The process described herein involves the production of artificial blood vessels starting with a tue knit or woven from polmeric fibers such as polyester, for example, polyethyleneterephthalate, which has been surface cleaned and then coated on the exterior surface of the tube with one or more layers as defined more fully hereinafter of polysiloxane, polyurethane or a block copolymer of polyurethane and polysiloxane to give the desired amount of permeability. A preferred block copolymer is made an hydroxyalkyl-terminated polysiloxane and a polyurethane. The coating material is preferably applied by pressurized application to give an impermeable or almost impermeable layer on the outside of the tube and then the coated tube is solvent treated to remove enough of the coating to give the desired amount of permeability, preferably a porosity that is measured to permit 1-25, preferably 1-5 milliliters or cubic centimeters of water to flow through 1 square centimeter of surface area of the tube with water under a pressure of 120 mm. of mercury. The solvent treatment not only reduces the permeability but also removes polymeric coating material from the inside of the tube thereby preferably leaving exposed polymeric fibers on the inside of the tube and coating material in the interstices and on the outside of the tube.

Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a process for fabricating artificial blood vessels that may be grafted as a substitute or to replace a portion of a human blood vessel. More specifically it relates to an artificial blood vessel that approaches the properties of a human blood vessel in its various properties such as pulsatility, elasticity, compatibility to blood, compliance, permeability, etc. (Pulsatility is the ability of a blood vessel to develop sufficient pressure to cause blood to flow therethrough--too much permeability will allow blood flow through the pores and thereby hinder build-up of sufficient pressure to allow blood flow through the blood vessel. Elasticity in radial and longitudinal directions impart good pulsatility and compliance. Compatibility to blood relates to surface properties of the blood vessel--thus a more inactive surface means the blood vessel is more blood compatible whereas a more reactive surface means the surface interacts with the blood.) Still more specifically it relates to an artificial blood vessel and method for producing the same with controlled permeability to allow the passage of nutrients, ions, and other body fluid in a manner similar to that permitted by human blood vessels. Once this passage of ions, etc., is permitted by the artificial blood vessels, this acts as a precursor to the entire healing process and in return the graft remains open or patent for extended periods.
The following patents exemplify the prior art.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,562,352 describes block copolymers of either polyether urethanes or polyester urethanes and polysiloxanes, preferably poly(dimethylsiloxane). Example 11 describes the preparation of a tube having both inner and outer surfaces of the block copolymer of a polyether urethane--poly(dimethylsiloxane) from a solution in which the solvent is a combination of 1000 parts by weight of tetrahydrofuran per 1200 parts by weight of dioxane. "A precleaned, highly polished stainless steel mandril was dipped into solution and allowed to partially dry. While in a semidry condition, the tube while still on the mandril was wrapped with one layer of a number 20 Dacron mesh fabric presoaked in purified anhydrous tetrahydrofuran. The Dacron wrapped tube was then dipped into the block-copolymer solution to deposit an additional layer over the Dacron fabric. The tube while still on the mandril was allowed to dry completely at room temperature and subsequently maintained at 80.degree. C. for one to two hours. It was removed from the mandril. Final dimensions of the tube are 1.8 cm. inside diameter, 12.5 cm. length and 0.03 cm. wall thickness." It is described as suitable, with appropriate sterilization, for use as a saturable aortic graft.
Sawyer U.S. Pat. No. 4,167,045 shows the production of cardiac and vascular prostheses which comprises a Dacron crimped vascular graft coated with protein applied from a protein solution. These were further modified by the addition of ground solid succinic anhydride. The grafts were hydrostatically tested to withstand 30 mm of Hg pressure "without showing evidence of air leaks through the graft pores" (Col. 7, lines 43-45). These grafts were also tested with various deposited powders, such as Agar, aluminum, etc. There is no indication of a control of or desired range of permeability.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,623,347 teaches the prevention of clotting of blood in contact with antithrombogenic elastomers prepared by mixing solutions of polyurethane and polysiloxane having reactive terminal groups and reacting them to produce a molded product therefrom. Films of such products were cast on the surface of a test tube. Patentee indicates that similar castings or molding may be used to cover the exposed surfaces of medical devices and instruments which come into direct contact with blood.
Nyilas U.S. Pat. No. 4,670,286 describes a vascular prosthesis of a bioresorbable material (polyglycolic acid) intertwined with nonresorbable (Dacron). The bioresorbable materials "become degraded and ultimately vanish, gradually increasing the biological porosity of the graft over its initial porosity." (Col. 4, lines 27-30). This involves a bioresorbable material which degrades and disappears so that after implantation shows an increase in porosity regardless of what it might have been originally. There is no disclosure of a controlled, desired low-initial permeability.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,675,361 also teaches polymer systems suitable for blood-contacting surfaces of a biomedical device. These systems comprise a base polymer, preferably a polyurethane, mixed with a block copolymer of polyurethane and polysiloxane. Example 4 describes a typical procedure using a solution of 99.0 weight percent of polyesterurethane and 0.1 weight percent silicone/polyurethane block copolymer in a solvent comprising 90% by volume of tetrahydrofurane and 10% dimethylformamide. This "solution is coated onto tapered stainless steel mandrels by multiple dipping. The solvent is allowed to evaporate and the film is removed from the mandrel. The resulting `balloon` is mounted on a predrilled catheter and is useful as a cardiac arrest device when placed in the descending aorta and inflated and deflated with CO.sub.2 in counterpulsation to the heart."
U.S. Pat. No. 4,685,280 describes an artificial vascular graft made of fibers in which the inner surface is made of fibers of less than 0.5 denier and the outer surface is made of fibers of more than 1.0 denier. Polymers specified are polyamides, polyurethanes, polyolefins and preferably polyesters. Other fibers may be mixed with these which are of a type such as polystyrene which may be removed or stripped, for example, by a solvent. This patent states in col. 3, lines 37-52:
"It is convenient to refer to the rate of water permeation as a standard measure. The phrase rate of water permeation, is defined here as the amount (ml/minute) of water permeating through 1 cm.sup.2 of the surface of the grafts (or cloth) under 120 mm Hg of pressure.
To prevent blood leakage, this rate should be below 500 ml/min, and preferably below 100 ml/min. These values are only guides and it is unnecessary to adhere to them strictly. There may be many cases where artificial vascular grafts of this invention have rates of water permeation of 3000 and 5000 ml/min but are superior to conventional artificial vascular grafts in formation of intervascular endothelium and in utility for anastomosis. But performance of the artificial vascular grafts is particularly good when the rate of water permeation is low."
U.S. Pat. No. 4,731,073 shows an arterial graft prosthesis formed of a core zone of porous elastomer disposed about the longitudinal axis of the prosthesis, an inner zone of solid elastomer joined to the inner surface of the zone of porous elastomer, and an outer zone of solid elastomer, this outer zone of solid elastomer being joined to the outside of the zone of porous elastomer. There is little information as to the polymer compositions of the various layers although some zones are identified as polyether-polyurethane "having a lack of pores or orifices".
Pinchuk U.S. Pat. No. 4,851,009 shows the treatment of prostheses made of fibers of polyurethane, polypropylene and polymethacrylate with a silicone rubber to reduce or prevent surface fissuring or cracking and shows plasma pretreatment for grafting silicone polymers onto the substrate. The polyester of the present invention does not exhibit either surface fissuring or cracking.
Kira U.S. Pat. No. 4,871,361 describes an artificial blood vessel comprising two concentric layers made of an elastomer, the inner layer having a porosity of 80-95% and the other layer(s) having a lower porosity so that the overall porosity is 75-90%. This range of porosity is well above the permeability range of applicant's product, as described hereinafter, and will require blood preclotting to bring the product within the desired low permeability range, which preclotting is not necessary with applicant's product of the present invention. Moreover, Kiro's method of producing pores in his product is entirely different from applicant's. Kiro does not apply any coating but instead has a soluble substituent in his base material which, upon treatment with an appropriate solvent, is removed to leave openings or pores. Kiro does not aim for or teach a low porosity and if the soluble substituent is not completely removed by solvent treatment, this substituent will be leached out by the blood thereby eventually producing even higher porosity.
Fleckenstein et al disclose porous artificial blood vessels comprising polyethylene terephthalate fibers which have been impregnated with gelatin which is subsequently crosslinked with a diisocyanate. The gelatin, as well as collagen, albumin, etc., used as impregnants, all invoke immune responses in the body. Each of these materials is intended to degrade in the human body but in reality they do not degrade. Moreover coatings with biologic materials tend to flake off during or after implantation which is not the case with applicant's fabricated products.
None of these patents teach applicant's method of controlling or adjusting the permeability of an artificial vascular graft.
Permeability is an important property in facilitating the transmission of appropriate ions in body fluids passing into and out of the vascular system.
For general replacement of blood vessels it is desirable to have artificial blood vessels available with inside diameters ranging from 1 mm. to 34 mm. At present artificial blood vessels are available only with inside diameters of 8 mm. or greater. With tubes smaller than 8 mm. I.D. there are a number of problems which include high permeability leading to blood clotting, occlusion, etc. It is desirable therefore to be able to have artificial blood vessels in the full range including less than 8 mm. I.D. which have low, controlled optimum permeability which will avoid or minimize blood occlusion and clotting.

Process for producing artificial blood vessels of controlled permeability and product produced thereby


A hinge for circumrotatory location includes a base, a locating gasket defining a pair of recesses thereon, a top cover defining a third groove in a bottom thereof. The base has a first groove, a second groove above the first groove. A retention slot connects the second groove and has two retention edges. A stop block is rotatably mounted in the retention slot and stretches into the second groove. The retention edges are capable of stopping the stop block. A pair of locating slots corresponding to the recesses are centrosymmetrically defined in the fundus of the third groove. A protrusion protrudes from the bottom of the top cover and adjacent to the third groove. The top cover lies above the locating gasket which is fitted to the first groove. The protrusion rotates around the second groove and is capable of being against two sides of the stop block.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a hinge, and more particularly to a hinge that can rotate from 0 degree to 360 degree or even more degree to achieve location function.
2. The Related Art
Hinges are widely used to link various electronic parts together such as mobile phone, video camera and so on. A hinge for circumrotatory location is shown in FIG. 9. The hinge for circumrotatory location 700 includes a cover with a top cover 77 and a bottom cover 72, a pivot 71, a plastic ring 73, a stop means 74, a steel ball 75, a turnplate 76 and a latch 78. The stop means 74 includes a chassis 741, a stop tray 742 projecting upward from the stop tray 742 and a stop block 743 extending horizontally and outward from the stop tray 742 with a radian γ. A slide track 744 is formed around the stop tray 742 and connects with the chassis 741 with two ends connecting with the stop block 743. The turnplate 76 is fitted on the stop means 74 with an abutting block 761 formed on an exterior circle thereof. When the turnplate 76 rotates about an axis of the stop means 74, the abutting block 761 is sliding around the slide track 744 until the abutting block 761 abuts against the stop block 743. In the cooperation between the stop means 74 and the turnplate 76, the hinge for circumrotatory location 700 can rotate in a proper range to achieve location function. Meanwhile, the hinge for circumrotatory location 700 can rotate various degrees by replacing the turnplate 76 of various central angle β. Please refer to FIG. 10, with the cooperation of a first turnplate 762 and the second turnplate 763, the hinge for circumrotatory location 700 can rotate in an angle of 0˜360 degrees.
However, the hinge for circumrotatory location 700 has so many components that the structure is complex to ensure the hinge for circumrotatory location 700 working effectively. So, it would be desirable to provide a new hinge that is of simple design and low cost.


A pneumatic radial tire which is excellent in drainage and capable of reducing air-column-tube resonance sounds in circumferentially extending grooves to decrease noises. The pneumatic radial tire comprises a tread provided thereon with a groove extending circumferentially in the circumferential direction of the tire and a vibration buffer wall having essentially an identical cross-sectional shape provided near the sidewall of said circumferentially extending groove, wherein the height of the outside edge of the vibration buffer wall in the radial direction of the tire is lower than the height of the outside edge of the circumferentially extending groove in the radial direction of the tire.

1. Field of Invention
The present invention relates to a pneumatic radial tire. More particularly, it relates to a pneumatic radial tire having improved drainage with low noise for use in high-speed large trucks or automobiles.
2. Description of the Prior Art
In automobiles running at high speed on rainy days, rainwater penetrates and is wedged between the tread of a tire and the surface of a road to cause a phenomenon called hydroplaning in which the friction between the tread and the road surface is lost and the steering wheels and brakes do not correctly function. Thus safety of driving is compromised.
Conventionally, the pneumatic radial tire 1 as shown in FIG. 15 is proposed to solve the problem of hydroplaning in automobiles. This pneumatic radial tire 1 is formed as a toroid with rubber layer 2, and the beads 3 which are provided with a pair of bead cores 4 formed into a ring around the rotating shaft of the radial tire 1. A 2-ply carcass layer 6, consisting of radial ply cords 5 arranged with the ends of the carcass layer 6 turned inside to outside as they are wound around a pair of bead cores 4.
The radial outside of carcass layer 6 is provided with a 2-ply steel belt layer 8 consisting of substantially nonstretchable steel cord 7, and radially outside of the steel belt layer 8, a tread 9 is formed to cover the steel belt layer 8. Further, the surface of the tread 9 is provided at predetermined intervals with a plurality of continuous rib grooves circumferentially extending around the radial tire 1 to permit water entrapped between the tread 9 and the surface of a road to be discharged outside via the circumferentially extending grooves 10, thus improving the drainage of the radial tire 1.
In the radial tire 1 as proposed above, however, there occur air-column tubes between the circumferentially extending grooves 10 and the surface of a road in the rolling tire, and the air in the air-column tubes causes noise by resonating with the vibration of the radial tire 1 brought about by the uneven surface of a road. If circumferential grooves 10 are enlarged to secure drainage, the noise will increase because the air-column-tube resonance sounds are raised generally in proportion to the size of circumferential groove 10.
As a technique to solve the problem, there is proposed, for example, a pneumatic tire having a tread provided with circumferentially extending grooves and in the crosswise direction of the tire with laterally extending grooves with an incline to the equatorial plane of the tire, where notches are formed roughly parallel to and adjacent to the laterally extending grooves. (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 38412/1991).
However, such a pneumatic tire is not effective enough for preventing noise because both the laterally extending grooves and the notches come into contact with the ground and the sidewalls of both the laterally extending grooves and the notches are simultaneously vibrated. That is, the pneumatic tire disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No 38412/1991 has not succeeded in solving the above problem and the problem to be solved remains.
A pneumatic radial tire in which the upper edges of the sidewalls of a circumferentially extending groove are made with slopes with an incline to the equatorial plane of the tire is also proposed in e.g., Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 117414/1995. However, this prior art pneumatic radial tire cannot relieve lateral vibration of its circumferentially extending grooves and thus cannot satisfactorily reduce air-column-tube resonance sounds. Hence, the pneumatic tire disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 117414/1995 has not succeeded in solving the above problem.
There is further proposed a pneumatic radial tire having a tread provided with a rib and with a circumferentially extending wide groove, said rib having circumferentially extending thin grooves formed outside said circumferentially extending wide groove, wherein the edge zone between the circumferentially extending wide and thin grooves is lower than the rib (U.S. Pat. No. 4,936,363).
However, the pneumatic radial tire proposed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,936,363 was structured as above to prevent the edge of the rib from undergoing wear, and said lower edge zone has projecting and reentrance portions on the sidewalls the circumferentially extending wide groove, that is, the cross-sectional shape of the edge zone is uneven, while the outside surface also has projecting and reentrance portions. Therefore, this prior art tire may be effective for preventing wear on the rib, but can not relieve the vibration in the crosswise direction of the circumferentially extending groove of the rolling tire. Therefore, this tire has not attained sufficient prevention of noise resulting from air-column-tube resonance sounds.

Pneumatic radial tire including vibration buffer wall


A method for adjusting the timing for sampling a reflected write signal is disclosed. The method comprises determining a reference timing event, and sampling the reflected write signal at first and second sampling times to produce first and second sampled signals, the first sampling time occurring after a first variable time delay following the reference timing event and the second sampling time occurring after a first fixed time delay following the first sampling time. The method further comprises comparing the magnitudes of the first and second sampled signals, and adjusting the first variable time delay in response to the comparison of the magnitudes of the first and second sampled signals so that the magnitudes of the first and second sampled signals are substantially equal.

A method for measuring mark formation effectiveness by sampling a reflected write signal at two instances in time T.sub.1 and T.sub.2 relative to an external reference timing event is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,216,660 to Iimura, and is illustrated in FIG. 1. Such a reference timing event can be, for example, the rising edge of a write pulse sent to a recording laser. As shown in FIG. 1, the method disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,216,660 uses fixed, predetermined delays T.sub.1 and T.sub.2 between the reference timing event and the times that the reflected write signal is sampled. However, there are many sources of uncertainty and variation in the actual time delay between such a reference timing event and the reflected write signal. For example, the time delay can vary from one device to another and with time and temperature for a given device. Nonadjustable sampling delays between the reference timing event and the reflected write signal may be adequate for very low data recording rates such as "1X" speed in a CD recordable ("CD-R") system, where a given sample timing error may not cause significant error in the resulting measurement. However, as data recording rates increase, that same error in sample timing can lead to larger errors when attempting to measure a specific feature of the reflected write signal, such as its peak value. This is illustrated in FIG. 2, which is a graph of reflected write signals at 1X and 8X CD-R data rates, where X is the data rate associated with CD audio playback (i.e., 4.321 Mbits per second data rate recorded to or read back from the disk). As shown in FIG. 2, a sampling timing error of 15 nanoseconds causes a sampled measurement error at 6X, which is significantly greater than at 1X.
A mark formation effectiveness measurement method described in commonly-assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,495,466, to Dohmeier et al., the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference, effectively solves this timing error problem for a reflected write signal which has a well defined peak. Such a signal occurs, for example, with CD-R media. Rather than sampling the reflected write signal, this method works by dynamically adjusting one or more threshold levels relative to the reflected write signal. Each threshold level is adjusted until the reflected write signal exceeds that threshold for a predetermined time period. Referring to FIG. 3, a graph of a reflected write signal versus time is shown which illustrates the mark formation effectiveness measurement method disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,495,466. In FIG. 3, the threshold level V.sub.1 is adjusted so that the reflected write signal exceeds it for a predetermined time period .DELTA.T.sub.1. Similarly, the threshold level V.sub.2 is adjusted so that the reflected write signal exceeds it for a predetermined time period .DELTA.T.sub.2. Mark formation effectiveness measurements can be made by processing the threshold levels V.sub.1 and V.sub.2, which is described in more detail in U.S. Pat. No. 5,495,466. This method accomplishes accurate mark formation effectiveness measurements without needing to provide the precise sample timing of the reflected write signal, as required by U.S. Pat. No. 5,216,660. However, one of the limitations of the method described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,495,466 is its speed of response. Since the threshold levels are dynamically adjusted, the threshold levels do not instantaneously follow changes in the reflected write signal. This time lag can be a problem, for example, when measuring rapid waveform fluctuations such as occur at the wobble frequency of CD-R.

Sampling timing for a reflected write signal


A lightweight grenade launcher utilizing a rotary feed mechanism in conjunction with a toggle link bolt movement mechanism to incorporate the barrel, flash suppressor, bolt and toggle link mechanism as part of the gun's recoiling mass with the barrel moving during recoil and counter recoil through a center aperture in the rotary sprocket of the feed mechanism.

1. Field of the Invention
The device of this invention resides in the field of guns and more particularly relates to a lightweight, self-powered, short recoil-operated 40 mm machine gun for the launching of grenades.
2. Description of the Prior Art
40 mm machine guns for launching grenades exist in the prior art, but they are heavy guns with recoiling masses that are a small percentage of their total weight. These heavy guns must be supported by several personnel, and high trunnion forces require that the gun must be securely mounted. The current state-of-the-art MK19 40 mm gun has a 17 lb bolt and an assembly weight of 71 lbs. Therefore the recoiling mass of the MK19 represents only 24% of its assembly weight.


An enclosure system for vehicles may include a body with mounting points for mounting the body in a passenger compartment of a vehicle and adapted to fit under a bench seat in the vehicle. The body may include multiple walls coupled together and may couple with one or more doors. For example, the one or more doors may couple with the body with one or more hinges and may close over a top of the body to form one or more cavities in which items may be stored. The enclosure system may also include one or more locking mechanisms for coupling the doors in a closed position and securing the cavities and items within the cavities.

The present disclosure relates to a secure modular enclosure for vehicles.
Many automotive and outdoor enthusiasts enjoy vehicles such as a Jeep Wrangler®, Bronco®, Hummer®, or another all-terrain vehicle. However, some of these vehicles do not provide secure storage, due to the openness of their storage areas. Past solutions for providing secure storage or weather protection include a hard shell covering the interior of the vehicle, but these solutions negate the advantages of a vehicle.
Accordingly, it is desirable to provide storage systems for such vehicles; however, the open nature of the storage areas of vehicles presents unique challenges not in typical other storage enclosures or trunks of vehicles. Existing enclosures to the storage areas of open-top vehicles are inadequate as they are not secure, not adaptable to varying sized cargo, are not sufficiently strong to support items on top of the enclosure, and not adaptable to various vehicles. For example, some existing enclosures do not securely cover the entirety of the storage area, so that items within the enclosure can be accessed from the outside of the enclosure.
Furthermore, even vehicles that are enclosed need secure storage and connection for gear and accessories. For example, even when certain items are locked inside an enclosed vehicle, they may not be secure from thieves, valet drivers, children, or other parties. For example, a hunting enthusiast may require secure storage inside a vehicle in which to store a rifle to prevent access by a child or thief; however, current solutions for storing items in a vehicle do not lock or otherwise prohibit items from being viewed and/or are easily opened.
Finally, it is desirable to mount various accessories to a vehicle, such as backpacks, radar detectors, sunglass holders, or cameras, etc. Currently, visors, handles, parcel shelves, etc., do not provide sufficient or sturdy enough connection points for mounting accessories, especially when those accessories are subject to the motions and angles associated with off-roading.
Accordingly, there is a need to provide enclosure systems, vehicle mounting systems, and various accessories that secure items, for example, within the enclosure systems or otherwise to vehicles.


A venting plug for a wet, lead-acid storage battery, a battery containing the same, a method of molding the venting plug body, and a mold for molding the venting plug body are disclosed. The sealing surfaces of the venting plug do not include a mold parting line along which acid from inside of the battery could seep between the seal and sealing surfaces. The venting plug body, however, includes a coupling structure that includes a mold parting line. The sealing surfaces of the venting plug body are molded by a single plate such that no mold parting line results along the sealing surfaces, while the coupling structure is molded by plurality of mold components such that a mold parting line results in the vicinity of the coupling structure.

Typically, wet, multicell, lead-acid SLI storage batteries include an open-topped, rectangular-shaped container sealed by a cover assembly, both of which are formed from an injection molded thermoplastic polymer, such as polypropylene. The container and cover have partition walls dividing the space within the battery into a plurality of substantially isolated cell cavities. Each cell cavity contains an electrode stack immersed in electrolyte. The cover typically defines a plurality of generally cylindrically shaped process holes, one associated with each cell cavity, through which the cell cavities are initially filled with electrolyte. In maintenance batteries, the process holes are closed-off by plugs which can be removed so that electrolyte can be periodically added through the process holes as maintenance is required.
Especially during charging, lead-acid storage batteries generate various gases in the cell cavities during operation, including hydrogen and oxygen. Hydrogen/oxygen mixtures can be volatile, creating an obvious potential for explosion. In recombinant lead-acid batteries, hydrogen and oxygen gas is retained in large part in the battery and induced to recombine into water. In wet lead-acid storage batteries, however, such gases are allowed to escape from the cell cavity and ultimately pass out of the battery through a venting system.
Wet, lead-acid storage batteries are used in a tremendous variety of vehicles and applications. As a result, such batteries are often subject to extreme and harsh operating environments. For example, batteries used in land moving vehicles, such as bulldozers, are frequently tilted at severe angles, as well as being subjected to intense operating vibrations. Thus, electrolyte can splash about the interior of a battery during normal battery use, as well as during installation and shipment.
There are a wide variety of known venting systems for expelling the volatile gases generated within a wet battery to the external, ambient space. The electrochemical performance of the battery may suffer, however, if electrolyte leaks from the battery. Accordingly, in general, venting systems in wet lead-acid batteries are directed to achieving a dual purpose: allowing gases to vent from within the battery, while retaining the electrolyte fluid therein.
Venting systems typically utilize venting plugs adapted for insertion within each process hole. A baffle positioned within the venting plug allows the passage of gases from the cell cavity while retarding the passage of electrolyte. Vent plugs are typically molded from a relatively rigid polymer, such as polypropylene, in molds that generally include vertical parting lines. As a result, the vent plugs often exhibit imperfect surfaces along the mold parting lines. These seams or excess flashing along the vertical surfaces of a vent plug can result in channels through which acid can leak due to both capillary action and the pressure developed during battery usage.
Positioned between the venting plug and the process hole is a seal or gasket, which is designed to provide a seal that prevents passage of gases and liquid between the plug and process hole. Vent plugs frequently utilize a separate seal or gasket, which is placed over the end of the plug body. Such gaskets are typically formed from die cutting molded sheet stock or by cutting molded tubes of rubber. Unfortunately, however, the vertical seam lines and flashing that can result from the vent plug molding process can prevent or inhibit the proper desired sealing operation of such separate gaskets. This is particularly true where the gasket is made of a relatively hard rubber.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,422,199 to Adams et al. discloses an integrally molded annular bead, which serves as the seal between the plug and the process hole, a single material being used for both the plug body and the bead. Unfortunately, this design can exhibit poor sealing characteristics and be prone to leakage along the seam or flashing line inasmuch as polypropylene is relatively non-resilient.
Despite the continuing effort in this area there remains a need for vent plugs that efficiently retain electrolyte within the cell cavity while effectively venting gases in a relatively safe manner, and which can be easily and economically manufactured.
Accordingly, it is a primary object of the present invention to provide a vent plug that is easily and economically manufactured. It is a related object to provide a vent plug that minimizes fabrication and assembly costs, while providing a consistent, reliable venting device.
A more specific object of the invention is to provide a vent plug that provides or facilitates an effective seal between the vent body and container cover.
It also is an object to provide a battery that vents gases generated with the cell cavities in a safe and efficient manner.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a battery having a venting system that minimizes the escape of electrolyte.
Yet another object is to provide a battery wherein all of the above advantages are realized.
These and other advantages of the present invention, as well as additional inventive features, will be apparent from the description of the invention provided herein.

Screw-in vent plug for lead-acid batteries


A transparent conductive film includes a transparent conductive coating provided on at least one surface of an organic polymer film substrate, wherein the transparent conductive coating is a crystalline coating of an indium-based complex oxide having a content of a tetravalent metal element oxide of 7 to 15% by weight calculated by the formula {(the amount of the tetravalent metal element oxide)/(the amount of the tetravalent metal element oxide+the amount of indium oxide)}=100(%), has a thickness in the range of more than 40 to 200 nm, a specific resistance of 1.2×10−4 to 2.0×10−4 Ω·cm, main X-ray diffraction peaks corresponding to (222) and (440) planes and has a ratio (I440/I222) of (440) peak intensity (I440) to (222) peak intensity (I222) of less than 0.3, and has an internal stress of 700 MPa or less as determined by an X-ray stress measurement method.

A conventionally well-known transparent conductive film is what is called a conductive glass, which includes a glass substrate and an ITO coating (indium-tin complex oxide coating) formed thereon. When an ITO coating is formed on a glass substrate, the coating can be deposited while the glass substrate is heated at 200° C. or higher, generally, 300° C. or higher. In this case, therefore, an ITO coating with a thickness of 130 nm and a low surface resistance of 10 Ω/square or less (a specific resistance of 1.3×10−4 Ω·cm) can be easily obtained.
However, the glass substrate, which has low flexibility and workability, cannot be used in some cases. In recent years, therefore, transparent conductive films having an ITO coating formed on various organic polymer film substrates such as polyethylene terephthalate films are used because of their advantages such as a high level of flexibility, workability, and impact resistance, and light weight.
The preferred level of specific resistance and surface resistance, required of the ITO coating-bearing transparent conductive film, varies with the use of the transparent conductive film. However, the ITO coating formed on the organic polymer film substrate has become required to have the same level of specific resistance and surface resistance as that of the ITO coating formed on the glass substrate. For example, film displays have been studied recently. For such display applications, the ITO coating formed on the organic polymer film substrate has been required to have a low resistance of 10 Ω/square or less per 130 nm thickness, which is the same level as that of the ITO coating formed on the glass substrate. Transparent electrode applications for introduction of light into solar cells, particularly, transparent electrode applications for thin film solar cells require a resistance of 10 Ω/square or less, a high transmittance in the near-infrared region, and high reliability under a high-temperature, high-humidity atmosphere.
A variety of processes are proposed for the ITO coating-bearing transparent conductive film (Patent Documents 1 to 5).

Transparent conductive film and production method therefor


In a damper valve for use in a steering damper arrangement of a motor vehicle having a hydrostatic displacement motor for operating the vehicle steering mechanism wherein hydraulic fluid lines extending between the hydraulic motor and a servo-valve include the damper valve, the damper valve has a throttling arrangement which permits fluid flow in one direction and limits fluid flow in the opposite direction but permits essentially unlimited fluid flow in both directions as long as the pressure difference across the damper valve is below a predetermined threshold value so as to permit unrestricted normal steering movements of the vehicle steering system, but dampen shock movements thereof.

The invention relates to a damper valve, particularly for an external steering damper or a hydraulic power steering of a motor vehicle, which includes a hydraulic positive displacement motor. The hydraulic positive displacement motor serves also as a steering damper by providing in the hydraulic connecting lines or passages extending between the motor and the servo-valve damper valves with throttling structures permitting fluid flow in at least one direction and including check valves which are arranged in parallel with the damper valves and are open in the opposite direction and have no or little throttling effect for fluid flows when they are in their open positions.
Such damper valves or rather power steerings which include such damper valves are known from DE 43 23 179 C1. The known damper valves include a valve support member in the form of a perforated plates, which have passages and which are either provided with resilient valve discs or a spring loaded valve plate by which hydraulic fluid flow through the passages can be controlled. The resilient valve discs on the front side of the perforated plate as well as the spring-loaded valve plate at the opposite side of the perforated disc are supported on the valve support member by bolts. The openings controlled in this arrangement by the resilient valve discs form throttling passages through which fluid can flow in one direction, whereas the openings controlled by the spring loaded valve plate serve as check valve structures which are open or only slightly throttling in the direction opposite to the one direction.
For a power steering with a double-acting piston cylinder unit each side of the unit is in communication with a motor connection of a servo valve so that a controllable pressure difference can be established between the two sides in one or the opposite direction. To insure the steering damper function, the connecting lines between the two sides of the piston-cylinder unit and the servo valve include the previously described damper valves in such an arrangement that their check valves open for a fluid flow into the piston cylinder unit.
External steering dampers are typically double acting piston cylinder units whose cylinder chambers are in communication with one another by way of throttling means in such a way that, upon movement of the piston, hydraulic fluid flows from one cylinder chamber to the other by overcoming a throttling resistance. Damper valves of the type as originally described can also be utilized with such steering dampers wherein in both piston stroke direction two damper valve arrangements in series must be provided between the cylinder chambers. The two serially arranged damper valves must be arranged with respect to fluid flow in opposition to one another in order to provide for equal damping effects in both direction of piston movement.
Each steering damper arrangement acts with respect to a steering control movement of the vehicle steering system as a control resistance--although of relatively small value. As a result, a return force occurring during vehicle operation because of a given steering kinematic, which tends to move the steering to a straight-ahead position can be affected more or less detrimentally. Consequently, a compromise must be made in the design of a steering damper arrangement such that, on one hand, there is a sufficient damper effect and, on the other hand, the return tendency of the steering mechanism during vehicle operation is not excessively affected.
It is the object of the present invention to provide an essentially improved design, which is capable of especially effectively dampening strong shocks acting on the steering mechanism.


A method of automated prolonged slow release artificial intrauterine insemination is disclosed wherein motile sperm are introduced into the uterus in a programmed, organized and metered pattern over an extended period of time. A catheter is inserted into the uterine cavity and aliquots of sperm containing medium are injected at a rate of 10 to 20 mm/hr (approximately every 30 seconds) for between 4 to 6 hours. The motile sperm content of each aliquot is between 8,000 to 75,000. Preferably, the method is carried out with the use of a novel delivery device. The device of the present invention comprises a flexible catheter having a delivery channel, a first end attachable to a pumping means, and a second end (uterine end) adapted to pass through the cervix and into the uterine cavity. The catheter is provided with an inflatable balloon adjacent the second end. Upon inflation of the balloon, the catheter is immobilized in the vagina. The pumping means delivers the aliquots of sperm containing medium through the delivery channel and into the uterus. The pumping means is adapted to pump sufficient medium to deliver between 1 million to 9 million motile spermatozoa per hour into the uterine cavity. The balloon is deflatable to permit the catheter's easy removal after use. Preferably, the pumping means may be strapped to the abdomen of the patient to permit the patient to leave the treatment center during the treatment period.

Artificial insemination attempts to treat infertile couples by solving their infertile problems. One of the main causes of infertility is that small numbers or none of the ejaculated spermatozoa reach the egg in the ampullary portion of the tube. Oligozoospermia (small sperm number in the ejaculate), asthenozoospermia (decreased sperm motility), low semen volume, and hostile cervical mucus are the common reasons for this occurrence. These factors are clinically diagnosed by persistently negative or poor postcoital tests, i.e., absence of sperms or motile sperms in the secretion of the uterine cervix after natural sexual intercourse.
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) with husband's semen is widely used in the treatment of infertile couples with cervical mucus hostility and moderately deranged male semenograms. The intrauterine insemination consists of a bolus, one-off injection into the uterine cavity of a large number of motile, washed and concentrated sperms condensed in a small volume of 0.2 to 0.4 ml. of culture media. This is the classical (conventional) bolus intrauterine insemination technique. An important disadvantage of the classical IUI bolus technique is the deposition of very large number of sperms into the uterine cavity. This may have an adverse immunological impact, and may cause polyzoospermia. Spermatozoa placed in the uterine cavity migrates quickly to the fallopian tubes and uterine cavity. Hence, the period time of fertilisation is limited and IUI has to be perfectly coordinated with ovulation for fertilization to take place. As a result of these disadvantages, the conception rate for classical IUI is very low.
To perform classical IUI an insemination catheter is used to introduce the semen into the uterine cavity through the cervix. This catheter is removed immediately after the introduction of the sperms into the uterine cavity.

Automated prolonged slow release intrauterine insemination using self retaining intrauterine insemination catheter


Protection of a computer system (104) against attacks using malformed files is applied to an application (106) configured to process files of a predefined Headerless format indicated by a Characteristic pattern of bytes. An incoming file's Characteristic pattern is checked by comparing its leading bytes with Characteristic patterns. If its leading bytes have such a pattern, the file (100) is subjected to a full content check; the file is discarded (100) if it lacks such a pattern or has contents considered damaging. A file is checked regarding suitability for further processing by comparing its leading bytes with the Characteristic pattern of the predefined Headerless format. A full content check of the file may also be carried out. The application (106) is permitted to process files having the Characteristic pattern of the predefined Headerless format and appropriate file contents. The method can deal with ZIP files (b) etc. starting with redundant data b1 even if polymorphic, provided that the file is not potentially damaging.

Computer systems are open to attack because conventional software applications can mishandle malformed documents. Application software may be written in such a way that it properly handles documents that it has created, but it may be induced to mishandle a malformed document designed to achieve this: such an application may for example exhibit unexpected behaviour, such as interpreting the malformed document's data as code that the application executes.
It is known to defend against attacks implemented by malformed documents by checking incoming documents received by a sensitive computer system and possibly from a potential attacker. Checking ascertains that an incoming document is correctly formed and consists of constructs that vulnerable applications running on the computer system are able to handle properly. Documents found to contain malformed constructs are blocked so they do not reach vulnerable applications.
Full content checking by a full checker may involve performing a complete check of the file's data against the file's format specification: for example, to ensure that an Adobe PDF document fully meets the PDF file format's specification, every byte of the file is compared with that specification. Alternatively, only a partial check against a file's format specification may be performed, but it can still be referred to as a full content check: for example, a PDF document may be checked to ensure that it has correct main structures of pages etc, but i without checking every byte that makes up a page description. A full checker may therefore perform a complete or partial check of a file's data against the relevant file format specification, and then it may also enforce some additional constraints: for example, there may be an additional check to make sure a PDF document does not contain any JavaScript code. In order to impose an additional constraint where a partial check is conducted, the partial check must cover appropriate parts of the relevant file format specification in enough detail to enforce the constraint.
Document checking pays regard to a document's file format. Most file formats are characterised by a document's first few bytes which have a Characteristic pattern: these can be referred to as Characteristic Header formats. When an application handles a document as a file with Characteristic Header file format, it opens the file and examines the file's first few bytes in order to determine the file's likely format. If the format determined in this way is one that the application is configured for, the application then proceeds to deal with the data in an appropriate way. Otherwise, i.e. if the format is not appropriate, the application stops trying to deal with the data and reports an error to its user.
For example, upon opening a file, Microsoft Word looks at the file's first few bytes in order to determine whether the file is in native Word 97 format, Word XML format, Rich Text format or plain text. It then proceeds to interpret the file's other data appropriately for that format.
For Characteristic Header file formats, content checkers are known which examine a file's first few bytes in order to deduce how the file's data will be treated by software applications and so apply checks appropriate for those applications.
Some file formats (referred to as "Headerless") do not begin with Characteristic patterns, i.e. in the first few bytes. A software application might be required to search throughout a file having a Headerless file format in order to find a Characteristic pattern that indicates the start of data relevant to the application; if so, the application would ignore all data before the Characteristic pattern. The Zip archive format for Zip files is an example of a Headerless file format that is in widespread use: a Zip file has redundant data before and after its Zip data. Applications such as WinZip ignore data found at the start of a Zip file and instead search through the file for some characteristic bytes indicating that Zip data is present.
Headerless file formats present conventional content checkers with a problem. A content checker that intercepts a file passed to a sensitive computer system must determine the file's format in order to apply appropriate checks. If the computer system uses only Characteristic Header file formats, this would be a quick process as only the first few bytes of the file would need to be inspected; but if Headerless file formats are in use, then a content checker will need to search through all data in a file to ascertain whether or not the file contains any such format's Characteristic pattern: this can be time consuming.
A common means of speeding up the process of checking files with Headerless file formats is to rely on a file's name extension to determine its format. For example, a file with a name ending in ".zip" is considered to be a Zip file and so an application will open it as such. A content checker could use the same strategy. Having ascertained the file's type from its file extension, the content checker could proceed to check that the file's format complies with an appropriate format specification. In the case of a Zip file, the content checker would then search for a Characteristic pattern of Zip archive data and check that this pattern is correct. Files in other formats are checked against their respective format specifications: this avoids wasting time searching for Zip data.
Unfortunately, the strategy of relying on a file name extension is a poor one for a content checker. This is because it is not difficult to change the file name extension after the file has been checked, and it is possible for a file to conform to both the specification of a Characteristic Header format and a Headerless file format, or even to both of two different Headerless file formats: such files are referred to as "polymorphic". A polymorphic file can be opened with equal success by applications that handle the file's different file formats. For example, it is possible for a file to be a valid JPEG/JFIF image file and a valid Zip archive file: such a file starts with the Characteristic pattern of a JPEG/JFIF file and contains Zip archive data within the body of the image file. For this reason a content checker needs to search for characteristic bytes indicating the presence of a Headerless file format even though a file has a valid Characteristic Header format. This means a simple approach to content checking will be relatively slow.
A malformed Headerless format file that starts with redundant data will normally be blocked by a conventional content checker of the kind which searches a file's contents in their entirety to find a format's Characteristic pattern, unless the file is polymorphic. On recognising a Characteristic pattern, a conventional content checker checks a file's content, and if it is acceptable, passes the file on for processing by a sensitive computer system which it is protecting. However, this does not provide a check for a possible additional format which the file also matches. Consequently, an application running on the computer system may receive a file checked as regards beginning with a recognised Characteristic pattern, but may then open that file as if it were in a different format: this results in the application interpreting the file's data in a way that has not been checked and which may be damaging.


A pressure sensitive adhesive composition for skin adhesion and bandage applications which comprises (a) 100 parts by weight of a styrene-isoprene-styrene triblock or multiarm copolymer which has a coupling efficiency of 20 to 50%, an overall absolute arm molecular weight of 33,000 to 100,000, a polystyrene content of 18 to 30%, and a polystyrene block weight average molecular weight of 11,000 to 20,000, and (b) from 100 to 400 parts by weight of a styrene-isoprene diblock copolymer which has an overall absolute molecular weight of 20,000 to 40,000, a polystyrene content of 10 to 25%, and a polystyrene block weight average molecular weight of 4000 to 7000.

Pressure sensitive adhesives are materials which have tack properties at room temperature. The pressure sensitive adhesive firmly adheres to a variety of dissimilar surfaces without the need of more than finger or hand pressure. It is known that the adhesive should be formed of a composition with sufficient internal strength to prevent leaving a residue of the adhesive on the application surface after the adhesive has been removed. The problem of providing excellent skin adhesion with block copolymer adhesives has persisted. In addition soft polyolefin films or films produced from styrenic block copolymers cannot be used with adhesive systems which have low molecular weight components such as oil and tackifying resins unless a barrier coating is used to block migration of these components.
It is known that block copolymers of vinyl aromatic hydrocarbons and conjugated dienes make good adhesives for a number of adhesive applications. For example, styreneisoprene-styrene (SIS) triblock copolymers are known to make good adhesives for a number of tape applications such as packaging tape. However, only certain SIS adhesives systems along with a tackifing resin work well for skin adhesion and bandage applications. Prior work, such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,274,036, has shown that combinations of low coupling efficiency SIS polymers such as KRATON.RTM. 1112 and KRATON.RTM. 1117 block copolymers made by Shell Oil Company, with low molecular weight liquid rubbers, such as Kuraray LIR 310 (a liquid isoprene-styrene diblock copolymer), Kuraray LIR 50 (a liquid isoprene polymer), and Kuraray LIR 290 (a liquid hydrogenated isoprene polymer), have utility as medical skin adhesives because there are little or no low molecular weight species such as oil or tackifying resin which can cause skin irritation.
However, these combinations exhibit only a marginal peel strength to skin. The peel strength needs to be increased to make commercially successful products. The present invention provides a specific narrowly defined combination of low coupled SIS block copolymers with higher styrene contents than the above triblock copolymers and low molecular weight SI diblock copolymers with a low styrene content.

Adhesive composition for skin adhesion and bandage applications


A method for operating a three-dimensional (3D) memory device includes performing a first read operation for sensing a first memory cell of a first transistor string, and performing a subsequent second read operation for sensing a second memory cell of a second transistor string. Performing the first read operation includes applying a first bit line voltage to a first bit line, and maintaining the first bit line basically undischarged after data state of the first memory cell is detected.

Not-AND (NAND) memory is a non-volatile type of memory that does not require power to retain stored data. The growing demands of consumer electronics, cloud computing, and big data bring about a constant need of NAND memories of larger capacity and better performance. As conventional two-dimensional (2D) NAND memory approaches its physical limits, three-dimensional (3D) NAND memory is now playing an important role. 3D NAND memory uses multiple stack layers on a single die to achieve higher density, higher capacity, faster performance, lower power consumption, and better cost efficiency.
Before a NAND memory cell is read during a read operation at a memory device, a bit line is charged to a certain voltage. The charging process can be affected by parasitic capacitance. For example, parasitic capacitance can cause the voltage level of a bit line to take a longer settling time. The longer settling time slows the read operation and leads to reduced performance of the memory device. The disclosed methods are directed to solve one or more problems set forth above and other problems.

Read time of three-dimensional memory device


An integrated circuit and method with a metal gate transistor and with a Schottky diode where the metal used to form the Schottky diode is the metal used to form the metal gate.

Integrated circuits for high speed applications frequently employ Schottky diodes because of their fast switching speed. A Schottky diode is formed by contact between a metal and a lightly doped semiconductor (typically silicon). When a forward bias voltage is applied across the diode, the potential barrier (Schottky barrier) between the metal and silicon is lowered and an electric field is established in the silicon. The majority carriers (electrons in N type or holes in P type silicon) to move in the direction of the field and create current flow. Since there is no stored charge in the Schottky diode, the forward current in the diode is extinguished very quickly when the bias voltage is reduced to zero or reversed. This allows the diode to switch on and off rapidly making it very attractive for high speed applications. Conventional pn junction diodes switching speed is typically on the order of about 100 ns. Schottky barrier diode switching speed is on the order of about 100 ps—three orders of magnitude faster.
Metals such as aluminum and copper and refractory metal silicides such as are commonly used in conventional polysilicon gate integrated circuits typically have too low a Schottky barrier height to form useful Schottky diodes. Typically, addition of useful Schottky diodes to a conventional integrated circuit requires a significant number of additional processing steps to deposit, pattern, and etch the Schottky metal. These extra processing steps add substantial cost to the process.

Schottky diodes for replacement metal gate integrated circuits


Polymerizable compositions and methods are provided that include an ethylenically unsaturated compound and an arylsulfinate salt. The polymerizable compositions are useful as hardenable dental compositions.

Polymerizable compositions are used for a wide variety of dental and orthodontic applications, including, for example, primers, dental adhesives, orthodontic adhesives, coatings, sealants, cements, compomers, restoratives, and combinations thereof. For example, polymerizable dental adhesives are typically used to bond dental materials (e.g., restorative materials such as cured or uncured composites such as glass ionomer cements, modified glass ionomer cements, etc.; fillings; sealants; inlays; onlays; crowns; bridges; etc.) to the relevant dental structures. Similarly, orthodontic adhesives are used in the bonding of orthodontic appliances (e.g., brackets, buccal tubes, bands, cleats, buttons, lingual retainers, and bite blockers) to a dental structure.
Polymerizable compositions useful in dental and orthodontic applications typically include a polymerizable component and an initiator system. Commonly, the initiator system induces the free radical polymerization of an ethylenically unsaturated polymerizable component, resulting in hardening of the composition. In some polymerizable compositions, polymerization may be induced by irradiating the composition. In other polymerizable compositions, polymerization may be induced by combining separate components of the initiator system.
It is desirable for polymerizable compositions useful in dental and orthodontic applications to have sufficient stability (e.g., physical or chemical stability) before polymerization, but to harden readily upon inducement of polymerization. Although the nature of the initiator system generally influences the desired balance of properties, it is also desirable that the initiator system be useful in a variety of dental compositions (e.g., one-part compositions, two-part compositions, acidic compositions, etc.). In addition, it is desirable that the initiator system does not produce an undesirable color change during or after polymerization. Preferred embodiments of the present invention meet some of these needs.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Dental compositions and methods with arylsulfinate salts


In some embodiments, a system and method for making rank-specific adjustments to the READ tenure parameters of a double data-rate (DDR) memory component to improve the DDR bus timing margins. When a READ tenure is encountered for the DDR memory component, the rank of the DDR memory component is calculated and the value is used to retrieve two adjustment signals, which are specific to the DDR memory component, from the look up table. One of the adjustment signals is used to adjust a gating signal for the data strobe signal of the component. The other adjustment signal is used to fine tune a required ¼ clock delay for the data strobe signal to read the data from the DDR memory component while adjusting for the inherent latency of the DDR memory component. Other embodiments are described and claimed.

Dual data-rate (DDR) memory is a type of synchronized dynamic random access memory (DRAM) that supports data transfers on both edges of each clock cycle (the rising and falling edges), thereby effectively doubling the memory chip's data throughput. DDR memory consumes less power than conventional or single data-rate (SDR) memory, which makes it popular and well-suited for a wide variety of applications.
In a typical DDR memory, the memory array is arranged in multiple ranks. Each rank typically contains between four (4) and eighteen (18) unique DDR memory components. When a READ tenure is initiated to read data from a DDR memory component, the DDR memory uses a source-synchronous data strobe signal to deliver the data from the DDR memory component to the memory controller hub (MCH). That is, each DDR component has its own data strobe signal where the synchronization is provided by the individual memory module rather than the system clock of the MCH. However, the timing window for the data strobe signal and the arrival of the data can vary dramatically between different DDR memories. For example, one manufacturer may produce a DDR memory with a data strobe signal that has large timing window for the data strobe signal, while a different manufacture may produce a DDR memory with a small timing window for the data strobe signal.
Additionally, latency inherently exists between the time a read data request is made, i.e., the time data strobe signal is applied to the specified rank, and the time the read data becomes available on the DDR bus. This latency typically will vary between individual ranks within a given DDR memory. For example, all of the components within a given rank will have a specified latency while the components of another rank of the DDR memory will have a specified latency that is different from the latency of the other ranks. Furthermore, there are inherent time variations for reading data out between individual DDR components within a given rank.
Unfortunately, these variations in the timing window for the data strobe signal and between components of a given rank require large timing margins, which consume precious systems resources. The problem is further compounded in that many computer systems mix DDR memory modules from different manufacturers. Thus, the timing margins for the system must be large enough to accommodate the DDR memory with the largest timing window. If a DDR memory module is used that has better tolerances and requires a tighter timing window, system resources allocated for the timing margins are lost, which reduces the efficiency of the system and increases operating costs.
One solution to reduce the timing margins and increase system efficiency was to compensate for the latency between ranks within the DDR memory by applying a static DQS_OFFSET signal through the BIOS. Although the use of static DQS_OFFSET signals to compensate for the latency between ranks reduced the timing margins to a certain degree, the timing margins still had to be unduly large to accommodate for the latency between DDR memory modules made by varying manufactures. Furthermore, the static DQS_OFFSET signal could not account for the inherent latency between individual DDR components within a given rank. Although the use of static DQS_OFFSET signal reduced the timing margins to a certain degree, the timing margins associated with the DDR memories are still too large and consume too many system resources.
Therefore, there is a continuing need in the art for a method to improve DDR bus timing margins for READ tenures. In particular, there is a need for a method for adjusting the DDR bus timing margin to account for the variations

System and method for dynamic rank specific timing adjustments for double data rate (DDR) components


Described is a moisture-curing sealing and bonding compound made from completely synthetic polymers, the compound containing, to improve its non-sag properties, a triglyceride, either as the sole non-sag agent or in addition to prior art agents. The triglyceride should have a melting point over 40.degree. C., preferably over 50.degree. C., and be derived from saturated fatty acids with 8 to 26 C-atoms. Even without using thixotropic agents, compounds can be obtained which do not sag at temperatures over 40.degree. C. Such joint sealants can be used to fill joints more than 35 mm wide without sagging.

This invention relates to a moisture-curing sealing and adhesive compound based on a fully synthetic polymer, to its production and to its use.
Polyurethane-based moisture-curing sealing compounds are well known to the expert, for example from DE 37 26 547 and DE 39 43 090. According to these documents, they consist essentially of isocyanate-terminated polyurethane prepolymers. The non-sag behavior of jointing compounds was achieved by the addition of fine-particle solids--also referred to as fillers. In general, these fine-particle solids make a significant contribution towards ensuring that the sealing compound retains the necessary internal cohesion after application to stop it from running or bulging downwards from vertical joints. The additives or fillers mentioned may be divided into pigments and thixotropicizing fillers, also referred in short as thixotropic agents. In the case of jointing compounds based on polyurethane prepolymers, these thixotropic agents have to meet additional requirements. For example, there should be no unwanted reactions with the isocyanate groups. Accordingly, the thixotropic agents mainly used are swellable polymer powders, for example polyacrylonitrile, polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, polyacrylates, polyvinyl alcohols, polyvinyl acetates and the corresponding copolymers. Particularly good results can be obtained with fine-particle polyvinyl chloride powder.
The properties of polyurethane jointing compounds can be further improved by adding other components to the polymer powder used as thixotropic agent. These other components are substances which belong to the category of plasticizers or swelling agents and swelling aids used for plastics. The optimal composition of the prepolymer/polymer powder/plasticizer/swelling aid systems has to be determined in each case. For example, neither the plasticizer nor the swelling aid should react with the isocyanate groups of the prepolymer. Accordingly, plasticizers from the class of phthalic acid esters are suitable, for example, for polyvinyl chloride powder as the thixotropic agent. Examples of suitable compounds from this class are dioctyl phthalate, dibutyl phthalate and benzyl butyl phthalate. Other classes of compounds which have the required properties are chloroparaffins, alkyl sulfonic acid esters, for example of phenols or cresols, and fatty acid esters. Plasticizers based on alkyl sulfonic acid esters and polyvinyl chloride are particularly preferred as the swellable polymer powder.
Although satisfactory non-sag behavior is generally achieved with these known agents, it could be improved in certain cases, for example in the case of wide joints or at high temperatures. In addition, it is desirable for environmental reasons completely to replace PVC.
In the case of adhesives, too, there are applications where the form in which the adhesive is applied should remain intact, for example in bonding in bead form on vertical walls or in the application of floor adhesives with a serrated spatula.
Accordingly, the problem addressed by the present invention was largely to avoid these disadvantages and to improve the non-sag behaviour of sealing and adhesive compounds without affecting other processing and performance properties.

Moisture-curing sealing and bonding compound


A communication device includes a radiator defining a duplex antenna of a first communication system whose carrier frequency is in a first frequency band and a second communication system whose carrier frequency is in a second frequency band overlapping the first frequency band, an antenna for the second communication system, a second communication system power feeding unit which is connected to the radiator and the antenna for the second communication system, and a first communication system power feeding unit which is connected to the radiator, wherein the first communication system power feeding unit includes a circuit configured to position a communication peak frequency whose communicable distance in the first communication system is maximum, outside the second frequency band.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a communication device which is preferably used in two or more communication systems which use carrier signals of the same frequency band. More particularly, the present invention relates to a communication device which includes an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) system antenna and a mobile communication system antenna.
2. Description of the Related Art
An RFID system which transmits and receives predetermined information between an RFID reader/writer and an RFID tag is known. The RFID reader/writer and the RFID tag have RFID IC chips (wireless IC chips) which process high frequency signals, and antennas which transmit and receive the high frequency signals.
The RFID system is generally an HF band RFID system which uses a 13 MHz band or a UHF band RFID system which uses a 900 MHz band. The UHF band RFID system in particular has a long communication distance and can collectively read a plurality of tags, and therefore is regarded as a viable goods management system.
For a goods management RFID system for process management and history management of electronic devices such as portable communication terminals, UHF band RFID systems which are disclosed in International Publication Nos. 2009/011154 and 2009/128437 and use a ground conductor of a printed circuit board as a radiating element are useful.
FIG. 7A is a plan view of a wireless IC device disclosed in International Publication No. 2009/011154, and FIG. 7B is a cross-sectional view of the wireless IC device. A ground conductor 21 is provided on a surface of a printed circuit board 20 of this wireless IC device. A cutout 21a is formed in one side portion of the ground conductor 21 to provide a loop electrode 31. Input/output terminal electrodes of a wireless IC chip 5 are electrically connected to connection electrodes 31a and 31b through bumps 8. Further, connection electrodes 31c and 31d are formed on the surface of the printed circuit board 20. Mounted terminal electrodes of the wireless IC chip 5 are electrically connected to the connection electrodes 31c and 31d through the bumps 8. The loop electrode 31 electromagnetically couples to the ground conductor 21 and functions as a matching circuit, and the ground conductor 21 functions as a UHF band RFID radiating element.
However, when a UHF band RFID system which uses a ground conductor of a printed circuit board as a radiating element is applied to a communication terminal device which uses a UHF band for mobile communication such as a GSM (registered trademark) (Global System for Mobile Communications) 900, total radiated power (TRP) upon transmission or total isotropic sensitivity (TIS) upon reception in the GSM (registered trademark) system deteriorates.
According to this phenomenon, a resonance point of an RFID tag appears at 900 MHz in a frequency band of a mobile communication antenna (a frequency band used by a mobile communication system). Therefore, it is predicted that the resonance point makes it difficult for the mobile communication antenna to receive communication signals of the mobile communication system.
FIG. 8A is a view illustrating a relationship between a communication frequency and a maximum communicable distance of a conventional RFID tag. FIG. 8B is a view illustrating frequency characteristics of insertion loss I.L. and return loss R.L. of a mobile communication antenna. A resonance frequency of an antenna of an RFID tag matches 900 MHz used by the RFID system. Therefore, as illustrated in FIG. 8A, a maximum communicable distance comes to a peak at 900 MHz and decreases even if the frequency becomes higher or lower. Because the resonance frequency of the antenna of this RFID tag is 900 MHz, as illustrated in FIG. 8B, a resonance point P appears at 900 MHz in the frequency band of the mobile communication antenna (the frequency band used by the mobile communication system). As a result, total radiated power (TRP) upon transmission and total isotropic sensitivity (TIS) upon reception in the mobile communication system deteriorate.


A vulcanized rubbery polymer composition comprising a component (A) and a thermoplastic resin (B), wherein the component (A) comprises a hydrogenated copolymer (A-1), which is obtained by hydrogenating a copolymer comprising a conjugated diene monomer unit and an aromatic vinyl monomer unit and having an aromatic vinyl monomer content of not less than 5% by weight and not more than 90% by weight, and which has a crystallization peak calorie measured by a differential scan calorimetry of not more than 2 J/g, and at least one vulcanizable rubber (A-2) selected from the group consisting of a copolymer (a1) comprising an ethylene unit and an α-olefin unit of 3 to 20 carbon atoms and a hydrogenated rubber (a2) obtained from a homopolymer rubber of at least one conjugated diene monomer or a copolymer rubber comprising a conjugated diene monomer unit and an aromatic vinyl monomer unit and having an aromatic vinyl monomer content of less than 5% by weight.

(1) Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a rubbery polymer composition. More specifically, the present invention relates to a rubbery polymer composition, which is superior in scratch resistance, oil resistance and mechanical strength.
(2) Description of the Related Art
A thermoplastic elastomer composition obtained by so-called dynamic vulcanization is already known in the art and extensively applied for various uses such as car parts. According to the dynamic vulcanization, a radically vulcanizable elastomer and a resin having no radically vulcanizing property such as polypropylene (PP) are subjected to vulcanization, while melt-kneading in the presence of a radical initiator in an extruder.
As such a rubber composition, an olefinic elastomer obtained using ethylene-propylene-diene rubber (EPDM) is known (JP-A-8-120127 and JP-A-9-137001), and a dynamic vulcanization technology using the same is also known. However, such a rubber composition is inferior in its scratch resistance, and therefore it is not always satisfied in the market.
On the other hand, as a dynamic vulcanization technology using a saturated rubber, for example, there is known a dynamic vulcanization elastomer composition (JP-A-9-302156), which is obtained by using an olefinic copolymer rubber as the main constituent and a hydrogenated diene rubber as an auxiliary constituent and further blending a crystalline α-olefinic polymer, an ethylene polymer and a softening agent. Further, there is known a thermoplastic elastomer composition (JP-A-3-2240), which is obtained by melt-mixing a polyolefinic resin and a random or block copolymer of conjugated diene-aromatic vinyl monomer in the presence of a vulcanizing agent. The above-mentioned compositions are not always sufficient in their mechanical strength, scratch resistance, appearance and heat and light stability, and therefore a rubber composition sufficient to practical applications has been desired.


A social network for affecting personal behavior is provided. The psychological and behavioral progress of a registered user of the social network is maintained. The social network provides the registered user with friends who can track the user's progress and encourage the user by communications with the user. The friends of the user can be anybody, including people who are not registered with the social network. A dynamic mechanism for grouping different users into support groups is also provided. The grouping is based on the user's progress, satisfaction with the user's supporters, and the user's traits and preferences. User-customized profiles are used to elucidate user traits instead of standard direct forms to avoid incorrect or misleading responses to the forms. In addition, a wireless portable device in communication with the social network of friends and supporters is provided for constant access to sources of motivation.

There is widespread desire to undergo personal behavioral modifications, though adopting lasting modifications can be extremely challenging. One common personal behavioral change sought by many is weight loss. Numerous traditional methods, such as books and videos, provide diet regimens and exercise routines to provide assistance for weight loss. However, such traditional methods are often ineffective due to the lack of emphasis on motivation and accountability. Other traditional methods for weight loss include joining exercise and nutrition classes or hiring a personal trainer. These methods can be expensive, time-consuming, and incompatible with a busy schedule.
Today, Internet-based services are widespread and ubiquitous, including weight loss services. Typically, Internet-based weight loss services are similar to traditional methods by merely disseminating diet and/or exercise guidance through expert advice, articles, and tips. The programs are largely impersonal and lack the key motivational ingredient to affect lasting personal behavioral changes. WeightWatchers.com and Traineo.com are websites dedicated to weight loss. Traineo.com allows its users to track their progress and send emails to others associated with the network to observe the users' progress.
Social networking websites, such as Facebook.com, MySpace.com, and Friendster.com, offer online communities where a user can find and maintain friendships. A user of an online social network is commonly able to post text, display pictures, send and receive messages from other members of the network, and join common interest groups. To become a member of an online social network community, the websites generally require registration. In other words, only registered or affiliated members of a social network can participate in the network.
Social networking websites require users to create descriptions of themselves by filling out many forms about the personality traits and interests of the users. The requirement of submitting tedious responses may turn off potential users. A user can use the descriptions to find other users with commonalities, though oftentimes this does not occur; a user description on a social networking site may inaccurately describe a user because the user can mistakenly or intentionally submit misleading information. A user often creates a description of an idealized person the user desires to be instead of a description representing the user's real traits and personalities. Methods to obtain accurate personality traits, preferences, motivations, and interests are desired.
Affecting lasting personal behavioral change requires persistence and motivation. A person seeking to undergo personal behavioral change generally requires accountability and motivation. For people with busy schedules or who travel frequently, the sources of motivation are difficult or impossible to access. These times of inaccessibility can be detrimental to the person's overall behavioral change goals.
The present invention addresses the difficult problem of affecting personal behavior and advances the art with a social network for affecting personal behavior.

Social network for affecting personal behavior


A roll shade system is disclosed. The roll shade system includes a motor configured to remain stationary during operation of the motor, a support shaft supporting the motor wherein the support shaft is configured to remain stationary during operation of the motor, and a roll shade tube configured to be rotatable about the motor and the support shaft during operation of the motor. The roll shade system further includes stationary components including a wiring connector, an input wiring system, a bearing, an antenna, a coaxial cable, a motor controller, a counterbalance spring. The roll shade system also includes rotatable components including a bearing housing and one or more O-rings.

One ubiquitous form of window treatment is the roller shade. A common window covering during the 19th century, a roller shade is simply a rectangular panel of fabric, or other material, that is attached to a cylindrical, rotating tube. The shade tube is mounted near the header of the window such that the shade rolls up upon itself as the shade tube rotates in one direction, and rolls down to cover the a desired portion of the window when the shade tube is rotated in the opposite direction.
A control system, mounted at one end of the shade tube, can secure the shade at one or more positions along the extent of its travel, regardless of the direction of rotation of the shade tube. Simple mechanical control systems include ratchet-and-pawl mechanisms, friction brakes, clutches, etc. To roll the shade up and down, and to position the shade at intermediate locations along its extend of travel, ratchet-and-pawl and friction brake mechanisms require the lower edge of the shade to be manipulated by the user, while clutch mechanisms include a control chain that is manipulated by the user.
Not surprisingly, motorization of the roller shade was accomplished, quite simply, by replacing the simple, mechanical control system with an electric motor that is directly coupled to the shade tube. The motor may be located inside or outside the shade tube, is fixed to the roller shade support and is connected to a simple switch, or, in more sophisticated applications, to a radio frequency (RF) or infrared (IR) transceiver, that controls the activation of the motor and the rotation of the shade tube.
Many known motorized roller shades provide power, such as 120 VAC, 220/230 VAC 50/60 Hz, etc., to the motor and control electronics from the facility in which the motorized roller shade is installed. Recently-developed battery-powered roller shades provide installation flexibility by removing the requirement to connect the motor and control electronics to facility power. The batteries for these roller shades are typically mounted within, above, or adjacent to the shade mounting bracket, headrail or fascia. Unfortunately, these battery-powered systems suffer from many drawbacks, including, for example, high levels of self-generated noise, inadequate battery life, inadequate or nonexistent counterbalancing capability, inadequate or nonexistent manual operation capability, inconvenient installation requirements, and the like.

Motorized shade with the transmission wire passing through the support shaft


Disclosed is a magnetic attachment element for use in connection with a pegboard having a plurality of pegboard orifices extending through a pegboard body. The magnetic element includes an attachment element body with at least one magnet in operational communication therewith for generating a magnetic force therefrom. The magnetic attachment element also includes at least one connector portion in operational communication with the attachment element in the element body for attaching the attachment element body to the pegboard by engaging the one or more connector portions to one or more of the pegboard orifices. Methods of manufacturing the magnetic attachment element are also disclosed.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates generally to attachment elements and other attachable devices that have a magnetic feature or property and, in particular, to a magnetic attachment element that can be used in connection with or attachable to a pegboard with a plurality of pegboard orifices extending through a pegboard body.
2. Description of Related Art
In order to provide organization to one's work area, some type of system or structural arrangement is often desired. For example, as a person collects tools and tool parts over a period of time, he or she may require some manner of organizing and positioning these tools and parts for easy access and recall. One example of a tool and device is found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,743,394 directed to a magnetic socket holder. While the socket holder disclosed in this reference uses magnetic force, other tool attachment and organization means are known in the art. For example, in a typical tool chest, a slidable drawer with segregated compartments is used. For tool organization structures that hang on the wall and are oriented in a vertical plane, clips or other attachment devices can be used. Examples of other magnet-based organizing systems can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,039,178; 6,431,373; 6,092,655; 5,855,285; 4,337,860; 3,726,393; 3,405,377; and 1,712,473.
Tool and other similar organization structures that hang on the wall and are oriented in a vertical plane may take many forms. For example, a pegboard, which includes multiple pegboard orifices extending through a pegboard body, can be used to attach clips and other items that have extensions or connectors capable of mating with the pegboard orifices. Such a system becomes configurable, since the clips or hangers may be removed from one pegboard orifice and reoriented in another pegboard orifice, depending upon the size and shape of the item one wishes to hang on the clip or hanger. However, such prior art pegboard arrangements only offer simple clips, hooks and other hangers for attachment to and cooperation with the pegboard orifices. Accordingly, the above-discussed systems and structures have many drawbacks.


A lampshade including a lampstand and a flame body. The lampstand includes a hollow column. The flame body is an integrated structure including a first curved surface, a second curved surface, and a first cavity defined by the first curved surface and the second curved surface. The first curved surface is perpendicularly disposed on the lampstand. The second curved surface is aslant disposed on the lampstand with respect to the first curved surface. The first curved surface and the second curved surface each include a top edge, two side edges, and a bottom edge. The bottom edge of the second curved surface and a connection line of two end points of the bottom edge of the first/second curved surface form a semicircular opening. The hollow column includes a first through hole corresponding to the semicircular opening in shape and size.

The disclosure relates to a lampshade and a flameless candle comprising the same.
A candle includes an ignitable wick embedded in wax. When the wick is lighted, the wax is melted and vaporized, and the candle begins to burn and an open flame is produced. This may cause fire hazard.
In recent years, the flameless candles have been developed. To simulate the flickering flame, the flameless candles are equipped with complex structures, such as a swingable lamp body, or using two light-emitting elements to shine the flame head alternately. However, the beam angle of the light-emitting elements is inflexible, so that the simulation effect of the flickering flame is unrealistic.
Conventional lampshades of the flameless candles are an ellipsoidal or cylindrical plastic, which exhibits an unsatisfactory effect upon converging the direct lights for the flameless candles.

Lampshade and flameless candle comprising the same

NANTONG YA TAI CANDLE ARTS & CRAFTS CO., LTD.


A method for preparing dimethylolbutanal including performing an aldol reaction of n-butyraldehyde (n-BAL) and paraformaldehyde (PFA) in the presence of water and an alkylamine catalyst, in which a weight ratio of the paraformaldehyde:water is 1:0.35 to 1:0.85.

Trimethylolpropane (TMP) may be prepared by various methods, including a method of preparing trimethylolpropane via a Cannizzaro reaction using n-butylaldehyde (n-BAL) and formaldehyde (FA) in the presence of an alkalimetal (usually, NaOH) catalyst as described below:

In the TMP preparation method using a Cannizzaro reaction, usually a commercialization process for preparing TMP, 1 mol of metal formate (formate salt) per 1 mol of TMP is produced as a by-product, so that the TMP preparation method is not efficient.
Trimethylolpropane is a white crystalline substance at room temperature, and is widely used as a raw material in various fields such as alkyd resins, saturated polyesters, synthetic lubricants, polyurethane resins, and plasticizers. Therefore, studies for an economical method for producing trimethylolpropane, which is an industrially important raw material, have been continuously conducted.

Method for manufacturing dimethylolbutanal and method for manufacturing trimethylolpropane using same


Techniques for managing a presentation of information in a gesture-based system, where gestures are derived from a user's body position or motion in the physical space, may enable a user to use gestures to control the manner in which the information is presented or to otherwise interact with the gesture-based system. A user may present information to an audience to an audience using gestures that control aspects of the system, or multiple users may work together using gestures to control aspects of the system. Thus, in an example embodiment, a single user can control the presentation of information to the audience via gestures. In another example embodiment, multiple participants can share control of the presentation via gestures captured by a capture device or otherwise interact with the system to control aspects of the presentation.

Many computing applications such as computer games, multimedia applications, office applications or the like use controls to allow users to manipulate game characters or other aspects of an application. Typically such controls are input using, for example, controllers, remotes, keyboards, mice, or the like. For example, presentation management typically involves a user interacting with a controller/clicker and/or directly interacting with a computing device that is presenting. These methods of control have a variety of shortcomings For example, such controls can be difficult to learn, thus creating a barrier between a user and such games and applications. Controllers typically have a limited number of buttons, so limited navigation is available and the types of commands may vary extensively between the different types and abilities of the clickers. Using a controller while presenting can be distracting to the viewers. And, to share control of a presentation between multiple users, the users must each have access to the controller and/or hand the controller around.


The method is for transmitting data between two devices via a clock wire or line and at least one data wire or line. The clock wire is maintained by default on a logic value A, and each device is capable of tying the clock wire to an electric potential representing a logic value B that is the opposite of A. According to the method, both devices tie the clock wire to B when a datum is transmitted, the device to which the datum is sent does not release the clock wire while it has not read the datum, and the device sending the datum maintains the datum on the data wire at least until an instant when the clock wire is released by the device to which the datum is sent. The method is particularly applicable to communication between a microcomputer and a microprocessor.

Since the advent of the era of digital computers, digital data transmission methods have been extremely important in the implementation of computer systems, and various developments have been made. Generally, data transmission methods are based on a physical link also referred to as the "physical layer", which ensures the physical transmission of electric signals between two points on a line, according to a determined protocol defining the form and duration of the electric signals. Combined with the physical layer, this protocol is completed by a communication protocol, or data link layer, which allows data transfer to be organized while avoiding collisions, by allocating specific data send or receive and synchronization rules between the communicating devices. This second-level protocol is then completed by a third-level protocol made up of commands, transmitted via the physical layer, each command being formed by a bit string the format, content and direction of which comply with predefined rules. In very high-level networks like computer networks or digital telephony networks, there is, beyond these first levels, a substantial hierarchy of protocols that guarantee network consistency in synergy.
The present invention relates to a low-level data transmission method located at the data link layer level, and is intended for industrial applications such as communication between a microcomputer and a microprocessor, to perform test or maintenance operations on the microprocessor using the microcomputer for example, or for communication between two microprocessors, such as two microprocessors arranged on a single printed circuit board for example.
Out of the data transmission methods most commonly used in this field, both synchronous and asynchronous methods can be found. Synchronous methods can be distinguished from asynchronous methods by the existence of a clock wire or line conveying a clock signal sent by a master device, and the other device or devices synchronize with this clock signal to receive or send data. The advantage of synchronous methods is that they allow very long bit strings to be transmitted due to the synchronization performed by the common clock signal. On the other hand, they require several wires to carry the various control signals (RX, TX, RS, TS . . . ) enabling the devices to synchronize their actions.
More particularly, synchronous communication methods have three main drawbacks for the above-mentioned applications. On the one hand, they require the reservation of several microprocessor inputs/outputs to allow control signals to be transmitted. On the other hand, they require provision, in the microprocessor, for specific interface circuits that manage the communication protocol, such as so-called USART circuits (Universal Synchronous Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter), the cost price and size of which are substantial. Finally, they need the respective internal clocks of the two devices that are to converse to be compatible. Moreover, one of the devices may operate in multitasking mode and not be available to send or receive data when prompted by the other device.
Asynchronous data transmission methods are advantageous in that they can be implemented using only two wires or lines, but they also require a specific communication interface circuit, such as a UART circuit (Universal Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter), which manages the communication protocol and includes buffer registers to store the bit strings to be sent or received. Asynchronous communication also needs clock frequencies that are tuned, as a device operating at a determined frequency is unable to receive asynchronous data sent by a device operating at a much higher frequency.