An ink composition is prepared in such a manner that a difference between a dynamic surface tension (mN/m) measured by a maximum bubble pressure method at a temperature of 24 to 26° C. and a static surface tension (mN/m) is within a range from 0 to 7 (mN/m). The ink composition is stored in an ink tank of an ink head, and is supplied from the ink tank to an ink chamber having a discharge port, and a voltage is applied to partitions formed by a piezoelectric material to apply a pressure by the partitions to the ink composition stored in the ink chamber, whereby a liquid droplet of the ink composition is discharged from the discharge port and the liquid droplet is deposited on a recording material to record an image.

1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to an ink composition advantageously employed in an ink jet recording method, a recording method and a recorded image utilizing the same, and an ink set and an ink head.
2. Description of the Related Art
The ink jet recording method is a method of recording an image by discharging and flying a liquid droplet of an ink composition (hereinafter also simply called "ink") by dynamic energy or thermal energy, and depositing such liquid droplet on a recording material such as paper.
Usually, characteristics of an ink employed in the ink jet recording method (hereinafter also called "ink jet ink") have been represented by physical properties such as a surface tension or a viscosity. It has been tried to adjust a drying property of the ink or to improve the quality of a formed image, by defining such physical properties.
For example, there is proposed an ink jet recording method by an ink droplet defined by a product of a Weber's number, including the surface tension as a parameter, and a Reynolds' number including the viscosity as a parameter. A high quality image is realized by maintaining the product of the Weber's number and the Reynolds' number within a certain range (cf. Japanese Examined Patent Publication JP-B2 2968010). Also there is proposed an ink jet recording method utilizing an ink with a surface tension within a specified range (cf. Japanese Examined Patent Publication JP-B2 63-65034 (1988)).
The surface tension used in the technologies described in the JP-B2 2968010 and JP-B2 63-65034 is a surface tension when a liquid surface reaches an equilibrium state, namely a static surface tension. Also the surface tension ordinarily employed as an index of the characteristics of the ink jet ink is a static surface tension (for example Akio Kinoshita et al., "Tokushu Kinou Inki no Jissai Gijutu (practical technologies of ink with special functions)", 1st popular edition, CMC Co., Nov. 15, 1999, p. 6-7). In this manner, the characteristics of the ink jet ink are often indicated by the static surface tension among the surface tensions.
However, it is difficult to sufficiently represent the characteristics of the ink by the static surface tension only.
In an ink jet recording apparatus for recording an image by the ink jet recording method, an ink is filled in an ink chamber of an ink head, and ink liquid droplets are discharged and made to fly in continuous manner from a discharge port provided at a front end of the ink chamber and deposited on a recording material to record an image. At the continuous discharges of the ink, a newly generated surface of the ink, namely a new meniscus, is formed in the discharge port simultaneously with a discharge of an ink droplet, and the surface tension of the ink varies for example at the start of formation of the newly generated surface in the discharge port, at a state immediately before discharge, at a moment of discharge, during a flight of the droplet, at a moment of landing on the recording material, and during a penetration into the recording material such as paper. The surface tension of the ink changes from time to time between a surface tension in a state of a slow motion such as at the start of formation of a newly generated surface at the discharge port or during the penetration into the recording material such as paper, and a state of a fast motion such as at the moment of discharge. Herein, the state of the slow motion can regard as a static state and it may be considered that the surface tension changes from the static state to the dynamic state every second. Consequently, in order to sufficient represent the characteristics of the ink jet ink, it is necessary to consider a dynamic surface tension which is the surface tension while the liquid surface is in the course of reaching an equilibrium state.
The importance of the dynamic surface tension is described in various references. For example, Schwartz, J. evaluates static surface tension and dynamic surface tension of waterborne paints and indicates that the dynamic surface tension is an important fact in the formation of a coated film with the waterborne paint and a low dynamic surface tension was effect for forming an uniform excellent coated film (cf. "The Importance of Low Dynamic Surface Tension in Waterborne Coatings").
Also Medina, S. W. and Sutovich, M. N. discuss the importance the dynamic surface tension in a high-speed printing, and suggest that the static surface tension, which is the surface tension when the liquid surface reaches an equilibrium, is effective as an index for representing the ink properties in a state of a slow motion such as a penetration into paper and the like, but is not effective as an index for representing the ink properties particularly in a state of a fast motion such as in a high-speed printing. On the other hand they suggest that the dynamic surface tension is an index indicating an ability of a surfactant, contained in the ink, to migrate to the newly generated surface of the ink newly formed in succession at the discharge port or to migrate to an interface between the ink droplets, deposited in succession onto the recording material, and the recording material. The surfactant reduces the surface tension of the ink by being adsorbed at the newly generated surface of the ink or at the interface between the ink droplet and the recording material, so that, with a higher ability of migrating to the newly generated surface of the ink or to the interface between the ink droplet and the recording material, there is obtained a higher effect of reducing the surface tension of the ink in a state of a fast motion whereby the dynamic surface tension of the ink is lowered (cf. "Using Surfactants to Formulat VOC Comoliant Waterbased Inks").
There are also proposed an ink composition, suitable for the ink jet recording method, with a defined relationship between the dynamic surface tension and the viscosity, and a recording method utilizing the same. This technology indicates that satisfactory printing characteristics can be obtained within a range where the ink composition satisfies a condition [dynamic surface tension (dyne/cm) at a life 0 msec]+[viscosity (cP)]=42 to 49 (cf. Japanese Examined Patent Publication JP-B2 2516218).
However, though the technology described in JP-B2 2516218 defines the dynamic surface tension by a conditional equation of adding the values of the dynamic surface tension and the viscosity, the value of such conditional equation is meaningless since the dynamic surface tension and the viscosity differ in the unit, i.e., differ in the dimension.
Also this technology indicates that the surfactant does not contribute in reducing the dynamic surface tension. However the surfactant is known to generally contribute significantly to a wetting property of the ink jet ink on an internal wall of the ink chamber or a property of the ink on the recording material, and is not only an essential component in the ink but also an important factor for controlling the dynamic surface tension. For example, Schwartz, J., in the aforementioned "The Importance of Low Dynamic Surface Tension in Waterborne Coatings", changing the static surface tension and the dynamic surface tension with certain surfactants and evaluating the influence thereof on the coated film formation, indicates that a reduction in the dynamic surface tension is effective in reducing a contraction of the coated film, a crater generation therein and a bubble entrapment therein.
Also, this technology only defines the dynamic surface tension, but does not define the static surface tension. In the ink jet recording method, as explained in the foregoing, the surface tension of the ink varies from the dynamic state to the static state every second, so that both the dynamic surface tension and the static surface tension are required for sufficiently representing the characteristics of the ink jet ink.
Further, this technology only defines the dynamic surface tension in a state of a fast motion, particularly, of 0 msec, but does not define the dynamic surface tension in a state of a slow motion. In the ink jet recording method, as explained in the foregoing, the surface tension of the ink varies from time to time between a surface tension in a state of a slow motion and a surface tension in a state of a fast motion, so that both the dynamic surface tension at a state of a fast motion and the dynamic surface tension at a state of a slow motion are required for sufficiently representing the characteristics of the ink jet ink.

Ink composition, recording method and recorded image utilizing the same, ink set and ink head


A mobile device includes a housing, a sensor and a deformation detecting IC which detect deformation of the housing, a memory which stores a pattern database in which patterns of the deformation of the housing are registered in advance, and an authentication unit which performs authentication based on whether or not the deformation of the housing detected by the sensor and the deformation detecting IC corresponds to a pattern registered in the pattern database.

Mobile devices such as mobile telephones each include a mechanical key input unit to which numbers such as 0 to 9 and characters are allocated, and a touch panel which displays a software keyboard. Such mobile devices perform authentication processing when the mobile device is activated or executes software in some cases.
According to the authentication processing of a typical mobile device, an operator is generally authenticated by inputting a passcode using a key input unit and the touch panel. Further, according to the authentication processing of each mobile device, an operator undergoes authentication by using an operation pattern of each mobile device.
For example, a mobile device disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-328903 detects a time interval and a pressing force of an operation of each key as an operation pattern when an operator inputs a passcode by operating a mechanical key input unit, and performs authentication according to whether or not a combination of the passcode and the operation pattern corresponds to a pattern registered in advance.
A mobile device disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-014401 detects as an operation pattern a combination of a time interval in which a finger touches a touch panel and a time interval in which the finger is moved away from the touch panel, and performs authentication according to whether or not the detected operation pattern corresponds to a pattern registered in advance.

Mobile device, and authentication program


A high pressure valve for hydrogen gas includes a valve seat and a valve member, which is movable to selectively open and close the valve seat. One of the valve member and the valve seat is formed of austenitic stainless steel, and the other one of the valve member and the valve seat is formed of flexible synthetic resin or soft metal.

The present invention relates to a high pressure valve for hydrogen gas and a decompression device for hydrogen gas. More particularly, the present invention pertains to a high pressure valve for hydrogen gas and a decompression device for hydrogen gas that are suitable for use in a high-pressure hydrogen gas tank for automobiles driven by a fuel cell.
In the prior art, a high-pressure hydrogen gas tank for an automobile driven by a fuel cell is filled with hydrogen gas at a pressure of 35 MPa. As for a high pressure valve for hydrogen gas attached to the high-pressure hydrogen gas tank, for example, an electromagnetic valve or a pressure reducing valve is used. The pressure reducing valve reduces the pressure of high-pressure hydrogen gas discharged from the electromagnetic valve to a particular pressure (e.g. 1 MPa). As for the electromagnetic valve, a semi-pilot type valve is known in the art. The semi-pilot type valve is switched between an open state and a closed state in accordance with the excitation or de-excitation of a solenoid. In the open state, a pilot valve is separated from a pilot valve seat. In the closed state, the pilot valve contacts the pilot valve seat. When the pilot valve opens, a main valve body separates from a main valve seat to open the valve.
The pressure reducing valve typically includes a valve hole connected to a pressure reducing chamber, which is defined between a body and a diaphragm. Such a pressure reducing valve includes a valve body, which selectively contacts a valve seat located around the valve hole. A valve shaft is connected to the center of the diaphragm. The valve body and the valve shaft are coaxially secured to each other.
Material for the pilot valve and the pilot valve seat in the electromagnetic valve and material for the valve body and the valve seat in the pressure reducing valve are selected as required without any design limitation. In this case also, the pilot valve, the pilot valve seat, the valve body, and the valve seat can withstand a high pressure of 35 MPa and maintains the sealing effectiveness even when the valves are closed.
However, the high-pressure hydrogen gas tank for an automobile driven by a fuel cell in these days is aimed to be filled with hydrogen gas at a higher pressure such as a pressure of 70 MPa. Therefore, if the prior art electromagnetic valve and the pressure reducing valve are actually used in the tank for hydrogen gas having higher pressure, sufficient sealing effectiveness cannot be maintained.

High pressure valve for hydrogen gas and decompression device for hydrogen gas


A HFC network includes an optical node, a first fiber optic cable, and a second fiber optic cable. The first fiber optic cable has a first end that is connected to the optical node for delivering signals to the optical node. The second fiber optic cable has a first end that is positioned within the optical node. Optical fibers of the first optic cable are ribbonized and spliced to ribbonized optical fibers of the second fiber optic cable at a spliced connection such that signals can be transmitted between the fiber optic cables. An optical fiber of the first fiber optic cable is spliced to a connectorized fiber pigtail at a spliced connection, and the connectorized fiber pigtail is optically connected to a broadband optical transceiver in the optical node. The spliced connections are stored in a fiber splice tray within the optical node.

Over the past twenty years, cable network operators and multiple service operators (MSOs) have relied more heavily on fiber-optic cable technology to transmit signals deeper (i.e., closer to the home) in a Point to Multi-Point (P2MP) communication network. The resulting migration of fiber being placed deeper into the network gave rise to new classes of fiber deep HFC architectures.
Some architectures focus on minimizing the number of actives and, thus, strategically placing fiber optic nodes in a position to require no further over-the-coax amplification in order for signal having sufficient strength to reach the home. These architectures are known as fiber deep node plus zero (i.e., zero number of over-the-coax amplifiers).
Some architectures focus on minimal disruption of the existing coaxial plant by replacing the last active amplifiers with fiber optic nodes and connecting those fiber optic nodes to new fiber optic cables. These architectures are known as fiber to the last active (FTTLA)—the last active being a fiber optic node. Each fiber optic node is connected to the main fiber optic transmission cable by a stub fiber optic cable. The connection between the main fiber optic and the stub fiber optic cable is stored in a fiber optic splice enclosure (FOSC) that is separate from the node. The FOSC is costly and the labor cost for installation of the FOSC can be high as well.
What is sought is a way to cost-effectively connect the fiber cable to the fiber optic nodes.


A bulb socket for retaining a bulb. The bulb socket includes a bulb socket main body (10) formed of synthetic resin and including a bulb insertion opening (12) formed in the bulb socket main body (10). Within the bulb insertion opening (12), there is stored a contact terminal (40A) which is formed of metal and includes a tongue-shaped bulb securing piece (42) for holding a bulb (50) inserted into the bulb insertion opening (12) in a removal preventive manner, and a tongue-shaped contact hold piece (44) contactable with an electricity energizing part disposed on the bulb side, where the bulb securing piece (42) and contact hold piece (44) are formed integrally with each other. The bulb securing piece (42) is disposed spaced apart from walls (11a) forming the bulb insertion opening (12) and, on the back of the bulb securing piece (42), there is provided a cantilever beam shaped elastic wall (16) which extends along the bulb securing piece (42) so as to support the bulb securing piece (42). As a result, the resistance by the bulb securing piece (42) when the bulb (50) is inserted is relatively small, whereas the resistance by the bulb securing piece (42) when the bulb (50) is relatively large.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a bulb socket and, in particular, to a socket for a wedge base bulb (no-cap bulb) for use in an automotive lighting device or the like.
2. Related Art
A conventional bulb socket, as shown in FIG. 16, comprises a socket main body 2 which is formed of synthetic resin and includes a bulb insertion opening 3. The bulb insertion opening 3 is opened forwardly and is capable of receiving a wedge base bulb 5. Within the bulb insertion opening 3 are provided a plurality of contact terminals 4 formed of metal. Each of the contact terminals includes a tongue-piece-shaped is contact hold piece 4a and a tongue-piece-shaped bulb securing piece 4b respectively formed integrally therewith. An electricity supply wire 8 is connected to each of the contact terminals 4.
In this structure, the bulb 5 can be inserted into the bulb insertion opening 3 from above and removed from the bulb insertion opening 3, by means of the elasticity of the contact terminals (bulb securing pieces 4b).
That is, when the wedge base bulb 5 is inserted into the bulb insertion opening 3, the projection 6a of the base portion 6 of the wedge base bulb 5 is engaged with the bulb securing pieces 4b to thereby prevent the bulb 5 from being removed and, at the same time, the contact hold pieces 4a are contacted with a lead wire 7 of the bulb exposed on the surface of the base portion 6 to thereby connect the filaments 5a and 5b of the bulb 5 with the contact terminals 4 electrically.
However, in the above-mentioned conventional bulb socket, the bulb securing pieces 4b of the contact terminals 4 are too low in flexibility, which makes it difficult to insert and remove the bulb 5 with respect to the bulb insertion opening 3. The present inventors have studied the conventional bulb socket and have found the following discoveries.
That is, the contact terminals 4 are disposed in such a manner that they are in close proximity to the inside of the forming wall 3a of the bulb insertion opening 3, while the bulb securing pieces 4b are also extended in such a manner that they are in close proximity to the bulb insertion opening forming wall 3a. Due to this, when the bulb 5 is inserted into or removed from the bulb insertion opening 3, the bulb securing pieces 4b cannot be elastically deformed in an outward direction (in a direction to spread the bulb insertion opening 3) smoothly, which provides an obstacle to the easy insertion and removal of the bulb 5.
In view of this, the present inventors have tried to separate the bulb securing pieces 4b of the contact terminals 4 from the bulb insertion opening forming wall 3a, with the result that the bulb securing pieces 4b can be elastically deformed smoothly with the insertion of the bulb 5 and the bulb 5 can be thereby inserted and removed easily.
However, in this experiment, although the easy insertion and removal of the bulb 5 is made possible, since the spring forces of the bulb securing pieces 4b are weak, if the insertion and removal of the bulb 5 are repeated, then there arises a new problem that the bulb securing pieces 4b can be easily weakened or the bulb 5 can be removed unexpectedly.
To solve this new problem, the present inventors have conducted another experiment in which, as a member for supporting the bulb securing pieces 4b, a vertical wall-like cantilever beam is so disposed in the rear of the bulb securing pieces 4b as to extend along the bulb securing pieces 4b. As a result of this experiment, the present inventors have confirmed that not only the bulb 5 can be inserted easily but also the weakening of the bulb securing pieces 4b and the removal of the bulb 5 can be prevented effectively. This is the reason why the inventors have decided to propose the present invention.


A latch mechanism for latching a convertible top header to a vehicle windshield header comprises a latch hook receiver mounted adjacent to each end of the windshield header and a pair of movable latch members each having a free end mounting a hook. A mounting bracket located adjacent to each end of the top header has an elongated base slot and an intersecting curvilinear branch slot adjacent to its outer end. A guide pin and a spaced drive pin are carried by each latch member. The guide pin is received within the base slot and the drive pin is received within the branch slot in the unlatched position. A drive link is connected to each latch member drive pin. Operation of the drive link pivots the latch members about the guide pins until the drive pins enter the base slots and terminally slide both pins toward the inner ends of the base slots to move the latch members from unlatched to latched positions. This moves each hook through a compound curvilinear path between an unlatched position stored within the top header, and a latched position, extending from the top header. In one embodiment, an electric motor is mounted centrally of the top header and is connected to each drive link by a power transmission. In another embodiment, a manual operator mounted centrally of the top header is connected to each drive link by a linkage which includes an overcenter device for locking the latch members in a latched position.

This invention relates generally to vehicle convertible tops and, more particularly, to a self-storing latch for latching a convertible top header to a vehicle windshield header.
Vehicles having convertible tops conventionally incorporate a latch at each side of the top header which has a latch hook, commonly called a J-hook. A manual handle is operated to engage the J-hook with a latch surface on the windshield header and withdraw the latch hook into the top header and pull the headers together. The handle is finally moved overcenter to secure the headers in latched position. Such an arrangement is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 3,216,763--Heincelman. Although many other types of side latching arrangements have been developed, the J-hook arrangement is the most widely used.
Side latching arrangement latches employ complex linkages and feature latch hooks or bolts that must be operated separately. This requires either that the driver move to the passenger seat to operate the right side latch or that the passenger operate it. To eliminate this problem, latches have been developed which provide simultaneous operation by a central operator which is easily reached and operated by the driver. Such a latching system is illustrated in U.S. Pat No. 2,500,459--Lundberg et al. However, there is no J-hook latching system currently available which utilizes a single operator for both side latches.
Current latching arrangements of the type shown in Heincelman have their J-hooks and handles projecting from the header when unlatched. In this position, the projecting hooks and handles obstruct top storage and must be re-stored to permit subsequent top storage. This requires that both latch handles be manipulated to withdraw the J-hooks into the header and simultaneously store the operating handles.
It would be desirable to provide a J-hook latch for a convertible top in which the J-hook is self-storing when in unlatched position.
It would also be desirable to provide an operating mechanism which enables both J-hook latches to be operated by a single latch operator which can be manipulated by the vehicle driver without moving from the driver's seat.

Self-storing convertible top latch system


Polyurethane elastomer fibers with superior mechanical and heat distortion properties are obtained by a method in which

The invention relates to a method for producing polyurethane elastomer fibers, and it also relates to the fibers that are produced in accordance with the inventive method.
Polyurethane elastomers are block polymers with a regular structure of soft and hard segments. The soft segments consist of long, flexible chains lacking any order of arrangement, which give the required rubber-like elasticity to the fiber. The properties of the fiber in regard to stretching and tensile strength can be varied depending on the molar mass and the kind of soft segment. The hard segments serve to fixate the soft segments. After a deformation, the return of the molecular chains of the soft segments to their former length occurs in an entropy-elastic manner. The hard segments consist of partially crystalline domains with a structure of short chains. The main task of the hard segments is to serve as anchor points to prevent a slippage of the polymer chains under the influence of mechanical forces. Following an elongation, the shape-restoring forces present in the elastomer will cause a contraction to nearly the original length. The remaining difference in length is called permanent elongation.
In general, polyurethane elastomers are produced in a single step or in a two-step process. In the first step of the two-step process, pre-polymers are formed in a reaction between diols of a higher molecular order and diisocyanates. In a second step, high-molecular end products are formed as the pre-polymers react with so-called chain extenders. Excess quantities of diisocyanate are used in the reaction of the first step, so that the pre-polymer molecule is terminated by isocyanate groups at both ends. The chain extenders are bi-functional, low-molecular compounds terminated by hydrogen atoms, mostly dihydroxy and diamino compounds capable of entering into reactions. The dihydroxy and diamino compounds react with the pre-polymers in the formation of the corresponding carbamic acid derivatives, i.e., the polyurethane elastomers, specifically poly-urea urethane elastomers. In the macro-molecular chains, the soft segments of higher-molecular diols alternate with the rigid hard segments resulting from the reaction of the chain extenders terminated by iso-cyanate groups. The single-step process (also called one-shot process) bypasses the pre-polymer stage, as the diisocyanate reacts simultaneously with the macro-diol and the chain extender.
The difference in the chemical composition of hard and soft segments as well as the difference in their polarities and molecular weights will cause the hard and soft segments to segregate from each other. The formation of hydrogen bridges between neighboring chains has the effect that the hard segments congregate in parallel alignment with each other. The long movable molecule chains in between develop cross-linked interconnections that are loosened and stretched when the loose-knit network is subjected to a tensile deformation. The interaction between the hard segments prevents plastic flow of the molecular chains in the distended state. The stretching of the macro-molecules is associated with a transition into a more highly ordered state and a decrease in entropy. When the mechanical stress load is removed, the thermal motion of the molecules will cause them to return to the cross-linked state that corresponds to a higher level of entropy. Strong mechanical stress loads, however, will break the interaction between the hard segments, causing irreversible structural rearrangements of the hard segments. This has a negative effect on the mechanical hysteresis properties. Especially melt-extruded polyurethane fibers exhibit a large hysteresis loss of elastic energy and force as well as a high amount of permanent elongation. In order to improve the properties of the fibers, it will therefore be necessary to provide a better fixation of the hard segments.
The known methods of producing melt-extruded polyurethane elastomer fibers primarily use a polyurethane polymer based on aromatic diisocyanates, mostly di-phenyl methane-4,4xe2x80x2-diisocyanate (MDI). The polymer coming out of the reaction is melted and processed into a fiber by way of a melt-extrusion process. However, polyurethane polymers based on aromatic diisocyanates are becoming less acceptable, because their decomposition releases aromatic amino groups that are suspected of being carcinogens. In addition, polyurethane polymers based on aromatic diisocyanates have a tendency of yellowing.
It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a method of producing polyurethane elastomer fibers based on non-aromatic diisocyanates with improved properties, particularly with respect to tear strength, tear elongation, permanent elongation and heat distortion temperature (HDT).
In accordance with the present invention, the objective is met by a method that has the following steps:
(a) A segmented polyurethane polymer is produced on the basis of i) a macrodiol with a molecular weight of approximately 500 to 10,000, ii) an aliphatic, cyclo-aliphatic and/or aliphatic-cycloaliphatic diisocyanate and iii) a chain extender with at least two hydroxy and/or amino groups. As a percentage of the sum of the hydroxy and amino groups, the polymer has a molar excess of isocyanate groups of at least approximately 0.2% over the hydroxy and/or amino groups from the macrodiol and chain extender.
(b) The polyurethane polymer is melt-extruded to form a fiber. Steps (a) and (b) are carried out under temperature conditions and within a time interval where essentially no allophanate will be formed.
(c) The fiber is subjected to a post-treatment under temperature conditions and within a time interval in which the polyurethane polymer is cross-linked through the formation of allophanate.
The polyurethane polymer must melt and be in the liquid phase at a suitable temperature. The polyurethane polymer is produced under the pre-polymer or the one-shot method, either through a reaction between macro-diol, chain extender and diisocyanate with the optional addition of a catalyst, essentially without a solvent, or by melting a preliminary form of polyurethane polymer containing iso-cyanate groups in stoichiometric proportion or in deficit proportion to hydroxy- and amino groups and by allowing the melted material, possibly after it has cooled down, to react with a diisocyanate and/or an isocyanate-terminated pre-polymer, again essentially in the absence of a solvent.
In preferred embodiments, the polyurethane polymer has a molar excess of iso-cyanate groups in relation to hydroxy- and amino groups of about 0.2% to 15%, the range from 1% to 10% being especially preferred. Polyurethane-polymer chains can be cross-linked through the formation of allophanate- or biuret bonds (Subsequently, only the term xe2x80x9callophanatexe2x80x9d will be used. Depending on the context, this is meant to include xe2x80x9cbiuretxe2x80x9d). In this case, an excess iso-cyanate group reacts with an already formed urethane or urea group, causing a branch in the molecular structure. The applicant has made the observation that allophanate-cross-linked polyurethane polymers based on aliphatic diisocyanates are unsatisfactory for the melt-extrusion process. The extrusion temperatures required for allophanate-cross-linked polyurethanes are in the area of 230xc2x0 C. The extruded fibers have a high degree of stickiness and inadequate strength. At the high extrusion temperature required, there is furthermore a strong decay in the molar mass of the polymer. The inventive method makes use of the difference in the reaction kinetics between the polyurethane chain formation and the allophanate formation. The formation of the allophanate links occurs more slowly than the build-up of the linear polyurethane chains. Consequently, the polyurethane polymer is produced with a defined excess proportion of isocyanate and is extruded even before the formation of allophanate cross-links sets in. The not yet cross-linked polyurethane can be extruded at relatively low temperatures, so that a thermal decomposition of the polymer is avoided and the tendency of the fibers towards stickiness is reduced. The further treatment of the fibers (winding on spools, tempering, etc.) presents no problems. A subsequent formation of covalent cross-links in the hard segments takes place in the post-treatment of the fibers. In addition to the physical cross-linking by way of hydrogen bridges, a chemical network of allophanate bonds is built up. In comparison to conventionally produced melt-extruded Elastane(trademark) fibers, the inventive method brings a clear improvement of the fiber properties. As an essential advantage, the aliphatic allophanate bonds that are present in the fibers produced according to the invention have significantly better thermal stability than aromatic allophanate bonds.
A person skilled in the art will be able to find, through simple experimentation, suitable temperatures and time intervals for producing and melt-extruding the polyurethane polymer without a significant amount of allophanate being formed in the process. The formation of allophanate becomes noticeable by the fact that the polymer is no longer completely soluble in customary polyurethane solvents such as, e.g., dimethyl formamide (DMF) or dimethyl acetamide (DMA). The following information will serve as a general frame of reference: The polymer can be kept for about two hours at a temperature of 150xc2x0 C. without an appreciable amount of allophanate formation taking place. If the temperature is lowered by 10xc2x0 C., the time frame is extended by a factor of 1.2, so that at a temperature of 80xc2x0 C., about 7 hours will be available. The following formula represents an approximation of the relationship between the length of time and the temperature.
t1xe2x89xa62hxc3x971.2 exp[(425Kxe2x88x92T1)/(10K)]
It is practical to perform the extrusion on conventional equipment with fiber strengths of 5 to 2000 dtex. The preferred temperature for the melt extrusion is about 80xc2x0 C. to 180xc2x0 C., with particular preference for the range from 100xc2x0 C. to 150xc2x0 C.
The post-treatment can be a heat-curing process of several hours at a preferred temperature range of 60xc2x0 C. to 100xc2x0 C. or, alternatively, room-temperature curing for several days. A post-treatment at temperatures higher than 150xc2x0 C. is not recommended. The extruded fibers can be laid out on a conveyor belt and sent through a conveyor oven. They can also be wound on spools or bobbins and placed in an oven or environmental chamber. The following formula will serve as a reference for determining the required length of time as a function of the post-treatment temperature:
t2xe2x89xa65hxc3x971.2 exp[(425Kxe2x88x92T2)/(10K)]
With respect to the macro-diols, the preference is for essentially linear diols which, except for the hydroxyl groups at the ends, carry no other groups that react with isocyanates. The macro-diols have a molecular weight of about 500 to 10,000, preferably 700 to 5000, with special preference for the range from 1000 to 3000. The molecular weight is meant as a weight-averaged mean molecular weight. If the macro-diol rest molecules become too short, the difference in cohesion energy between hard and soft segments becomes greater, causing a greater amount of mixing between the phases and thus inferior elastic properties. Macro-diols with a low glass transition point are preferred. In general, the macro-diols used have glass transition temperatures of about xe2x88x9235xc2x0 C. to xe2x88x9260xc2x0 C.
The preference is for using polyester- or polyether glycols. The term polyether glycols means hydroxyl-group terminated polyethers. Polyalkylene glycols are preferred, as for example polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol and/or poly-tetra-methylene glycol, with special preference for the last among the foregoing examples. Poly-tetra-methylene glycol, also known as poly-tetra-hydrofuran, can be produced by ionic polymerization of tetra-hydrofuran with acid catalysts. Suitable copolymers are also obtained by polymerizing tetra-hydrofuran with a mixture of propylene oxide, ethylene oxide and glycols. Elastomers that are synthesized from polyether glycols are distinguished by advantageous properties at low temperatures and a high degree of hydrolytic stability.
Suitable polyester glycols are produced preferably through an ester-forming reaction of an aliphatic and/or cyclo-aliphatic dicarbonic acid with excess quantities of a diol.
Among the preferred kinds of dicarbonic acids are succinic acid, glutaric acid, adipic acid, pimelic acid, azelaic acid and sebacic acid. The dicarbonic acid is converted into an ester with an excess quantity of diol, preferably ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, propylene glycol, 1,4-butane diol, 1,5-pentane diol and/or 1,6-hexane diol. Particularly preferred is a polyester of adipic acid and ethylene glycol. Polyester segments have a tendency to crystallize at low temperatures, at the expense of the elastic properties. The crystallizing tendency of polyester chains can be reduced preferably by the incorporation of methyl branches.
This can be accomplished by a partial replacement of the aforementioned diols by other diols such as 1,2-propane diol and 2,3-butane diol, or by using methyl-substituted dicarbonic acids. By using the aforementioned longer-chained glycols, such as 1,4-butane diol, 1,5-pentane diol and/or 1,6-hexane diol, elastomers of increased hydrolytic stability are obtained.
Suitable polyester glycols can also be obtained by a reaction of omega-hydroxy carbonic acids with small amounts of diols or by a ring-opening polymerization of lactones with small quantities of diol. It is also possible to use mixtures of polyether glycols and polyester glycols. As a reference for suitable macro-diols, see also Ullmann""s Encyclopedia of Technical Chemistry, 3d edition 1963, published by Urban and Schwarzenberg, Munich and Berlin, vol. 14, pp. 344 f.
The aliphatic, cycloaliphatic and/or aliphatic-cycloaliphatic diisocyanate preferably includes (beyond the isocyanate groups) an alkylene group with 2 to 14 carbon atoms, a cyclo-alkylene group with 5 to 8 carbon atoms and/or an aliphatic-cycloaliphatic group with 7 to 24 carbon atoms. Particularly preferred are hexamethylene diisocyanate and/or dicyclohexyl methane-4,4xe2x80x2-diisocyanate.
The chain extender is a compound containing at least two hydroxy- and/or primary amino groups, preferably a diol or a diamine, which have a low molecular weight in comparison to the macro-diol. In particular, the compounds used for chain extenders are diols, diamines or amino alcohols with 2 to 6 carbon atoms. Preferred are, e.g., ethylene glycol, 1,4-butane diol, cis-2-butene-1,4-diol and 2-butyne-1,4-diol.
Olefin-unsaturated chain extenders are used in one embodiment. The term xe2x80x9colefin-unsaturatedxe2x80x9d is meant to indicate that the chain extender has one or several double or triple bonds capable of a polymerization reaction. The olefin-unsaturated chain extender can be a diamino alkene, diamino-alkine, diamino cycloalkene, alkene diol, alkine diol and/or cycloalkene diol. Examples of suitable diamines are cis- or trans-1,4-diamino-but-2-ene, cis- or trans-4,4xe2x80x2-diamino stilbene, diamino maleic acid dinitrile, 1,4-diamino but-2-yne and/or 3,6-diamino cyclohexene-(1). Preferred examples of suitable diols are glycerin-l-allyl ether, cis- or trans-2-butene-1,4-diol, 2-butyne-1,4-diol and 5,6-bis-(hydroxy methyl)-bicyclo[2.2.1.]heptene-2. The use of olefin-unsaturated chain extenders permits a further improvement of the mechanical textile properties of the fibers made of the polyurethane elastomers according to the invention in that it induces the covalent cross-linking of the double and triple bonds that are built into the polymer chains. This is accomplished by exposing the extruded fibers to high-energy radiation. Preferably, the fibers are treated with electron beams or UV radiation.
Polyurethane elastomers according to the invention can contain additives such as matte-finish agents, pigments, antioxidants, thermal stabilizers, photo- and specifically UV stabilizers and/or hydrolysis stabilizers.
The polyurethane polymer with free isocyanate groups does not have a stable shelf life because of the allophanate cross-linking that would occur during the storage. It is therefore produced immediately prior to the extrusion process. Under the first of two available methods, the polymer is produced directly from the components according to either the single-step process or the pre-polymer process. The macro-diol, the chain extender and the diisocyanate are brought together in the required quantities at about 60 to 180xc2x0 C., preferably between 80 and 150xc2x0 C. for the melt reaction. Optionally, a poly-addition catalyst may be added, preferably dibutyl tin dilaurate or dibutyl tin diacetate, to set a desired reaction level. When using the pre-polymer method, macro-diol and diisocyanate are first combined into the pre-polymer, which is subsequently extended by the chain extender to form the desired polyurethane polymer. The resulting polymer material is immediately extruded into fibers.
Alternatively, i.e., under the second of the two methods, a stable preliminary form of polyurethane polymer is produced in a first phase, containing isocyanate groups in stoichiometric proportion or in deficit proportion to hydroxy-and amino groups. The material can be made into a granulate and put into intermediate storage if necessary. To arrive at the final form of polyurethane to be extruded into fibers, the preliminary product is melted, if necessary. At a preferred temperature of about 100 to 160xc2x0 C., an aliphatic, cycloaliphatic and/or aliphatic-cycloaliphatic diisocyanate and/or an isocyanate-terminated pre-polymer is added, and the mixture is homogenized. Possibly, the preliminary polymer product could be melted at a higher temperature than the preferred reaction temperature for the mixture, in which case it is good practice to let the melted preliminary product cool down to the appropriate level before adding the diisocyanate and/or isocyanate-terminated pre-polymer. Particularly suitable as isocyanate-terminated pre-polymers are reaction products of macro-diol with 1.1 to 3 molar equivalents of diisocyanate. The preliminary polymer product can be melted in an extruder, in which case the diisocyanate and/or isocyanate-terminated pre-polymer is added preferably either close to the extruder orifice or after the extruder in the melt-material conduit. It is recommended practice to homogenize the mixture, e.g., with static mixers in the melt-material conduit prior to the extrusion of the fibers.
The preferred molar ratio between macro-diol and chain extender in polyurethane polymer is between about 1:4 and 1:1.
The melt-extruded polyurethane fibers made according to the inventive method have clearly superior properties in comparison to conventional melt-extruded polyurethane fibers. The covalent cross-linking of the hard segments through the allophanate bonds significantly improves the hysteresis properties, i.e., the permanent elongation and the loss of elastic tension are significantly reduced while the tear strength and heat distortion temperature are increased.

Method for producing polyurethane elastomer fibers and fibers produced according to this method

Abstract: (a) a segmented polyurethane polymer is produced on the basis of a macro-diol, an aliphatic diisocyanate, and a chain extender with at least two hydroxy and/or amino groups, where the polymer has a molar excess of isocyanate groups over the hydroxy and/or amino groups from the macro-diol and chain extender;

Abstract: (b) the polyurethane polymer is melt-extruded to form a fiber; and

Abstract: (c) The extruded fiber is subjected to a post-treatment.

Abstract: Steps (a) and (b) are carried out under temperature conditions and within a time interval where essentially no allophanate will be formed, while step (c) is performed under temperature conditions and within a time interval in which the polyurethane polymer is cross-linked through the formation of allophanate.


A prosthesis as a vertebral replacement element consists of two helical strands, which may are screwed together to form a tubular structure. The implant is inserted between vertebrae and then slightly unscrewed until the desired height is reached. The helical strands consist of carbon fiber reinforced composite material.

The present invention relates to a vertebral prosthesis comprised of essentially two generally cylindrical members, which are connected by means of a screw mechanism in such a manner that the overall axial length of the connected members can be varied.
U.S Pat. No. 4,554,914 describes a vertebral prosthesis of this type which consists of a first male screw-like element and a second female tubular element with an internal screw thread. After screwing one element into the other, the assembly constitutes a pin-like support, whose free ends taper to points for penetrating the adjacent vertebrae. As a vertebral prosthesis two such pins are arranged adjacent to each other to function as distance pieces between two healthy vertebrae. In order to prevent shearing forces in the known design the adjacent vertebrae are additionally anchored with plates.
One object of the present invention is to provide a vertebral prosthesis of the aforementioned type the implantation of which does not require additional anchoring means and is easily performed.


An adaptable system for precise cutting ends of 2.times.4 type lumber to form chords and webs for wooden roof trusses basically includes (a) a protractor unit formed of a plate member and a guide member, (b) horizontal table means including an upper surface supporting the protractor unit and upon which the lumber is supported in use of the system and (c) a radial arm saw. Stucture details of the protractor unit are disclosed. The system is relatively much less expensive than prior known precision roof truss member cutting devices and its method of use is quickly learned by sawyers.

1. Field of the Invention
This application relates to devices for production of truss members. More particularly, it concerns relatively inexpensive devices for precision cutting the ends of lumber to form chords and webs for fabrication of wood trusses.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Consideration of the recent past and probable future of new home construction indicates a continuing desire by would-be home buyers to purchase homes with such outstanding features as volume ceilings of every conceivable design. In contrast to residential building home designs up to a few years ago, with the advent of in house computer designs and engineering, virtually any roof truss design is now limited only to one's imagination. Architects, builders and would-be owners now and for the foreseeable future demand buildings that require roof trusses involving a wide spectrum of chord and web angles, not at all like the identical, "cookie cutter" trusses that were typical of the building designs prior to this new trend in computerized building design and construction. However, the cutting and fabricating end of the roof truss industry is falling behind the trend in this truss design revolution.
Basically, with few exceptions, the truss fabricating manufacturers continue to cut and assemble roof trusses as they have for 20 or more years. In the years from the early 1950's to the early 1980's, flat ceilings with low pitched roofs provided little challenge to design, cutting and fabrication methods. Many truss fabrication shops relied almost entirely on radial arm saws for most of the cutting needs. As a change, a popular introduction was the "component saw", consisting of 4 or more saw blades capable of making multiple angled cuts to each piece of lumber fed in rapid succession thru the machine. Although the set up time in the use of this type saw is slow and requires rechecking, the time spent can be justified when making a good number of identical pieces. However, the component saws are large, needing approximately 14'.times.60' of floor space, and very expensive. Hence, this type machine is designed for high volume, repetitive member design trusses. Other similar type saws came onto the market to fulfil the need for high rate production of "cookie cutter" kind of trusses. In today's market of one-of-a-kind (OOAK) truss designs, requiring few repetitive webs and chords for a given building, the component saws for producing "cookie cutter" trusses are sitting idle much of the time since demand for this type trusses are now becoming a rarity.
In view of the situation discussed above, there exists a need for power-saw devices that can produce OOAK type trusses without need for arduous set-up and recheck routines and, particularly, such devices that are low in cost to purchase and maintain.
There are some saw devices on the market today designed to handle the OOAK trusses. These saws (which are basically a modified radial arm saw mounted to a specially designed cutting table) are fast in set-up time and cutting, but these saws are very expensive.
It is known to use protractors in conjunction with power saws to guide them in the cutting of wood, plastics or the like as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,803,271, 4,320,678, 4,608,898 and 4,945,799, but the devices so disclosed are not capable of effective use in the production of OOAK roof trusses.


Methods, apparatus, and products are disclosed for analyzing network traffic using an improved Markov Modulated Poisson Process Model with two barrier states that include: retrieving a previous state for the network traffic; measuring inter-arrival times between individual packets received in one or more network adapters; establishing a transition window in dependence upon the measured inter-arrival times, the transition window having a transition value λBmax that represents an upper boundary for the inter-arrival times in a bursty state and having a transition value λImin that represents a lower boundary for the inter-arrival times in an idle state; retrieving a previous fence value that prevents premature transitions into the idle state or the bursty state; and determining a current state for the network traffic in dependence upon the previous state for the network traffic, an inter-arrival time of a most recently received packet, the transition values, and the previous fence value.

1. Field of the Invention
The field of the invention is data processing, or, more specifically, methods, apparatus, and products for analyzing network traffic using an improved Markov Modulated Poisson Process Model with two barrier states.
2. Description of Related Art
The flow of information in a network is often called 'traffic.' Units of information used in network communication are referred to as 'packets.' Packets generally arrive at a point in the network at random intervals resulting in 'bursts' of traffic, causing congestion, and resulting in 'idle' periods in which traffic is somewhat more sparse.
Systems that use a network for communication can benefit from the analysis and characterization of the network traffic to optimize the critical performance parameters for optimal utilization of the various network resources. Examples of applications for this type of analysis may include the synchronization of a user process with the completion of the receive operation at the system to network interface, load balancing, routing, quality of service management, and adaptive tuning of the system/network performance parameters. One way to perform the analysis of network traffic is to provide a model that recognizes the characteristics of the network traffic. Over the past decade, network traffic as been characterized as both bursty and self-similar in nature. Bursty behavior describes network traffic that arrives in bursts at a point in the network. Self-similarity is the phenomenon in which network traffic behaves the same when viewed at different degrees of magnification, or different scales on a time dimension. Because network traffic has been shown to be bursty and self-similar, a method used to analyze network traffic should be able to represent behavior that is bursty in self-similar traffic.
Different methods are known for analyzing and characterizing network traffic. The Poisson Process is a widely used model to analyze traffic from voice sources. Bursty behavior in self-similar traffic, however, has been shown to be approximated by a Markov Modulated Poisson Process ('MMPP'). An MMPP model consists of two states that describe network traffic—a bursty state and an idle state. The bursty state represents the state of network traffic during a period when packet inter-arrival times are relatively small because the packets are arriving in bursts compared to other periods represented by the idle state in which packet inter-arrival times are relatively large because traffic is somewhat more sparse. The packet inter-arrival time is the time period between the arrival of one packet and the arrival of the next packet and may be measured from the perspective of one or more points on the network.
Current MMPP models work by transitioning between the bursty state and the idle state based on the mean inter-arrival times in each state and the inter-arrival time for the most recently received packet. The mean inter-arrival time for packets received in the bursty state is λBmean. The mean inter-arrival time for packets received in the idle state is λImean. The transition from the idle state to the bursty state occurs when the inter-arrival time of the most recently received packet drops below λBmean. Similarly, the transition from the bursty state to the idle state occurs when the inter-arrival time of the most recently received packet rises above λImean.
Although current MMPP models aid in the analysis of network traffic, current MMPP models often fail to detect premature or false transitions between the bursty and idle states. As a result, applications of network traffic analysis using current MMPP models suffer from inaccurate characterizations of network traffic. Those skilled in the art, therefore, appreciate that a need exists for improved models for analyzing network traffic.

Analyzing network traffic using an improved markov modulated poisson process model with two barrier states

International Business Machines Corporation


A MOS type semiconductor device is provided which includes a series Zener diode array for overvoltage protection, which is provided between source regions and an electrode having substantially the same potential as a drain electrode, and a field insulating film on which the series Zener diode array is provided. The thickness T (.mu.m) of the field insulating film is determined as a function of the clamp voltage V.sub.CE (V) of the series Zener diode array, such that the thickness T is held in the range as represented by: T.gtoreq.2.0.times.10.sup.-3 .times.V.sub.CE. The width W.sub.1 (.mu.m) of a portion of a second-conductivity-type isolation well that is close to the field insulating film on which the series Zener diode array is provided, and the width W.sub.2 (.mu.m) of a portion of the second-conductivity-type isolation well that is close to the field insulating film on which the series Zener diode array is not provided, are determined as a function of the clamp voltage V.sub.CE of the series Zener diode array, such that the widths W.sub.1, W.sub.2 are held in respective ranges as represented by: W.sub.1 .gtoreq.0.15 V.sub.CE, and W.sub.2 .gtoreq.0.05 V.sub.CE. By controlling the widths W.sub.1, W.sub.2 to these ranges, respectively, the concentration of current into an end portion of the cell portion of the device can be prevented upon cut-off of current from an inductive load.

To produce a MOSFET as one type of the MOS type semiconductor device, a plurality of p base regions are formed by diffusing impurities into selected areas of a surface layer of an n type semiconductor substrate such that pn junctions appear on the surface of the substrate, and n source regions are formed in surface layers of the p base regions in a similar manner. A gate electrode layer is then formed on an insulating film, over surfaces of channel regions provided by surface layers of the p base regions that are interposed between the n source regions and the n type semiconductor substrate, and a source electrode is formed in contact with both of the p base regions and the n source regions. A drain electrode is formed on the other surface of the n type semiconductor substrate. By applying a suitable voltage to the gate electrode, an inversion layer appears in each channel region, to reduce resistance between the drain electrode and the source electrode, and current is allowed to flow between the drain electrode and the source electrode through the inversion layer.
To produce IGBT as another type of the MOS type semiconductor device, an additional p type region is formed on the side of the drain electrode of the MOSFET. With the p type region thus added, the IGBT is capable of modulating the conductivity by utilizing injection of minority carriers.
The MOS type semiconductor devices as described above are widely used in switching circuits because the device provides low ON-state resistance and high switching speed, and can be easily controlled by changing voltage applied thereto.
In recent years, the MOS type semiconductor device used as a switching element in a switching circuit is more likely to receive surge voltage generated in the circuit, because of simplification of the switching circuit from which snubbers are eliminated, and reduction in the size of the semiconductor device. When the MOS type semiconductor device is used for cutting off current from an inductive load, for example, the voltage applied to the MOS type semiconductor device is increased due to energy stored in the inductor, and sometimes becomes even higher than power supply voltage. The resulting overvoltage stress may cause breakdown of the MOS type semiconductor device, and it has been thus desired to increase the breakdown voltage (avalanche withstand voltage) of the semiconductor device.
As one method for improving the capability of the MOS type semiconductor device to withstand avalanche breakdown, a part of the p base region is formed with a larger diffusion depth. The increase in the diffusion depth, however, affects the ON-state resistance and other characteristics of the device. For example, if the depth of a part of the p base region is changed from 5 .mu.m to 7 .mu.m in a certain MOSFET, the avalanche voltage increases by 25%, but at the same time the ON-state resistance increases by 15%. Thus, this method is not necessarily desirable in all aspects.
FIG. 6 shows an equivalent circuit of the MOSFET designed for improving the capability to withstand avalanche breakdown by another method.
In the circuit of FIG. 6, a series Zener diode array 3 is provided between the drain D and the gate G of the MOSFET. The series Zener diode array 3 includes a large number of pairs of Zener diodes that are connected in series such that each pair of diodes are formed back-to-back. In this arrangement, when the voltage applied to the drain D becomes higher than the clamp voltage of the series Zener diode array 3, a difference between the high voltage and the clamp voltage is applied to the gate G of the MOSFET, thereby to turn on the MOSFET. Namely, when an excess voltage is applied between the drain D and the gate G, the series Zener diode 3 functions to bypass the excess voltage between the drain D and the gate G so as to protect the device. Between the source S and the gate G, a pair of Zener diodes that are formed back-to-back and a resistor 6 are connected in parallel with each other. When an excessively high voltage is applied between the gate G and the source S, the pair of Zener diodes 5 function to bypass the excess voltage and protect the device. The resistor 6 functions to prevent high-voltage noise and others from being applied to the gate G due to disconnection of a gate lead, for example.
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of MOSFET (as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,365,099) that realizes the circuit of FIG. 6.
The left-side part of FIG. 7 shows a generally used MOSFET, wherein an n drift layer 13 is laminated on an n+drain layer 11, and a plurality of p base regions 14 and p.sup.+ wells 15 inside these regions 14 are formed in a surface layer of the n drift layer 13. Further, n source regions 16 are formed in surface layers of the p base regions 14. A gate electrode layer 18 made of, for example, polycrystalline silicon is formed on a gate oxide film 17 over portions of the p base regions 14 that are interposed between the n source regions 15 and an exposed surface of the n drift layer 13. A source electrode 19 made of Al alloy is formed in contact with both the p base regions 14 and the n source regions 16. The source electrode 19 extends over the gate electrode layer 18 such that these electrodes 18, 19 are insulated from each other by an interlayer insulating film 21 made of boron phosphorous silica glass (BPSG). A drain electrode 10 made of Ti/Ni/Au is formed on the rear surface of the n.sup.+ drain layer 11. A unit structure having the n source region 16, source electrode 19, and other elements, above and below the p base region 14 will be called a cell structure. The cell structure is often formed in polygonal or rectangular shape, and a multiplicity of such cell structures are arranged in parallel with each other in an actual MOSFET.
An arrangement for improving the capability to withstand avalanche breakdown is illustrated in the right-side part of FIG. 11. An n.sup.+ contact region 26 is formed in a surface layer of the n drift layer 13, and an auxiliary electrode 22 is formed in contact with the n.sup.+ contact region 26. An array of a plurality of pairs of Zener diodes 23 that are connected in series is provided on a field oxide film 27 on the surface of the n drift layer 13. Each pair of the Zener diodes are formed back-to-back or oriented in opposite directions. The above-indicated auxiliary electrode 22 is connected to one end of the series Zener diode array 10, and an electrode 29 extending from the other end of the Zener diode array 10 is connected to the gate electrode 18 of the MOSFET.
In this structure, the potential of the auxiliary electrode 22 is almost equal to that of the drain electrode 10. When the voltage applied to the drain electrode 10 becomes higher than the clamp voltage of the series Zener diode array 23, therefore, a difference between the applied voltage and the clamp voltage is applied to the gate electrode layer 18 of the MOSFET, so as to turn on the MOSFET and protect the device.
The inventors of the present invention produced an IGBT provided with the arrangement for improving the capability to withstand avalanche breakdown, which has a similar structure to that of FIG. 7. FIG. 8(a) is a plan view of the IGBT chip thus produced. FIG. 8(a) shows a source electrode 1 of IGBT, a gate electrode 4, an auxiliary electrode 2, and a series Zener diode array 4 for improving the capability to withstand breakdown.
When the semiconductor device produced as described above was tested in the dynamic mode, so as to observe various dynamic characteristics thereof, the device broke down at a voltage lower than its static breakdown voltage, when the voltage applied to the device changes at a high rate (high dv/dt). The breakdown occurred at point A as indicated in FIG. 8(a), namely, at a point in a field insulating film formed between the series Zener diode array 3 and the n drift layer 13.
The semiconductor device also broke down at a relatively low voltage when cutting off current flowing from an inductive load. The breakdown occurred at point B as indicated in FIG. 8(a), namely, at an end portion of the source electrode close to the series Zener diode array 3.


A cab for a construction machine is provided which is capable of providing a protective space to protect the operator from injury even if a transversely working external force is imposed on the cab, causing deformation of the cab. To this end, a transverse member, which is disposed at a position above an operator's seat and constitutes the framework of the cab, has a deformation inducing part located at a position outside the projected area of the central part of the operator's seat. Even if the cab is deformed by an external force, the cab is not largely deformed in a direction toward the operator.

In a typical construction machine such as hydraulic excavators and crawler cranes, a revolving frame is mounted on lower machinery through a turning mechanism, the lower machinery having a traveling function. A work equipment and a cab are mounted on the revolving frame, so that the work equipment can be operated to carry out excavation, lifting or the like while the revolving frame turning in accordance with working conditions. In this arrangement, the cab is installed in a position adjacent to the base of the revolving frame at which the work equipment is mounted, for effectively performing operation.
The above construction machines and, particularly, hydraulic excavators are not always operated on plain lands but frequently operated on rough terrains such as unleveled lands and slopes. When a hydraulic excavator is operated in such an unstable condition, it sometimes happens that an unexpected external force or erroneous operation causes the hydraulic excavator to overturn and the cab is deformed owing to shocks occurring at the time of the overturn. Therefore, there have been demands for a structure for protecting the operator sitting on the operator's seat of the cab from an injury in the event of an overturn. Apart from cab protecting guards provided on the outer side of a cab, there have been proposed measures of reinforcing a whole cab to meet the demands. One example of the measures is disclosed in Patent Document 1. The protective structure of Patent Document 1 is formed such that a vertical stiffening material is inserted into a hollow part between an inner panel and outer panel which are the chief components of the cab, thereby preventing deformation caused by an overturning load.
Another structure has been proposed in Patent Document 2 according to which a structural member is attached which is locally elastically deformable if a load is imposed on a framework serving as an essential element of the vehicle in the event of a crash, and the load caused by a shock is absorbed by the deformation of the structural member to protect the operator.
[Patent Document 1]
Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 11-166247
[Patent Document 2]
Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2001-260773


A method, a system, and a computer program product for execution master data substitution. One or more first data objects in a master data storage are determined for replacement. One or more second data objects are identified for replacing the first data objects for storage in the master data storage. Replacement of the first data objects with the second data objects is performed in accordance with one or more data object requirements. Replacement of the first data objects by the second data objects is executed in accordance with the one or more data object requirements. A resulting replacement data set is generated and stored.

A database may be configured to store data in accordance with a database schema. For example, in a graph database, data may be represented and stored using graph structures including, for example, vertices, directed edges, undirected edges, and/or the like. Notably, the graph database may store relationships between different data items explicitly. For instance, the vertices of a graph may correspond to the individual data items stored in the graph database while the edges of the graph may define the relationships between these data items. Attributes associated with the vertices and/or the edges may provide additional properties for the data items stored in the graph database and/or the relationships that exist between different data items. However, existing databases do not provide for an ability to perform substitution of one master data entity with another.


The present invention therefore aims at providing a nozzle that reduces the amount of residual fuel left on a spout after fueling by encouraging the residual fuel to drip into the container to be filled. A fuel dispensing nozzle is comprised of a nozzle body, a fuel regulating valve, and a spout for directing the fuel supply from the regulating valve to and in the container to be filled. After a fueling cycle, fuel clings to both the inside and outside spout surfaces and can be considered a falling film. Wherein existing nozzle spouts have discontinuous spout end faces that impede the flow of falling films into the container to be filled, the improved nozzle and endface according to the present invention encourage the falling films to create drops that fall into a container to be filled.

Fuel dispensing nozzles are widely used and understood in the field. Fuel nozzles are used for directing and regulating a flow of fuel into a container to be filled. Typical fuel nozzles are comprised of a nozzle body, a valve assembly for regulating fuel flow, and a tubular spout.
Recently, significant attention has been directed to the adverse environmental effects caused by fuel dispensing nozzles. Fuel nozzles create vapors that contain volatile organics that chemically react with nitrogen oxides to form ground level ozone, often called "smog". Ground level ozone can potentially cause irritation to the nose, throat, lungs and bring on asthma attacks. In addition, fuel vapors contain other harmful toxic chemicals, such as benzene.
Fuel dispensing nozzles provide several significant sources of fuel vapors, including: vapors displaced from containers as liquid is inserted; fuel dripped from nozzle spouts; and, residual fuel left on spouts after a fueling cycle.
The most predominant source of fuel vapors has been addressed through the implementation of vapor recovery systems, such as described by U.S. Pat. No. 5,213,142. Typical vapor recovery systems dispense fuel though a main tube of a spout and vacuum vapors through a secondary spout channel. Although vapor recovery systems can significantly reduce the amount of vapors that reach the atmosphere, the technology is expensive to install and operate, and thus has been implemented in limited areas. In addition, vapor recovery systems do not address the sources of dripping fuel or residual fuel.
The issues of fuel dripping and residual fuel have largely been either ignored, or inadequately addressed by equipment manufacturers. To force manufacturers to develop technology that reduces these emissions, the California Air Resource Board (CARB) has implemented a series of new requirements that must be met by nozzle manufactures. The new requirements are implemented through a series of "Phases". One of the CARB requirements is that a fuel nozzle shall produce no more than one post fueling drop. Another requirement limits the amount of residual fuel that can be retained by a nozzle and hose assembly after fueling.
Many new drop reducing spouts have been created, such as: U.S. Pat. No. 5,602,364 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,645,116. Although these valve systems may reduce the amount of drops that occur, they are unlikely to consistently meet the requirements set forth by CARB. A problem with "dripless" technologies, such as listed above, is that they do not eliminate the drip creating residual fuel from the outside surfaces of the spout. In addition, the "dripless" features themselves have surfaces that can attract liquid fuel and increase the potential for drops. Many "dripless" spouts may eliminate unallowable drops in one test run, and then have one or more unallowable drops in subsequent test runs performed in the same fashion and with the same nozzle.
Another problem with existing nozzle technologies, such as described above, is that they do not typically work with existing "standard" (non-vapor recovery) type nozzles. These "standard" nozzles are used in a large percentage of fueling stations which are not located in highly populated areas or do not dispense large volumes of gasoline.
Yet another problem with existing nozzle technologies is that they require significant change-over costs. Many of the aforementioned designs require that at least a complete new nozzle be installed in order for their benefits to be realized.
In these respects, the improved nozzle endface surface according to the present invention substantially departs from conventional concepts of the prior art, and in doing so provide an apparatus primarily designed for the purpose of reducing the amount of vapor that reaches the atmosphere during a fueling cycle.

Fuel dispensing spout with continuous endface


A lock apparatus for securing a hand-stamping device to prevent an unauthorized stamping operation includes two locking heads constructed to establish a ridged interconnection with the base frame and the upper actuator frame of the hand-stamping device. The locking heads are releasable interconnected by parallel spaced apart struts for connecting the locking heads in a space apart relation for receiving the hand-stamping device between the struts whereby the locking heads and the struts encircle the outer periphery of the hand-stamping device. A lock is used to interlocking the locking heads in a spaced apart relation between the struts.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a lock apparatus to control operation of a hand stamping device, and, more particularly, to such a lock apparatus embodying a construction limiting access to a stamp platen and preferably of a movement of a stamped platen to an operative position at a window opening for the platen in the hand stamping device.
2. Description of the Prior Art
U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,432,281 and 4,735,143 disclose the construction of two different stamping devices useful to apply ink impressions to a document. The platen bearing the indicia to be imprinted is normally freely assessable to anyone having access to the stamping device. Thus, a platen a bearing notaries certification or bearing a resemblance of a signature of an individual are two examples of a need to prevent unauthorized use of a stamping device even in those instances where the stamping device becomes accessible. Sometimes the only deterrent to unauthorized use is the storage of a stamping device at a location that is only out of sight to the public. However it may be insufficient to store the stamping device in a desk drawer or the like that is normally protected by a lock against unauthorized access to the contents of the drawer. The consequence of unauthorized use of the stamping device may be extreme and remain undetected or even wrongly assume to be authorized. Sometimes a ledger may be maintained to list all authorized usage, which is useful only if there were a suspected fraudulent use of a stamping device. A need therefore exists for an apparatus to prevent the use of the stamping device independently use of the environment in which the stamping device resides.
Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus to prevent unauthorized use of a hand-stamping device by preventing access to proprietary indicia provided on a platen moveable to an ink medium.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a lock apparatus easily installed and removed from a hand-stamping device and without wear and tear to the hand-stamping device.

This patent is subject to a terminal disclaimer.


There is provided an image forming apparatus utilizing a concurrently transferring and fixing method which improves a transfer efficiency of a toner image from an intermediate transfer member to a transferring and fixing member, allows a stable forming of a high-definition image in a high-speed image forming, and ensures further reduction of power consumption, and prevention of heat deterioration of a photoreceptor, with no upsizing of the apparatus. In an image forming apparatus comprising a toner image baring section, a first intermediate transfer section, a transferring and fixing section, and an electrical field section, a second intermediate transfer section is disposed between the first intermediate transfer section and the transferring and fixing section.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus.
2. Description of the Related Art
In image forming apparatuses utilizing an electrophotographic process, such as copying machines, printers, facsimiles and the like, a method including a toner image forming step, a toner image transferring step, and a transferred image fixing step is widely used. At the toner image forming step, a toner image is formed on a surface of a photoreceptor. At the toner image transferring step, the toner image formed on the surface of the photoreceptor is transferred onto a recording medium by an effect of an electrical field, At the transferred image fixing step, a permanent fixing image is formed on the recording medium by heating and pressing the unfixed toner image and the recording medium. At the fixing step, a fixing section including a fixing roller as a fixing member and having a heating section therein, and a pressure roller as a pressure member arranged in pressure contact with the fixing roller, is used, and the toner image is fixed onto the recording medium by introducing the recording medium bearing the unfixed toner image into a pressure contact area (a fixing nip area) between the fixing roller and the pressure roller, and heating and pressing the recording medium. In the image forming apparatuses utilizing the electrophotographic process, color image forming apparatuses for forming a color image are rapidly spreading. The color image has more amount of toner attachment per unit area compared with a black and white image. Accordingly, more amount of heat is required in order to sufficiently fix a toner onto the recording medium. In a configuration where the toner image is fixed onto the recording medium using the above-described fixing apparatus, it is necessary to rapidly heat the toner and the recording medium in the fixing nip area that typically has a size of around 5 to 6 mm, and is formed between the fixing roller and the pressure roller. Therefore, for example, a surface temperature of the fixing roller is set to around from 170° C. to 180° C., which is much higher than a fusing temperature of the toner.
The color image forming apparatus as described above, also requires, likewise with respect to a monochromic image forming apparatus for forming a black and white image, speeding up of an image forming speed, reduction of its power consumption, and the like. To meet these requirements, typically, a width of the fixing nip area (a fixing nip width) is increased, and a heating temperature for fixing an unfixed toner image onto the recording medium (a fixing temperature) is lowered. However, when the fixing nip width is increased, there arises a possibility that excessive heat energy is displaced to the recording medium to cause a surface temperature of the fixing roller to decrease lower than a setting temperature when carrying out a continuous paper feeding, thus causing a fixing failure. In addition, when external diameters of the fixing roller and the pressure roller are increased in order to increase the fixing nip width, an amount of heat discharge from each roller is increased to cause a tendency to have a fixing failure. Moreover, the fixing nip width can be increased also by increasing a thickness of an elastic layer containing rubber and the like on the surfaces of the fixing roller and the pressure roller. However, heat conductance from a heat source inside the fixing roller to the surface of the fixing roller is decreased, still causing a tendency to have a fixing failure. Therefore, it is difficult to stably form a color image fixed with high fixing level onto the recording medium, while achieving speeding up of an image forming speed and reduction of its power consumption, only by increasing the fixing nip width. As described above, a fixing method in which heating and pressing of the toner image and the recording medium are carried out at the same time only in the fixing nip area, requires a large amount of power consumption in order to fix the toner image onto the recording medium.
Furthermore, there is known a concurrently transferring and fixing method in which using a transferring and fixing section including a transferring and fixing roller having a heating section therein, and a pressure roller arranged in pressure contact with the transferring and fixing roller, a toner image formed on the transferring and fixing roller is fused by heat, and then transferred onto the recording medium while being fixed. In this method, it is easy to heat the toner image on the transferring and fixing roller, and increase a width of a heating region to the toner image. Therefore, it is possible to sufficiently fuse a toner constituting the toner image until the toner image reaches a transferring and fixing nip area, even though the toner image is heated at a comparatively low temperature. In addition, the toner image reaches a certain level of a fused state by heat before introduced to a pressure contact area (the transfer fixing nip area) between the transfer fixing roller and the pressure roller. Accordingly, it is not necessary to increase a width of the transferring and fixing nip area. As a result, it becomes possible to decrease its power consumption required for a transferring and fixing, thus providing an advantage of speeding up of an image forming speed. Therefore, there are disclosed various kinds of proposals in order to further improve the concurrently transferring and fixing method.
For example, there is proposed an image forming apparatus including a toner image forming section, an intermediate transfer belt, a permeation belt, and a pressure roller. The toner image forming section includes a photoreceptor. The intermediate transfer belt is an endless belt member which is suspended in a tensioned state by two or more roller members, thus forms a moving path having a looped shape, and rotationally drives. The permeation belt is a transferring and fixing member having a shape of an endless belt which is suspended in a tensioned state by two or more roller members including a heating roller, thus forms a moving path having a looped shape, and rotationally drives, the transferring and fixing member forming a transfer nip area partially in pressure contact with the intermediate transfer belt. The pressure roller is a roller member in pressure contact, via the permeation belt, with one of the two or more roller members including the heating roller which suspends the permeation belt in a tensioned state, and thus forms the transferring and fixing nip area (refer to Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication JP-A 2000-194205, for example). According to the above-described image forming apparatus, in the toner image forming section, a toner image formed on the photoreceptor is transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt, and in the transfer nip area, the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt is transferred onto the permeation belt having a surface to which releasing agents such as a silicone oil are applied, and having a surface temperature of the transfer nip area controlled so as to be not lower than a softening temperature of the toner, and the toner image on the permeation belt is fused, and then in the transferring and fixing nip area, the toner image in a fused state is transferred and fixed onto the recording medium, to form an image on the recording medium.
As described above, when a belt member is used as a transferring and fixing member, it is necessary to increase a surface area of the heating roller in order to sufficiently heat the toner image on the transferring and fixing member. However, when the surface area of the heating roller is increased, an amount of heat discharge from the surface of the heating roller is also increased to decrease a heat efficiency, thus increasing its power consumption and making a configuration of the apparatus more complicated and larger. In addition, a wrapping distance of the belt member around the heating roller is decreased. Further, the toner image is heated via the belt member. Therefore, it becomes necessary to increase a heating temperature even higher than usual in order to sufficiently fuse the toner image. Also from this point of view, it is inevitable that its power consumption is increased. In addition, it may possibly become difficult to stably control a temperature of the belt member, causing a fixing failure. Moreover, when a releasing agent such as a silicone oil is applied on a surface of the belt member, the releasing agent is attached to the photoreceptor or the like via the intermediate transfer belt, causing an image failure. Further, the image forming apparatus disclosed in JP-A 2000-194205, has a configuration of heat circulation in which the intermediate transfer belt that has passed through the transfer nip area is cooled, and heat collected from the intermediate transfer belt is returned to the intermediate transfer belt in a region in front of the transfer nip area. This configuration cannot prevent a temperature of the intermediate transfer belt from gradually increase. Finally, the temperature thereof reaches around a temperature at which the photoreceptor or the like has heat deterioration.
Furthermore, there is proposed an image forming apparatus comprising a transferring and fixing section including an adhesive transferring and fixing belt having an endless belt shape which is suspended in a tensioned state by a heating roller and the other two roller members, and thus forms a moving path having a looped shape, and a pressure roller which is in pressure contact with the heating roller via the adhesive transferring and fixing belt, and thus forms a transferring and fixing nip area (refer to JP-A 2002-258630, for example). In the image forming apparatus, a toner image formed on a surface of a photoreceptor is electrostatically transferred onto an intermediate transfer belt, and the toner image on the intermediate transfer belt is transferred once again onto the adhesive transferring and fixing belt, and is introduced to the transferring and fixing nip area, and is superimposed on the recording medium to be heated and pressed, to thereby transfer and fix the toner image onto the recording medium. The image forming apparatus disclosed in JP-A 2002-258630 has the same disadvantage as in the image forming apparatus disclosed in JP-A 2000-194205 in that the belt member is used as the transferring and fixing member. In addition, the one disclosed in JP-A 2002-258630 has a configuration in which a silicone rubber layer is formed on the most surface of the belt member. Accordingly, a silicone oil that bleeds out from the silicone rubber layer is attached to the photoreceptor and the like via the intermediate transfer belt, causing an image failure.
Further, there is proposed an image forming apparatus comprising a toner image forming section; a intermediate transfer belt; a transferring and fixing section including a transferring and fixing roller having a heating section therein, and a pressure roller which is in pressure contact with a transferring and fixing roller and thus forms a transferring and fixing nip area; and a recording media heating section including a heating roller, and a pressure roller which is in pressure contact with the heating roller and thus forms a heating nip area for heating the recording medium, wherein the recording media heating section is provided upstream of the transferring and fixing section in a transporting direction of the recording medium (refer to JP-A 2004-151626, for example). This image forming apparatus, which uses roller members as a transferring and fixing member, has two heat sources corresponding to the transferring and fixing roller and the heating roller, thus making the configuration complicated and its power consumption increased. In addition, the heating roller is disposed adjacent to the intermediate transfer belt, thereby increasing a temperature of the intermediate transfer belt more than necessary. Accordingly, a temperature of a photoreceptor and the like may be possibly increased, thus causing deterioration of the photoreceptor, an image failure, or the like. Furthermore, there is no particular description regarding a transfer of the toner image from the intermediate transfer belt to the transferring and fixing roller, and it is thus understood that the toner image is transferred only by heat. However, when the toner image is transferred only by heat, a transfer failure may possibly occur.

Image forming apparatus with first and second intermediate transfer sections