mounted within the box. When the drawers are ajar, the fan blows air toward the user's face and hair. When the drawers are removed, the user may insert her hands into the drawer cavity to dry her nail polish. Ultra-violet light bulbs are also mounted within the box. The bulbs assist in the sterilization of nail polish as well as the contents of the box.

A traditional style of cosmetic box is well-known in Asian countries such as China, Japan, and Korea. It is about the size of a small tool box. During storage or travel, the structure looks like a small chest with pull-out drawers. It is used to hold makeup, makeup paraphernalia, jewelry, and the like. When the lid is opened, it reveals a mirror on its underside. The mirror is propped up against a lip on the front of the jewelry box. The woman using the product then has easy access to her makeup and a mirror at the same time.
When applying makeup, it is often convenient to have a fan. The fan can keep the makeup dry so it does not smear, and so multiple layers can be applied more quickly. While applying facial makeup one day, I realized that I was constantly turning back and forth between my mirror and my fan. I recognized the need for a fan and mirror combined in one unit.
The nail dryer is a device commonly found in salons. It is sometimes sold as a household product as well. After applying nail polish, a woman rests her hands in a nail dryer. It can dry her nails with heated elements, circulating air, and/or ultra-violet (UV) light.
The present invention is a novel combination of the Asian-style cosmetic box with a fan that can be applied to the face or nails. The box also features ultra-violet lights to aid in drying nail polish. The makeup drawer may be entirely removed for easy insertion of hands. The UV lights may remain on when the drawer is in the box, for the purpose of sterilizing nail files, makeup brushes, or other similar paraphernalia.

Cosmetic box with fan and nail drying apparatus


A method of making a nail polish comprising using a rotor-stator to prepare a suspension base by mixing dry clay and film forming material in a solvent or solvent mixture to make a clay gel, allowing the resultant clay gel to thicken, and letting the thickened clay gel down in additional solvent, film forming polymer, and plasticizer and then adding pigment paste. The rotor-stator can be used before and/or after adding the pigment paste or can be used to make the pigment paste itself. Nail polish cosmetic compositions, UV curable cosmetic nail gel compositions, and nails coated with the compositions.

This invention relates to the field of nail polish compositions comprising film forming material, organic solvent, and clay thixotropic agent and methods of making such compositions.
Nail polish for coating human finger and toe nails typically comprises a film forming material such as nitrocellulose, organic solvent such as ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, toluene, and xylene, pigment for color, and clay as a thixotropic agent to provide thickening and prevent settling of pigment. Among the clays which have been used in the art are smectite, organophilic smectite, hectorite, bentonite, mica, montmorillonite, beidellites, saponites, vermiculites, stevensites, laponites, attapulgites, and others. The clays are usually modified with a quaternary amine, imidazoline, amine soap, fatty sulfate, sulfonates, and/or other organic compounds. For example, organically modified hectorite clay is known to be useful for suspending pigment in such nail polish compositions.
During the manufacture of such nail polish a gel of clay, solvent, and film forming material is formed and is then let down into a solvent and film forming material solution. The gel is conventionally subjected to homogination, also known as milling, to reduce the particle size of the clay by breaking up the clay. Typical homoginizers are sold under the brand names Dyno-mill and Gaulins. During the homogination step viscosity is built up over a residence time prior to the let down step.
The homogination/milling step is usually followed by several days or weeks of aging to reach acceptable viscosity prior to the let down step. These periods of time are problematic in high volume manufacturing processes and it has been an object in this art to improve nail polish manufacturing processes by reducing the residence time and aging time for this step.
Pigmented and unpigmented nail polishes are well known. In the case of pigmented nail polishes, pigment is usually added as a paste after the let down step.

Nail polish composition and method of making a nail polish


The present invention provides a framework for managing both clustering and data replication in a software system distributed across multiple nodes. The framework includes at least one agent running at nodes comprising the distributed system. The framework also includes a master to coordinate clustering and replication operations. The framework further includes a library of software programs, called primitives, that are used by agents to communicate with the master. The agent(s) obtain cluster status information and replication status information, which are used by the master to manage clustering and replication operations. The framework is designed to work with existing cluster management applications and data replication facilities. The framework provides status information needed for coordinating clustering and replication operations to ensure that applications and data remain in a consistent state for disaster recovery purposes.

Information drives business. A disaster affecting a data center can cause days or even weeks of unplanned downtime and data loss that could threaten an organization's productivity. For businesses that increasingly depend on data and information for their day-to-day operations, this unplanned downtime can also hurt their reputations and bottom lines. Businesses are becoming increasingly aware of these costs and are taking measures to plan for and recover from disasters.
Two areas of concern when a failure occurs, as well as during the subsequent recovery, are preventing data loss and maintaining data consistency between primary and secondary storage areas. One simple strategy includes backing up data onto a storage medium such as a tape, with copies stored in an offsite vault. Duplicate copies of backup tapes may be stored onsite and offsite. More complex solutions include replicating data from local computer systems to backup local computer systems and/or to computer systems at remote sites.
Not only can the loss of data be critical, the failure of hardware and/or software can cause substantial disruption. Clustering is a strategy wherein computer systems and storage devices are interconnected, typically at high speeds within a local data center, for the purpose of improving reliability, availability, serviceability, and/or performance via load balancing. Redundant interconnections between the computer systems are typically included as well, and the collection of computer systems, storage devices, and redundant interconnections is referred to herein as a cluster. The cluster appears to users as a single highly available system.
Different types of clusters may be established to perform independent tasks, to manage diverse hardware architectures performing similar tasks, or when local and backup computer systems are far apart physically.
Often, computer systems within a cluster use a common pool of storage devices, and the purpose of the cluster is to provide an alternative processing resource for the data on the shared storage devices in the event of failure of one of the computer systems. Only one of the computer systems in the cluster generally provides processing resources with respect to a particular software application. The computer system currently providing processing resources in the cluster for a particular software application is referred to herein as an active node, and other computer systems in the cluster are referred to herein as backup nodes. The terms "active node" and "backup node" are used in the context of a particular software application, such that an active node for one application may serve as a backup node for another application, and a backup node for a third application may serve as an active node for yet another application.
Each clustered computer system typically runs special software to coordinate the activities of the computer systems in the cluster. This software is referred to herein as a cluster management application. A cluster management application may monitor the health of sites in a distributed system and restart an application on another node when the node running the application fails. Typically, cluster management functions are limited to such clustering operations as monitoring, starting, and stopping resources.
In many situations, disaster recovery requires the ability to move a software application and associated data to an alternate site for an extended period, or even permanently, as a result of an event, such as a fire, that destroys a site. For these more complicated situations, strategies and products to reduce or eliminate the threat of data loss and minimize downtime in the face of a site-wide disaster are becoming increasingly available.
Replication facilities exist that replicate data in real time to a disaster-safe location. Data are continuously replicated from a primary node, which may correspond to a computer system in control of a storage device, to a secondary node. The nodes to which data are copied may reside in local backup clusters or in remote "failover" sites, which can take over when another site fails. Replication allows persistent availability of data at all sites.
The terms "primary node" and "secondary node" are used in the context of a particular software application, such that a primary node for one application may serve as a secondary node for another application. Similarly, a secondary node for another application may serve as a primary node for that application.
The term "application group" is used to describe both an application and the corresponding data. If a primary application group on one cluster becomes unavailable for any reason, replication enables both the application and the data to be immediately available using the secondary application group in another cluster or site.
To accommodate the variety of business needs, some replication facilities provide remote mirroring of data and replicating data over a wide area or distributed network such as the Internet. However, different types of storage typically require different replication methods. Replication facilities are available for a variety of storage solutions, such as database replication products and file system replication products, although typically a different replication facility is required for each type of storage solution.
Replication facilities provide such functionality as enabling a primary and secondary node to reverse roles when both are functioning properly. Reversing roles involves such replication operations as stopping the application controlling the replicated data, demoting the primary node to a secondary node, promoting the original secondary node to a primary node, and re-starting the application at the new primary node. Another example of functionality of a replication facility involves determining when a primary node is down, promoting the secondary node to a primary node, enabling transaction logging and starting the application that controls the replicated data on the new primary node. In addition, when the former primary node recovers from failure, the replication facility can prevent the application from starting at the former primary node since the application group is already running at the newly-promoted node, the former secondary node. The transaction log can be used to synchronize data at the former and new primary nodes.
Both clustering and replicating data affect an application group. Clustering activities may involve starting and stopping a node or an application. Starting and stopping nodes and applications affects primary and secondary application group relationships, active and backup node relationships for cluster management, and primary and secondary node replication relationships. Replicating data from one node to another requires proper knowledge of whether nodes are online or offline to properly determine changes in the direction in which data should be replicated or to trigger taking over replication at one node by another node.
Currently, most cluster management applications and replication facilities are sold as independent products, and existing products do not coordinate clustering and replicating data. Situations that may leave data in an inconsistent state, such as continuing to replicate data to an offline node, may arise without coordination between cluster management applications and replication facilities.
What is needed is a framework for a management system that allows automated management of clusters and data replication. The management system should coordinate the management of clusters and replication so that the data produced by both activities are consistent. Cluster and replication activities should not interfere with each other, and the data should be recoverable in the event of disaster. Furthermore, the system should ensure that hardware and software failure can be detected and a backup hardware or software system can take over, while maintaining the replication of data.

Framework for managing clustering and replication


Provided are attachment devices including a fastener (102) and a clip (104) coupled to the fastener, along with methods related thereof. The clip has first and second members (110, 112) with respective first and second engagement surfaces (116, 118) that oppose each other and define a gap (120) sized to receive a portion of the rail. The clip further includes a bridging member (114) that connects the first and second members to each other. The bridging member can have at least one opening (130) aligned with the gap and providing access for a prying tool to resiliently deflect the first and/or second engagement surface and facilitate detachment of the clip from the rail. Optionally, the bridging member includes a third engagement surface (122) with a configuration that enables a rigid coupling between the clip and the rail.

The marketplace is replete with diverse commercial and industrial solutions intended to fasten articles to structural elements. Such solutions can range from consumer products that serve routine household needs to high performance couplings used in manufacturing complex, multi-component devices. Technical markets served by such products can include architectural products, industrial transportation, energy and electronic markets, consumer products, health care, and many others.
In devising such a solution, it is common for form to follow function. Simple adhesive-backed fasteners can be adequate in many cases. Some applications demand temporary fasteners that can be easily removed after being attached. Some applications further require that the fastener be not only removable but also repositionable on the structure to which it is coupled. It can be further desirable for these fasteners to securely couple to, and detach from, a given structure, yet avoid causing damage to the anchoring structure or leaving adhesive remnant upon removal.
One fastener currently used in the aerospace industry attaches to stringers (or longerons), which are rail-like structures that traverse the exterior structure of aircraft fuselage. These stringers are part of the structural frame of the aircraft and are bonded to the inboard side of the aircraft skin. It is common for stringers to be used for securing interior components of the fuselage, including interior walls, thermal and acoustic insulation, heating and ventilation ducts, and electrical wiring.
Stringers come in many different cross-sectional configurations. Some may have a generally "U"-shaped cross-section, some may have an "L"-shaped cross-section, or other combinations of shapes and features based on the structural needs of the aircraft. Each presents its own unique set of technical challenges in regards to providing a convenient, yet secure, attachment for the fastening device.


Disclosed herein is a content transferring method for use with a first and a second apparatus interconnected by a communicating device. The method includes the steps of: if a storage medium managed by the second apparatus is larger in capacity than content data to be transferred from the first apparatus to the second apparatus, then performing a synchronizing process synchronizing the content data stored in the first apparatus with the content data to be stored onto the storage medium managed by the second apparatus; and if the storage medium managed by the second apparatus is smaller in capacity than the content data to be transferred from the first apparatus to the second apparatus, then performing a selective transferring process causing the first apparatus preferentially to select content data different from the content data stored on the storage medium managed by the second apparatus and to transfer the preferentially selected content data to the second apparatus.

The present invention relates to a content transferring method, a transferring apparatus, and a transferring program. More particularly, the invention relates to a method, an apparatus and a program for transferring music data to a portable reproducing apparatus that may be carried around and utilized by a user.
Recent years have seen the growing popularity of portable reproducing apparatuses each incorporating a hard disk drive that stores music data. A typical apparatus of this type is disclosed illustratively in Japanese Patent Laid-open No. 2001-175624 (corresponding to U.S. Patent No. 2002-159304).
Such portable reproducing apparatus are each connected to a transferring apparatus capable of acquiring music data over the Internet or the like and transferring the acquired data to the connected portable apparatus. The music data transferred from the transferring apparatus is stored onto a hard disk drive inside the portable reproducing apparatus. The transferring apparatus is typically a personal computer, audio equipment, or like gears designed to acquire music data over the Internet.
With music data stored inside, the portable reproducing apparatus is operated by the user for music reproduction typically while being carried around. The music data is then retrieved from the internal hard disk drive, processed for reproduction and output audibly through earphones or the like.

Content transferring method, transferring apparatus, and transferring program


A power transmission device for a four-wheel drive vehicle includes an input shaft adapted to be driven by a power source. A first output shaft is rotatable about a first axis and adapted to transmit torque to a first driveline. A second output shaft is adapted to transmit torque to a second driveline and is rotatable about a second axis. The first and second axes diverge from one another. A transfer unit includes a drive member rotatably supported on the first output shaft and a driven member coupled to the second output shaft. A joint is positioned within a cavity formed in the driven member and drivingly interconnects the driven member and the second output shaft. The driven member includes first and second portions separable from and re-mountable to each other to allow service to the joint.

Many sport-utility vehicles are equipped with a transfer case for transmitting drive torque to all four of the wheels, thereby establishing a four-wheel drive mode of operation. Some transfer cases are equipped with a mode shift mechanism which permits the vehicle operator to selectively shift between a two-wheel drive mode wherein only a primary (i.e., rear) driveline is driven and a "part-time" four-wheel drive mode wherein a secondary (i.e., front) driveline is rigidly coupled for rotation with the primary driveline.
In the past, the vehicle ride height and suspension configuration of many sport-utility vehicles provided sufficient packaging volume for a traditional transfer case having at least two rotating output shafts extending parallel to one another. In view of increased consumer demand for smaller four-wheel drive vehicles, the packaging volume allocated to the vehicle powertrain has been greatly reduced. While traditional transfer case designs may function in a satisfactory manner in certain vehicle applications, a need for an improved, compact, lightweight power transmission device exists.
In addition to such four-wheel drive vehicles, many all-wheel drive vehicles are now available which typically provide a two-wheel drive mode where the primary (i.e. front) driveline is driven and further provide an all-wheel drive mode where the secondary (i.e. rear) driveline is also driven. In most all-wheel drive vehicles, a power take-off unit is configured to transfer drive torque from the primary driveline to the secondary driveline via a transfer assembly and propshaft. Examples of single-speed and two-speed power take-off units and their arrangement in all-wheel drive vehicular applications are disclosed in commonly-owned U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,313,407 and 8,403,795.
Similarly to the packaging requirement of transfer cases in smaller 4WD vehicles, a need exists to provide compact power take-off units for use in smaller AWD vehicles.

Power transfer unit for AWD vehicles having integrated joint assembly


A hydraulic installation tool comprises a fixed jaw, a movable, and a plurality of independent hydraulic cylinders each comprising a piston. Movement of the pistons in a first direction moves the movable jaw toward the fixed jaw. A plurality of guide rods comprises a first end secured to the fixed jaw. A plurality of retaining members are each removably coupled to an associated one of the plurality of guide rods about the second end. The movable jaw is disposed between the fixed jaw and the plurality of hydraulic cylinders for movement along the guide rods. Each hydraulic cylinder is independently removable from the associated guide rod upon removal of the associated retaining member from said guide rod. In one example, the fixed and movable jaws are configured to engage and axially force a swage ring onto a fitting body to connect and seal the fitting body to a fluid conduit.

Generally, one type of fitting for fluid conduits, such as tubes or pipes, includes a connector body that fits loosely over the fluid conduit and a swage ring which compresses and/or physically deforms the connector body against the outside surface of the fluid conduit to provide one or more seals and to provide a strong mechanical connection.
Prior art tools for assembling such a fitting to a fluid conduit often include a fixed jaw, a movable jaw and one or more hydraulic cylinders for moving the movable jaw toward the fixed jaw. The jaws can be configured to grip the swage ring and the connector body such that, upon actuation, the jaws forcibly move the swage ring over the connector body thereby causing the connector body to compress or move radially into the fluid conduit to provide a seal and a mechanical connection. When the swaging is complete, hydraulic pressure in the one or more hydraulic cylinders is reduced to allow the tool to be removed from the fitting. Examples of prior art installation tools are taught in U.S. Pat. No. 4,189,817 ("Hydraulic Assembly Tool for Tube Fittings"); U.S. Pat. No. 5,305,510 ("Hydraulic Assembly Tool with Improved Load Bearing Arrangement for Tube Fittings"); U.S. Pat. No. 5,694,670 ("Secure Swaging Tool"); U.S. Pat. No. 6,434,808 ("Compact Installation Tool"); and U.S. Pat. No. 6,618,919 ("Remote Actuation of Installation Tooling Pump"); and U.S. Pat. No. 7,337,514 ("Hydraulic Hand Tool"), all expressly incorporated herein by reference.
Many prior art installation tools receive hydraulic power via a hydraulic fluid pumped through a hydraulic hose assembly from a remotely positioned hydraulic pressure supply. The hydraulic pressure supply can include a pump and an electric motor for driving the pump.


A duct hose coupling device for attaching a hose to a ductwork structure. The device selectively attaches and detaches the hose without use of fastening hardware. Attachment of a hose via the duct hose coupling device allows air to be efficiently forced into or withdrawn from the ductwork structure. The device retains its high efficiency over prolonged periods of usage by isolating critical moving components from exposure to contaminants and unwanted debris.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to duct cleaning apparatus, and more particularly to a duct hose coupling device that provides quick and easy attachment and dismantling of predetermined hose structures to selected ductwork.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Various types of standardized and/or prefabricated air duct cleaning components and apparatus are known in the art especially constructed for cleaning selected portions of heating, ventilation and/or air conditioning (HVAC) systems. While many forms of related coupling devices and components have been provided, the assembly and use of such devices and components have required considerable time and skill, particularly for those devices and components intended for or most suited to establishing a temporary structure having reliable structural integrity during assembly and usage. Generally, the aforesaid structures are inherently temporary or semi-permanent in nature following assembly and require undesirable use of miscellaneous hardware and materials, e.g. screws, nuts, bolts, duct tape, etc., and tools, e.g. screwdrivers, drills, pliers, etc. It is therefore desirable to provide a structural coupling device that will allow not only fast construction, but also quick disassembly of certain predetermined structures when so desired, without sacrificing structural integrity, and without requiring use of any additional hardware, materials, and/or tools that can become lost, come loose, etc.
Air duct cleaning apparatus and components known in the art that are used to couple flexible hose to selected portions of predetermined ductwork generally have required that one end of the flexible hose be inserted into the selected portion of the ductwork a predetermined distance. This procedure is known by those skilled in the art to disrupt the smooth flow of air flowing within the ductwork and the flexible hose, thereby allowing contaminants and unwanted debris to become trapped around the aforesaid inserted portions of the flexible hose. The contaminants and unwanted debris have the undesirable effect of reducing cleaning process efficiency.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,586,789, issued Dec. 24, 1996, to Bently, entitled Quick Connector For Joining Large Diameter Vacuum Hose To Ductwork, discloses a quick connector assembly for temporarily connecting large diameter vacuum hose to heating, ventilating and air conditioning ductwork for establishing a vacuum within ductwork to aid in cleaning unwanted debris and materials from the ductwork. The invention of Bently is limited to use with and is intended for use with flat surfaces, making the resulting structure substantially unsuitable for use with curved surfaces. Further, the assembly disclosed and claimed by Bently requires use of compression springs that can inadvertently collect and trap dust and unwanted debris within the pivoting assembly that may result in reduced spring efficiency and therefor a reduction in the ability of the assembly to accommodate a wide variety of ductwork sheet metal gauges with prolonged use.
Other U.S. patents disclose various types of clamping devices, locking devices, adapters and attachment devices that allow coupling of hoses and/or tubular structures to specific apparatus. These devices and adapters are generally cumbersome and time consuming to use, often very complex in design, or are otherwise unsuitable for uses other than that for which the device or adapter is specifically designed. U.S. Pat. No. 4,844,859, issued Jul. 4, 1989, to Coussau; U.S. Pat. No. 4,504,085, issued Mar. 12, 1985, to Sachleben; U.S. Pat. No. 2,495,754, issued Jan. 31, 1950, to Nance; U.S. Pat. No. 1,657,013, issued Jan. 24, 1928, to Kettle; and U.S. Pat. No. 998,352, issued Jul. 18, 1911, to Kublin disclose exemplary clamping devices, locking devices, attachment devices and adapters known to those skilled in the art.
In view of the above, it is highly desirable to provide a duct hose coupling device that will allow a desired ductwork cleaning structure to be reliably constructed and dismantled swiftly and easily when so desired. The coupling device should also be constructed such that debris and unwanted contaminants cannot interfere with the device reliability, efficiency and flexibility with prolonged usage.

Coupling device for attaching a hose to ductwork


A fitting for controlled trajectory drilling. This fitting comprises a downhole motor, a drilling tool, and a variable geometry stabilizer.

The present invention relates to controlled trajectory drilling fittings. Adapted to be placed at the end of a drill-string. With the fitting making it possible to control, in real time, the variations of direction and of inclination of the drill-hole. In addition to controlling the azimuth, and the radius of curvature accurately, to reduce the friction phenomena and to limit the risks of jamming without requiring the fitting being raised to the surface.
The fitting of the present invention comprises a drill tool placed at its lower end, a motor for rotating the tool and at least one variable geometry stabilizer.
The fitting of the present invention may comprise another stabilizer and/or an elbow element.
The elbow element may be with fixed angle or variable angle and may be integrated with the motor.
By elbow element is meant a member introducing or capable of introducing locally, if not at a point, a discontinuity in the direction of the axis of the drillstring. That is to say that the axis of the drilling fitting is a crooked line at the level of the elbow element.
The variable geometry stabilizer may comprise means adapted for varying the distance between the axis of the fitting and the bearing surface of at least one blade of the stabilizer and/or means adapted for varying, at least axially, the position of the bearing surface of at least one blade of the stabilizer.
The fitting of the present invention may comprise at least one stabilizer which is interlocked for rotation with the tool.
The fitting of the present invention may comprise at least one stabilizer fast for rotation with the body of the motor.
The variable geometry stabilizer or stabilizers may be remote controlled if required from the surface.
The fitting of the present invention may include a variable geometry stabilizer as well as two other stabilizers placed on each side of said variable geometry stabilizer. The elbow element may be integrated with the motor.
The present invention relates to the use of one of the above described fittings at the end of a drill-string which may be driven in rotation by drive means situated on the surface.
Of course, the fitting of the present invention may provide control of the azimuth (of the direction of the drill hole), which may be facilitated by an elbow element integrated in the downhole motor, no rotation being applied to the drill-string from the surface.
Control of the radius of curvature is facilitated by the association of an elbow and a stabilizer.

Fitting for controlled trajectory drilling, comprising a variable geometry stabilizer and use of this fitting


Embodiments of an escort drone device, system and method provide one or more autonomous or semi-autonomous escort drones capable of being summoned by an individual to a first location, wherein the escort drone(s) includes a payload with threat deterring components and wherein the threat deterring components can be engaged by a remote operator at a different location from the first location. In embodiments, the system can employ intelligent mesh networking to allocate one or more escort drones to one or more specific locations.

Potentially hazardous or criminal activities can occur in a variety of locations and oftentimes without any surveillance such as captured video that may assist in identifying or capturing perpetrators. While fixed cameras exist in and around places of business and other public places, many communities have little or no surveillance infrastructure to assist in deterring or preventing undesirable and potentially hazardous or criminal behavior. For example, college campuses, public parking lots and other areas have certain risks of suspicious and potentially hazardous or criminal activity, particularly when an individual may be walking alone. Further, other outdoor arenas such as state and national parks, campgrounds, hiking trails and outdoor event sites may be prone to criminal or dangerous scenarios where threats may arise.
According to aspects of the present disclosure, an individual who feels his or her safety is threatened, or even the safety of another individual is threatened, can summon an escort drone to his or her location or another individual's location to provide a live video and/or audio feed and also deter criminal or potentially harmful activity with threat deterring devices such as flashing security lights, a spotlight and/or a loudspeaker, for example. An individual can also schedule an escort drone using the presently described system and method for accompaniment between multiple locations. The video feed from the escort drone can be actively monitored by a remote security operator who can respond in a multitude of ways to an escalating threat. Further, the system and method as described herein can enable community members to self-police their communities by acting as remote security operators for other community members. In such exemplary ways and as described herein, the system, device and method disclosed can provide "on-call" personal security for individuals in perceived threat scenarios that might or might not constitute a true, immediate emergency.

Automated escort drone device, system and method


The device of the invention consists of a plurality of tubular cannulae, consisting of stackable segments, which prior to the surgery, are linked together at their distal ends by flexible elements, such as wires or threads. All the threads, the number of which is one less than the number of the used cannulae, are passed through one of the cannulae and the distal ends of the threads are either attached to the walls of other cannulae, at their distal ends, or pulled back through one of the cannula forming the loop at the distal end and fixed at the proximal end of the cannula. During surgery, the cannulae with their distal ends being linked are inserted into the patient's body through an incision, then the surgeon makes additional incisions, disconnects some segments from selected cannulae, subcutaneously pulls them to the additional incisions, and reconnects previously disconnected segments. The surgery is then performed using the cannulae for guiding various surgical tools. Due to flexible linking of the cannulae at their distal ends, the cannulae can be easily manipulated without disconnection and without a need for use of extraneous X-raying for reorientation of the cannulae.

Low back pain and radiculopathy as a result of herniated intervertebral disc represents a major health problem in the United States and all over the world. About 300,000 Americans and about the same number of people throughout the world outside the USA are operated upon each year due to this problem. Even many more people might benefit from surgical help, as those that undergo such surgery represent only about 20% of those with pathology referable to the intervertebral disc.
An intervertebral disc is a structure that occupies the space between the vertebrae. It serves, in particular, as a load-absorbing cushion.
FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a vertebral column through a healthy intervertebral disc 20, and FIG. 2 is a side view on a part of the vertebral column illustrating the position of the disc 20. As can be seen from FIGS. 1 and 2, the disc 20 consists of two parts: a ring-like external part 22, known as "annulus" (or "annulus fibrosis"), and an internal, central part 24, known as "nucleus" (or "nucleus pulposus"). The tissue of the annulus 22 degenerates with age or as a result of some injuries or illnesses. When annulus 22 degenerates, its fibers weaken, and external forces, applied to the adjacent vertebrae, can cause the rupture of the annulus fibers, and nucleus tissue protrusion, shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 that correspond respectively to FIGS. 1 and 2. This creates a disc herniation 26 (FIG. 3), which, in turn, may cause a pressure on the adjacent nerve root 28 (FIGS. 1 and 3), resulting in pain.
It is understood that herniation may occur in any other part of the disc and cause different symptoms and that the herniation position shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 is given just as an example.
At the present time, several approaches exist for treatment of the problem described above. The first method is called "laminectomy". This is a surgical procedure, which involves accessing a symptomatic disc by excising a significant amount of the vertebral lamina, followed by removal of the herniated disc material. A laminectomy is a somewhat destructive procedure, which might cause extensive scarring and long (up to 9 days) hospitalization, with an up to 3-month postoperative recovery period.
Another approach is called "microlumbar surgery" ("microsurgical discectomy", or "microdiscectomy"). It is similar to laminectomy in that the disc is accessed through an incision made on the patient's back and developed into a channel to the symptomatic disc. Unlike laminectomy, the microdiscectomy employs a microscope, allowing a smaller incision (about 2 times less than during the laminectomy). This method permits a surgeon to use microsurgical tools, and avoid much of the bone dissection. This is less invasive compared to the laminectomy, though the existing microdiscectomy may still cause some complications similar to those associated with laminectomy, for example, possible injury to the nerve root and dural sac, postoperative scarring and a relatively long recovery time. Furthermore, the paraspinal musculature must still be retracted out to the level of the facet for the duration of the procedure.
Other methods of treatment consist of a removal of the disc nucleus tissue either by suction or by dissolving it. The former approach (suction) is known as a percutaneous discectomy and is carried out by utilizing hollow needles of special design, which are placed through the back muscles into the center of the disc (into the nucleus area) and then allow suction of the tissue. The latter approach (dissolving) is known as chemonucleolysis, which is carried out by injecting a special enzyme (chymopapain) into the center of the disc. The chemonucleolysis may cause severe pain, spasms, and anaphylactic shock (the mortality rate associated with chemonucleolysis has been estimated at about 0.5%). Both approaches belong to so-called Minimally Invasive Spinal Surgery (hereinafter referred to as MISS) methods. As a result of removal of the disc nucleus tissue, the protruded disc material can then collapse back inside, toward the center of the disc, which can in turn, reduce the pressure on the spinal nerve roots.
Many attempts have been made heretofore to improve methods and surgical instruments employed in the percutaneous discectomy procedures.
For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,545,374 issued in 1985 to R. Jacobson discloses a method and instruments for performing a percutaneous lumbar discectomy. The method consists in accessing the lumbar region of the spinal column by laterally inserting a cannula through the patient's side above the iliac crest to contact a predetermined position in the lumbar region and passing instruments through the cannula. This method is useful for performing percutaneous lumbar discectomy by cutting a portion of the patient's disc annulus and nucleus through the cannula and removing a desired amount of nucleus material. The cannula has a tubular member and anchor means attached to one end of the member for anchoring the cannula in the body tissue to prevent shearing movement between it and the tissue. Other instruments for performing a percutaneous lumbar discectomy are disclosed, including a speculum and trocar for percutaneously inserting the cannula into the patient, a discectomy knife for cutting disc nucleus material and rongeur forceps for removing the disc material. The above instruments may be combined in a surgical apparatus.
The method of U.S. Pat. No. 4,545,374 has the following drawbacks: 1) the material is removed from the center of the disc only, thus preventing a surgeon from excising the fragments from the actual herniation site, which may or may not cause recurrent symptoms; 2) this technique is unsuitable for noncontained (or sequestered) herniations, since it does not give a surgeon access to the epidural space.
U.S Pat. No. 5,084,043 issued in 1992 to P. Hertzmann et al. describes laser-assisted disc decompression (LDD). It utilizes a high-energy laser beam to vaporize the affected tissue instead of removing it mechanically. Like in the percutaneous approach described above, one of the disadvantages inherent in this procedure is that it deals with the disc nucleus, rather than with the herniation itself.
Several MISS methods, based upon contemporary technology achievements, were introduced during last 10–15 years. For instance, U.S. Pat. No. 5,437,661 issued in 1995 to B. Rieser discloses a method for removal of prolapsed nucleus pulposus material on an intervertebral disc by using a laser. A cannula is inserted into the spinal foramen. Once the cannula has passed the ligamentum flavum, a laser fiber is inserted into it. The laser fiber contacts the prolapsed material and a laser beam substantially eliminates the prolapsed material within the spinal foramen.
Lasers are both expensive and somewhat tedious to use in these procedures. Another disadvantage with lasers is the difficulty in judging the depth of tissue ablation. Since the surgeon generally points and shoots the laser without contacting the tissue, he or she does not receive any tactile feedback to know how deeply the laser is cutting. Because healthy tissue, bones, ligaments, and spinal nerves often lie in the close proximity to the spinal disc, it is essential to maintain a minimal depth of tissue damage, which cannot always be ensured with a laser.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,264,650 issued in 2001 to D. Hovda et al. describes systems, apparatus, and methods for ablation, resection, aspiration, collagen shrinkage, and/or hemostasis of tissue and other body structures in open and endoscopic spine surgery. In particular, the invention includes a channeling technique, in which small holes or channels are formed within spinal discs, and thermal energy is applied to the tissue surface immediately surrounding these holes or channels to cause thermal damage to the tissue surface, thereby stiffening the surrounding tissue structure and reducing the volume of the disc to relieve pressure on the surrounding nerves, and thereby relieving neck or back pain.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,254,553 issued in 2001 to L. Lindgren et al. offers a method and a device for non-invasive treatment of biological tissue by changing or degenerating the tissue. This device has a treatment transducer for treating intervertebral discs, preferably nucleus pulposus, by ultrasound. The ultrasonic field of the ultrasonic transducer is focused in the symptomatic intervertebral disc, preferably in nucleus pulposus of this disc, for heating the tissue to such a temperature that the tissue in the focal area degenerates, whereby the pressure in the intervertebral disc, and thus the pressure against the spinal nerve roots, is reduced.
Both methods described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,264,650 and in U.S. Pat. No. 6,254,553 make it complicated for a surgeon to focus treatment on the symptomatic site, without affecting the surrounding tissues.
Single-portal MISS methods are limited to the use of one channel at a time. It was suggested to introduce a second portal to the annulus as described by Shreiber et al. in Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research No. 238. However, this biportal procedure assumes the second portal to be created from the opposite side to the first portal (bilateral), hence increasing the operating time, post-operative morbidity, and surgeon exposure to radiation. It may also cause excessive removal of disc nuclear tissue, therefore increasing the possibility of post-operative stenosis (narrowing) of the foramen.
Therefore, there is a need for a unilateral multiportal approach for the percutaneous disc procedures. Such attempts were made by either using an oval cannula, which allows using several tools at a time (see U.S. Pat. No. 6,228,022 issued on May 8, 2001 to T. Friesem et al, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,762,629 issued on Jun. 9, 1998 to P. Kambin), or introducing a second cannula for a biportal unilateral approach (the U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,762,629 and 5,730,754 issued on Mar. 24, 1998 to T. Obenchain). These approaches do not provide a comprehensive solution for percutaneous disc surgery. The method described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,730,754 still needs accurate targeting and it not sufficiently universal. U.S. Pat. No. 5,762,629 allows inserting a second cannula using a special targeting device, but has the following disadvantages: 1) the targeting device is rigid and does not allow the flexibility required by a surgeon for the formation of an angle between inserted cannulae; 2) after cannulae are inserted, the targeting device is removed, leaving the cannulae completely unlinked, so that a surgeon cannot keep them interrelated. In case the position of one of the inserted cannulae should be temporarily changed, it becomes a problem to reorient them, especially when more than two cannulae are used for the surgery.
Another common disadvantage of the existing devices for the percutaneous surgery is that they require the operation to be carried out under X-ray monitoring at all steps of the surgery, i.e., during insertion of each additional cannula and occasionally during the procedure itself. Simultaneously used cannulae are not interrelated with regard to their relative movements, once a cannula is shifted from its original position aligned under X-ray or by means of a special guiding device, it cannot be returned back to the original position, unless X-ray is used again. Such multiple X-ray monitoring exposes both the surgeon and the patient to an increased doze of radiation.
The problems associated with known percutaneous surgery devices were solved with the use of a multiportal device for percutaneous surgery developed by the applicants and described in our pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/136,548 filed on May 1, 2002. The device disclosed in the aforementioned patent application consists of a guiding mechanism with a radial arm that supports an auxiliary guiding device, which can slide along the arm and can be fixed in a require angular position on the arm. The device also includes a first cannula, which can be inserted into the patient's body through the guiding device and can be fixed in a required axial position, and a second cannula, which can be inserted into the auxiliary guiding device and fixed therein. The arch-shaped form of the arm ensures intersection of distal ends of both cannulae in one point aimed at the symptomatic site where surgery has to be done. The device is provided with a linking mechanism that links the distal ends of both cannulae in their position inside the body of a patient. When the linking device is in the engaged state, the cannulae still have some freedom of relative movements that may be required for manipulation with cannulae during the surgery. The invention also relates to a method of using the multiportal device for percutaneous surgery. The device allows insertion of a plurality of cannulae and permanently maintaining them in controlled positions without resorting to additional X-ray. The internal linking mechanism of the above device consists of moveable parts, which have to be engaged inside the patient's body close to the sensitive areas. In particular, in the embodiments described, the internal linking mechanism consists of a rod located inside one of the cannulae and a hook-like loop located in a neighboring cannula.
Although the device described above is efficient in eliminating extraneous X-raying and in facilitating guiding and manipulation of the cannulae during multiportal approach to the symptomatic site, nevertheless this device has many parts and is expensive to manufacture. Such a device is normally made of metal in view of provision of springs, loop-like hook, windows on the distal ends of the cannulae, etc. Therefore it cannot be made entirely of plastics and cannot be made disposable.
The solution of last-mentioned problems was presented in another pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/145,488 filed on May 15, 2002 by the same applicants. The device disclosed in this patent application consists of a plurality of tubular cannulae, which prior to the surgery, are linked together at their distal ends by flexible elements, such as wires or threads. All the threads, the number of which is one less than the number of the used cannulae, are passed through one of the cannulae, and the distal ends of the threads are attached to the walls of other cannulae, at their distal ends. During surgery, the cannulae with their distal ends being linked are inserted into the patient's body through an incision and then the cannulae are used for guiding various surgical tools. Due to flexible linking of the cannulae at their distal ends, the cannulae can be easily manipulated without disconnection and without a need in extraneous X-raying for reorientation of the cannulae. The aforementioned patent application also relates to a method of using the multiportal device for percutaneous surgery.
The construction of the device disclosed in the above application envisages an angular arrangement of the cannulae inserted into the patient's body. This is because the surgeon needs a freedom of manipulation with the cannulae during the surgery. However, when the surgery is performed on relatively flat portions of the patient's body, e.g., on overweight patients with posterolateral access to the symptomatic site, in order to provide the aforementioned freedom for cannula manipulation, the surgeon will have to make a large incision. This may cause more extensive scarring and longer healing.

Multiportal device with linked segmented cannulae and method for percutaneous surgery


According to some embodiments, an improved tugger and rider cart assembly system is presented. The system comprising a tugger cart with a central space to receive a rider cart; the tugger cart having both front side and rear side pluralities of transport wheels approximately parallel to, but not touching, ground; a front side and a rear side loading wheel positioned closer to the ground than the transport wheels; a rider cart having a first wing and a second wing, both wings having a curved portion; and wherein the loading wheels and wing curved portions can be operatively connected to allow a user to move the rider cart onto the tugger cart thereby allowing the tugger cart to transport the rider cart.

The present invention relates to an improved tugger and rider cart assembly, and more particularly, to a rider cart that may be easily attached to a tugger cart.
In the world of intra-plant material handling, a common approach to conveying material from one location to another is called a tugger/rider cart system. The system consists of three components; a tugger truck, tugger cart, and rider cart. The tugger truck pulls a train of tugger carts, with rider carts on board, from location to location in a factory or warehouse. For example, the rider carts are loaded with material at a picking station or supermarket. They are then loaded on to the tugger carts. After that, they are tugged to the unload area, unloaded off of the tugger carts, and pushed into their final position. At this point, the empty tugger carts may be reloaded with empty push carts and returned to the picking station.
One issue companies have with this type of system is being able to efficiently and ergonomically load and unload the rider carts on to the tugger carts. Currently, hydraulic and manual devices are used. The hydraulic lift solution increases cost, presents plant safety issues (oil on the floor), and requires more equipment maintenance. Also, if a plant already has a fleet of tugger carts they will probably have to change their entire fleet to special tugger carts that have hydraulic systems driving even more cost. Both methods require an operator to pull a rider cart out of the tugger cart which is a very difficult motion and can cause an operator to over exert himself. The manual solution requires four swivel casters which makes the carts difficult to control while being pushed.
In view of the disadvantages associated with currently available methods and devices for tugger carts and rider carts, there is a need for a device that allows for easier and smoother loading of rider carts onto tugger carts.