The non-destructive inspection equipment is provided with voice interaction to interface with the inspector and/or operator who preferably controls the inspection equipment and the inspection process, at least in part, through the use of voice control and by receiving audio and/or video feedback from the inspection equipment. The overall inspection quality is preferably substantially improved when the inspector and/or operator can focus entirely on the material under inspection while maintaining full control of the inspection equipment and the inspection process. The inspection equipment and its interfaces are adapted and fine-tuned for interaction with humans, particularly in a harsh noise industrial environment. Further, the voice interaction preferably allows the inspector and/or operator to operate the inspection equipment while wearing gloves or with dirty hands as he/she will not need to constantly physically manipulate the inspection equipment.

Since its inception in the early 1900s, the Non-Destructive Inspection (herein after referred to as "NDI") industry has utilized a variety of techniques and devices with the majority based on the well known and well documented techniques of magnetic flux leakage, magnetic particle, eddy-current, ultrasonic, radiation, such as x-ray and gamma ray, dye penetrant, and dimensional as well as visual and audible techniques. These techniques have been utilized alone or in combination with each other to address the specifics of the Material-Under-Inspection (herein after referred to as "MUI"). A list of typical MUI includes, but is not limited to engine components, rails, rolling stoke, oil country tubular goods, chemical plants, pipelines, bridges, structures, frames, cranes, aircraft, sea going vessels, drilling rigs, workover rigs, vessels, and the like.
Typically, the operation of the inspection equipment demands the undivided attention of the inspector while, at the same time, the inspection process may demand the inspector to focus on positioning and manipulating the inspection probe precisely or closely observing the MUI. A drawback of these techniques is that the inspection equipment must be physically separated a certain distance from the MUI thus the inspector cannot observe the MUI while operating the NDI equipment. Therefore, the overall inspection quality would be substantially improved if the inspector could focus entirely on the MUI while maintaining full control of the inspection equipment and the inspection process. This may be accomplished by adapting and fine-tuning the inspection equipment and its interface for interaction more adept to humans. Just as speech is a tool which allows communication while keeping one's hands free and one's attention focused on an elaborate task, adding a voice interface to the inspection equipment would preferably enable the inspector to focus on the MUI and the inspection process while maintaining full control of the inspection equipment. Further, the voice interaction preferably allows the inspector to operate the inspection equipment while wearing gloves or with dirty hands as he/she will not need to constantly physically manipulate the inspection equipment.

Voice interaction with and control of inspection equipment


Systems and methods for model based creation and editing of visual analytic dashboards are disclosed. A dashboard manager receives a dashboard model that defines the specification of a particular dashboard. In particular, the dashboard model can include description of the visual analytics to be rendered in the dashboard. The dashboard model can also include a description of the arrangement of the visual analytics. The dashboard models are compatible with a user interface framework that includes default or standardized navigation patterns for organizing and navigating among and within dashboards. The navigation pattern can include the specification of a number of separate horizontally navigable channels sections into which the visual analytics are groups by type. A title section can also be included with controls for horizontally navigating between multiple dashboard and panels.

The present disclosure relates to visual analytics, and in particular, to a graphical user interface implemented as a dashboard with a navigation framework for displaying and interacting with visual analytics.
Unless otherwise indicated herein, the approaches described in this section are not prior art to the claims in this application and are not admitted to be prior art by inclusion in this section.
Many users consume data for various use and business cases in the form of visual analytics organized in what are known as "dashboards". The information displayed in a dashboard typically includes collections of visual analytics and other data arranged and displayed in a specific manner. The manner in which the information is displayed can be designed with work and information flows to serve a particular audience and/or purpose. FIG. 1 depicts an example dashboard 100 that includes a number of visual analytics 110 laid out in a particular manner. Dashboard 100 may also include a number of controls 120 for navigating among or interacting with the visual analytics 110. The particular contents of the visual analytics 110 and the layout of the visual analytics within dashboard 100 may have been designed specifically for a particular user, group of users, or business use case. For example, a manager of a sales team may want to see a number of visual analytics regarding the performance of the sales team. The manager's dashboard may be customized to show a collection of summary analytics that quickly convey information about the sales team's performance, like aggregate or total sales, sales trends, sales forecast, regional sale performance, etc. The sales manger's dashboard may also include a customized set of controls specifically designed to allow the manger to explore the information contained in the summary visual analytics in an organized and meaningful way that can help the manager efficiently consume, understand, and use the information included in the visual analytics.
However dashboards, like dashboard 100 and the sale manager's dashboard, are typically custom designed by highly trained information technology (IT) personnel who have in-depth institutional or industry knowledge of various data and work flows, as well as the necessary expertise using sophisticated dashboard editing tools. Most non-technical users, like typical business users, do not have the necessary skills or technical knowledge to easily design, let alone construct, an effective dashboard for themselves or others using conventional dashboard creation tools. Accordingly, the initial deployment, maintenance and update of dashboards or visual analytics are often an expensive and time-consuming endeavor.
Embodiments of the present disclosure simplify the process of designing and creating customized dashboards by providing a system and method for laying out dashboards in a way that standardizes navigation within and among dashboards that accommodates a wide variety of visual analytic types and business use cases.

Navigation framework for visual analytic displays


A phase edge phase shift mask and a fabrication method thereof for enforcing a width of a field gate image located on a field region, which is weakened by a two exposure process, by using a phase shift mask and a trim mask on a semiconductor substrate, and enforcing a width of the field gate image to maximize a current driving capability of the semiconductor device.

The use of a quartz mask board with the use of chromium for exposing a semiconductor substrate has been determined to cause optical interference between neighboring patterns with reduced design rules of a semiconductor device, thereby making it difficult to obtain desirable pitch sizes.
As a substitute, a phase shift mask has been proposed which implements precise and detailed patterns by reducing optical interference between the neighboring patterns on the semiconductor substrate with the use of chromium and molybdenum on the quartz mask board. A current trend is to use more than one phase-shift mask to obtain desired sizes as required by tighter design rules. In addition, a phase edge phase shift mask and a masking technique used in combination with a phase mask for exposing a semiconductor device has been determined to be beneficial.
For instance, a conventional phase edge phase shift mask technique is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,807,649. With this process, two masks are used to form the same patterns (such as gate electrodes) on a semiconductor substrate. The two masks are composed of a phase shift mask and a trim mask.
Generally, a phase shift mask defines a predetermined portion of a photoresist image overlapping an active region of the semiconductor substrate by using shifters for shifting a phase of photo light.
Trim patterns on the trim mask form an entire shape of the photoresist image extended to a field region to protect the defined predetermined portion of the image from photo exposure. The photoresist image is a pattern made to form a gate pattern.
However, if an interval between the patterns is very narrow on the trim mask, the trim patterns are likely to contain defects that are detected during a checking process after the trim mask has been fabricated.
FIG. 1a is a portion of rough diagram of a phase shift mask, according to a conventional phase edge phase shift mask. Referring to FIG. 1a, the phase shift mask (10) has two shifters (20, 20-1). The two shifters (20, 20-1) are phase shift regions where light can be transmitted and separated by a predetermined interval (1S) on the phase shift mask (10).
Light passing through one of the two shifters (20, 20-1) has a 180-degree phase difference compared to light passing through the other shifter. The phase shift mask (10) is formed by the two shifters (20, 20-1) and a dark portion (15). The dark portion is formed using chromium for defining the shifters.
FIG. 1b is a rough image pattern of a phase shift mask formed on a semiconductor substrate, according to a conventional phase edge phase shift mask. Referring to FIG. 1b, the phase shift mask (10) of FIG. 1a overlaps an active region (27) on a semiconductor substrate (25), wherein the semiconductor substrate (25) is coated with a photoresist (29). And, open regions (31, 33) corresponding to the shifters (20, 20-1) of FIG. 1a are formed on the semiconductor substrate (25).
The active region (27) is depicted by dotted lines to illustrate that the region is overlapped with the shifters (20, 20-1) of FIG. 1a, and the semiconductor substrate (25) is divided into several areas (29, 31, and 33), including area (29) with the photoresist, and areas (31, 33) without the photoresist, corresponding to the shifters (20, 20-1) of FIG. 1a.
FIG. 1c is a portion of rough diagram of a trim mask, according to a conventional phase edge phase shift mask. Referring to FIG. 1c, the trim mask (35) is overlapped by the two shifters (20, 20-1) of FIG. 1a. The two shifters (20, 20-1) formed on the trim mask (35) are depicted by dotted lines, but the two shifters (20, 20-1) are not actually formed on the trim mask (35).
The trim mask (35) is divided into trim patterns (40, 41, 37, and 37-1) where light can not be transmitted, and a transparent region (39) where light can be transmitted. Preferably, the trim patterns are subdivided into three regions: a first trim pattern (40) having a predetermined width of 4W, and formed between the two shifters (20, 20-1); a second trim pattern (41) having a predetermined dimensions of 5W and 8W in the vertical/horizontal direction, respectively, and formed outside regions composed of the shifters (20, 20-1); and third trim patterns (37, 37-1) having the same width of 3W and overlapping the shifters (20, 20-1), and the third trim patterns (37, 37-1) are in contact with the second trim pattern (41).
The second trim pattern (41) is positioned away from a right boundary of the shifter (20-1) by a predetermined distance of 6W, and the third trim pattern (37-1) is positioned inside and away from the right boundary of the shifter (20-1) by a predetermined distance of 7W.
In other words, the second trim pattern (41) and the third trim pattern (37-1) are positioned away from the right boundary of the shifter (20-1) in opposite directions of one other, thereby forming a notch structure at a check point (1P).
The notch structure is a defect that can be detected at the check point (1P) in an inspection step after the trim mask (35) is fabricated. In other words, if a width of the notch structure is out of specification as compared to the tolerances as defined by a design rule at the check point (1P), an inspection process detects the notch structure as a defect.
Further, a portion of the notch structure overlaps a portion of the photoresist (29) of FIG. 1b. And, if light is transmitted through the portion of the notch structure that overlaps the photoresist of the trim mask (35) during a photo exposure process, an unwanted field gate image (not shown) is formed by sensitizing the photoresist (29) on the semiconductor substrate (25) of FIG. 1b.
FIG. 1d is a rough image pattern of a trim mask formed on a semiconductor substrate, according to a conventional phase edge phase shift mask. Referring to FIG. 1d, the trim mask (35) of FIG. 1c forms rough images (40-1, 41-1). The rough image (40-1) has a predetermined width of 4W-1, and overlaps the active region (27). The rough image (41-1) includes a vertical side portion having a predetermined width of 8W-1, and a horizontal portion having a predetermined height of 5W-1 on the semiconductor substrate (25).
The rough image (41-1) is formed when light passes through the notch structure on the trim mask (35) of FIG. 1c during an exposure process. Thus, the rough image (41-1) can be transferred to a gate having a very narrow width causing an increase in the resistance and drops in the current driving capability in a gate. In other words, the performance of the gate on the semiconductor device deteriorates.
Therefore, a need exists to enforce a width of a field image to improve the performance of a gate on a semiconductor device.

Phase edge phase shift mask enforcing a width of a field gate image and fabrication method thereof


A piezoelectric device includes: a lower substrate; an upper substrate; an intermediate substrate sandwiched between the lower substrate and the upper substrate, the intermediate substrate including: a piezoelectric vibrating portion; a frame surrounding a periphery of the piezoelectric vibrating portion; a connecting portion coupling the piezoelectric vibrating portion and the frame; a first exciting electrode disposed on an upper surface of the piezoelectric vibrating portion; a second exciting electrode disposed on a lower surface of the piezoelectric vibrating portion; a first wiring line electrically coupled to the first exciting electrode; and a second wiring line electrically coupled to the second exciting electrode; and an inside surface coupling an upper surface and a lower surface of the frame and having a slanted surface having an interior angle with respect to one of the upper surface and the lower surface, the angle being 90 degrees or more. In the oscillator, one of the first wiring line and the second wiring line is disposed to a surface of the slanted surface.

1. Technical Field
The present invention relates to a piezoelectric device and a method for manufacturing the same.
2. Related Art
Recently, piezoelectric devices such as quartz crystal resonators are required to be more downsized with the miniaturization of electronic apparatuses. As a technique to realize the miniaturization of elements, JP-A-2006-94372 discloses a technique in which a quartz crystal substrate having a quartz crystal resonator is sandwiched and bonded together with two substrates having the same shape of that of the quartz crystal substrate so as to be sealed.
By using this technique, a quartz crystal substrate including a plurality of quartz crystal resonators is sandwiched and bonded with two substrates. Then, the bonded substrates are cut so as to provide a plurality of small piezoelectric devices. As a result, the number of processes can be reduced.

Piezoelectric device and method for manufacturing the same


A system and method for collecting and storing different types of electrical cable is provided. The system includes a first cable reel comprising: a first wheel member; a second wheel member spaced apart from the first wheel member; a first inner wheel member disposed between the first wheel member and the second wheel member; a plurality of first gear members disposed on a first outer surface of the first wheel member; and a plurality of second gear members disposed on a second outer surface of the second wheel member.

The subject matter disclosed herein relates to a cable reel, and in particular to a cable reel for electrical cable.
Electrical distribution systems utilize electrical conductors to transmit electricity from a generating source to an end customer or load. The electrical conductors are made from a metal, such as copper or aluminum for example. In the past, for high voltage applications, the conductors were a paper-insulated leaded sheathed cable type of cable (PILC). The PILC cables are hermetically sealed with a lead sheath, which protects the conductor against humidity and chemical contaminants (e.g. gasoline). The PILC cable is composed of a number of layers, some of which are impregnated with a high viscosity oil.
During routine maintenance and upgrade operations, utility personnel may remove older PILC cable and non-PILC cable. Cable that is removed from service is often recycled (e.g. sold as scrap). Due to the presence of oil and lead in the PILC cable, the value for PILC cable is much lower than non-PILC cable (e.g. <50% scrap value). When PILC cable and non-PILC cable is mixed on the same reel, the seller receives the lower value of the PILC cable for the whole reel.
Accordingly, while existing cable reels are suitable for their intended purposes the need for improvement remains, particularly in providing a cable reel system that allows for PILC cable and non-PILC cable to be collected without being intermingled.

CONSOLIDATED EDISON COMPANY OF NEW YORK, INC.


Methods, apparatus and articles of manufacture for generating a heat map to identify vulnerable data users within an organization are provided herein. A method includes comparing each of one or more items of data against a set of one or more pre-configured data sensitivity parameters to detect one or more sensitive data operations within the one or more items of data, generating an alert corresponding to each of the one or more sensitive data operations, wherein the alert provides one or more items of information pertaining to the corresponding sensitive data operation, and processing the one or more alerts to generate a heat map representing an association between each of multiple users and the one or more sensitive data operations usage.

Attackers, for example, in an advanced persistent threat (APT), commonly perform reconnaissance on a target organization prior to attempted exploitation. Through this reconnaissance, the attackers may identify individuals of interest and/or develop methods of potential access to the target. Targeted individuals can range, for example, from senior leadership to researchers to administrative assistants. The individuals and/or user accounts in an organization that use and/or have access to sensitive data are logically the individuals whose leak and/or loss would cause the most significant negative impact for the organization. It would therefore be advantageous to preemptively identify individuals within the organization that possess particular vulnerability with respect to data usage and/or access.

Generating a heat map to identify vulnerable data users within an organization


A variable valve lift apparatus of an engine includes: a control shaft; a driving arm rotatable around the control shaft by a cam of a camshaft; a first rocker arm rotatable around the control shaft, that is operated by the driving arm so as to drive a first valve through a first swing arm; a second rocker arm rotatable around the control shaft, that is operated by the driving arm so as to drive a second valve through a second swing arm; and a mediating device rotatable around the control shaft, that transmits a movement of the driving arm to the first and second rocker arms.

(a) Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a variable valve lift apparatus of an engine.
(b) Description of the Related Art
An internal combustion engine generates power by burning a mixture of air and fuel in a combustion chamber. Intake valves are operated by a camshaft in order to intake the air, and the air is drawn into the combustion chamber while the intake valves are open. In addition, exhaust valves are operated by the camshaft, and exhaust gas is expelled from the combustion chamber while the exhaust valves are open.
Optimal opening/closing timing of the intake and exhaust valves depends on the rotation speed of the engine. Variable valve lift (VVL) apparatus have therefore been developed. These apparatus allow different valve timing depending on the engine speed.
Such a VVL apparatus should minimize power loss in driving the valves using torque of the camshaft. In addition, it should be symmetrical, so it can be installed in both banks in a V-engine.
The above information disclosed in this Background section is only for enhancement of understanding of the background of the invention and therefore it may contain information that does not form the prior art that is already known in this country to a person of ordinary skill in the art.


A waterproof slide fastener where first and second through-holes are drilled in a tape side edge portion of a waterproof tape at specific intervals from one another, and first and second halves of a fastener element are integrally connected to each other through first through-holes. A stopper includes a body portion and an extension portion extending from the body portion. First and second halves of the stopper straddle a pair of waterproof tapes and are integrally connected to each other through second through-holes. According to the waterproof slide fastener, a manufacturing step thereof can be simplified, and it is possible to effectively prevent water from entering the waterproof slide fastener even if it receives a lateral pulling force.

Conventionally, a slide fastener having waterproof property (waterproof slide fastener, hereinafter) is frequently used for an opening/closing portion or an opening of a wet suit and waterproof pants to prevent liquid such as water from entering the wet suit or the waterproof pants when the opening/closing portion or the opening is closed.
Usually, the waterproof slide fastener includes a pair of left and right fastener stringers having element rows formed on waterproof tapes having waterproof layers, and sliders which can slide along the element rows. The left and right element rows are made to couple with each other to bring opposed side edge portions of the left and right waterproof tapes come into intimate contact with each other, thereby preventing water from entering from a front surface into a back surface of the tape (or from back surface to front surface of tape) from between the left and right waterproof tapes.
In such a waterproof slide fastener, stoppers are often placed on both ends of the element rows, and the stoppers restrict sliding ranges of the sliders. Here, of the stoppers placed on the both ends of the element rows, the one on a side with which the slider comes into contact when the left and right element rows completely open is defined as a first stopper (also called lower stopper), and the other one on a side with which the slider comes into contact when the left and right element rows are completely closed is defined as a second stopper (also called upper stopper).
In the following description, a vertical direction means a length direction of a fastener tape, and the vertical direction is the same as a sliding direction in which the slider slides. Especially, a direction in which the left and right element rows are made to couple with each other and the slider is made to slide to close the slide fastener is defined as an upward direction, and a direction in which the slider is made to slide to separate the left and right fastener elements and open the slide fastener is defined as a downward direction.
A lateral direction means a tape width direction of the fastener tape, and the lateral direction is parallel to a tape surface of the fastener tape and is a direction intersecting with a tape length direction at right angles. A longitudinal direction means a front and back direction of the fastener tape intersecting with the tape surface of the fastener tape at right angles, a direction in which a tab of the slider is placed with respect to the fastener tape is defined as a front direction, and its opposite direction is defined as a rear direction.
A structure of the first stopper (lower stopper) placed on the waterproof slide fastener is disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-215819 (Patent Document 1) and Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-206986 (Patent Document 2) for example.
As shown in FIG. 11, a waterproof slide fastener 70 described in Patent Document 1 includes a pair of left and right fastener stringers 71 having a plurality of synthetic resin fastener elements 73 injection molded on tape side edge portions of waterproof tapes 72, a slider (not shown), and first stoppers 74 fixed to lower ends of the left and right fastener stringers 71. The first stoppers 74 define a lower limit position of a sliding range of the slider.
The first stoppers 74 of Patent Document 1 includes sheet members 75 adhered or welded such that the sheet members 75 straddle the left and right waterproof tapes 72, stopper body portions 76 formed on the waterproof tapes 72 and the sheet members 75, and a projecting portion 77 upwardly projecting from the stopper body portions 76.
The sheet member 75 in the first stopper 74 is formed by attaching a thermoplastic elastomer or a synthetic rubber to a surface of woven basic cloth or nonwoven fabric, and the sheet member 75 is made of resin film. The sheet member 75 is adhered to or welded onto a back surface of a tape in a region (space portion) where the fastener element 73 of the waterproof tape 72 is not placed such that the sheet member 75 extends between the left and right waterproof tapes 72. The sheet member 75 includes a wide width portion 75a having a wide tape width direction and a narrow width portion 75b upwardly extending from the wide width portion 75a and having a narrow tape width direction. A tip end edge of the narrow width portion 75b is in contact with the fastener element 73.
Each of the stopper body portions 76 is formed into a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape by injection molding thermoplastic resin having the same material as that of the fastener element 73 onto the waterproof tape 72 and the sheet member 75. The stopper body portion 76 includes a first half (tape front surface side half) placed on a tape front surface side and a second half (tape back surface side half) placed on a tape back surface side. The first half and the second half are integrally connected to each other through a through-hole 78 drilled in the waterproof tape 72 and the sheet member 75.
The projecting portion 77 is placed on the fastener stringer 71 on a side where the fastener element 73 (first element) which is adjacent to the first stopper 74 is not placed such that the projecting portion 77 upwardly projects from an upper surface of the stopper body portion 76. The projecting portion 77 is configured such that it can be inserted into an element guide path of the slider when the slider comes into contact with the stopper body portion 76. Since such a projecting portion 77 is placed, it is possible to reliably carry out a sliding operation of the slider in the vicinity of the stopper body portion 76.
In the waterproof slide fastener 70 of Patent Document 1 having the first stopper 74, since the sheet member 75 is pasted on the region of a space portion where the fastener element 73 is not placed such that the sheet member 75 straddles the left and right fastener tapes, waterproof property for preventing water from entering can be obtained even in the region of the space portion.
As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, a waterproof slide fastener 80 described in Patent Document 2 includes a pair of left and right fastener stringers 81 in which coil-shaped elements 83 are sewn to tape side edge portions of waterproof tapes 82, a slider (not shown), and a first stopper 84 placed on lower ends of the left and right fastener stringers 81.
In this case, a waterproof layer made of waterproof material such as polyurethane is formed on each of the fastener stringers 81 only on one of tape surfaces (tape front surface) in the fastener tape, and the coil-shaped elements 83 are sewn to the other tape surface (tape back surface) where the waterproof layer of the fastener tape is not formed.
The first stopper 84 of Patent Document 2 includes a stopper body portion 85 with which the slider contacts and stops, a front surface side cover portion 86 placed such that it covers the entire left and right waterproof tapes 82 in a tape width direction on a tape front surface side, an extension portion 87 appearing on a tape back surface side of the waterproof tape 82 and downwardly extending along a tape length direction from the stopper body portion 85, and a back surface side cover portion 88 coating a lower end edge of the waterproof tape 82 with a tape back surface side.
As shown in FIG. 14, the first stopper 84 is formed by cutting and removing portions of opposed tape end edges of the pair of waterproof tapes 82 together with the fastener elements 83 to form a space portion 89, and by injection molding polyurethane to fill the space portion 89.
In this case, the stopper body portion 85 is formed such that it rises from the tape front surface sides and the tape back surface sides of the waterproof tapes 82, and portions of the row of elements 83 are embedded in the stopper body portion 85. The front surface side cover portion 86 is formed such that it covers the entire tape region on a lower side from a position higher than the stopper body portion 85. A lower end of the front surface side cover portion 86 is connected to the back surface side cover portion 88 such that the lower end of the front surface side cover portion 86 wraps a lower end edge of the waterproof tape 82. The extension portion 87 is connected to the front surface side cover portion 86 through the space portion 89 which is formed by cutting and removing the waterproof tape 82, and the extension portion 87 covers a portion of a tape inner side edge portion of the waterproof tape 82 with the tape back surface side.
The waterproof slide fastener 80 of Patent Document 2 is configured by cutting and removing portions of the waterproof tapes 82 and the coil-shaped elements 83 to form the space portion 89 and then by injection molding the first stopper 84. Therefore, it is possible to stably form the first stopper 84 into a predetermined shape without receiving influence of the coil-shaped elements 83.


An improved bottled water station includes a removable reservoir for drop-in installation into and lift-out removal from a station housing. The reservoir is constructed from a lightweight molded plastic or the like to have an open upper end for receiving and supporting an inverted water bottle. A bottom wall on the reservoir includes an upwardly recessed portion defining an inverted receiver cup for slide-fit reception of a chiller probe provided as part of a refrigeration system on the station housing. A vapor seal prevents air circulation into the space between the chiller probe and the receiver cup, to correspondingly prevent undesired formation of condensation and/or frost. One or more faucet valves are provided to extend through openings in a front wall of the station housing for dispensing water from the reservoir.

This invention relates generally to improvements in bottled water stations of the type adapted to receive and support a water bottle in an inverted position, and to selectively dispense water therefrom. More specifically, this invention relates to an improved bottled water station having a removable water-containing reservoir adapted for simple drop-in installation into a station housing, wherein the reservoir and station housing include vapor seal means for substantially eliminating or preventing formation of undesired condensation and/or frost on the exterior of the water reservoir.
Bottled water dispenser stations are well-known in the art for containing a supply of relatively purified water in a convenient manner and location ready for substantially immediate dispensing and use. Such bottled water stations commonly include an upwardly open reservoir mounted on a station housing and adapted to receive and support an inverted water bottle of typically three to five gallon capacity. Water within the inverted bottle flows downwardly into the station reservoir for selective dispensing therefrom through one or more faucet valves on the front of the station housing. Such bottled water stations are widely used to provide a clean and safe source of water for drinking and cooking, especially in areas where the local water supply is suspected to contain undesired levels of contaminants.
In bottled water stations of the above-described type, the water bottles are normally provided by a vendor in a clean and preferably sterile condition with an appropriate sealed cap to prevent contamination of the water contained therein. When an inverted bottle on a station housing reaches an empty condition, the empty bottle can be lifted quickly and easily from the station housing and replaced by a filled bottle having the sealing cap removed therefrom. The empty bottle can then be returned to the bottled water vendor for cleaning and refilling.
Although bottled water stations of this type utilize a sequence of water bottles which have been individually sanitized, the water reservoir within the station housing has not be subjected to periodic cleaning or replacement. In this regard, the housing reservoir typically comprises a metal or ceramic tank mounted within the station housing in association with a refrigeration system having a chiller coil for maintaining water within the reservoir in a chilled condition. In some station housing designs, the reservoir is subdivided into distinct chambers, one of which is associated with a refrigeration system, to provide separately dispensed supplies of chilled water and room temperature water. Still further, in other designs, an auxiliary reservoir is provided in association with suitable heated elements to produce a heated water supply. Unfortunately, the integration of the station housing reservoir with associated chilling and/or heating systems has generally precluded easy access to or removal of the reservoir from the station housing for cleaning purposes. Instead, the water-containing reservoir has typically been used for prolonged time periods without cleaning, thus creating the potential for undesired growth of harmful bacteria and other organisms. Reservoir cleaning has generally been accomplished in the past by taking the station out of service and returning the station to a centralized facility for cleaning purposes.
In one proposed construction for a bottled water station, a removable reservoir container has been suggested for drop-in placement and lift-out removal with respect to a supporting chiller plate mounted within a station housing. See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,629,096. While this configuration beneficially facilitates removal of the reservoir container for cleaning purposes, significant problems have been encountered with respect to formation of condensation and/or frost in the space between the removable reservoir container and the refrigerated chiller plate. As a result, such bottled water stations have encountered significant drip problems requiring inclusion of a drip tray, and often resulting in undesirable water puddling on the floor beneath the station housing. Condensate dripping onto carpeted or tiled floor areas in a typical in-home or office environment is, of course, extremely undesirable.
In an alternative and improved bottled water station construction having a drop-in, lift-out reservoir, a chiller probe on the bottled water station is adapted for slide-fit sealed reception through an opening formed in a bottom wall of the reservoir. See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,192,004. In this construction, the chiller probe is positioned within the interior volume of the removable reservoir, in direct contact with water contained therein, whereby problems relating to condensation and/or frost are entirely avoided. However, an adequate and reliable slide-fit seal arrangement must be provided between the reservoir bottom wall and the chiller probe to prevent undesired water leakage.
The present invention overcomes the problems and disadvantages and related concerns encountered in the prior art in connection with a bottled water station having a removable water-containing reservoir, wherein the reservoir is designed for slide-fit engagement with a chiller probe of a refrigeration system without requiring a probe-receiving opening to be formed in the reservoir, and further in a manner which substantially eliminates or prevents formation of undesired condensation and or frost.

Bottled water station with removable reservoir


Methods and apparatus are disclosed for dynamic bandwidth expansion for wireless clients of a wireless wide-area network (WWAN), wherein each client has an allocated bandwidth for communicating over the WWAN and the clients are within wireless signal reception of each other. The WWAN clients may voluntarily or in a predetermined manner join a pool of bandwidth-sharing clients. A wireless aggregation server and a wireless pool boss work in cooperation to utilize unused transmit and receive bandwidth from each of the pool members.

The users of a WWAN system are typically assigned individual bandwidths for communicating with the network; however, much of the individually owned bandwidths are often wasted, as nearly all users do not utilize their bandwidths at full capacity. In the past, to make efficient use of bandwidths, the users of low speed wireline modems have linked banks of modems to create a single higher bandwidth connection, where each wireline modem had a fixed bandwidth constantly available to it due to the PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) connection. The number of modems was constrained by the number of available PSTN connections. Others experimented with binding multiple wireless data connections within a single device (e.g., binding multiple Enhanced Data Rate Global Evolution (EDGE) radios within a single Wireless Wide Area Network (WWAN) router/gateway) to achieve a similar result.
Currently, even when WWAN users operate in close physical proximity and are within signal reception of each other, such as in an office, a coffee shop, or on an airplane, their unused bandwidths are being wasted and are unavailable to a nearby user in need of extra bandwidth.


A process for forming a high dielectric constant, (High K), layer, for a metal-oxide-metal, capacitor structure, featuring localized oxidation of an underlying metal layer, performed at a temperature higher than the temperature experienced by surrounding structures, has been developed. A first iteration of this process features the use of a laser ablation procedure, performed to a local region of an underlying metal layer, in an oxidizing ambient. The laser ablation procedure creates the desired, high temperature, only at the laser spot, allowing a high K layer to be created at this temperature, while the surrounding structures on a semiconductor substrate, not directly exposed to the laser ablation procedure remain at lower temperatures. A second iteration features the exposure of specific regions of an underlying metal layer, to a UV, or to an I line exposure procedure, performed in an oxidizing ambient, with the regions of an underlying metal layer exposed to the UV or I line procedure, via clear regions in an overlying photolithographic plate. This procedure also results in the formation of a high K layer, on a top portion of the underlying metal layer.

(1) Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to methods used to fabricate metal-insulator-metal capacitor structures for semiconductor integrated circuits, and more specifically to a method used to form a high dielectric constant, (high k), metallic oxide layer, for use as a dielectric layer for a capacitor structure.
(2) Description of Prior Art
Metal-Oxide-Metal, (MOM), capacitor structures are commonly used in current analog/RF circuits. The use of an insulator layer, with a high dielectric constant, (high K), would be useful in terms of providing efficient charging for the analog devices. Therefore capacitor dielectric layers, such as silicon nitride, with a dielectric constant of about 7, has been used in place of silicon oxide dielectric layers, featuring a dielectric constant of only about 3.9. For enhanced capacitor performance, metal oxide layers, with dielectric constants even larger than silicon nitride values, are now being considered for use in MOM structures. However to form reliable, (in terms of breakdown strength), metal oxide layers, such as tantalum pentoxide, (Ta2O5), or aluminum oxide, (Al2O3), temperatures greater than 400xc2x0 C., are needed. These elevated temperatures however, can result in degradation to existing interconnect structures, comprised of aluminum based metallurgies. The exposure of these aluminum based structures, to temperatures needed to form the metal oxide layer, can result in pre-melting, or reflowing of these structures.
This invention will describe processes used to form reliable, dense, metal oxide layers, for MOM structures, still however avoiding the exposure of the surrounding interconnect structures, metal structures other than MOM structures, to elevated temperatures. A first iteration will describe local heating of an area of a metal layer, in an oxidizing environment, accomplished via local laser ablation. The laser ablation process results in only surface heating of an underlying metal layer, allowing the desired region of metal to be oxidized, forming the desired metal oxide layer at temperatures greater than temperatures experienced by surrounding metal structures. A second iteration will describe the localized formation of the metal oxide layer, in an oxidizing environment, using energy supplied by either UV or I line exposures. Conventional photolithographic plates are used to allow specific regions of an underlying metal layer to experience the UV or I line exposure. Prior art such as Kang in U.S. Pat. No. 5,834,357, as well as Sun et al, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,930,584, describe processes used to fabricate high K dielectric layers, however these prior arts do not feature the unique processes used in this invention to achieve metal oxide layers, without exposure of surrounding metal structures to the high oxidation temperatures, used to form reliable, dense metal oxide layers, on local regions of a metal layer.
It is an object of this invention to form a high K dielectric layer, for a metal-oxide-metal, (MOM), capacitor structure, via oxidation procedures, which allows the oxidizing region to experience a higher temperature than the surrounding metal interconnect structures.
It is another object of this invention to form a high K dielectric layer, via a laser ablation procedure, performed to localized regions of an underlying metal layer, in an oxidizing ambient.
It is still another object of this invention to form a high K dielectric layer via exposure of localized regions of an underlying metal layer, to UV or I line energies, in the presence of an oxidizing environment.
In accordance with the present invention a method of fabricating a metal-oxide-metal, (MOM), capacitor structure, featuring a high K dielectric layer, formed from localized heating of an underlying metal layer, is described. A first iteration of the invention initiates with the deposition of an underlying metal layer, for subsequent use as the bottom electrode for the MOM capacitor structure, followed by a laser ablation procedure, resulting in the formation of the desired high K, metal oxide component of the MOM capacitor structure. The laser ablation procedure, performed in an oxidizing environment, allows the laser ablated surface of the underlying metal layer to reach a temperature needed for formation of a dense, metal oxide region, while surrounding metal structures, or metal structures used for non-MOM purposes, do not experience the temperature increase. A second iteration of this invention features the subjection of localized regions of the underlying metal layer, to either UV or I line exposures. A photolithographic plate is used to allow only selective regions of the underlying metal layer to be subjected to the UV or I line exposures, performed in an oxidizing environment, thus resulting in the formation of the desired metal oxide component of the MOM capacitor structure, on an underlying metal electrode structure.

Method of forming of high K metallic dielectric layer

Chartered Semiconductor Manufacturing Ltd.


The present disclosure is concerned with xanthine analogs, methods of making xanthine analogs, and methods of treating West Nile virus using these analogs. This abstract is intended as a scanning tool for purposes of searching in the particular art and is not intended to be limiting of the present invention.

West Nile virus (WNV) is the leading cause of mosquito-borne illness in the continental United States. It is most commonly spread to people by the bite of a mosquito. Most human infections are mild, causing fever, headache, and body aches, often accompanied by a skin rash and swollen lymph glands. If the virus crosses the blood-brain barrier, however, it can cause life-threatening conditions that include inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. Despite the severe implications of this disease, there is currently no vaccine or antiviral treatment available for WNV. Thus, there remains a need for antiviral agents useful for the treatment and/or prevention of WNV.

Xanthine analogs as potent anti-West Nile viral agents


A connector arrangement comprising a connector and a cable connected to the connector, each comprising at least one conductor pair for transmitting a differential signal, wherein the cable comprises a first portion and a second portion, in which the conductor pair comprises electric contacts, and wherein the conductors are at a first mutual distance in the first portion and a second mutual distance in the second portion, the second mutual distance being greater than the first distance, wherein an intermediate portion is formed between the first portion and the second portion, in which intermediate portion the distance between the conductors of a conductor pair increases in the direction of an interface-side end of the connector, wherein the conductor pair is guided in an unshielded cable in the first portion, and wherein the conductors are surrounded by an external conductor in at least one part of the intermediate portion.

DE 202015000753 U1 discloses a connector arrangement comprising a sleeve part. In that case, a core pair for transmitting a differential signal runs in a cable, wherein the cores of the core pair are at a first mutual distance in the interior of the cable. Proceeding from the sheathed cable portion in the direction of the connector the two cores of the core pair diverge in an intermediate portion until they enter a guide section of the connector, in which they are at a second mutual distance, which is greater than the first mutual distance.
On account of the change in distance between the cores, the differential impedance thereof changes, which can result in an interference point.
This is a state in need of improvement.


A glass compound is provided with two or several glass plates 1, 2 spaced apart A by a spacer 4, wherein between adjacent glass plates 1, 2 at least one inherently rigid plate element 3 is inserted whose thickness D is dimensioned to be smaller than the distance A between adjacent glass plates 1, 2 of the glass compound.

The invention relates to a glass compound, in particular for use as a window, door or architectural element, especially for ornamental purposes or as a sunscreen, comprising two or several glass plates spaced apart by a spacer, wherein between adjacent glass plates an inherently rigid plate element is loosely inserted whose thickness is dimensioned to be smaller than the distance between adjacent glass plates of the glass compound.
A glass compound of this kind is known, for instance, from EP-A1 0 324 710 and EP-A2 0 078 530. According to the former document, intermediate panes are arranged between adjacent glass plates, which panes are mounted to the outer edge of the glass compound by means of support pins; the latter document relates to a noise-protection glazing comprising a middle pane that has an undivided surface and extends across the entire surface of the glass compound.
Such known glass compounds do not allow any particular optical design of the middle pane, unless very high expenses are involved.
From GB-A 1 426 551, a glass compound is known that has a middle pane which is configured as a lead glazing in order to provide possibilities of optical design.
According to U.S. Pat. No. 6,138,433, a decorative element, which is translucent but forms one piece, is inserted in a double-pane glass compound.
DE-A1 42 26 883 shows that a glass compound comprising more than two glass plates spaced apart by a spacer is known.
From U.S. Pat. No. 4,975,307 A, a glass compound is known according to which an inherently rigid plate element is provided between adjacent glass plates, which plate element is configured so as to be multipart, with the parts lying on one plane, directly abutting each other with their peripheral rims, yet being glued to the glass plates.
DE 27 07 398 A shows a plate element between two glass panes, which, however, is configured as one piece. As a result of the large distance between the glass panes, the plate element inserted between them is supported relative to each glass pane by means of resilient supports, whereby the resilient supports are provided in the rim areas of the plate element, namely in the areas that are oriented in parallel to the glass panes.
EP 0 721 086 A relates to a disk lamp composed of two glass panes with an optical-fiber plate inserted therebetween. Above at least one edge of the optical-fiber plate, a cavity for receiving a light source is provided.


The invention relates to a PEM fuel cell comprising at least one strip meane (8) which itself comprises at least 2, and a maximum of 10,000-surfaced individual cells each comprising an electrode layer (10-12, 13-15) applied on both sides of a membrane made of a polymeric solid electrolyte, the individual cells being incorporated in series and being made of plates (21, 22) of non-conductive material, which serve as heat exchangers and as fuel gas supply device, which are contacted on both sides on the strip membrane (8, 16) and separate outwardly-directed conductive structures (23, 24) for voltage derivation.

PEM fuel cells (Polymer Electrolyte Membrane fuel cells) are electrochemical cells which, to simplify, comprise anode and cathode with interposed polymeric solid electrolyte. In order to operate such cells, fuels are continuously applied to both electrodes from the exterior, said fuel being there electrochemically converted, so that a current can be derived at the electrodes. It is now at present however, impossible to convert all of the chemical energy supplied. During operation of the fuel cell a certain proportion is always lost as heat. For this reason, higher-performance fuel cells require measures for heat removal. This is effected according to prior art by electrically conductive heat exchanger plates through which a cooling fluid flows (Literature: A. J. Appley, E. B. Yeager, Energy 11, 137.152 1986!).
In this case both sides of the membrane-electrode unit are in contact with the electrically conductive plates, interposed seal rings being used in order to achieve a tightness of the cell. The conductor plates are designed as heat exchangers, i.e. they contain ducts through which a cooling fluid flows. The cooling fluid is fed in and out through openings in the plate. Furthermore, feed and return ducts for the fuels are integrated in the electrically conductive plates, the fuels then being supplied through suitable structures to the electrodes. It is however necessary for such a fuel cell construction according to prior art for the plates to consist of electrically conductive material, as each plate must press against the respective electrode surface in order to produce the outward electrical contact of the cell. In the case of a stack structure, the plates can also be constructed as bipolar plates.
In order to achieve higher performance and particularly in order to achieve a higher voltage, it is also known to incorporate together a plurality of membrane-electrode units as described above to form a so-called fuel cell stack (U.S. Pat. No. 4,175,165 "Fuel cell system utilizing ion exchange membranes and bipolar plates"). For this purpose until now a plurality of cells as described above were separately constructed, disposed one behind the other and incorporated electrically in series, so that the voltages of the individual cells are added to one another. The constructive outlay for such an in-series incorporation is however extremely high, as each membrane-electrode unit must have a separate fuel supply. The result is an extremely high constructive outlay for these cells.

Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Foerderung der angewandten Forschung e. V.


A surgical needle assembly for penetrating soft and hard tissues of a patient includes a handle assembly removably coupled to the needle assembly. The needle assembly is electrically coupled to an electrical signal source. The surgical tool includes an electrically conductive portion in communication with an un-insulated distal end of the needle assembly, and an insulated portion extending from the distal end to the handle assembly.

Monitoring of the location of neural elements can reduce the likelihood of neural damage while accessing anatomical structures near the nerve. Systems exist which provide for delivery of an electrical current for detection of neural element proximity to a carrier of the current by visibly noting a patient's limb motor reaction when the neural element is stimulated by electrical current.
Surgical needle assemblies can be employed for access, treatment and/or delivery of treatment to locations within a patient's body. The needle assembly is inserted for penetration of soft and hard tissues of the patient during the initial steps of the treatment protocol without determining the proximity of neural elements to the needle assembly during and after such placement of the needle assembly. Subsequent treatments and procedures that are carried out based on the initial needle insertion position may impinge or interfere with the neural elements, requiring relocation of the treatment location or pathway.

Electrically insulated surgical needle assembly


It is an object of the present invention to provide a dimer diol derivative and a composition containing the dimer diol derivative which have an excellent water-holding property, an excellent pigment dispersion property and further a high level of safety.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a dimer diol derivative and a composition containing the dimer diol derivative, and it is an object of the present invention to provide a dimer diol derivative and a composition containing the dimer diol derivative which have an excellent water-holding property, an excellent pigment dispersion property and further a high level of safety.
2. Description of the Related Art
As materials for cosmetic, fats and oils, which are fatty acid triglyceride type, such as olive oil, palm oil, sesame oil, macadamia nut oil and mink oil or waxes such as lanolin are widely used.
Particularly, lanolin which is the ester of lanolin acid and lanolin alcohol has an excellent water-holding property and a high level of the emulsion stability and further an excellent emollient effect on the skin, it is widely used in not only emulsified products but also various makeup products and cosmetics for hairs.
However, fats and oils or waxes such as lanolin have the following problems.
Cosmetics formulated with fats and oils or waxes change over time to causes the dissociation of components and the deterioration of feeling in using when these are not adequately formulated. Further, since lanolin has a composition close to sebum and water-holding property, it has an excellent emollient effect on the skin. In recent years, however, there is a tendency of disliking animal materials from the viewpoint of the prevention of cruelty to animals. In addition, since lanolin is the ester of alcohol and fatty acid, it is of low stability and some of lanolin have decomposed and generated foul smells.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.

Dimerdiol derivatives and composition of matter including the dimerdiol derivatives

Abstract: The dimer diol derivatives according to the present invention is a dimer diol derivative represented by the following chemical formula 19.

Abstract: (wherein R is a dimer diol residue, X is hydrogen atoms, the following chemical formula 20 or the following chemical formula 21, and Y is hydrogen atoms, the following chemical formula 20 or the following chemical formula 21 (except that a case where both X and Y are hydrogen atoms),

Abstract: (wherein R1 is an aliphatic hydrocarbon group having 1 to 22 carbon atoms, Z is the following chemical formula 22 and/or the following chemical formula 23, and n is an integer including zero),

Abstract: (wherein R1 is an aliphatic hydrocarbon group having 1 to 22 carbon atoms),

Abstract: (wherein R1 is an aliphatic hydrocarbon group having 1 to 22 carbon atoms).


A peristaltic pumping apparatus has a misloaded-tube detector. The detector is constituted of a pair of pressure sensors and a CPU. The pressure sensors are located on both sides of a fluid propelling portion onto which an IV tube containing a solution is loaded. The detector detects a tube misloading by making use of pressure which is applied to one pressure sensor when the tube is displaced onto the pressure sensor and is forced against it by the closing of a door. Each sensor consists of first and second electrodes spaced from each other, a pressure-resistive conductive element attached to the first electrode and spaced from the second electrode and capable of connecting thereto, and a resistor connected to the first and second electrodes. The CPU judges from a resistance value of the pressure sensor as to whether the tube is properly loaded or misloaded or whether the pressure sensor is in an operative state.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention generally relates to a peristaltic pumping apparatus and particularly, to a misloaded IV (intravenous) tube detecting circuit for a peristaltic intravenous infusion pump.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Administration of intravenous solutions to a patient is well known in the art. Typically, a solution such as saline, glucose or electrolyte in a glass or flexible container is fed to a patient's venous access site via a length of flexible plastic tubing such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) tubing. The rate of flow of the solution is controlled by a roller clamp which is adjusted to restrict the flow lumen of the tubing until the desired flow rate is obtained.
Flow from the container to the patient may also be regulated by means other than a roller clamp. It is becoming more and more common to use an electronically controlled pump. One type of pump that is used for intravenous solution administration is a peristaltic-type pump.
Use of peristaltic pumping action is particularly well suited for the medical field. This is because peristaltic pumping action can be applied externally of the tubing carrying the intravenous solution. This maintains the sterile condition of the intravenous solution within the tubing while imparting fluid propulsion on the solution. The peristaltic pumping action can also be applied on any point on the tubing.
In a common type of peristaltic pump used in the medical field, a driving motor is connected to an array of cams which are angularly spaced from each other. The cams in turn drive cam followers which are connected to corresponding pressure fingers. These elements cooperate to impart a linear wave motion on the pressure fingers. A pressure plate is secured juxtaposed to and spaced from the pressure fingers. The pressure plate holds the tubing against the reciprocating pressure fingers to impart the wave motion on the tubing to propel the solution.
In another common type of peristaltic pump used in the medical field, a driving motor is connected via an armature to at least one roller member. The driving motor imparts a circular rotation on the armature which has adapted in the roller member. A semicircular pressure plate having the same center point as the armature is provided with the tubing located between the roller member and the pressure plate. The pressure plate holds the tubing against the roller member which imparts a circular motion on the tubing to propel the solution.
The pump also includes a door mounted on the supporting structure for movement between an open position which allows access to the pumping hardware and a closed position which impedes access to the pumping hardware.
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a conventional peristaltic intravenous infusion pump in a state that its door is open. As shown in FIG. 7, a wall 3 of a pump body has a fluid propelling portion 2 for executing a peristaltic pumping action and grooves 4 which are respectively leading to and leading from the fluid propelling portion 2. An IV tube 1 is loaded into the groove 4 so that a portion of the IV tube 1 is located on the fluid propelling portion 2. The fluid propelling portion 2 includes pressure fingers as previously described although not illustrated in detail. The door 5 carries a pressure plate 7 associated with the pressure fingers. When the fluid propelling portion 2 is activated after the door 5 has been closed, the fluid propelling portion 2 feeds a solution in the IV tube 1 with a peristaltic pumping action by the reciprocating pressure fingers urging the tube 1 against the pressure plate 7.
Pressure sensors 6 are provided on both sides of the fluid propelling portion 2 to detect misloading of the IV tube 1. FIGS. 9A and 9B show a structure of the pressure sensor 6. Each pressure sensor 6 is comprised of a first electrode 10 provided on the front face side of the pump body, a pressure-sensitive conductive layer 11 provided on the rear face of the first electrode 10, and a second electrode 12 provided spaced from the pressure-sensitive conductive layer 11. The resistance between the first electrode 10 and the second electrode 12 is higher than a few tens M.OMEGA. when the pressure-sensitive conductive layer 11 is apart from the second electrode 12, as shown in FIG. 9A; however, when the pressure-sensitive conductive layer 11 is pressed against the second electrode 12 at a pressure more than a specified pressure P.sub.0 (P.sub.0 =2 Pa, for example), as shown in FIG. 9B, the resistance is lowered to a few .OMEGA. or less. FIG. 10 illustrates this electrical characteristic of the pressure sensor 6.
FIGS. 8A and 8B show a properly loaded state and a misloaded state of the IV tube 1, respectively. When the IV tube 1 is properly loaded to be located on the fluid propelling portion 2, as shown in FIG. 8A, closing of the door 5 will not cause a pressure to be applied to the pressure sensors 6. Therefore, the resulting resistance value will be more than a few tens M.OMEGA.. On the other hand, when the IV tube 1 is misloaded so as to be displaced away from the fluid propelling portion 2 onto the pressure sensor 6 on one side thereof, as shown in FIG. 8B, closing of the door 5 will cause the door 5 to press the IV tube 1 such that a pressure higher than the specified pressure P.sub.0 will be applied to the pressure sensor 6. The resulting resistance value will be a few .OMEGA. or less.
Accordingly, it can be detected whether or not the IV tube 1 is properly loaded, by measuring the resistances of the pressure sensors 6. Moreover, when an misloaded IV tube 1 is detected, operation of the fluid propelling portion 2 is prohibited so that no danger will arise to the patient.
However, with the conventional pressure sensors 6 as described above, the resistance value will read more than a few tens M.OMEGA. in either case where no force is encountered and the pressure-sensitive conductive layer 11 is apart from the second electrode 12, as in FIG. 9A, or where the pressure sensors 6 have been thrown into an inoperative state such as a damaged or unpowered state. This makes it impossible to differentiate between the properly loaded state of the IV tube 1 and the inoperative state of the pressure sensor 6. The result is that even if the IV tube 1 is misloaded, the inoperative state of the pressure sensors 6 would lead to a misdecision as proper loading, which would be of great danger to the patient.

Peristaltic pump apparatus having an improved misloaded IV tube detecting circuit


An apparatus and a method are provided. The provided solution includes a controller configured to determine a transmission mode for user equipment, the transmission mode including non-codebook precoding with fixed precoding granularity; and to control a transceiver to transmit information on the selected transmission mode to the user equipment.

Wireless communication systems are constantly under development. Developing systems provide a cost-effective support of high data rates and efficient resource utilization. One communication system under development is the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) Long Term Evolution (LTE) Release 8. An improved version of the Long Term Evolution radio access system is called LTE-Advanced (LTE-A). The LTE is designed to support various services, such as high-speed data, multimedia unicast and multimedia broadcast services.
In wireless communication systems, multiple antennas can be used in reception and/or transmission for improving link reliability and/or increasing transmission rate. In solutions based on multiple antennas, precoding can be used to improve performance of a multiple antenna system. Precoding is usually used in transmitters to mitigate distortion introduced by channel response and/or equalizers used in receivers.
There are two common ways of realizing precoding. Precoding may be realized as a codebook-based or non-codebook-based solution. A transmitter and a receiver may have a common precoding codebook, i.e. a finite collection of precoding vectors or precoding matrices. The receiver, for example a mobile station, typically decides which vector or vectors of the codebook are selected for use and feedbacks its index to a transmitter, for example an eNodeB, on a feedback channel.
In non-codebook precoding, channel state information (CSI) is usually furnished to a transmitter by using a feedback signal from a receiver in a frequency division duplex (FDD) mode or in time division duplex (TDD) mode by using the reciprocity principle. Alternatively, in FDD mode, the receiver may decide on antenna weighting and feedback this information via a feedback channel.

Apparatus and method for non-codebook based precoding


An optical recording medium has a phase-change recording layer embedded in a stack of thin layers arranged on a substrate. At least one of the dielectric layers adjacent to the recording layer comprises a carbide. The carbide layer is separated from the substrate and/or from a reflecting layer in the stack by a dielectric layer not containing a carbide. The thickness of the carbide layer either lies in a range from 2 to 8 nm or is substantially equal to the thickness of the adjacent dielectric layer.

The invention relates to an optical recording medium having a substrate and a stack of thin layers provided thereon, the stack comprising a first dielectric layer and a second dielectric layer, a recording layer being able to change between two crystallographic states and arranged between the dielectric layers, a third dielectric layer arranged between the recording layer and the first dielectric layer, and a reflective layer.
The invention also relates to the use of such an optical recording medium in high storage density and high data rate applications.
Optical information or data storage based on the phase change principle is attractive, because it combines the possibilities of direct overwrite (DOW) and high storage density with easy compatibility with read-only systems. Phase-change optical recording involves the formation of micrometer-sized and sub-micrometer-sized amorphous recording marks in a thin crystalline film using a focused radiation beam. During recording information, the medium is moved with respect to the focused radiation beam which is modulated in accordance with the information to be recorded. After heating by the radiation beam to a temperature above the melting temperature, the recording layer is quenched, thereby causing the formation of amorphous information marks in the exposed areas of the recording layer which remains crystalline in the unexposed areas. Erasure of written amorphous marks is realized by heating the recording layer with a radiation beam to a temperature below the melting temperature during a time longer than the crystallization time of the recording layer, allowing the recording layer at the position of the mark to recrystallize. The amorphous marks represent the data bits, which can be reproduced by scanning the recording medium through the substrate by a low-power focused radiation beam. Reflection differences of the amorphous marks with respect to the crystalline recording layer bring about a modulated laser-light beam which is subsequently converted by a detector into a modulated photocurrent in accordance with the coded, recorded digital information. The modulated photocurrent is an HF information signal representing the written marks, and, therefore, the written information.
The main problems in phase-change optical recording are the required large number of overwrite cycles (cyclability), i.e. the number of repeated writing (amorphization) and erasing (recrystallization) operations, and a proper crystallization speed. High crystallization speed is particularly required in high data rate applications, where the complete crystallization time has to be shorter than 100 ns, preferably as short as 30 to 70 ns. If the crystallization speed is not high enough to match the linear velocity of the medium relative to the laser-light beam, the old data (amorphous marks) from the previous recording will not be completely erased (recrystallized) during direct overwrite (DOW). This will cause a high noise level.
An optical recording medium of the type mentioned in the opening paragraph is known from U.S. Pat. No. 5,234,737. The known medium of the phase-change type comprises a disc-shaped substrate carrying a stack of layers consisting, in succession, of a first dielectric layer, a recording layer of a phase-change Ge-Sb-Te alloy, a second dielectric layer and a metal reflective layer. Such a stack of layers can be referred to as an IPIM structure, wherein M represents a reflective or mirror layer, I represents a dielectric layer and P represents a phase-change recording layer. A third dielectric layer, preferably of SiO.sub.2, has been arranged between the first dielectric layer and the recording layer to achieve a desired thermal behaviour of the medium during writing information in the medium by means of a radiation beam. The material of the third dielectric layer may also be chosen from MgF.sub.2, CaF.sub.2, Al.sub.2 O.sub.3, CeF.sub.3, NdF.sub.3, LaF.sub.3, NaF, NiF, Na.sub.3 LaF.sub.6, ZnS, ZnS-SiO.sub.2, SiC, In.sub.2 O.sub.3, SnO.sub.2, Si.sub.3 N.sub.4, Ta.sub.2 O.sub.5, SiO, TiO, TiO.sub.2, TiN, TiC and ZrO.sub.2.
The above citations are hereby incorporated in whole by reference.


An adjustable saw gauge fixture is disclosed including first and second end plates joined by two parallel guide rods and an intermediate screw rod, a movable jaw plate mounted on the parallel guide rods and the screw rod and controlled by an adjusting knob to move along the screw rod pitch by pitch in holding down the workpiece between either end plate, a bolt retained engaged with the screw thread of the screw rod by a spring in holding the movable jaw plate in place, two handles made on the end plates, a miter block made of an angle bar having one end pivoted to the first end plate and an opposite end freely moved toward or apart from said second end plate, a miter gauge having one end fixed to the miter block and an elongated groove peripherally marked with graduations movably secured to the second end plate.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an adjustable saw gauge fixture adjustably attached to a fence guide bar on a saw bench to hold a miter gauge and the workpiece for cutting.
2. Description of Prior Art
In the process of sawing process, a fixture is generally required to hold the workpiece in place so that a precise cutting can be achieved. Further, different saw gauges may be alternatively used to support the workpiece for different angle cuttings. FIG. 1 illustrates a saw gauge fixture according to the prior art, which is generally comprised of a rectangular base (2), a screw rod (3), two adjusting knobs (4), and a jaw plate (5). The rectangular base (2) has an elongated slot (21) at the middle in longitudinal direction and two unitary base blocks (22), (23) at two opposite ends. The base blocks (22), (23) each has a round hole arranged in line with the elongated slot (21). The screw rod (3) is inserted through the round holes with the two opposite ends thereof respectively attached with the adjusting knobs (4). The adjusting knobs (4) have each an end hole (not shown), into which either end of the screw rod (3) fitted, and a pivot hole (not shown) into which a lock pin (42) is inserted to secure the screw rod (3) in position. The jaw plate (5) is made in a T-shaped structure having a bolt hole (51) at the middle mounted on the outer thread (31) of the screw rod (3). Rotating the adjusting knobs (4) causes the jaw plate (5) to alternatively move back and forth along the screw rod (3), and therefore the range A or B between the jaw plate (5) and either base block (22) or (23) is adjusted according to the size of the workpiece to be cut. Because the jaw plate (5) can only be moved on the screw rod (3) pitch by pitch, it takes much time to move the jaw plate (5) into position. Furthermore, different angle gauges should be used when different angle cuttings are required.


A battery information acquiring apparatus includes a voltage acquiring unit which acquires an inter-terminal voltage of the battery cell; a battery information acquiring circuit which acquires battery information of the battery cell with the acquired voltage being supplied as a first power supply voltage and; a radio circuit which transmits a signal of the battery information to the management unit via the antenna with the acquired voltage being supplied as a second power supply voltage and; a rectification circuit which receives a radio signal from the management unit via the antenna, rectify the received radio signal and generate a DC voltage; and a control circuit which controls supply of the first and second power supply voltages to the battery information acquiring circuit and the radio circuit wherein the control circuit operates with the generated DC voltage being supplied as a third power supply voltage.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a battery information acquiring apparatus that acquires battery information of a battery cell in a battery pack made up of a plurality of battery cells connected in series or in parallel, and transmits the battery information to a management unit that manages the battery pack.
2. Related Art
As supply of battery power for electric cars or industrial vehicles, battery packs in which many battery cells of low voltage and low capacity are connected in series or in parallel are used to obtain a high voltage and high capacity voltage. Safe operation of a battery pack requires a battery information management system that monitors a voltage and temperature or the like of each battery cell.
For example, JP-A 2005-135762 (Kokai) proposes a state monitoring apparatus using radio waves as a scheme for realizing a battery information management system. This configuration supplies a power supply voltage for the state monitoring apparatus from a battery cell or radio tag and involves a problem that when a power supply voltage is supplied from the battery cell, power is also consumed during standby during which control signals and battery information are not communicated. Furthermore, since the radio tag has poor power conversion efficiency, power consumption on the supply side of power increases due to supply of power to all state monitoring apparatuses.


A switching DC-DC converter includes: an output voltage detecting unit configured to detect a DC output voltage; an error amplifying unit configured to compare the detected output voltage and a reference voltage and configured to supply an amplified error signal between the detected output voltage and the reference voltage to the pulse width modulating unit; and a single oscillating unit connected to an output of the output voltage detecting unit and an output of the error amplifying unit and operable on a first oscillating mode and a second oscillation mode. The oscillating unit on the first oscillating mode controls a switching frequency of the power switch based on the detected output voltage. The oscillating unit on the second oscillating mode controls the switching frequency of the power switch based on the amplified error signal.

1. Technical Field
This invention relates to a switching DC-DC converter (hereinafter referred to as a DC-DC converter) which has a overcurrent protection feature and generates an output voltage by the constant voltage control of changing the frequency according to a load condition.
2. Description of the Related Art
A DC-DC converter reduces an output voltage when the DC-DC converter enters an overcurrent operation due to an increase in a load current. When the output voltage has lowered greatly, the DC-DC converter lowers the switching frequency to prevent the overcurrent value from increasing. An example of the DC-DC converter is disclosed in JP-A-10-229674.
In order to improve the efficiency when the load is low, another DC-DC converter lowers the switching frequency, thereby reducing the loss of a power switch due to switching. An example of another DC-DC converter is disclosed in JP-A-9-98571.

Switching DC-DC converter and oscillator


The CSF shunt valve includes an elongate, hollow housing and a valve unit disposed within the housing. A plurality of exit ports are formed along the wall of the housing, and a plurality of bleeder ports are formed on the bottom of the housing. The valve unit includes at least one regulating mechanism disposed within the housing. Each regulating mechanism includes an obstructing member operatively attached to a spring. The spring is compressible within a predefined range of fluid pressure. The obstructing member compresses the attached spring in response to fluid pressure acting thereon, opening the exit ports for fluid being drained. The spring-biased obstructing members facilitate self-adjustment for drainage flow. Although arranged in series, the range limits are not continuous with subsequent springs, which safeguards against transient spikes in fluid pressure and ensures independent compression of subsequent springs in response to the predefined limits of pressure for that spring.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to medical devices, and particularly to a CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) shunt valve that is self-regulating and responsive to pressure differentials from the fluid being drained or shunted.
2. Description of the Related Art
Obstruction of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or its malabsorption leads to intracranial accumulation of CSF resulting in increased intracranial pressure (ICP) or hydrocephalus. This condition requires drainage or shunting of the CSF. As with many medical conditions, the ICP varies in a case-to-case basis, taking into consideration many variables, such as the individual's age, gender, medical history and the like. Generally, the ICP can vary anywhere between 0-20 mm Hg.
Typically, a sterile internal system through a catheter is used to shunt CSF into a body cavity such as the right atrium of the heart, pleural cavity or most commonly, the peritoneal cavity. An essential component to this procedure is a valve situated along the drainage catheter to prevent excessive drainage. Proper shunt selection usually requires accurate ICP measurements and a precision opening pressure valve or a programmable valve. However, the most commonly used valves are valves preset on one of the following differential pressure(s) (DP): low (<7 mmHg), medium (7-11 mmHg), or high (>11 mmHg). While functional, these valves can be subject to complications for the patient when the presumed pressure proves to be inaccurate, leading to improper performance of shunts, such as under- or over-drainage, necessitating replacement of the valve. Moreover, frequent monitoring and changes of the valve may be necessary when accounting for the potential changes in intracranial DP, especially since the pressure can change over time.
In light of the above, it would be a benefit in the medical arts to provide a valve with more universal application that regulates flow dynamically for a wide range of pressures. Thus, a CSF shunt valve solving the aforementioned problems is desired.


An assembly is provided including a structural component having a flange-like member. A partially cured polymer matrix composite patch is wrapped around a perimeter of the flange-like member. The patch includes a plurality of layers, each layer having a plurality of fibers arranged therein. The layers of the polymer matrix composite patch are cured after being wrapped around the flange-like member of the structural component.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention relate to structural components and, more particularly, to a process for forming a polymer composite matrix patch around a structural component of an aircraft.
Aerospace vehicles, such as aircrafts and rotary wing aircrafts, are subjected to different adverse loadings, including the stresses and vibrations that occur during take-off and landing. Under these loading conditions, stress fatigue damage may occur in the structural components that are part of the fuselage of such aircrafts. It is costly and time consuming to repair such damage.
When a structural component of an aircraft is damaged, the structural component is generally replaced, resulting in an excessive amount of time for the aircraft to be non-functional. Due to their light weight, high stiffness, and high strength, polymer matrix composite materials may be used to repair damage that occurs in the structural components of an aircraft. A small pre-formed polymer matrix composite patch may be positioned over the planar surface including the damage to provide additional strength to that area of the structural component. However, over time, the patch may separate or peel away from the surface of the component, leading to further stressing or ultimate failure of the structural component.

Structure repair with polymer matrix composites


A chute apparatus for conveying objects by gravity inside a building from a higher story to a lower story includes one or more sets of discrete sections having passages forming an elongated conduit which pass through one or more floors of the building. Each set includes an intake section which has a tubular body having a first passage and a tapered portion having a second passage. The second passage decreases in transverse cross section in a given longitudinal direction and a passage of at least one other section in each set has a passage which increases in transverse cross-section. A terminal portion of at least one of the section is received within another section by an adjustable distance to accommodate variations in distance between adjacent floors of the building. Substantially the entirety of said two of the sections can be housed within the intake section during shipment.

Conveyor chutes are typically installed in multi-story buildings such as hotels, hospitals, high-rise condominiums and the like for conveying trash, recyclables or linen items from one or more upper floors to a lower floor within the interior of the building. Unlike what are commonly referred to as "debris chutes", which are structures which are mounted along the outside of a building temporarily for use during construction, demolition or renovation to conduct construction debris downwardly along a path which is located predominantly or entirely on the exterior of a building, conveyor chutes of the type to which the present invention relates are permanent fixtures and are located substantially entirely inside of a building to provide a conduit having a substantially vertically oriented central bore through which objects may conveniently be transported by gravity from one or more upper floors of a building to a basement, or other lower floor, of the building. Such conveyor chutes sometimes discharge into a sorting device or a bin disposed adjacent a terminal end of the conveyor chute. Such conveyer chutes are sometimes installed inside fire-rated shafts, especially where local codes may so require, and are sometimes installed next to elevators. Access doors are typically provided on the chute at each upper floor to allow objects to be loaded into the chute for transport while preventing such objects from being ejected from the conveyor chute when the door is closed. In some cases, such access doors may be associated with a control panel which enables users to designate the nature of an object being loaded so the object can be sorted appropriately by a sorting device.
For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,568,871 to Shantzis discloses a system in which a sorting device is disposed beneath a single chute. The sorting device has a turntable which carries a plurality of large receptacles, one for each category of waste, such as glass, aluminum, paper or garbage. A control on each floor enables a user to operate the turntable remotely to position the appropriate receptacle beneath the chute to receive a selected category of waste. The chute itself generally has a plurality of discrete sections which are joinable to one another to form the substantially continuous elongated bore through which the objects fall. As depicted in Shantzis '871, these sections are typically generally cylindrically-shaped with reduced diameter end portions which allow the lower end of one section to be inserted into the top end of an adjacent section to form overlapping joints which shed any liquid which flows downward along the inside wall of the bore from the inside of one section to the inside of the next without leaking to the exterior. The access door is generally connected to an intake section which has a generally cylindrical body from which a protuberance extends radially. The protuberance terminates in a portal which is ultimately fitted with a frame for the access door.
According to the prior art, each intake section is typically about six feet (6 ft.) in overall length and has a cylindrical body whose inside diameter is equal to the nominal inside diameter of the chute except for a relatively short portion at its bottom end which is slightly necked-down so as to permit formation of a lap joint with the top end of the next-lower section. A lower portion of each intake section passes through a hole in the floor which is surrounded by an acoustically isolated floor mounting frame which is bolted to the floor slab. A plurality of substantially Z-shaped clips, which are welded to the intake section about one-third of its total length up from its open bottom end engage the floor mounting frame to support each intake section such that approximately four feet of the intake section projects above floor level while approximately two feet of the intake section is suspended below floor level. An approximately four foot long tube of the same nominal inside diameter as the intake section has a lower end which is provided with a male connector in the form of a circumferential bead below which is a reduced diameter portion which has been crimped to form corrugations. This reduced diameter portion is of a sufficiently small outside diameter to fit inside the top end of an adjoining section. The approximately four foot long tube is joined to a shorter tube of same nominal inside diameter as the intake section and the approximately four foot long tube itself. This joint is facilitated by another male connector, of the same construction as just described, which is provided on the lower end of the shorter tube, permitting the lower end of the shorter tube to fit inside the top end of the approximately four foot long tube and form a lap joint therewith. The shorter tube is of a length which depends on the distance between adjacent floor slabs in a particular building. This length is selected such that the necked-down portion of the intake section mounted in the floor above fits inside, and forms a lap joint with, the top portion of the shorter tube.
Despite their segmental construction, one of the major shortcomings of prior art conveyor chutes has been that they make very inefficient use of shipping resources even when shipped disassembled as they are when shipped from a manufacturer to a distributor or from a distributor to a job site. Because the chute sections are hollow and are dimensioned to form an open bore which has substantially constant diameter throughout the entire length of the chute, they tend to occupy excessive volume per unit weight when packed for shipping. As a consequence, shipping costs tend to be high because the usable volume of a truck or shipping container is typically substantially fully occupied well before applicable weight limits are approached.

Conveyor chute for the interior of a building and method of palletizing same for shipment


A method for achieving adjusted toner concentration of printed image on a recording medium in an image forming apparatus using an electrophotographic developing process including a photosensitive drum for forming a latent image on its negatively charged photoconductive insulating surface exposed to light according to an image pattern and a developing roller charged with a negative developing voltage to charge by rubbing a toner supplied from a toner supplier with a negative voltage. The method includes the steps of keeping constant the background voltage of remaining portion of the photoconductive insulating surface except for the latent image portion, and changing the voltage of the latent image portion of the photoconductive insulating surface so as to adjust the amount of toner particles attracted to the latent image portion for forming an enhanced printed image on the recording medium without contamination in the background thereof

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention generally relates to an image forming apparatus using an electrophotographic developing process such as a laser beam printer, copier and facsimile machine, and more particularly, relates to a device for obtaining adjusted toner concentration of printed image in such an image forming apparatus.
2. Related Art
Electrophotographic developing process is widely used in computer printers, facsimile machines and photocopiers in order to produce images on recording media in response to video signals. A common example of an electrophotographic printing apparatus is a laser beam printer which prints images on individual sheet of paper through a series of electrostatic image-forming steps. Typically, the process of electrostatic image forming includes charging a photosensitive drum to a substantially uniform potential so as to sensitize the surface thereof. The charged portion of the photosensitive drum is exposed to a light image of an original document being reproduced. This creates an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the document image on the photosensitive drum. After the electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum, the latent image is developed by applying toner from a developing unit into contact with the latent image formed on the photosensitive drum. This forms a toner image of the original document on the photosensitive drum which is subsequently transferred and fixed on a recording medium. When a toner image is fixed on a recording medium, the toner image is first heated and fused onto the recording medium, and then naturally cooled so that it is fixed onto the recording medium.
Generally, as a unit for charging the surface of the photosensitive drum, a contact-type charging roller such as disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,517,289 for Apparatus for And Method Of Forming Image issued to Ito et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,479,243 for Image Forming Apparatus And Charging Device Thereof issued to Kurokawa, U.S. Pat. No. 5,247,328 for Method And Apparatus For Charging A Photoconductive Surface To A Uniform Potential issued to Daunton et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 5,164,779 for Image Forming Apparatus With Dual Voltage Supplies For Selectively Charging And Discharging An Image Bearing Member issued to Araya et al., using a so-called contact (or direct) charging scheme to produce an uniform electric field in response to application of high voltage for charging the surface of the photosensitive drum to a constant potential to attract toner particles and thereby form the latent image on the photosensitive drum. Typically, a charging unit is charged at the start of a printing operation. The surface of the photosensitive drum is charged and a developing unit is concurrently charged by way of the charging unit as the photosensitive drum rotates in a direction opposite to the rotation of the developing unit. The surface potential of a photosensitive drum is controlled by a number of known techniques as described, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,072,258 for Method Of Controlling Surface Potential Of Photoconductive Element issued to Harada, U.S. Pat. No. 5,287,149 for Image Forming Apparatus Having Image Transfer Electrode Contactable To Transfer Material issued to Hoshika, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,534,982 for Developing Apparatus issued to Sakaizawa et al., in which the surface of the photosensitive drum is charged differently depending upon an image density and its background.
As a result, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum and the latent image is then visualized as a toner image by the developing unit. The charged area of the photosensitive drum is then exposed to a laser beam. Because of the potential difference between the exposed portion and the unexposed portion of the photosensitive drum, the toner particles are attracted only to the exposed portion to form the toner image on the photosensitive drum, and its density may be adjusted without causing contamination to occur in the unexposed portion of the photosensitive drum as disclosed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,424,809 for Image Forming Method And Apparatus For The Same issued to Sawayama et al. After the toner image formed on the photosensitive drum is transferred to the recording medium, the photosensitive drum is charged back to an original voltage as the recording medium is being conveyed to a fixing unit. When the toner image is fixed on the recording medium by the fixing unit, the photosensitive drum is charged to a reference voltage. The residual toner on the surface of the photosensitive drum is subsequently cleaned by a cleaning blade of a cleaning device and is finally collected as waste toner. While contemporary surface potential controlling techniques contain their own merits, it is my observation that none can effectively eliminate unwarranted attraction of abnormal toner particles to the unexposed portion of the photosensitive drum which causes contamination to occur in the background of printed image on a recording medium.

Device for adjusting toner concentration of printed image in an image forming apparatus using electrophotographic developing process