In a well valve such as a safety valve or gas lift valve for controlling the fluid flow through a well tubing having a valve closure member with means for moving the valve member in a direction to open the valve and spring means acting against the opening force for moving the valve to a closed position, the improvement of an external adjustment for adjusting the spring closing force. A shoulder member is longitudinally movable in the housing but non-rotatably movable relative to the housing and abuts the spring. Adjusting means is rotatably connected, but is longitudinally fixed, relative to the housing and is exposed to the exterior of the housing for allowing external rotation of the adjusting means. Coacting threads between the shoulder means and the adjusting means moves the shoulder toward and away from the spring by externally rotating the adjusting means thereby varying the closing force of the spring.

It is old to utilize various types of well valves such as a safety valve shown in U.S. Pat. No. 3,782,461 or a gas lift valve shown in U.S. Pat. No. 3,760,832 which are moved to an open position by a first surface controlled force and are moved to a closed position by a spring. The spring closing force is adjusted at the factory during assembly by making internal adjustments, such as selection of a suitable spring, to adjust the closing force of the valve and consequently its opening force in view of its intended specific application. However, in the event that the opening and closing force specifications for a particular application change, the valve is returned to the factory, partially disassembled, and readjusted for use under the specified operating conditions.
The present invention is directed to a well valve in which a spring actuated closing force can readily be adjustable from the outside of the valve without dismantling the valve whereby adjustments may be made quickly and accurately in the field as well conditions change thereby avoiding the necessity of shipping the valve to the factory for disassembly and readjustment.

Externally adjusted spring actuated well valve


The present invention provides a Raman amplifier and the like comprising a structure for keeping the flatness of power spectrum of Raman-amplified signal light. The Raman amplifier comprises an optical fiber for Raman-amplifying a plurality of signal channels of signal light having respective center optical frequencies different from each other; a pumping light supply section for supplying N (N being an integer of 2 or more) pumping channels of pumping light having respective center optical frequencies different from each other to the optical fiber; and a feedback section for detecting a part of the signal light Raman-amplified within the optical fiber when the pumping light is supplied thereto, and controlling the pumping light supply section such that the Raman-amplified signal light has a substantially flat power spectrum with respect to an optical frequency direction according to the result of detection. In particular, the feedback section divides the detected Raman-amplified signal light into N optical frequency ranges defined so as to include respective Raman amplification peaks as optical frequencies lower than respective center optical frequencies of the pumping channels of pumping light by an optical frequency shift of about 15 THz, and controls the pumping light supply section such that the Raman-amplified signal light has a power fluctuation of 2 dB or less in each of thus divided N optical frequency ranges.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a Raman amplifier for Raman-amplifying a plurality of signal channels of signal light by utilizing Raman scattering effect, a method of controlling the Raman amplifier, and an optical communication system including the Raman amplifier.
2. Related Background Art
For improving the information transmission capability of optical communication systems, the wavelength division multiplexing transmission of signal light has become widespread. Such an optical communication system utilizes optical amplifiers directly amplifying the signal light during the transmission. Here, it is important for the optical amplifiers to attain amplification over a wide wavelength range (optical frequency range) and flatten the power spectrum of amplified signal light in the wavelength range (optical frequency range). Typical optical amplifiers are optical fiber amplifiers, such as those doped with rare-earth elements and Raman amplifiers.
Erbium-doped optical fiber amplifiers doped with erbium elements, for example, are typical as rare-earth-element-doped optical fiber amplifiers which are one of types of optical fiber amplifiers. In the erbium-doped optical fiber amplifiers, pumping light having a pumping channel in the wavelength band of 980 nm (corresponding to the band of 306.1 THz in terms of the optical frequency) or 1480 nm (corresponding to the optical frequency band of 202.7 THz) is made incident on an optical fiber doped with erbium element, so as to generate a population inversion state in the erbium-doped optical fiber. When signal light in the wavelength band of 1550 nm (corresponding to the optical frequency band of 193.5 THz) is made incident on the erbium-doped optical fiber generating the population inversion state, the signal light is amplified. The amplification band of such a rare-earth-doped optical fiber amplifier is determined by the kind of rare-earth element added to the optical fiber. For example, in the case of erbium-doped optical fiber amplifiers, the wavelength range in which the amplified signal light has a power fluctuation (power spectrum flatness) of 1 dB or less is 1540 nm (194.8 THz) to 1560 nm (192.3 THz). Further, equalizing filters for correcting the flatness of power spectrum and the like have been employed, thus making it possible for the wavelength range to become 1530 nm (196.1 THz) to 1560 nm (192.3 THz).
However, in response to urgent demands for improving the information transmitting capability of optical communication systems in recent years, the high-density multiplexing of signal light aimed at improving the capability has been reaching its limit. Therefore, in order to further improve the information transmitting capability of optical communication systems, it has been becoming necessary to expand the amplification wavelength band (optical frequency band) in which the amplified signal light has a flat power spectrum.
Raman amplifiers, which are the other type of optical fiber amplifiers, supplies a plurality of pumping channels of pumping light having their respective center wavelengths in the wavelength band of 1400 nm (corresponding to the optical frequency band of 214.3 THz), for example, to an optical fiber constituting at least a part of a transmission line through which the signal light propagates and Raman-amplifying the signal light, so as to utilize Raman scattering effect yielding an amplification peak in a wavelength band (optical frequency band) shifted by 100 nm on the longer wavelength side (by 13 THz on the lower optical frequency side) from the wavelength of pumping light (optical frequency).
Raman amplifiers can amplify signal light in the wavelength band of 1500 nm (corresponding to the optical frequency band of 200.0 THz) when a pumping light source in the wavelength band of 1400 nm (corresponding to the optical frequency band of 214.3 THz), which is typically used in erbium-doped optical fiber amplifiers, is utilized as their pumping light source, for example. When a plurality of pumping channels of pumping light having wavelengths (optical frequencies) different from each other are employed as appropriate, the Raman amplifiers can greatly expand the wavelength band in which the Raman-amplified signal light attains a flat power spectrum as compared with that in erbium-doped optical fiber amplifiers. Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-98433 discloses one comprising a pumping light generating section for generating a plurality of channels of pumping light having different wavelengths (optical frequencies), a WDM coupler for multiplexing the individual pumping channels of pumping light, and an optical output power controller for detecting the output light (Raman-amplified signal light) from the optical amplifier and controlling the pumping light generator according to the result of detection. For reducing the wavelength dependency of amplification to such an extent that no amplification output equalizing filter is necessary, the center wavelength interval in pumping light is 6 nm or more but 35 nm or less.

Raman amplifier, raman amplifier control method, and optical communication system


A control method for an electric power steering apparatus for a vehicle includes a control unit having a target value generator and a primary delay system setting unit. The target value generator generates a target value of a steering force or a motor output. The primary delay system setting unit sets a primary delay system, in which a damper value, which changes in accordance with a vehicle speed, is set negative in a low-speed range where the vehicle speed is V0 to V1 (V0<V1) and changed in accordance with the vehicle speed. The damper value is calculated with a steering angular speed of an electric power steering unit. The calculated value is fed back to a difference between the target value and an actual value. The electric power steering unit is controlled using a value obtained by filtering the difference through the primary delay system.

The present invention relates to a control method for an electric power steering apparatus for a vehicle.
In general, the convergence of a vehicle obtained by a steering operation in a straight direction or a running direction is degraded along with an increase in vehicle speed. One cause is that a self-aligning torque (force of returning a steering wheel) is increased as a vehicle speed is increased, and a steering wheel is strongly returned after a steering operation, thereby causing an overshoot phenomenon (in which a steering angle once returning to the center goes beyond the center toward the opposite side). If a driver releases his or her hands from the steering wheel, the overshoot phenomenon repetitively occurs, and the vehicle travels in a zigzag manner.
In an electric power steering apparatus, since the inertia of an electric power steering unit constituted by a motor and reduction gears is large, this tendency of overshoot conspicuously appears.
If a uniform damper is provided in order to prevent this phenomenon, a steering wheel cannot be lightly turned in a low-speed condition, and a sufficient convergence cannot be obtained in a high-speed condition.
The present applicants, therefore, have previously proposed Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 1-178081 (corresponding to U.S. Ser. No. 07/290,697: and its continuing application Ser. No. 07/798,026) in order to obtain an electric power steering apparatus having good convergence in both high and low-speed conditions. That is, in a control method for this electric power steering apparatus for a vehicle (to be referred to as a prior application hereinafter), a damper (viscous element) for braking a motor is arranged for control, so that damping (viscosity) is changed along with an increase in vehicle speed.
FIG. 5 shows blocks for explaining the principle of the prior application. Referring to FIG. 5, reference numeral 1 denotes a steering wheel; 2, a torque sensor for detecting a torque based on an operation of the steering wheel 1; 3, a control unit for controlling an electric power steering unit 4 on the basis of an output from the torque sensor 2; 3a, a target value generator for generating a target value Tt of a steering force or a motor output; and 3b, a primary delay system setting means for setting a primary delay system having a variable damper value F1 corresponding to a vehicle speed. The electric power steering unit 4 includes a pinion 4b engaged with a rack 4a which is coupled to wheels, a motor 4c, and reduction gears 4d arranged between the motor 4c and the pinion 4b, as is known to those skilled in the art.
In this arrangement, the electric power steering unit 4 is controlled using a value Z0 obtained by filtering a difference between the target value Tt and an actual value Td through the primary delay system.
In the prior application, the output value Z0 from the primary delay system is multiplied by the damper value F1, and this product Z0.F1 is fed back to a difference P0 between the target value Tt and the actual value Td. In addition, as shown in FIG. 6, in a low-speed range from vehicle speed V0 to V1 (V0<V1), the damper value F1 is set positive and decreased as the vehicle speed is increased.
As a result, in this prior application, a response time is improved in a low-speed condition (V0 to V1) in which steering wheel return control is required.
The output value Z0 from the primary delay system, however, is merely a target value of control and therefore does not always correspond to an actual value. For this reason, when the product of Z0 and the damper value F1 is fed back to the difference P0 between the target value Tt and the actual value Td, viscosity control for the electric power steering unit 4 sometimes becomes incorrect. Furthermore, an input amount to the primary delay system is (Tt-Td)-Z0.multidot.F1, i.e., Z0-F1 is subtracted as a positive value. The result is an unsatisfactory response time of steering wheel return control in a low-speed condition.

Control method for electric power steering apparatus for vehicle


A passenger side air bag exhibits controlled deployment of a vertically elongated frontal surface prior to full inflation. The air bag includes a depending lobe extending downwardly from the inlet opening secured to an inflator module mounted in a dashboard. A portion of the front panel of the air bag is releasably secured, such as by breakaway stitching, to a portion of the rear of the depending lobe, below the inlet opening. Outward deployment of the air bag in an elongated column is prevented by the stitching, and a broad front surface develops early in the deployment and inflation process. The breakaway stitching releases part way through the deployment and inflation process, and the front surface then fills out to full inflation. Higher stitch density in the area of stitching which first releases contributes to controlled deployment.

1. Field of the Invention
The invention herein refers to a vehicle air bag and more particularly to a passenger's side vehicle air bag adapted to deploy in a controlled manner.
2. Prior Art
Many modern vehicles incorporate one or more inflatable air bags for the protection of occupants in the event of a crash. The air bags are mounted in a folded, compact condition in conjunction with a gas generator, and upon sensing of a vehicle crash, the gas generator produces inflation gas which rapidly deploys and inflates the air bag.
The passenger side air bag is typically mounted in the dashboard and deploys toward the passenger as the passenger experiences relative motion toward the windshield, dashboard and deploying air bag. The thrust or main axis of deployment of the air bag is directly toward the passenger, and the material of the air bag initially forms an elongated column, the end of which may strike the driver, sometimes in the face, occasionally resulting in abrasions. Additionally, if the passenger's head is decelerated by the air bag while the passenger's torso is moving forward, the passenger can experience a whip lash motion. A further consideration is for small passengers and children who, if they do not impede against the air bag as it initially deploys, may slip under it and be less than fully protected.
The foregoing difficulties are exacerbated in vehicles mounting the air bag on an upwardly angled dashboard surface, whereby initial deployment is more upward than outward toward the passenger's torso.
Accordingly, one design objective for passenger side air bags is to limit the extent of outward deployment prior to full inflation and to encourage a vertically elongated frontal surface in early deployment of the passenger side air bag.
It is known in the prior art to provide air bags with internal tether straps to restrain the range of initial deployment toward the passenger. Two to four anchored tether straps or webs have their ends secured to the front panel of the air bag to limit the extent of deployment of the front panel toward the passenger. The tether strap system, although efficient in limiting the extent of deployment, has some drawbacks of its own. The tether straps add concentrated points of mass to the front panel, and this additional mass in part increases the likelihood of possible abrasions in that more kinetic energy is developed and imparted to the passenger if the air bag reaches the passenger. The tether straps also cause stress concentration at the attachment points, thereby requiring additional reinforcement to prevent failure of the air bag. Further, the tether straps add bulk and weight to the air bag module when it is desirable to keep the module as light in compact as possible for mounting in the dash. The tether strap system also has little effect upon the direction of deployment of the air bag, and encourages formation of a vertically elongated front only after outward deployment to the extent of the tether straps has occurred.
Accordingly, there is need for better control in the deployment of a passenger's side air bag while retaining simplicity and reliability in the manufacturing and operation thereof.

Passenger side air bag with controlled deployment


A method, apparatus, and computer program product for processing health management data for a vehicle. A plurality of modulated signals is received on a bus system in the vehicle. The plurality of modulated signals contains health management data from a plurality of data acquisition units. Each modulated signal has a different frequency from another modulated signal in the plurality of modulated signals to form a plurality of frequencies. The plurality of frequencies is selected to avoid interference with other data transmitted over the bus system by a plurality of data processing systems in the vehicle. The plurality of modulated signals is processed based on the plurality of frequencies used to transmit the plurality of modulated signals.

1. Field
The present disclosure relates generally to an improved data processing system and in particular to a method and apparatus for monitoring a vehicle. Still more particularly, the present disclosures relates to a method and apparatus for monitoring the health of a vehicle.
2. Background
A vehicle health management system may collect and process data related to a vehicle. When the vehicle health management system is located in or integrated into the vehicle, the vehicle health management system may be referred to as an integrated vehicle or health management system. The data collected about the vehicle may be used to identify the current state of the vehicle. This current state may also be referred to as the health of the vehicle. The data may also be used to predict the future state or health of the vehicle.
A vehicle health management system may include a number of different components. For example, the vehicle health management system may include data processing systems and sensors. The sensors may gather data about the vehicle while the data processing systems collect and/or process the data.
Examples of the types of data that may be monitored include temperatures of various components, voltage, strain, acceleration, pressure, and/or other suitable types of data.
The use of integrated vehicle health management systems may have many different benefits. For example, reduced maintenance may be required through the identification of anomalies that may lead to incorrect performance of components that may lead to increased operating expenses. Further, with the use of vehicle health management systems, improved maintenance scheduling and logistic support may be provided.
The monitoring of a vehicle may include the monitoring of many different components. These components may include, for example, without limitations, a frame, structures, engines, a transmission, electronic devices, and/or other suitable components in a vehicle.


Methods, apparatuses, and computer-readable mediums for generating human action data sets are disclosed by the present disclosure. In an aspect, an apparatus may receive a set of reference images, where each of the images within the set of reference images includes a person, and a background image. The apparatus may identify body parts of the person from the set of reference image and generate a transformed skeleton image by mapping each of the body parts of the person to corresponding skeleton parts of a target skeleton. The apparatus may generate a mask of the transformed skeleton image. The apparatus may generate, using machine learning, a frame of the person formed according to the target skeleton within the background image.

The present disclosure relates generally to machine learning systems, and more particularly, to a human action data set generator for a machine learning system.
Applying deep learning techniques to solve standard computer vision problems has inspired researchers to propose new computer vision problems in different domains. Training data plays a significant role in machine learning processes, especially deep learning approaches which are data hungry. Training data is used during machine learning processes to provide numerous images and/or videos to train computer systems to distinguish between subject matter, such as objects, actions, and/or scenes, within the images and/or videos. In order to solve new problems using machine learning processes, a large amount of training data is required, which may, in many cases, pose logistical difficulties. One method of generating human action data sets includes asking subjects to perform a series of actions in front of a camera. However, this method is not scalable, as the amount of required data for training data purposes far exceeds the number of available subjects and the time available to perform the actions. Another method of generating human action data sets includes retrieving existing videos having labels that identify the actions performed in the videos. However, this method is limited based on the number of existing videos that have labels according to the needs of a required training data set.
Accordingly, more efficient systems and methods for obtaining data sets are needed in order to satisfy data requirements of machine learning processes.

Human action data set generation in a machine learning system


An autodialer including a DTMF transceiver for connection between a user telephone device and the telephone line. The DTMF transceiver is connected in a double isolation mode to allow for monitoring of DTMF tones from either the telephone line or from the user telephone device. The DTMF transceiver is connected to a microprocessor for processing a plurality of program instructions stored in a memory device. The autodialer uses its program instructions to determine how to handle outgoing dial sequences. At the start of an outgoing call, the digit sequences and outgoing dial sequences. At the start of an outgoing call, the autodialer monitors the DTMF tones generated by the user telephone device looking for an intercept digit sequence. If an intercept digit sequence occurs, the autodialer hangs up on the telephone line and begins an outgoing dial sequence while continuing to capture the additional DTMF tones from the user telephone device. When the autodialer completes the outgoing sequence, it performs a cut-through to connect the user telephone device to the telephone line. If intercept does not occur, the autodialer ignores activity on the line until the start of the next call. Program language instructions (tokens) are translated into the autodialer's internal program instruction format before being transmitted to the autodialer via DTMF tones. This allows for easy remote programmability utilizing sequences of DTMF tones transmitted from the host to the autodialer. The autodialer further includes a program instruction interpreter for interpreting stored program instructions.

The present invention provides an improvement over traditional automatic telephone dialers by providing a remotely programmable interface device for screening and routing outgoing calls from a telephone or facsimile machine and executing a series of pre-programmed functions based on the outgoing dialed sequences.
Other telephone dialers are known in the art. In general, an autodialer is a device that is used to re-route telephone calls to provide customers with call routing other than their standard carrier normally provides.
Since the beginning of the telephone de-regulation, users have been given the opportunity to select long distance and local carriers for their telephone service. Often a user is required to dial a carder access code (CAC) to access a particular carder other than a default carder (one of the "Baby-Bell" companies). In order to do so, the user generally has to access the ultimate carder by dialing in a particular access code prior to the dialing of the desired local or long distance telephone number. In this way, the Local Exchange Carder will route the particular long distance or local call to the proper carrier as designated by the particular user. However, in order to access this designated carrier, a number of bits or digits of an access code is required to be dialed for each and every long distance or local call which is desired to be carded by this alternate carder. These manual iterations are time consuming and frustrating to numerous end users, who often make use of the default carrier based on this "nuisance" factor.
Similarly, many communications customers make use of telephone services for rerouting of telephone and facsimile traffic. In order to utilize these services, a user is required to access the service, often resulting in a user entering manual dial sequences and access codes much the same as in designating an alternate carder. Thereafter, the user provides directions to the service as to their particular communications needs, again often resulting in more complicated dial sequences or verbal instructions. Any improvement to the access routines for utilizing these services would add to the overall user satisfaction with such designated telephone communication services.


The fast-acting clamp for a musical instrument is selectively attached to an extending support and has a bracket, a connector, a threaded rod and a positioning assembly. The bracket is U-shaped. The connector is attached to the bracket. The threaded rod extends through the bracket. The positioning assembly has a base, a primary retainer, a secondary retainer and two springs. The base is attached to the bracket. The primary retainer is mounted pivotally on the base and has a tab, a semicircular notch and two edges. The secondary retainer is mounted pivotally on the base and has a semicircular notch and two edges. The springs connect to the base and the retainers to press the retainers inward. The tab is pressed to release the threaded rod so the fast-acting clamp can be quickly attached to or released from an extending support.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a fast-acting clamp, especially to a fast-acting clamp for a musical instrument.
2. Description of the Prior Arts
With reference to FIG. 5, a conventional clamp used to mount a musical instrument on an extending support comprises a U-shaped bracket (30), an L-shaped connector (31), a threaded rod (33) and a knob (34). The bracket (30) has a proximal side, a distal side and a through hole. The through hole is formed in the proximal side. The L-shaped connector (31) has a longitudinal leg and a transverse leg. The longitudinal leg is attached to the proximal side of the bracket (30) and has a threaded hole (32) corresponding to the through hole. The threaded rod (33) extends through the through hole, screws through the threaded hole (32) and has a proximal end. The knob (34) is mounted on the proximal end and is rotated to screw the threaded rod (33) into or out of the threaded hole (32). The musical instrument is mounted on the transverse leg of the connector (31), and the extending support is mounted in the bracket (30). The threaded rod (33) is screwed into the threaded hole (32) to attach the bracket (30) to the extending support. The threaded rod (33) is screwed out of the threaded hole (32) to release the bracket (30) from the extending support. Screwing the threaded rod (33) in or out to attach or release the bracket to or from the extending support is troublesome and slow.
To overcome the shortcomings, the present invention provides a fast-acting acting clamp to mitigate or obviate the aforementioned problems.

Fast-acting clamp for a musical instrument


Apparatus and method are described for selective cutting of the transverse carpal ligament of a patient. The instrument includes spaced-apart teeth which are supported on a first arm and a press member which is carried by a second arm. The teeth are prevented from contacting tissue when the first arm is inserted into, or retracted from, the carpal tunnel. After insertion of the first arm into the carpal tunnel, the teeth are exposed to the transverse carpal ligament and the first and second arms are moved towards each other to force the teeth into the transverse carpal ligament to perforate the ligament and enable it to elongate.

The carpal tunnel is formed by an arch of the eight wrist bones, spanned on its palmar surface by the transverse carpal ligament, known as the flexor retinaculum. The carpal tunnel functions as a mechanical pulley to provide the appropriate moment arms for the digital flexor tendons as they pass through the tunnel. The tendons can then transmit force out into the fingers and impart only an appropriate amount of tension to develop torque at the level of the wrist.
Within the carpal tunnel, these tendons are lubricated and nourished by two synovial membranes--the radial and the ulnar bursa. The median nerve also shares the carpal tunnel, and then it branches out to provide sensory innervation to the palmar surface of the thumb, index, long and a portion of the ring finger. In addition, a small motor branch of the median nerve supplies the thenar muscles, which are responsible for lifting the thumb into opposition with the fingers.
Carpal tunnel syndrome refers to numerous clinical signs and symptoms resulting from pressure on the median nerve inside the carpal tunnel. The typical etiology is increased pressure within the carpal tunnel, which interferes with the function of the median nerve. The patient experiences numbness and tingling in the fingers, together with pain that may radiate as far as the shoulder or base of the neck. Other symptoms include impaired grasping ability (due to sensory deprivation from the digits), loss of sleep from pain and numbness in the hand, and weakness or atrophy of the thenar muscles.
The pathology generally results from a swelling of the synovial membranes, which is typically idiopathic. Carpal tunnel syndrome can also be caused by pressure on the median nerve from rheumatoid arthritis or edema in the final trimester of pregnancy, or other diseases.
Many instances of carpal tunnel syndrome can be treated conservatively, typically with a resting splint and cortisone injection into the carpal tunnel. However, if symptoms persist and/or reoccur, or if the patient has severe sensory deficit or loss of functions in the thenar muscles, then surgical decompression of the nerve by release of the transverse carpal ligament is often indicated.
Surgical decompression has been accomplished, in early techniques, by a longitudinal incision paralleling the thenar crease. The incision was carried down through the skin, subcutaneous fat, and palmar fascia to divide the palmaris brevis muscle and then the transverse carpal ligament. Most cases do not require any surgical treatment within the carpal tunnel, other than the division of the ligament. Thereafter, the skin is sutured and the patient was frequently splinted for about three weeks.
In the frequent cases where the syndrome is occupationally related, i.e., where workmen's compensation is involved, the patient was usually disabled for six to eight weeks. If the patient was a manual laborer, two or three months may pass before the return to gainful employment. This post-operative morbidity is primarily due to persistent tenderness in the palm as the scar tissue matures. Most patients experience tenderness in the heel of their hand for four to six months following the surgery.
Previously, a few surgeons would release the carpal tunnel by inserting scissors through a transverse incision proximal to the carpal tunnel. The blind release by division of the ligament would then proceed from the proximal to the distal end. When successful, this technique would decompress the median nerve (without scarring the heel of the patient's hand) and would significantly decrease postoperative pain and morbidity.
However, transverse incision and blind release is not advisable, due to the risk of incomplete release of the carpal tunnel, or injury to the superficial arterial arch and/or the median nerve. The superficial palmar arterial arch lies just distal to the distal portion of the transverse carpal ligament. The motor branch of the median nerve, which controls thumb opposition, is typically on the distal radial extent of the carpal tunnel, although anomalies can allow it to penetrate the transversecarpal ligament in any of a number of positions and be subject to injury during blind release procedures or surgical release by any method.
More recently, an improved surgical instrument and technique for effecting carpal tunnel release has been described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,963,147; 4,962,770; and 5,089,000. The instrument is also useful in other surgical techniques. The instrument includes a probe in which a cutting blade and an optical system are disposed. After the probe has been inserted into a body cavity, the cutting blade is extended through a lateral aperture in the probe to a position adjacent the selected tissue, while allowing the tissue manipulation to be observed.
The surgical instrument and technique described in the foregoing patents is useful in effecting complete division of the flexor retinaculum under visual inspection, while minimizing the risk of injury to surrounding tissue. In using the instrument, an incision is made at one end of the carpal tunnel, and then the probe is inserted through the incision and positioned adjacent to the flexor retinaculum. The cutting blade is then elevated and the probe is withdrawn so that the flexor retinaculum is divided, thereby releasing the carpal tunnel. The optical system enables continuous observation of the portion of the cutting blade within its field of view.
There are a number of potential disadvantages associated with complete division of the transverse carpal ligament, including alteration of the arch formed by the carpal bones, complete interruption of the pulley effect created by the transverse carpal ligament (allowing the digital flexor tendons and/or median nerve to sublux palmarwardly between the cut edges of the transverse ligament), and exposure of the cut edges of the transverse carpal ligament such that scar tissue necessary for its healing in the lengthened position is more abundant and therefore potentially creating greater post-operative morbidity, pain and weakness.
Furthermore, there is no objective data establishing that maximum lengthening of the transverse carpal ligament through its complete surgical division and subsequent reconstitution by scar tissue is necessary. For example, mechanical structures such as the Achilles' tendon were historically released by complete division only to discover by further study that optimal function could be obtained by selective lengthening of the contracted muscle tendon unit (the so-called Z-plasty lengthening).
There has not heretofore been provided an effective technique or surgical instrumentation to facilitate releasing the carpal tunnel without complete division of the flexor retinaculum (i.e., transverse carpal ligament).

Instrument for mesh cutting of the flexor retinaculum


Pyrrole compounds that are potent and selective inhibitors of PDE4, as well as methods of making the same, are disclosed. Use of the compounds in the treatment of inflammatory diseases and other diseases involving elevated levels of cytokines, as well as central nervous system (CNS) disorders, also is disclosed.

The present invention relates to a series of compounds that are potent and selective inhibitors of cyclic adenosine 3xe2x80x2,5xe2x80x2-monophosphate specific phosphodiesterase (cAMP-specific PDE). In particular, the present invention relates to a series of novel pyrrole compounds that are useful for inhibiting the function of cAMP-specific PDE, in particular, PDE4, as well as methods of making the same, pharmaceutical compositions containing the same, and their use as therapeutic agents, for example, in treating inflammatory diseases and other diseases involving elevated levels of cytokines and proinflammatory mediators.
Chronic inflammation is a multi-factorial disease complication characterized by activation of multiple types of inflammatory cells, particularly cells of lymphoid lineage (including T lymphocytes) and myeloid lineage (including granulocytes, macrophages, and monocytes). Proinflammatory mediators, including cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and interleukin-1 (IL-1), are produced by these activated cells. Accordingly, an agent that suppresses the activation of these cells, or their production of proinflammatory cytokines, would be useful in the therapeutic treatment of inflammatory diseases and other diseases involving elevated levels of cytokines.
Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) is a second messenger that mediates the biologic responses of cells to a wide range of extracellular stimuli. When the appropriate agonist binds to specific cell surface receptors, adenylate cyclase is activated to convert adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to cAMP. It is theorized that the agonist induced actions of cAMP within the cell are mediated predominately by the action of cAMP-dependent protein kinases. The intracellular actions of cAMP are terminated by either a transport of the nucleotide to the outside of the cell, or by enzymatic cleavage by cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases (PDEs), which hydrolyze the 3xe2x80x2-phosphodiester bond to form 5xe2x80x2-adenosine monophosphate (5xe2x80x2-AMP). 5xe2x80x2-AMP is an inactive metabolite. The structures of cAMP and 5xe2x80x2-AMP are illustrated below.
Elevated levels of cAMP in human myeloid and lymphoid lineage cells are associated with the suppression of cell activation. The intracellular enzyme family of PDEs, therefore, regulates the level of cAMP in cells. PDE4 is a predominant PDE isotype in these cells, and is a major contributor to cAMP degradation. Accordingly, the inhibition of PDE function would prevent the conversion of cAMP to the inactive metabolite 5xe2x80x2-AMP and, consequently, maintain higher cAMP levels, and, accordingly, suppress cell activation (see Beavo et al., xe2x80x9cCyclic Nucleotide Phosphodiesterases: Structure, Regulation and Drug Action,xe2x80x9d Wiley and Sons, Chichester, pp. 3-14, (1990)); Torphy et al., Drug News and Perspectives, 6, pp. 203-214 (1993); Giembycz et al., Clin. Exp. Allergy, 22, pp. 337-344 (1992)).
In particular, PDE4 inhibitors, such as rolipram, have been shown to inhibit production of TNFxcex1 and partially inhibit IL-1xcex2 release by monocytes (see Semmler et al., Int. J. Immunopharmacol., 15, pp. 409-413, (1993); Molnar-Kimber et al., Mediators of Inflammation, 1, pp. 411-417, (1992)). PDE4 inhibitors also have been shown to inhibit the production of superoxide radicals from human polymorphonuclear leukocytes (see Verghese et al., J. Mol. Cell. Cardiol., 21 (Suppl. 2), S61 (1989); Nielson et al., J. Allergy Immunol., 86, pp. 801-808, (1990)); to inhibit the release of vasoactive amines and prostanoids from human basophils (see Peachell et al., J. Immunol., 148, pp. 2503-2510, (1992)); to inhibit respiratory bursts in eosinophils (see Dent et al., J. Pharmacol., 103, pp. 1339-1346, (1991)); and to inhibit the activation of human T-lymphocytes (see Robicsek et al., Biochem. Pharmacol., 42, pp. 869-877, (1991)).
Inflammatory cell activation and excessive or unregulated cytokine (e.g., TNFxcex1 and IL-1xcex2) production are implicated in allergic, autoimmune, and inflammatory diseases and disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gouty arthritis, spondylitis, thyroid associated ophthalmopathy, Behcet""s disease, sepsis, septic shock, endotoxic shock, gram negative sepsis, gram positive sepsis, toxic shock syndrome, asthma, chronic bronchitis, adult respiratory distress syndrome, chronic pulmonary inflammatory disease, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, silicosis, pulmonary sarcoidosis, reperfusion injury of the myocardium, brain, and extremities, fibrosis, cystic fibrosis, keloid formation, scar formation, atherosclerosis, transplant rejection disorders, such as graft vs. host reaction and allograft rejection, chronic glomerulonephritis, lupus, inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn""s disease and ulcerative colitis, proliferative lymphocyte diseases, such as leukemia, and inflammatory dermatoses, such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and urticaria.
Other conditions characterized by elevated cytokine levels include brain injury due to moderate trauma (see Dhillon et al., J. Neurotrauma, 12, pp. 1035-1043 (1995); Suttorp et al., J. Clin. Invest., 91, pp. 1421-1428 (1993)), cardiomyopathies, such as congestive heart failure (see Bristow et al., Circulation, 97, pp. 1340-1341 (1998)), cachexia, cachexia secondary to infection or malignancy, cachexia secondary to acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), ARC (AIDS related complex), fever myalgias due to infection, cerebral malaria, osteoporosis and bone resorption diseases, keloid formation, scar tissue formation, and pyrexia.
In particular, TNFxcex1 has been identified as having a role with respect to human acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). AIDS results from the infection of T-lymphocytes with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Although HIV also infects and is maintained in myeloid lineage cells, TNF has been shown to upregulate HIV infection in T-lymphocytic and monocytic cells (see Poli et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA, 87, pp. 782-785, (1990)).
Several properties of TNFxcex1, such as stimulation of collagenases, stimulation of angiogenesis in vivo, stimulation of bone resorption, and an ability to increase the adherence of tumor cells to endothelium, are consistent with a role for TNF in the development and metastatic spread of cancer in the host. TNFxcex1 recently has been directly implicated in the promotion of growth and metastasis of tumor cells (see Orosz et al., J. Exp. Med., 177, pp. 1391-1398, (1993)).
PDE4 has a wide tissue distribution. There are at least four genes for PDE4 of which multiple transcripts from any given gene can yield several different proteins that share identical catalytic sites. The amino acid identity between the four possible catalytic sites is greater than 85%. Their shared sensitivity to inhibitors and their kinetic similarity reflect the functional aspect of this level of amino acid identity. It is theorized that the role of these alternatively expressed PDE4 proteins allows a mechanism by which a cell can differentially localize these enzymes intracellularly and/or regulate the catalytic efficiency via post translational modification. Any given cell type that expresses the PDE4 enzyme typically expresses more than one of the four possible genes encoding these proteins.
Investigators have shown considerable interest in the use of PDE4 inhibitors as anti-inflammatory agents. Early evidence indicates that PDE4 inhibition has beneficial effects on a variety of inflammatory cells such as monocytes, macrophages, T-cells of the Th-1 lineage, and granulocytes. The synthesis and/or release of many pro-inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines, lipid mediators, superoxide, and biogenic amines, such as histamine, have been attenuated in these cells by the action of PDE4 inhibitors. The PDE4 inhibitors also affect other cellular functions including T-cell proliferation, granulocyte transmigration in response to chemotoxic substances, and integrity of endothelial cell junctions within the vasculature.
The design, synthesis, and screening of various PDE4 inhibitors have been reported. Methylxanthines, such as caffeine and theophylline, were the first PDE inhibitors discovered, but these compounds are nonselective with respect to which PDE is inhibited. The drug rolipram, an antidepressant agent, was one of the first reported specific PDE4 inhibitors. Rolipram, having the following structural formula, has a reported 50% Inhibitory Concentration (IC50) of about 200 nM (nanomolar) with respect to inhibiting recombinant human PDE4.
Investigators have continued to search for PDE4 inhibitors that are more selective with respect to inhibiting PDE4, that have a lower IC50 than rolipram, and that avoid the undesirable central nervous system (CNS) side effects, such as retching, vomiting, and sedation, associated with the administration of rolipram. One class of compounds is disclosed in Feldman et al. U.S. Pat. No. 5,665,754. The compounds disclosed therein are substituted pyrrolidines having a structure similar to rolipram. One particular compound, having the following structural formula, has an IC50 with respect to human recombinant PDE4 of about 2 nM. Inasmuch as a favorable separation of emetic side effect from efficacy was observed, these compounds did not exhibit a reduction in undesirable CNS effects.
In addition, several companies are now undertaking clinical trials of other PDE4 inhibitors. However, problems relating to efficacy and adverse side effects, such as emesis and central nervous system disturbances, remain unsolved.
Accordingly, compounds that selectively inhibit PDE4, and that reduce or eliminate the adverse CNS side effects associated with prior PDE4 inhibitors, would be useful in the treatment of allergic and inflammatory diseases, and other diseases associated with excessive or unregulated production of cytokines, such as TNF. In addition, selective PDE4 inhibitors would be useful in the treatment of diseases that are associated with elevated cAMP levels or PDE4 function in a particular target tissue.
The present invention is directed to potent and selective PDE4 inhibitors useful in treatment of diseases and conditions where inhibition of PDE4 activity is considered beneficial. The present PDE4 inhibitors unexpectedly reduce or eliminate the adverse CNS side effects associated with prior PDE4 inhibitors.
In particular, the present invention is directed to pyrrole compounds having the structural formula (I) or (II):
wherein R1 is selected from the group consisting of optionally substituted aryl, alkyl, cycloalkyl, heteroaryl, alkaryl, aralkyl, heteroaralkyl, and heteroalkaryl;
R2 is alkyl or hydrogen;
R3 is selected from the group consisting of alkyl, alkoxy, alkoxyalkyl, hydroxy, aryl, heteroaryl, aryloxyalkyl, aralkoxyalkyl, C(xe2x95x90O)alkyl, NR4R5, C(xe2x95x90O)NR5R6, C(xe2x95x90O)Oalkyl, CO2H, OC(xe2x95x90O)alkyl, nitro, halo, alkylthio, SO2(alkyl), SO3H, and haloalkyl;
R4 and R5, independently, are hydrogen or alkyl, or R5 or R6 are taken together to form a 5- or 6-membered carbocyclic or heterocyclic ring; and
n is 0 through 3.
The present invention also is directed to pharmaceutical compositions containing one or more of the compounds of structural formula (I) or (II), to use of the compounds and compositions containing the compounds in the treatment of a disease or disorder, and to methods of preparing the compounds and intermediates involved in the synthesis of the compounds of structural formula (I) and (II).

Cyclic AMP-specific phosphodiesterase inhibitors


In order to be able to quickly and inexpensively feed articles, in particular bags, into spaces, for example insides of folding boxes of a continuously moving, transporting device, the speed of the transporting device is slower during a feed-in operation than the speed of the transporting device outside of the feed-in operation. A control device is provided in a device for feeding in the articles in order to control this change in speed.

It is known to feed articles into spaces of a transporting device, which is moved at a constant speed and which rotates, which spaces are provided one behind the other and are limited transversely with respect to the transporting direction. The articles are, for this purpose, initially accelerated by means of an accelerating band extending parallel to the transporting device to the same speed as the transporting device, and are then moved in a horizontal direction one after the other into the spaces.
It is furthermore known to operate a transporting device intermittently and to move during each standstill of the transporting device an article into a space of the transporting device provided for this purpose or to permit said article to fall from above into said space.
The known transporting device, which is moved at a constant speed, has the disadvantage that the technical input for an acceleration of the articles to the speed of the transporting device is relatively great, and that such devices are therefore relatively expensive.
The known intermittently operating transporting device has the disadvantage that due to the standstill times of the transporting device only a relatively low transporting performance can be achieved.

Method and device for feeding of articles into a moving, rotating transporting device


The present invention provides a power adapter (10) adapted to couple an external antenna (17) to a communication device (30) by way of a cable (12) which is typically plugged into a cigarette lighter of a vehicle or some other power source at one end, and an input connector of the communication device (30) at the other. In particular, the present invention provides a simple one-piece vehicle power adapter which also provides RF input/output capability for connection to an external vehicle antenna. According to certain aspects of the invention, the adapter can be configured to have a variety of selection mechanisms. For example, the communication device could include an RF switch (34) and control circuitry for selecting either the internal or external antenna for optimum reception. Alternatively, the cable could include an external switch (70) for allowing the user to select the desired antenna. Finally, the cable could include a component which automatically actuates the switch to select the external antenna when the external antenna is connected to the communication device.

In portable battery-powered equipment, such as a cellular telephone or other communication device, an external power supply is usually provided so that the user can operate the equipment from household current or vehicle power current in order to conserve battery power. To operate the communication device inside a vehicle, power adapters are commonly designed to fit into the cigarette lighter socket provided in the vehicle. The other end of the power adapter plugs into an external power input connector of the device, or includes what is commonly known in the industry as a "battery eliminator" which replaces a detachable battery coupled to the telephone or communication device.
When operating a cellular telephone or other communication device within a vehicle, it is generally desirable to use an antenna mounted external to the vehicle to improve the performance of the telephone. Some telephones provide a radio frequency (RF) input/output port in addition to the external power input port so that an external antenna may be utilized. However, such a device requires two separate connectors. In other telephones, the external power input port and the RF input/output port are combined within a single connector of the device. However, such a device would typically require that either an external power supply or external antenna be connected.
Accordingly, there is a need to provide a simple, single cable vehicle power adapter which also provides RF input/output capability for connection to an external vehicle antenna.

Power adapter with integral radio frequency port


A method of coating a pipeline comprising the steps of:. Welding joints of pipe, end to end to form a continuous pipeline having an entry end and an exit end, winding said pipeline onto a reel, and coating the interior thereof by inserting a pig into the pipeline at one end thereof and affixing a cap at the other end thereof, introducing a coating liquid into the pipeline on the reel, and rotating the pipeline while the pig is maintained in a relatively static position so that the pig smoothly and evenly coats the pipeline as it rotates.

This invention concerns an improvement in a method for coating the interior of a pipe. More particularly, the invention is directed to a method for coating the interior of elongate pipelines to protect them against corrosion.
A number of problems are commonly experienced when coating the interior of the pipeline. For example, the utilization of pigs for coating the interior of a pipeline frequently results in an air pocket which prevents a portion of the interior from receiving a coating thereon. The elimination of air pockets, particularly at the upper level of the interior surface, is difficult because of inherent gravitational flow of the paint downward while the inherent movement of the air pocket is upward. Similarly, the accomplishment of an evenly distributed interior coating is difficult because of the inherent downward gravitational flow of the paint toward the bottom of the interior pipe surface.


An intestinal steerable endoscopic stapler for stapling tubular tissue is provided comprising a circular anvil member having a circular anvil stapling surface and a cutting block surface radially inwardly of the stapling surface. A head assembly has a circular staple driver for driving staples in an array corresponding to the anvil surface and a circular cutting blade corresponding to the cutting block. A flexible tube has a distal end at the head assembly and a handpiece end. A scope in the form of an eyepiece in the handpiece optically connected to a lens in the head assembly is provided for viewing a region of space beyond the head assembly. A steering arrangement is provided for pivoting the head assembly relative the flexible tube to thereby steer the head assembly in a body cavity. A stapler activator is provided located at the handpiece end and for driving staples from the head assembly toward the anvil member and for driving the cutting blade toward the cutting block, whereby two ends of tubular tissue may be joined by an array of annular staples and excess tubular tissue ends may be trimmed off with the cutting blade.

This invention relates to a surgical stapling apparatus, and more particularly to a surgical stapling apparatus for effecting closure of circular anastomosis.
A colon resection operation involves removing a section of the tubular colon which has become diseased and then joining the ends in an end-to-end anastomosis ("EEA"). Approximately 100,000 colon resections are performed each year in the United States, 70% of which are distal to the right colon. Although gastrointestinal anastomosis ("GIA") stapling devices are available for some colon resections, most surgeons do not use such devices to create left sided colonic anastomosis, and only about 15% of colon anastomosis are within reach of the existing EEA devices through the rectum.
Various types of circular anastomosis stapler devices are available for effecting end-to-end circular anastomosis stapling. Examples of such devices are described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,752,024, U.S. Pat. No. 4,485,817 and patents cited therein. Such stapling devices typically comprise a fastener holding assembly and an anvil assembly located at the distal end of a stapling mechanism, with means to control the spacing distance between the anvil assembly and fastener holding assembly. During surgical operations, when a surgeon desires to join by stapling two ends of tubular tissue, such as a colon in a colon resection operation, the device is inserted through the colon so that the cut between the two colon sections is disposed in a space between the anvil and stapling mechanism. Purse string-like sutures are made in both colon ends with the sutures pulled tight. A mechanism then pulls the anvil and the stapling mechanism together whereby one or more staples effect an annular stapling function, and a circular cutting blade disposed radially inwardly of the annular stapling array cuts out the remaining tissue radially inwardly of the annular staple ring. The apparatus is then removed from the colon, leaving a clean cut line and an annular array of staples holding the two previously unjoined colon portions together.
While the above-described devices have been effective for making end-to-end anastomosis, many of these devices suffer from disadvantages. Many of the available devices have a rigid structure which preclude their application for other than straight intestines. Some of these devices additionally suffer from a disadvantage in that anastomosis may be effected only for a limited distance from the entrance cavity, such as the rectum. While some of these devices have employed flexible structure such as a flexible sheath or tube to enable their application to curved intestines, such devices do not provide means for steering the device through a curved section of an intestine, or to branch the device to a selected one of two or more branches in an intestine. Further, these devices also fail to provide means for viewing the surgical site or an interior human cavity on route to the surgical site.

The Trustees of Columbia University in the City of New York


Described herein generally are flexible securing devices. The devices are extremely easy to use to the point that adults of all ages can use the devices, even the most elderly who would otherwise be incapable. The devices comprise a body which is at least partially bendable or flexible. The body's core generally comprises a metal alloy and in the body's bendable or flexible sections a bendable or flexible metal alloy is used. The body is coated with a least one polymeric coating to protect items, objects or persons interacting with the securing devices from getting damaged or injured from the devices themselves.

Organization is vital to the lives of many people. A plethora of products exist on the market today which attempt to assist in organizing our lives. From computer software to automobile accessories to fitness equipment that can be hung in the closet after use, all products attempt to organize our lives to some extent. However, it seems that the more a product claims to organize our life, the more complex and cumbersome it is to use.
As such, there is a need in the art for simple, easy to use products that can aid in organizing our lives and making us more productive at the same time. The securing devices of the present description set out to do just that.


Methods and apparatuses directed to high density holes and metallization are described herein. A method may include providing a dielectric layer including a plurality of holes, forming a fill material over a top surface of the dielectric layer and in the plurality of holes, and reflowing the fill material to substantially remove any voids in the plurality of holes. Other embodiments are also described.

Memory cells of electronic memory devices such as dynamic random access memory typically employ a number of electronic components in order to save data. For instance, in order to store data, a combination of electronic components such as transistors, diodes, and/or capacitors are typically employed in such memory cells to store or not store electrical charges. If a charge is stored in such a memory cell, that may indicate a logic "1," and if no charge is stored in such a memory cell that may indicate a logic "0."
An alternative approach for storing data is to use memory cells made of phase change material. A phase change material is a material that can be placed into at least two physical states, a crystalline state and an amorphous state, by increasing or decreasing temperature. By changing the physical state of the phase change material, certain characteristics of the material, such as electrical resistance, may also change. Such properties may be exploited in order to form memory cells made of phase change material.
Such memory cells, particularly in high densities, are generally intricate and expensive to manufacture. One method for forming high-density arrays includes a two-step patterning of round holes for forming the phase change memory elements, each pattern being within the resolution of the capability of the photolithographic process. Even if a desired degree of density is achieved, however, filling the holes void-free is difficult. This is increasingly true due at least in part to increasing aspect ratios resulting in poor step coverage.

Method for creating ultra-high-density holes and metallization


The present invention comprises an entertaining targeting game for all ages that enhances hand-eye coordination and provides target practice and a method of playing such a game. The device consists of an electronic target striking device for removable attachment to a ground-engaging mat. The target striking device has visual and audible strike indicating means and the mat has score display means. Additional embodiments are anticipated.

Action games such as basketball, hockey, and the like are popular in arenas and backyards across the country. Such games are fun to watch and even more fun to play. As such, people are constantly modifying such games, changing the rules, and generally looking for the "next great thing" when it comes to such action games. As a result, manufacturers are constantly looking for modifications that allow action games to be quickly set up, allow them to be played anywhere (inside or out), can be played with a minimum of specialty equipment or gear, and are generally easy to understand with a minimum amount of rules.
The game system is an action game for two to four players. The invention consists of two goals that are placed at each end of a scoring field. Each goal is equipped with a sensor that detects when it has been struck by a ball and automatically keeps track of the score in addition to sounding an audible "hit." Each team takes turns trying to strike the opposing team's goal with a ball that is approximately the size of a basketball. Such play continues until one of the teams scores 10 points and is thus declared the winner. This novel and unique game is unique and easy to learn, while being fun to play for participants ranging from approximately age 8 through adult.
Several attempts have been made in the past to develop a gaming apparatus providing a target and an electronic and automatic scoring indication means that is portable and fun to play. U.S. Pat. No. 6,598,882, in the name of Stubberfield, discloses a web-shaped electronic device with a grounding stake, color-coded web-like attachments, and a proximity sensor. The game is played wherein a first set of players attempts to hit a second set of players with a web-like ball. Players are ousted when hit with the ball or crossing a perimeter defined by the proximity sensor.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,382,028, in the name of Sciandra et al., teaches an apparatus and method of play for a disc-tossing game, comprising two tapered containers with a slot in their sides and a dull-edged disc.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,237,918 and 5,938,202, both issued in the name of Williams, describe a ring-and-ball-tossing game apparatus and method for playing the same, comprising a ring-shaped element, at least two stakes, and a ball. The game is played by opposing players standing behind their respective stakes, tossing the ring-shaped element towards the opposing stake, and then tossing the ball wither towards the stake or towards the ring-shaped element, thereby accruing points based on position of the tossed ball.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,476,269, in the name of Ottley, discloses a target game for outdoor use wherein a ball is tossed or rolled towards a target, comprising a plurality of cups, which are buried within the ground. A backer board and rails are also provided to guide the ball in its tossed or rolled path.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,873,573, in the name of Beatty, Jr., teaches a ring-toss-type game, having a tubular target on a base with an upstanding central post secured with a cord to the ground and comprising a hard, heavy material that creates a sound when struck by a similarly constructed ring.
None of the prior art particularly describes a portable target-tossing game apparatus, comprising an electronic and automatic scoring mechanism. Accordingly, there is a constant need for fun action games with the above qualifications.


Disclosed are a data transmission method and system. One or more pre-setup first bearers are disposed between a first network device and a base station. One or more pre-setup second bearers are disposed between the first network device and a second network device. The transmission method includes the following steps: receiving, by the first network device by using one first bearer, data sent by the base station, where the data is sent by a terminal to the base station by using an air interface resource, and the first bearer used to receive the data is corresponding to a first service attribute of the data; and sending, by the first network device, the data to the second network device by using one second bearer, where the second bearer used to send the data is corresponding to a second service attribute of the data.

A next-generation mobile communications system supports machine-to-machine (M2M) that is also referred to as machine type communication (MTC). As predicted, a quantity of MTC devices connected to a network will reach 50 to 100 billion by 2020. This far exceeds a current connection quantity.
An enormous quantity of MTC devices exist in an M2M application. If a large quantity of MTC devices access a network and contend for network resources, new load is caused to the existing network. Currently, there is no suitable solution for these MTC devices to transmit data.


Improved methods for synthesizing double metal cyanide (DMC) catalysts are disclosed. These methods combine an aqueous solution of a first metal salt, such as ZnCl2, with an aqueous solution of a second metal salt, such as CoCl2, and with an aqueous solution of an alkali metal cyanide, such as KCN, in different manners to synthesize DMC catalysts, such as Zn3[Co(CN)6]2.

The subject invention generally relates to methods of synthesizing a double metal cyanide (DMC) catalyst.
Polyether polyols are integral intermediate components utilized to manufacture a wide array of products, including polyurethanes. As such, the production of polyether polyols is critical. It is known in the art that polyether polyols are produced from the polymerization of epoxides, such as propylene oxide (PO) and ethylene oxide (EO). It is also known in the art that double metal cyanide (DMC) catalysts are effective catalysts for the polymerization of the epoxides. DMC catalysts produce polyether polyols having narrow molecular weight distributions as well as relatively low unsaturation.
In conventional methods, DMC catalysts are prepared by combining an aqueous solution of a metal salt and an aqueous solution of a complex metal cyanide salt. As a specific example, an aqueous solution of ZnCl2 (excess), as the metal salt, is combined with an aqueous solution of K3Co(CN)6, as the complex metal cyanide salt. This combination precipitates out the desired DMC catalyst, in this case specifically Zn3[Co(CN)6]2. Examples of such conventional methods are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,470,813 and 5,714,639. These conventional methods, in one form or another, utilize a complex metal cyanide salt. The complex metal cyanide salts are very expensive which limits the economic viability of utilizing DMC catalysts in the production of polyether polyols. One reason these complex metal cyanide salts are so expensive is that they are pre-purified. That is, any secondary products, such as KCl, which may have the potential of wholly or partially deactivating the DMC catalysts, are removed from the complex metal cyanide salt before the ZnCl2 is combined with the complex metal cyanide salt.
Thus, it would be desirable to provide methods of synthesizing DMC catalysts that do not utilize expensive complex metal cyanide salts as intermediates thereby improving the economic viability of DMC catalysts utilized in the production of polyether polyols.
The present invention provides various methods of synthesizing a double metal cyanide (DMC) catalyst. As disclosed above, the methods of the subject invention do not utilize complex metal cyanide salts to synthesize the DMC catalyst.
The method of the subject invention, in a single step, combines an aqueous solution of a first metal salt of the general formula M(X)n wherein M is selected from the group consisting of aluminum, zinc, and the transition metals; X is an anion selected from the group consisting of halides, hydroxides, sulfates, acetates, carbonates, cyanides, oxalates, thiocyanates, isocyanates, isothiocyanates, carboxylates, and nitrates; and n is a value from 1 to 3 satisfying the valency state of M with an aqueous solution of a second metal salt of the general formula N(Y)n wherein N is selected from the group consisting of the transition metals and the lanthanides; Y is an anion selected from the group consisting of halides, hydroxides, sulfates, carbonates, cyanides, oxalates, thiocyanates, isocyanates, isothiocyanates, carboxylates, and nitrates; and n is a value from 1 to 3 satisfying the valency state of N; and with an aqueous solution of an alkali metal cyanide to form a suspension having a particle phase and a continuous phase. The particle phase comprises the DMC catalyst synthesized from the combination of the aqueous solutions of the first metal salt, the second metal salt, and the alkali metal cyanide. The continuous phase comprises a secondary product such as KCl. In this method, the DMC catalyst is produced independent of a complex metal cyanide salt.
In an alternative method of synthesizing the DMC catalyst, the aqueous solution of the first metal salt and the aqueous solution of the second metal salt are each independently fed into the aqueous solution of the alkali metal cyanide. In a further alternative method of synthesizing the DMC catalyst, the aqueous solution of the metal salt of the general formula N(Y)n, i.e., the second metal salt, is combined with the aqueous solution of the alkali metal cyanide of the general formula XCN to form an intermediate solution comprising a DMC catalyst precursor and the secondary product. In this method, the aqueous solution of the metal salt of the general formula M(X)n, i.e., the first metal salt, is next combined with the intermediate solution such that the DMC catalyst is synthesized upon reaction between the DMC catalyst precursor and the first metal salt. In either alternative method, the DMC catalyst is produced independent of a complex metal cyanide salt.
Various methods of synthesizing a double metal cyanide (DMC) catalyst are disclosed. More specifically, the methods of the subject invention synthesize the DMC catalyst by combining aqueous solutions of a first metal salt, a second metal salt, and an alkali metal cyanide in different manners.
An aqueous solution of the first metal salt is prepared. The strength of the aqueous solution of the first metal salt can range from 1 to 50 parts by weight of the first metal salt based on 100 parts by weight of the aqueous solution. Similarly, aqueous solutions of a second metal salt and an alkali metal cyanide are also prepared. The strengths of these aqueous solutions can also range from 1 to 50 parts by weight of the second metal salt and the alkali metal cyanide, respectively, based on 100 parts by weight of the aqueous solution. In any event, it is most preferred that the first metal salt is combined in molar excess relative to the second metal salt. In other words, the molar ratio of the first metal salt to the second metal salt is greater than 1. This molar ratio preferably ranges from 1.1:1 to 6:1, more preferably from 1.1:1 to 3:1.
Additionally, at least one of the aqueous solutions of the first metal salt, the second metal salt, and the alkali metal cyanide further comprise a water-soluble, organic activator. As understood by those skilled in the art, organic activators activate the surface of the DMC catalyst to improve the overall activity of the catalyst. If included, the water-soluble, organic activator preferably comprises at least one of ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, n-butyl alcohol, sec-butyl alcohol, tert-butyl alcohol, isobutyl alcohol, and glyme. Other water-soluble, organic activators are known in the art. The most preferred organic activator for purposes of the subject invention is tert-butyl alcohol. If included, the water-soluble, organic activator is preferably introduced in a washing step as described below.
The first metal salt of the subject invention observes the general formula M(X)n. In this formula, it is to be understood that M is selected from the group consisting of aluminum, zinc, and the transition metals, X is an anion selected from the group consisting of halides, hydroxides, sulfates, acetates, carbonates, cyanides, oxalates, thiocyanates, isocyanates, isothiocyanates, carboxylates, and nitrates, and n is a value from 1 to 3 satisfying the valency state of M. In preferred embodiments of the subject invention, M is selected from the group consisting of Al(III) and Zn(II), X is selected from the group consisting of halides and acetates, and n is a value from 1 to 3 satisfying the valency state of M. The first metal salt of the subject invention may comprise at least one of zinc acetate and aluminum acetate. Most preferably, however, the first metal salt of the subject invention is ZnCl2.
The second metal salt of the subject invention observes the general formula N(Y)n. In this formula, it is to be understood that N is selected from the group consisting of the transition metals and the lanthanides, Y is an anion selected from the group consisting of halides, hydroxides, sulfates, carbonates, cyanides, oxalates, thiocyanates, isocyanates, isothiocyanates, carboxylates, and nitrates, and n is a value from 1 to 3 satisfying the valency state of N. In preferred embodiments of the subject invention, N is selected from the group consisting of the Fe(II), Fe(III), Co(II), Co(III), Nd(III), Y is selected from the group consisting of halides, and n is a value from 1 to 3 satisfying the valency state of N. The second metal salt may comprise neodymium chloride. However, it is most preferred that the second metal salt is CoCl2.
It is to be understood that Group IA alkali metals may be utilized for the alkali metal cyanide of the subject invention. Preferably, the alkali metal cyanide utilized is KCN. However, it is to be understood that other alkali metal cyanides, such as LiCN and NaCN, may be utilized without varying the scope of the subject invention.
In one embodiment, all three aqueous solutions can be combined in a single step. That is, the aqueous solutions of M(X)n, N(Y)n, and the alkali metal cyanide can be combined, in independent feed streams, into a reaction vessel, which is originally empty. As will be understood from that described below, the methods for synthesizing the DMC catalyst according to the subject invention are flexible, i.e., robust, and the order of addition or the time of addition (e.g. simultaneous or separate) is not critical.
In another embodiment, the method of the subject invention first combines the aqueous solution of M(X)n and the aqueous solution of N(Y)n to establish a first aqueous solution. The first aqueous solution may, for example, be formed in a pre-mix vessel. The first aqueous solution, including the aqueous solutions of both the first metal salt, M(X)n, and the second metal salt, N(Y)n, is then combined with the aqueous solution of the alkali metal cyanide, such as an aqueous solution of KCN, to form a combination product, i.e., the DMC catalyst.
The first aqueous solution, preferably from the pre-mix vessel, may be combined with the aqueous solution of the alkali metal cyanide in different manners. For instance, the aqueous solution of the alkali metal cyanide may be prepared in the reaction vessel, and the first aqueous solution from the pre-mix vessel may be added to the reaction vessel. Alternatively, the aqueous solution of the alkali metal cyanide may be added to the first aqueous solution in the pre-mix vessel. Alternatively, the reaction vessel may initially be empty, and the first aqueous solution and the aqueous solution of the alkali metal cyanide may be combined, or added, into the reaction vessel at the same time but via separate feed streams.
In yet another embodiment, the aqueous solution of the first metal salt and the aqueous solution of the second metal salt are each independently fed into the aqueous solution of the alkali metal cyanide in a single step to synthesize the DMC catalyst. That is, in this embodiment, the aqueous solution of the alkali metal cyanide is in the reaction vessel, and the aqueous solutions of the first and second metal salts are not first combined. Instead, each of these aqueous solutions remains separate, i.e., not pre-mixed, and they are independently fed into the aqueous solution of the alkali metal cyanide.
In yet another method of the subject invention, the aqueous solution of the metal salt of the general formula N(Y)n, i.e., the second metal salt, is combined with an aqueous solution of the alkali metal cyanide. As understood by those skilled in the art, the alkali metal cyanide has the general formula XCN, wherein X is selected from the group consisting of alkali metals. For example, an aqueous solution of CoCl2 is combined with an aqueous solution of KCN. The combination of the aqueous solution of the second metal salt with the aqueous solution of the alkali metal cyanide forms an intermediate solution. This intermediate solution comprises a DMC catalyst precursor and a secondary product. The secondary product is of the general formula XnY, wherein n is a value from 1 to 3 that satisfies the valency state of Y.
In the example set forth immediately above, the DMC catalyst precursor is a complex comprising at least cobalt atoms, originally from the CoCl2, and cyanide (CN) anion, originally from the KCN, and the secondary product comprises KCl. In addition, it is also possible that the DMC catalyst precursor comprise potassium (K) ion.
It is to be understood that the secondary product is intended to describe any compound that, in any way, wholly or partially deactivates the DMC catalyst. Therefore, as understood by those skilled in the art, it is preferred, but not necessary, to substantially eliminate the secondary product from the combination product of the aqueous solutions of the first metal salt, the second metal salt, and the alkali metal cyanide such that the DMC catalyst is not deactivated.
Next, an aqueous solution of a metal salt of the general formula M(X)n, i.e., the first metal salt, is combined with the intermediate solution formed as described above such that the DMC catalyst is synthesized upon reaction between the DMC catalyst precursor and the first metal salt.
In any of the embodiments described above, the combination of all of the aqueous solutions forms a suspension having a particle phase and a continuous phase. The particle phase comprises the DMC catalyst synthesized from the combination of the aqueous solutions of the first metal salt, the second metal salt, and the alkali metal cyanide, and the continuous phase comprises the secondary product.
For the purpose of eliminating the secondary product and isolating the DMC catalyst, the particle phase is separated from the continuous phase. Separating the particle phase from the continuous phase helps to ensure that the DMC catalyst is not deactivated in any way by the secondary product. Separating the particle phase from the continuous phase can be accomplished by various techniques. Once the particle phase is separated from the continuous phase, the particle phase can be washed with the water-soluble, organic activator.
One such technique is to filter the suspension to collect the particle phase, which comprises the DMC catalyst, as a retentate or residual product. After the particle phase is collected as the retentate, the retentate is preferably dried. The preferred manner in which to dry the retentate is by air-drying. However, in any of the embodiments described herein various forms of heat may be used to dry the retentate. In this technique, although not necessary, the retentate may be triturated or washed with the water-soluble, organic activator prior to drying. In other words, the suspension can be filtered and then dried, without triturating or washing, or the suspension can be filtered, triturated or washed, and then dried. As understood by those skilled in the art trituration is essentially a washing step that also incorporates some form of agitation, such as mixing, and washing does not typically incorporate any form of agitation.
Another technique for separating the particle phase from the continuous phase is to hold the suspension until the continuous phase at least partially separates from the particle phase. In other words, the suspension is held until the particle phase settles to the bottom of the reaction vessel such that the continuous phase is on top of the particle phase. It is preferred to hold the suspension until the continuous phase almost entirely separates from the particle phase. To accomplish this, the suspension is held for from 0.5 to 24, preferably from 1 to 12, hours.
After the suspension has been held, this technique further includes the step of decanting the continuous phase. That is, the continuous phase, which after the holding step is on top, is poured off of or removed from the particle phase. Although not required, this technique may continue by centrifuging the particle phase to separate liquid from the particle phase after the continuous phase has been decanted. As understood by those skilled in the art, the centrifugation step further separates remnants of any liquid from the particle phase. If the particle phase is centrifuged, then the liquid generated in the centrifugation step is decanted. This technique may continue by washing the particle phase with the water-soluble, organic activator after the liquid has been decanted. The different water-soluble, organic activators are as described above with the most preferred being tert-butyl alcohol. Of course, if the particle phase is now washed with the water-soluble, organic activator, then the particle phase is dried after the washing step.
The following examples illustrate the nature of the subject method invention with regard to the methods of synthesizing the DMC catalyst. The examples presented herein are intended to demonstrate the objects of the invention but should not be considered as limitations thereto.

One-step synthesis of double metal cyanides


A layered composite composition having a general chemical formula of Liα-xADx(Mnβ-y-εAlyNiγ-εCoδ-zAEDz)O2, wherein AD is an alkaline dopant for Li, AED is an alkaline earth dopant for Co or Ni, and Al is a dopant for Mn or Ni, and at least two of AD, AED, and Al are present in the composition, and the dopants, if present, are at an amount that does not result in the formation of new phase.

Lithium ion batteries revolutionized portable electronics and have the potential to electrify the transportation sector. Layered cathode materials with the composition xLi2MnO3.(1−x)Li(Ni1/3Mn1/3Co1/3)O2 have received significant attention as candidates for PHEVs and EVs. The cathodes display high capacities (>200 mAhg−1) and good cycling stability, offering twice the energy density of currently available intercalation materials. Unfortunately, they undergo voltage fade due to a layered-spinel phase transformation, which leads to an overall loss of energy from the battery and challenges to the Battery Management System. A solution to the problem has thus far been elusive. Spray pyrolysis allows for accurate control of material chemistry to trace levels. The one-droplet to one-particle conversion mechanism also ensures that compositional non-uniformities do not exist between particles. In the current study spray pyrolysis is applied to produce layered battery materials with various dopants. It is demonstrated for the first time that by selectively doping NMC cathodes by a combination of inexpensive trace level alkali, alkaline earth and Al dopants the voltage fade of the materials is reduced without compromising electrochemical performance.

Doped lithium-rich layered composite cathode materials


Substrate arrangements useful for high-performance radio-frequency planar circuits and antennas eliminate excitation of parallel-plate or surface-wave radiations. By eliminating such radiation which escapes sideways through the substrates, the loss of valuable power carried away by these radiations can be avoided, and/or complications resulting from these radiations (e.g., in the form or electromagnetic interference, cross-talk between circuit components or poor signal integrity) can be avoided. A new type of substrate layer is embedded with thin conducting wires that are closely packed and oriented normal to the substrate layering. These conducting wires change the substrate behavior in a unique way. Such new substrate layers may be used in slotline/coplanar waveguide circuits and microstrip antennas to achieve high-performance radio-frequency operations.

§1.1 Field of the Invention
The present invention concerns eliminating or suppressing parallel plate or surface-wave radiations, particularly in the context of printed-circuits, chip packages and antennas. In particular, the present invention concerns providing an improved substrate arrangement employing a unidirectional conducting dielectric substrate to be used with slotline circuits and microstrip antenna designs so as to eliminate or greatly suppress parallel plate or surface-wave radiations.
§1.2 Background Information
Printed circuits have been developed and used for commercial and military applications during the past decades. Such printed circuits have provided significant benefits in microwave and antenna technologies. Printed elements physically require a dielectric substrate to connect to the rest of the circuit in a multilayered structure. For such dielectric-supported geometries, energy leakage occurs in the form of surface waves.
More specifically, designs commonly implemented today use conventional substrates that are uniform and isotropic in their electromagnetic characteristics. These substrates support one or more guided-wave modes, as dictated by fundamental electromagnetic theory. A circuit or antenna element fabricated on such a substrate would excite power into one or more of these guided modes which propagate along the substrate. As a result, valuable radio-frequency power is lost, making such designs inefficient. These guided radiations also create unwanted cross-talk between nearby circuits, introduce packaging resonances that may seriously affect the system performance, and/or create various electromagnetic interference problems that could seriously degrade signal integrity of the chip or system.
References directed to problems in printed circuits include: the article H.-Y. D. Yang, J. Wang "Surface Waves of Printed Antennas on Planar Artificial Periodic Dielectric Structures" Antennas and Propagation, IEEE Transactions on, Volume 49, Issue 3, (March 2001); and the reference J. H. Kim "Multilayer Printed Circuits With a Uniaxial Conducting Layer" Master Thesis, (January 2006, Polytechnic University of New York). Each of the foregoing references is expressly incorporated by reference.
It would be useful to reduce, and possibly eliminate, such surface waves and consequently, problems associated with such surface waves.

Using dielectric substrates, embedded with vertical wire structures, with slotline and microstrip elements to eliminate parallel-plate or surface-wave radiation in printed-circuits, chip packages and antennas

Polytechnic Institute of New York University


A diagnosing operation controlling portion compares the magnitude of change of a control instruction value that controls the dislocation of a valve stem to a reference value that has been set in advance, and stops the malfunction evaluation operation in a diagnosing portion if the magnitude of change per unit time in the control instruction value exceeds a reference value. If the magnitude of change per unit time in the control instruction value exceeds the reference value, then the evaluation may be the same as for a case wherein a stick-slip has occurred, even if the operation is functioning properly. In contrast, it is possible to prevent incorrect stick-slip evaluations by stopping the operation of the diagnosing portion when the magnitude of change per unit time in the control instruction value exceeds a reference value.

Failures in regulating valves or gas governors can be diagnosed by detecting the occurrence of stick-slip in a sliding part. Stick-slip occurs due to the state of a piston 1201, a cylinder 1202, and a contact sliding portion 1203, as illustrated in, for example, FIG. 12. For example, this stick-slip occurs when, for example, contamination incurs into the contact sliding portion 1203. Consequently, stick-slip can be detected by monitoring the state of a measured dislocation by measuring the dislocation of the piston 1201. (See Japanese Patent 3254624.)
Here a simple explanation will be given regarding the detection of stick-slip set forth in JP '624. In this detecting technique, the dislocation of the piston 1201 is detected, a first state quantity is calculated from the detected dislocation, a second state quantity is calculated from the detected dislocation, and a relationship between the first state quantity and the second state quantity obtained from the dislocation during proper operation is compared to the relationship between the calculated first state quantity and calculated second state quantity, to detect (evaluate) the stick-slip.
For example, the average of the absolute values of first-order difference values for the dislocation may be used as the first state quantity, and the root mean square of the first-order difference values of the dislocation may be used as the second state quantity. When the dislocations of the piston 1201 are detected discreetly and the ith detected dislocation is defined as Xi, then the respective state quantities can be expressed using Equation (1) and Equation (2), below (wherein N is the number of dislocation data used for calculating the state quantities):
                    Equations                                                  1                                                  and                                                  2                                                                      (                      First                                                                          state                                                                          quantity                    )                =                              1                          N              -              1                                                                    ∑                              i                =                1                                            N                -                1                                                                                                                                X                                      i                    +                    1                                                  -                                  X                  i                                                                                                      (        1        )                                          (                      Second                                                                          state                                                                          quantity                    )                =                                            1                              N                -                1                                                                                ∑                                  i                  =                  1                                                  N                  -                  1                                                                                (                                                            X                                              i                        +                        1                                                              -                                          X                      i                                                        )                                2                                                                        (        2        )
The frequency distribution of the absolute values (|Xi+1−Xi|) of the first-order differences of the dislocation is as illustrated in FIG. 13A and FIG. 13B. FIG. 13A illustrates the state during proper operation, wherein the frequency of occurrence falls smoothly with increasing magnitude of the difference values. On the other hand, if stick-slip occurs, then a majority of the time will be a stationary state, and then slipping will occur occasionally. Because of this, the frequencies of the first-order difference values will have high frequencies clustered around zero, as illustrated in FIG. 13B, (corresponding to the stationary state), with relatively large values at low frequencies (corresponding to the slipping state). In the state wherein this type of stick-slip occurs, the ratio of the first state quantity (the average value of the absolute values of the first-order difference values) to the second state quantity (the root mean square of the first-order difference values) will be larger than during proper operation, making it possible to contact the stick-slip by monitoring the two state quantities.
However, in the technique set forth above, there is a problem in that in some cases there will be an incorrect evaluation that there is a state of stick-slip, due to the state of control of the moving portion (the piston).
In the technique set forth above, the detection is performed through the relationship of two state quantities calculated, from the dislocation of a moving portion, by calculating the motion that is subject to stick-slip detection, divided into a stationary state and a slipping state. This makes the determination using only the dislocation of the moving portion. Because of this, if the movement (dislocation) of the moving portion is similar to that of the stick-slip state, then the evaluation will be that there is stick-slip, even if the stick-slip is not actually occurring. This results in erroneous detection.
For example, in the control of a valve stem position using a positioner, if there is a large change in the valve stem dislocation control instruction value (a setting value or set point), then the behavior of the dislocation of the valve (the moving portion) at the time of the change of the control instruction value may be similar to that of the stick-slip state.
As illustrated in FIG. 14 (a), when control instruction values for dislocations wherein the time-series signals form a square wave by alternating two values over time, then the response of the valve stem dislocation for the regulator valve will, accordingly, be measured as the dislocation measurement values for the time-series signals as illustrated in FIG. 14 (b). The first-order difference values in this type of dislocation measurement value will be as illustrated in FIG. 14 (c). In this case, as illustrated in FIG. 14 (c), the majority of the first-order difference values will be clustered near to zero, where only the values immediately after the control instruction value has changed will be large.
This behavior is identical to, the behavior of the stick-slip phenomenon wherein there is a stationary state the majority of the time, with occasional rapid movement in the slipping state. The result is that, in the technique set forth above, there will be incorrect detection of the occurrence of stick-slip when control is performed as illustrated in FIG. 14 (a). This incorrect detection tends to occur when the operating speed of the valve is high, and is particularly problematic in small valves.
The present invention is to solve the problem such as set forth above, and the object thereof is to enable the evaluation of the stick-slip state more correctly, in accordance with the state of control.

Stick-slip detecting device and detecting method