A rotary ball joint, especially for angularly movable driveshafts for motor vehicles, has an outer joint member (11) with ball tracks (18) uniformly distributed on its inner circumference and an inner joint member (12) non-rotatingly connected to the outer joint member (11). The inner joint member (12) includes ball sockets (13) which correspond to the ball tracks of the outer joint members (11). The ball sockets comprise spherical inner faces and, via the balls (14) supported therein, establish a form-fitting connection between the inner joint member (12) and the outer joint member (11). A plurality of bearing balls (15) are positioned in the sockets to provide a bearing surface for the force-transmitting balls (14). In the inner joint member, the force-transmitting balls (14) are guided in the ball sockets (13) and in the outer joint member they are guided in the ball tracks (18).

The present invention relates to a rotary ball joint and especially to rotary ball joints for angularly movable driveshafts for motor vehicles. The rotary joints include outer joint members with ball tracks uniformly distributed on their inner circumferences. Inner joint members with the circumferentially distributed recesses are non rotatably connected to the outer joint member. The recesses are associated with the ball tracks via, preferably, three force-transmitting balls which establish form-fitting connection between the inner joint members and the outer joint members. The balls are guided in the recesses and the ball tracks.
Relevant art joints illustrated in DE PS 32 06 435 or DE-AS 1 185 868 are designed as plunging joints or fixed joints used in propeller shafts of motor vehicle drives. The force-transmitting balls are supported on a central member, in the form of a cone or a ball, in the inner joint part. Depending on the articulation angle the force transmitting balls are subject to, a greater or lesser sliding friction will occur.
DE 28 04 778 C3 illustrates, for the purpose of reducing sliding friction, a telescopic driveshaft with force-transmitting balls received on guiding balls which ride in circular grooves in planes perpendicular to radial axes. The guiding balls rollingly rotate in only the direction of the circular grooves. Sliding friction occurs when the force-transmitting balls roll in the outer ball tracks.
GB-PS 1 266 501 illustrates support balls for ball rolling elements in a bearing bush guided by bearing balls. The bearing bushes are resiliently held, which means that the balls cannot transmit any transverse forces.
It is the object of the present invention to provide a rotary ball joint with force-transmitting balls, which, under joint articulation and axial vibrations, are able to rotate in their tracks in the outer member and in recesses in the inner member, while causing substantially no sliding friction.
The objective is achieved by supporting the force-transmitting balls in partially spherical sockets in the inner joint member by bearing balls. With the help of this measure it is possible to provide a rotary ball joint which is characterized by lower friction losses and ensures a reduction in axial excitation which provides easy plunging even under articulation angles. The bearing balls are free moving with respect to one another and held in the ball sockets by spring rings near the upper rim.
To avoid any mechanical forcing while ensuring the largest possible ball contact, at the base of the ball socket a clearance is present between the force-transmitting balls and bearing balls. Preferably, the ball sockets are produced in a non-chip-forming way, at least at said base of the ball sockets to reduce production costs. Several cross sectional shapes are proposed for the tracks in the outer joint member. In particular, the tracks in the outer joint member may include a base ball contacting region.
From the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and subjoined claims, other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art.

Rotary ball joint having a plurality of force transmitting balls providing connection between the inner and outer members


An editing apparatus for editing a digest portion of a program recorded on a non-volatile memory is disclosed, that having an input device for allowing the user to input a start position and an end position of the digest portion, a generating device for generating a start address and digest period information of the digest portion corresponding to the start address and the end position, and a recording device for recording the start address and the digest period information of the digest portion to the non-volatile memory.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to an editing apparatus, an editing method, and a non-volatile memory that allow the user to designate a digest portion of a program/album and the position and the period of the designated digest portion to be recorded to a management area.
2. Description of the Related Art
EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM) that is an electrically rewritable memory requires a large space because each bit is composed of two transistors. Thus, the integration of EEPROM is restricted. To solve this problem, a flash memory that allows one bit to be accomplished with one transistor using all-bit-erase system has been developed. The flash memory is being expected as a successor of conventional record mediums such as magnetic disks and optical discs.
A memory card using a flash memory is also known. The memory card can be freely attached to an apparatus and detached therefrom. A digital audio recording/reproducing apparatus that uses a memory card instead of a conventional CD (Compact Disc) or MD (Mini Disc) can be accomplished.
A conventional digital audio recording/reproducing apparatus, for example, a CD (Compact Disc) player, may have a so-called introduction scan function or music scan function that automatically and successively reproduce top portions (for around 10 seconds) of individual music programs so that the user can quickly know the contents of a CD that is being reproduced. However, such a function allows only the top portions of individual music programs to be reproduced. Thus, the user cannot sometimes know the contents or features of individual music programs.
In addition, a reproducing apparatus that reproduces a designated digest portion of a desired music program of a video CD has been proposed. Since a video CD is a reproduction-only disc, a digest portion designated by a producer (who is a contents holder or a record company) is pre-recorded. In other words, the user cannot designate his or her desired digest portion for a video CD.
Alternatively, digest portions of music programs of discs designated by the user may be stored in a non-volatile memory disposed in a disc reproducing apparatus. In this case, the digest portions of the music programs are correlated with identifiers of the discs as a table. The correlated table is stored in the non-volatile memory. With reference to the identifier of a disc loaded to the reproducing apparatus and the table stored in the non-volatile memory, a relevant digest portion is reproduced.
However, since the digest information is not recorded on a disc, it is necessary to reference the table stored in the non-volatile memory of the reproducing apparatus. Thus, the process of the microcomputer of the apparatus becomes heavy. As a result, it takes a long time to reproduce the relevant digest portion.
In addition, conventionally, digest information of each album is not recorded, but each music program.
Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a non-volatile memory and a recording/reproducing apparatus that allow the user to designate index information of music programs.
Another object of the present invention is to provide a non-volatile memory having a variable compression ratio so as to allow digest portions of a plurality of albums to be recorded along with contents of a plurality of discs.
A first aspect of the present invention is an editing apparatus for editing a digest portion of a program recorded on a non-volatile memory, comprising an input means for allowing the user to input a start position and an end position of the digest portion, a generating means for generating a start address and digest period information of the digest portion corresponding to the start address and the end position, and a recording means for recording the start address and the digest period information of the digest portion to the non-volatile memory.
A second aspect of the present invention is an editing method for editing a digest portion of a program recorded on a non-volatile memory, comprising the steps of causing the user to input a start position and an end position of the digest portion, generating a start address and digest period information of the digest portion corresponding to the start position and the end position, and recording the start address and the digest period information of the digest portion to the non-volatile memory.
A third aspect of the present invention is a non-volatile memory for recording a program composed of a plurality of blocks, wherein one of the plurality of blocks is used as an attribute information area for attribute information, wherein each of the other blocks is composed of a header portion and a main data portion, and wherein a start address and digest period information of a digest portion designated by the user is written to the attribute information area.
These and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent in light of the following detailed description of a best mode embodiment thereof, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

Editing apparatus, editing method, and non-volatile memory


A dual-voltage electric hair curling apparatus includes a having a handle and a heated barrel. A pair of positive temperature coefficient (PTC) heating elements are located in the barrel and are operable, respectively, at a low automotive vehicle voltage and a high domestic voltage. A switch in the handle permits energization of either heating element dependent upon the voltage of the available power supply and an overload fuse prevents damage to the low voltage heater should it be accidently energized from a high voltage supply. The curler is provided with a power cord terminating in a two-pronged plug receivable into a corresponding receptable on a portable vanity case adapted to be mounted by clips to the visor of an automotive vehicle. The vanity case has a mirror illuminated by electric luminaires on its front surface and a cord set terminating in a plug receivable in an automobile cigar lighter is connected to the receptable and luminaires. When not in use the hair curler, power cord and cord set are stored in a compartment in the vanity.

This invention is directed to an electrically heated hair curler, and in particular to a curler having at least a dual operating voltage range.
The use of dual voltage range appliances is well known, such as battery and a-c/d-c mains operated radios.
In the case of hair curlers U.S. Pat. No. 3,473,004 Block et al, Oct. 14th, 1969 shows a portable curling arrangement having a base unit provided with removeable curlers, heating of the curlers taking place when mounted on the base. The curlers are removeable from the base, for rolling into the hair of a user.
The base supply unit is provided with a low-voltage distribution arrangement for use with a battery supply, together with a transformer permitting connection to domestic a-c mains supply. The heating arrangement comprises a plurality of removeable rollers each making contact with low voltage contacts in the base and having a resistance heater within the interior of the curler body.
This prior arrangement suffers from the disadvantage of; undue weight owing to the incorporation of a transformer; the necessity for a low voltage and a high voltage cord set, and the need to provide a plurality of curlers, each containing a heating element, but operable on the hair of user only when de-energised.

Dual-voltage electric hair curling apparatus and vanity case therefore


The present invention relates to a wireless communication system, and more particularly, to a method and device for measuring a downlink in a wireless communication system. According to the present invention, provided is a method for properly and accurately measuring a downlink when an inter-cell interference adjustment is applied.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a heterogeneous-network wireless communication system 100 including a macro base station and a micro base station. In the present specification, the term heterogeneous network means a network in which the macro base station 110 and micro base stations 121 and 122 coexist although the same radio access technology (RAT) is used.
The macro base station 110 has wide coverage and high transmit power and means a general base station of a wireless communication system. The macro base station 110 may be referred to as a macro cell.
Each micro base station 121 or 122 may be referred to as a micro cell, a pico cell, a femto cell, a home eNB (HeNB), a relay, etc., for example. The micro base station 121 or 122 is a small version of the macro base station 110 and may independently operate while performing most functions of the macro base station. The micro base station may be an overlay type base station mounted in a region covered by the macro base station or may be a non-overlay type base station mounted in a shadow region which is not covered by the macro base station. The micro base station 121 or 122 may have narrower coverage and lower transmit power and accommodate fewer user equipments (UEs) as compared to the macro base station 110.
A UE 131 (hereinafter, referred to as a macro UE) may be directly served by the macro base station 110 and a UE 132 (hereinafter, referred to as a micro UE) may be served by the micro base station 122. In some cases, the UE 132 located in coverage of the micro base station 122 may be served by the macro base station 110.
The micro base station may be classified into two types depending on whether UE access is restricted. A first type is a closed subscriber group (CSG) micro base station and a second type is an open subscriber group (OSG) micro base station. The CSG micro base station may serve only authorized UEs and the OSG micro base station may serve all UEs.

Method and device for measuring a downlink in a wireless communication system


A method and apparatus for providing an improved user interface for a wireless communication device is described herein. The wireless communication device comprises a main body including a first user interface, and a movable cover including a second user interface. When the movable cover is closed relative to the main body, the movable cover conceals at least a portion of the first user interface. To provide some of the functionality associated with the first user interface without having to open the movable cover, the present invention maps a soft key associated with the second user interface to a function assigned to a selected control or key of the first user interface.

The present invention generally relates to wireless communication devices, and more particularly to user interfaces for wireless communication devices.
As wireless communication devices evolve, manufacturers continue to develop different mechanical configurations to reduce the size of the devices. Some wireless communication devices comprise multiple-piece designs (a two-piece design, for example, having a main body and a movable cover), where the movable cover closes over the main body to reduce the size of the wireless communication device. Examples of two-piece designs include clam-shell, jack-knife, and slider-type wireless communication designs.
Most two-piece wireless communication designs include a user interface on the main body. However, when the movable cover is in a closed position relative to the main body, the movable cover conceals all or some of the user interface. To enable users to access some functions while the movable cover is closed, some two-piece wireless communication designs include a second user interface on the movable cover that is accessible when the movable cover is in the closed position. The second user interface typically includes fewer capabilities than the first user interface. For example, because the second interface does not include an alpha-numeric keypad, the user may not implement any functions or execute any commands requiring a keypad input while the movable cover is closed. As a result, the user must open the movable cover to access a desired feature or function.

Closed mode user interface for wireless communication devices


A transmission circuit for ultrasonic diagnosis includes a delay processing circuit that delays a transmission signal pattern and an operational circuit that calculates a delay time. A transmission timing for supplying the transmission signal pattern to a plurality of piezo electric elements corresponding to a plurality of channels is approximated by a multi-dimensional polynomial with locations of the plurality of piezo electric elements being variables so that the transmission timing becomes linear or arc-like. Coefficients in the multi-dimensional polynomial are supplied to the transmission circuit for ultrasonic diagnosis. The delay time in the delay processing circuit is determined by a first coefficient. The operational circuit calculates the delay time based on a second coefficient. The transmission signal pattern is supplied to the plurality of piezo electric elements at a transmission timing including the delay time according to the first coefficient and the delay time according to the second coefficient.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a transmission circuit for ultrasonic diagnosis and a method for transmitting an ultrasonic wave, and particularly relates to a transmission circuit for ultrasonic diagnosis with a plurality of channels and a method for a transmitting an ultrasonic wave by a plurality of channels.
2. Description of the Related Art
A transmission circuit for ultrasonic diagnosis with a plurality of channels is used for ultrasonic diagnosis of a human body, for example, in combination with an ultrasonic diagnosis device. A transmission circuit for ultrasonic diagnosis is made of one semiconductor device including a plurality of driving circuits and a plurality of preceding stage circuits each of which corresponds to each driving circuit, for example. In this case, one driving circuit and its preceding stage circuit are allocated to each channel, and the driving circuit makes and transmits a driving signal with a high voltage in accordance with a transmission signal pattern from the preceding stage circuit. The driving signal with the high voltage is transmitted to ultrasonic wave generating circuits corresponding to channels (for example, piezo electric elements), and each piezo electric element generates an ultrasonic wave in accordance with the driving signal. Accordingly, ultrasonic waves are generated in each channel.
In ultrasonic diagnosis, it is preferable that ultrasonic waves generated in each channel reach (converge) at a desired site (focus) at almost the same timings. Accordingly, it is possible to strengthen ultrasonic wave energy at the desired site to improve accuracy of diagnosis.
One technique to converge ultrasonic waves is disclosed in JP-6-335480-A, for example.

Transmission circuit for ultrasonic diagnosis and method for transmitting ultrasonic wave


A recording/reproducing apparatus for recording/reproducing data by relatively moving either of an optical card and optical head wherein, in order that data may be recorded/reproduced on the optical card by moving either of the optical head and optical card, during an access operation to gain access to reach a target track, such data process as adding data for detecting and correcting errors to data to be recorded in the optical card by a data encoding circuit or correcting errors on data already read out by an error correcting circuit is made in parallel. The data are also transferred during the access operation.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to an optical card recording/reproducing apparatus wherein such data process as an encoding process or data transfer is made during an access operation or the like.
2. Description of the Prior Art
An optical card-like recording medium has a recording capacity several thousand to ten thousand times as large as that of a magnetic card. However, it cannot be re-written the same as an optical disc. Its recording capacity is so large, typically 1 to 2M bytes, that it is considered to provide a wide application range as a bank deposit book, portable atlas or shopping prepaid card.
Also, since it cannot be re-written, the optical card is considered to be applied to a personal health control card in which data are not allowed to be altered.
Various kinds of such optical card have been already suggested. For example, an optical card disclosed in the publication of Japanese patent application laid open No.37876/1988 is shown in FIG. 1.
As shown in FIG. 1, in an optical card 1, ID parts 4A and 4B contain information showing addresses corresponding to respective tracks. To parts 4A, 4B are recorded so as to be able to be read out in the directions opposite to each other and are provided in both end parts of an optical recording part 3. Recording part 3 has a plurality of tracks 2 parallel with each other and a data part 5 for recording data is provided between these ID parts 4A and 4B. Therefore, for example, when the optical card 1 is moving from left to right in the track direction in FIG. 1 with respect to an optical head, the left side ID part 4A will be read out and, when it is moving from right to left, the right side ID part 4B will be read out so that the track address information corresponding to the track may be identified. The above mentioned ID parts 4A and 4B are provided in the positions inside for fixed distances (for example, of 4 mm) from the card ends in order to prevent the influence of a flaw or stain at the card end and to better stabilize the relative moving speed in the track direction of the optical card 1 and optical head. By the way, the ID parts 4A and 4B are pre-recorded in advance when the optical card is made.
The optical card recording/reproducing apparatus of a prior art example using the above mentioned optical card is formed as shown, for example, in FIG. 2.
So that an optical head 12 may relatively move in the direction parallel with the track of the optical card 1, a controller 11 is connected with a motor servo circuit 13 for moving the above mentioned optical card 1, an optical head driving circuit 14 relatively moving the above mentioned optical head 12 in the direction intersecting at right angles with the track of the optical card 1, a focus & track servo circuit 15 driving an objective lens within the above mentioned optical head 12 in the focus and tracking direction and making an incident light always as focused follow the track of the optical card 1, a laser driving circuit 16 controlling the above mentioned optical head 12 in order to write data into the optical card 1, an error detecting & correcting circuit 18 detecting and correcting errors in the data read out of the above mentioned optical head 12 and demodulated by a demodulating circuit 17, a data buffer memory 19 temporarily memorizing the data transmitted from a host computer (not illustrated), a data encoding circuit 20 adding redundant data for detecting and correcting errors to the above mentioned data and a track buffer memory 21 for temporarily memorizing the encoded data to control them to record/reproduce data.
The operation of the optical card recording/reproducing apparatus of such prior art example in recording data shall be explained with reference to the apparatus in FIG. 2 and the flow chart in FIG. 3.
In recording data in the optical card 1, first of all, in the step S1, the controller 11 receives a command from the above mentioned host computer. It is interpreted to be a command to record data. Then, in the step S2, the data to be recorded are received from the host computer and are temporarily memorized in the data buffer memory 19. Then, in the step S3, the data, for example, for one track are read out of the data buffer memory 19 and are encoded by adding redundant data for detecting and correcting errors by using the data encoding circuit 20 and the encoded data are temporarily memorized in the track buffer memory 21.
Then, in the step S4, the controller 11 calculates the moving amount of the optical head 12 from the track number in which the optical head 12 is now positioned and the objective track number to be recorded transmitted together with the above mentioned command from the host computer and instructs the optical head driving circuit 14 to relatively move the optical head 12 in the direction intersecting at right angles with the track of the optical card 1 and, in the step S5, it is judged whether the above mentioned relative movement has ended or not. Then, in the step S6, the motor servo circuit 13 is instructed to relatively move the optical card 1 so that the optical head 12 may relatively move in the direction parallel with the track of the optical card 1.
Then, in the step S7, the controller 11 monitors the signals from the motor servo circuit 13 and judges whether the relative moving speed of the optical head 12 and optical card 1 is constant or not and, in the step S8, the ID part 4A of such optical card 1 as is shown in FIG. 1 is read out by using the demodulating circuit 17 and error detecting & correcting circuit 18. Then, in the step S9, the track number of the above mentioned read ID part 4A and the objective track number to be recorded are compared with each other. In case they are different, the process will proceed to the step S10 in which the motor servo circuit 13 is instructed to stop the relative movement of the optical head 12 and optical card 1. The operations from the step S4 to the step S9 are repeated again.
In case the track number coincide with the objective track number to be recorded, the process will proceed to the step S11 wherein the above mentioned encoded data to be recorded are read out of the track buffer memory 21 and a high output recording light beam is output as modulated in response to the above mentioned data from the optical head 12 through the laser driving circuit 16 and is controlled to record the data in the above mentioned objective track. In the step S12, the motor servo circuit 13 is instructed to stop the relative movement of the optical head 12 and optical card 1. Further, in the step S13, a fixed matching time is waited to perfectly stop the optical card 1.
Here, in the step S14, it is confirmed whether the data have been recorded in all the objective tracks required from the host computer or not. If they have been recorded, the recording of the data will end. If the recording is not yet completed in all the objective tracks, the process will proceed to the step S3 wherein the data to be recorded in the next track are read out of the data buffer memory 19. The operations from the step S3 to the step S14 are repeated. Thereafter, the operations for the number of tracks required from the host computer are repeated to end all the recording of the data.
However, generally, as compared with a recording/reproducing apparatus using such disc type recording medium as an optical disc, in an optical card recording/reproducing apparatus, for example, an access operation for an optical head to reach an objective track takes a longer time and, therefore, the time from a command to record data is received until the recording in the medium is started is also longer and should be improved.
Particularly, in such optical card recording/reproducing apparatus of the prior art example, as described above, the process from a time when a command to record data is received until the data are recorded in a medium is made in series and, therefore, the time for recording the data is undesirably long.
On the other hand, in the publication of Japanese patent application laid open No.131317/1987 is suggested a technique of reading data out of an optical card and transferring them to a host computer.
In the optical card apparatus, in reading out data, an optical head is made to seek a target track on an optical card, then the optical card is driven at a constant speed and information is read out of a data part in which the information is recorded. The data read out are demodulated and are stored in a buffer memory part. After the data are stored, a host computer then transfer them, and the data are transferred to the host computer.
Also, in the optical card apparatus, after the optical card is moved in one direction and reading the data out of a linear track is completed, the optical card moving direction is revised and, after a constant speed is reached, the next reading is made. In the apparatus of the prior art example, in preparation for the next reading, the data stored in the buffer memory part are transferred until the optical card reaches a constant speed from the turned drive so as to improve the efficiency of the data transfer.
However, in this optical card apparatus, without correcting errors of the read out data, the data are transferred to the host computer as an external apparatus and further, since the optical card is turned and driven until just before the constant speed is reached, the data transfer takes time. Therefore, on the host computer side, if the data error correction is included, much time will be required for the communication with the optical card apparatus. Thus, in the optical card apparatus of the prior art example, the time for access to the host computer is relatively long while, on the host computer side, the time for other processes is short.

Optical card recording/reproducing apparatus wherein a data process is made during an access operation


An oscilloscope adapter for a portable electronic device includes a hardware interface connector and a computer program memory. The memory stores computer program instructions that direct the electronic device to collect data representative of a signal from an external source and display the data as a waveform comprising individual data values as a function of time. The user may select one or more of the scales of the graph. The adapter also may include one or more of a model waveform database, a collected waveform database, an application-specific database, and a language database.

An oscilloscope is an electronic device used to display and/or analyze the waveform of electronic signals. In its simplest form, an oscilloscope draws a graph of instantaneous signal voltage as a function of time. Typically, the graph displays time from left to right on the horizontal scale, and instantaneous voltage appears typically appears on a vertical scale with positive values going upward, and optionally with negative values going downward from a zero point.
Several types and forms of oscilloscopes have been developed over the years. An early form of oscilloscope, known as a cathode-ray oscilloscope, created a focused electron beam that would move in patterns across the face of a cathode ray tube (CRT) to produce a graph. Today's oscilloscopes typically use a computer processor to generate the graph and display the graph on a liquid crystal or other type of display.
Prior oscilloscopes have traditionally been large in size, often requiring a size similar to that of a suitcase, and a weight that is too great for easy lifting and movement. Such oscilloscopes are not desirable for use in small spaces or in operations where frequent movement of the oscilloscope is required. For example, an oscilloscope may be desired for use as a vehicle engine analyzer, such that secondary ignition waveforms or other patterns can be displayed in graphic form. However, most vehicle service garages have limited space, and many garages have multiple bays. Thus, an oscilloscope that is takes up a large space and/or is cumbersome to move is not desirable.
In addition, prior oscilloscopes have been traditionally stand-alone units. In areas with limited space such as service garages, it is desirable to have a portable and small device that can serve multiple functions. While the prior art has taught that an oscilloscope may be provided with other functionality, such as that of a digital multimeter (DMM) as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,034,291, to Allen et al., to date general electronic devices have not been provided with add-on oscilloscope functionality.
Accordingly, it is desirable to provide an improved adapter device that enables a portable electronic device to function as an oscilloscope.

Oscilloscope module for portable electronic device


Methods and systems are disclosed for determining patient compliance for using a compression therapy device. The systems may include a compression therapy sleeve and a controller having a non-transitory memory device. During a therapy session, the controller may record in the memory device operational therapy data obtained from sensors associated with the controller and/or sleeve. The controller may calculate a compliance metric based in part on the therapy data. The controller may then communicate the data or metric to one or more recipients. The methods may include allowing the patient to transfer a removable memory device from the controller to a personal computer, and uploading the therapy data or metric stored on it to a recipient website. Alternative methods may include the patient receiving the metric from the controller at the end of the therapy session, and then providing the metric to a recipient by phone.

Diseases such as venous insufficiency, lymphedema, and other edematous conditions can often result in the pooling of bodily fluids in areas of the body distal from the heart. Venous insufficiency can result when the superficial veins of an extremity empty into the deep veins of the lower leg. Normally, the contractions of the calf muscles act as a pump, moving blood into the popliteal vein, the outflow vessel. Failure of this pumping action can occur as a result of muscle weakness, overall chamber size reduction, valvular incompetence, and/or outflow obstruction. Each of these conditions can lead to venous stasis and hypertension in the affected area. Lymphedema, which is swelling due to a blockage of the lymph passages, may be caused by lymphatic obstruction, a blockage of the lymph vessels that drain fluid from tissues throughout the body. This is most commonly due to cancer surgery, general surgery, tumors, radiation treatments, trauma and congenital anomalies. Lymphedema is a chronic condition that currently has no cure.
Fluid accumulation can be painful and debilitating if not treated. Fluid accumulation can reduce oxygen transport, interfere with wound healing, provide a medium that support infections, or even result in the loss of a limb if left untreated.
Compression therapy devices are often used in the treatment of venous insufficiency by moving the accumulated bodily fluids. Additional conditions may also benefit from the use of compression therapy devices. Such devices typically include an air compressor that may blow air through tubes to an appliance such as a sleeve or boot containing a number of separately inflatable cells that is fitted over a problem area (such as an extremity or torso). Such devices may also include pneumatic components adapted to inflate and exhaust the cells, and control circuitry governing the pneumatic components. A therapeutic cycle or protocol may involve, for example, sequential inflation of the cells to a pre-set pressure in a distal to a proximal order, followed by exhausting all the cells in concert.
Multiple compression therapy sessions may be required to help maintain proper fluid flow in the patient over time. While such therapy sessions may be provided under supervision by a therapist or physician at a clinic or hospital, it may be more practical to have the patient self-administer the therapy at home using rented therapy equipment. Home therapy has the advantage of being more convenient for the patient, who may schedule the therapy sessions at will and who will not need to travel to a medical facility for the sessions. In addition, home therapy has the economic advantage of not requiring the time and resources of either medical personnel or facilities.
A potential disadvantage of home therapy, however, is a lack of patient compliance. A therapeutic session may be uncomfortable, and a patient may not feel motivated to take time from his or her schedule to perform the therapy. Patient compliance is important to several parties associated with the therapy. The manufacturer or supplier of the equipment may want to monitor patient use of the equipment as part of ongoing post-sales quality assurance. The physician and/or therapist may want to monitor compliance as part of their overall monitoring of patient health. By assessing a patient's health status over time and knowing the level of patient therapy compliance, a physician may be able to determine if a change in the therapeutic protocol may be required. In addition, health insurers may reimburse the companies providing the therapeutic device and/or disposable items associated with it. The insurers, however, may reimburse for equipment rentals only if the equipment is actually in use. Other individuals and organizations may have an interest in patient compliance, including, as non-limiting examples, researchers, family members, clinical trial registries, and accountable care organizations (ACO). It is therefore important to assure patient compliance in using such a compression therapy device.

Methods and systems for determining use compliance of a compression therapy device


An optional surface fastening system for an electronics housing facilitates its attachment to pre-manufactured fixed panel systems, enclosures and the like. The electronics housing has primary holes or slot features that interface standard screw hardware in order to fasten to varied surfaces or accepts specially designed connector pieces to mechanically attach to the aforementioned fixed enclosures. Connector pieces, designed to interface with any panel system, may be replaced interchangeably and are temporarily fixed by a snap detail located on the primary slots. Method of attaching the electronics housing to a fixed panel system requires integrated pin features on the connector pieces, employed to locate to corresponding holes on the fixed panel, in conjunction with operative rotation of a specialized pin feature to temporarily lock the electronics housing to the panel system. Conversely while attached, operative rotation of the specialized pin feature disengages the electronics housing from the fixed panel system.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates generally to the field of mounting systems for electronics housings (modules). In particular, embodiments of the present invention relate to an optional mounting system to facilitate mounting the electronics housing to pre-manufactured enclosures with varied hole pattern designs. More specifically, the process of attaching the housing using a camming feature allows the electronics housing to be securely attached and removed with the same methodology. Furthermore, the connector system distinguishes the system from current products within its product category as it can be easily removed from the electronics package so that the unit can mount to a variety of surfaces using conventional hardware.
2. The Relevant Technology
Signal management technology generally resides within a building and is typically installed on a wall, ceiling, or other similar surface. Signal management (SM) refers to the sending, receiving and manipulation of transmittable frequencies through wire-based systems. Specialized signal manipulation equipment such as splitters, diplexers, amplifiers and modulators requires a hub or organized panel to facilitate installation, serviceability and access. As with professional stereophonic equipment, signal management has specialized fixturing cabinets or sheet metal enclosures called "cans." Modified slightly from manufacturer to manufacturer, they interface and organize products designed specifically to fit that enclosure design.
Typical enclosures are sheet metal fabrications of a singular punched and bent sheet of metal forming a rectangular, five-sided box. When formed, there is a back panel (also referred to as a "back plate") perforated with a series of uniform punched holes, a top, bottom and two sides. A return flange completes the enclosure front, leaving an opening slightly smaller than the dimensions of the back panel. The enclosure width is determined by a standard set by the linear space roughly equal to the distance between two wall studs in a typical stud and sheetrock constructed wall. The depth of the enclosure relates specifically to the stud depth plus the thickness of the sheetrock. When installed, the sheet metal enclosure is mechanically fastened with screws to adjoining studs on both sides of the enclosure and the front return flange surface should lie just below flush from the drywall outer surface. The "can" defines a fixed, accessible space protected on five sides within the wall structure of a building. A door or access panel, flush with the exterior wall surface, completes the installation of the can.
Cable routing occurs through the building's wall and floor system. The "can" acts as the distribution hub or manifold from which raw electronic signals passing through wires from satellite dishes, exterior cable signal, TV antenna, and signal producing devices are manipulated and distributed throughout the building to signal output devices (i.e., stereo equipment, video displays, etc . . . ).
The hole pattern located on the back panel of the enclosure provides the means for quick and secure attachment of SM electronics housings. The enclosure hole pattern is standardized with four vertical rows of evenly spaced holes divided into two columns. The lateral (i.e., horizontal) distance between the centers of the typical 0.25″ diameter holes per column is standardized at 6.0″. The vertical distance between the hole centers is standardized at 0.50″ although one manufacturer offers a hole pattern at 1″ spacing on the left side, staggered 0.50″ from the 1″ vertically spaced holes on the right side of the column.
Most often, the general shape of the holes varies between manufacturers with features like slots punched additionally with each hole, or rectangular shapes taking the place of circular holes. Conventional SM electronics housings are designed specifically to fit a single hole pattern design, and more often than not, it is difficult to mount electronics housings of one manufacturer into an enclosure of another. For example, one electronics housing platform is constructed of sheet metal fitted with hooks along the top with an additional hook on the lower left side and with a snap feature at the lower right. To fit this housing into a competitor's can, the installer must use a pair of pliers to bend one of the metal hooks that interferes with a missing hole in the metal enclosure, a process that is not only time consuming but also reduces the intended strength of the mount. In another instance, an electronics housing that does not have features to fit a non-circular hole pattern design is a very loose fit when mounted to an enclosure with square holes. Moreover, attaching an electronics housing upside down (in some cases, this is preferred for better cable management) cannot be accomplished with the rectangular hole arrangement because fixed features on the housing are designed to interface with the enclosures only in an upright position.
Fixed hooks in conjunction with fixed push-button snaps are the primary means of attaching SM electronics packages to SM electronics enclosures. Horizontal and/or vertical hooks are employed to align with corresponding holes in the enclosure, pushed through to hang the package on horizontal surfaces provided by the hole features. The third or fourth point of contact (depending on the size, shape, and design of the existing housing) is the push-button snap. The push-button snap is a two-part, plastic assembly that is cylindrical in shape with a lead-in alignment feature to mate with its corresponding hole. Once the snap passes through the hole, the user presses operatively to wedge the outer portion, creating excess interference with the diameter of the hole on the sheet metal enclosure. The mounted housing can also be removed with some difficulty due to the size and subsequent forces needed to overcome the pre-tensioned wedge without plier tools using the grip of two fingers.
An additional problem with current electronics housings is that the fixed hook features found on existing SM electronics housings are often over-toleranced to compensate for the manufacturing methods used and therefore are loose and rely on a single cylindrical plastic snap to take up the tolerances and provide rigidity to the installed unit. Finally, many if not all of the existing enclosure-mountable electronics housings do not have readily apparent features to install the units outside of the can. Two conventional enclosures and their associated electronics housings are described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,266,250 to Richard T. Faye, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,132,242 to Lawrence Alton Hall and William John Schnoor, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.
Therefore, there is a need for an electronics housing to give the installer the option to fasten the housing with equal ease to a generic surface or to a pre-manufactured enclosure. It would be beneficial if the locking portion of the enclosure mount system could be installer defined. In other words, by allowing the housing securing means to be moved from one side of the electronics housing to the other, the SM housing can either be placed right-side up or upside-down and keep the locking connector part on the optimum side for installation. Conversely, when a left hand installation on the right column of the can is necessary, a left-handed installer can complete the task easily and without discomfort by preferencing the lock feature on the left side of the housing. More importantly, if the connector pieces could interface with all existing SM enclosure systems with equal ease during installation and retain a consistent mechanical fit once installed, this would be ideal. By default, if individual connector pieces could be attached and removed from the electronics housing, newly designed connector pieces could be created for future, not-yet realized panel hole designs without expensive tooling and mold changes to the SM electronics housings.

Electronics housings and associated connectors for cable/wiring distribution system


In a control apparatus and control method for an internal combustion engine having an exhaust purifying catalytic device for adsorbing nitrogen oxide contained in exhaust gases from the engine, the adsorption state of nitrogen oxide adsorbed by the catalytic device is estimated by an electronic control unit during the lean-combustion driving of the engine. If the catalytic device is saturated with nitrogen oxide, the ignition timing is delayed and the exhaust gas is recirculated to the intake side of the engine with the lean air-fuel ratio kept unchanged. This starts the nitrogen oxide reduced driving mode for deteriorating the combustion state in the engine. At this time, the engine output will not change by a great amount. Further, a reducing atmosphere is created around the catalytic device by unburnt gases, generated due to the deterioration of the combustion state, to deoxidize the adsorbed nitrogen oxide. As a result, the purifying ability of the catalytic device can be recovered to suppress the discharge amount of nitrogen oxide without deteriorating the smoothness of engine driving and fuel economy.

1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to an apparatus and method for internal combustion engine control capable of suppressing the emission of nitrogen oxide from an internal combustion engine to the atmosphere.
2. Description of the Related Art
There is known a method for improving the fuel economy or other performance of an internal combustion engine by controlling the air-fuel ratio to a target value (for example, 22) leaner than the theoretical air-fuel ratio (14.7) to thereby carry out lean-combustion in the engine when the engine is driven in a predetermined driving state. However, if a three-way catalytic converter is used for the engine to which the aforesaid method is applied, nitrogen oxide (NOx) cannot be sufficiently purified during the lean-combustion since the three-way catalytic converter does not operate at its full potential in the lean air-fuel ratio range. In this respect, attempts have been made to reduce the emission of NOx even in the lean-combustion driving by using a so-called NOx catalyst, which absorbs NOx discharged from the engine in an oxygen enriched state (oxidizing atmosphere) and deoxidizes the adsorbed NOx in a hydrocarbon (HC) excessive state (reducing atmosphere).
However, there is a limit to the amount of NOx which can be absorbed by the NOx catalyst. If the engine is continuously driven in the lean-combustion mode, the catalyst will be saturated with NOx. In this case, most part of NOx gas discharged from the engine is emitted to the atmosphere. To obviate this, before or when the NOx catalyst is saturated with adsorbed NOx, a shift is made to the rich mixture control, which controls the air-fuel ratio to a theoretical ratio or its near value to thereby start the theoretical ratio operation or rich-combustion operation of the engine. The resultant exhaust gas containing plenty of unburnt gases creates a reducing atmosphere for deoxidization of NOx around the catalyst.
Regarding the timing at which the lean-combustion operation is switched to the theoretical ratio operation or rich-combustion operation, a method is known from Japanese Patent Application KOKAI Publication No. H5-133260 in which the elapse time from the start of lean air-fuel ratio control is measured, and the changeover to rich air-fuel control is forcibly carried out when a predetermined time has elapsed. With this method, the lean air-fuel ratio control is started again upon completion of deoxidization of NOx adsorbed by the catalyst during the rich air-fuel ratio control. In this way, the lean-combustion and rich-combustion are alternately effected to reduce the emission of NOx.
However, according to the control disclosed in the aforementioned Publication, if the predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the lean air-fuel ratio control, it is always determined that the amount of adsorbed NOx has reached the saturated amount. In this instance, the lean-combustion mode is forcibly changed to the rich-combustion mode. Thus, the improvement of fuel economy by the lean-combustion cannot be sufficiently achieved, and the fuel economy will be lowered accordingly. Moreover, at the time of changing the air-fuel ratio, the engine torque varies to give a bad influence on the engine operation. In a vehicle using the engine as the primary drive, an engine torque variation can cause a shock similar to acceleration shock, and hence the drive feeling will be deteriorated if the engine torque variation frequently occurs while the vehicle is driven at a constant speed. Further, the emission of HC increases when the air-fuel ratio is enriched. Therefore, from the viewpoint of improving the drive feeling and reducing the emission of HC, it is not preferable to forcibly and frequently change the air-fuel ratio.
Disclosed in International Patent Publication No. W093/08383 is a technique for deoxidizing NOx adsorbed by the exhaust purifying device during the lean-combustion driving of an engine. In this technique, the adsorption amount of NOx by the exhaust purifying catalyst is estimated, and the driving mode is changed to the rich-combustion mode when it is determined based on the result of estimation that the adsorption amount of NOx has reached the saturation amount.
However, according to this technique, in which whether or not the catalyst is saturated with NOx is determined based on the estimated adsorption amount of NOx, if the NOx adsorbing abilities of catalysts mounted to individual engines are different from one another, it is sometimes impossible to correctly determine that the catalyst has reached the saturated state.

Apparatus and method for internal-combustion engine control

Mitsubishi Jidosha Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha


A cathode for a lithium-ion secondary battery is provided, which not only efficiently absorbs oxygen released from a solid solution based cathode active material when initial charging is applied but prevents a cathode energy density from lowering. Further, a lithium-ion secondary battery, a vehicle and a power storage system equipped with the lithium-ion secondary battery are provided. The cathode for a lithium-ion secondary battery comprises a cathode active material represented by the general formula: xLi2MO3-(1−x)LiM′O2 (where 0<x<1; M is at least one element selected from the group of Mn, Ti and Zr; and M′ is at least one element selected from the group of Ni, Co, Mn, Fe, Ti, Zr, Al, Mg, Cr and V), and an oxygen absorbing substance having both oxygen absorbing and lithium-ion intercalation/de-intercalation abilities. Herein, the oxygen absorbing substance is disposed on the cathode active material.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a cathode for a lithium-ion secondary battery having a lithium-ion intercalation/de-intercalation ability, a lithium-ion secondary battery, a vehicle and a power storage system equipped with the battery.
2. Description of Related Art
Recently, there is an increasing demand for prevention of global warming and concern about depletion of fossil fuels. Much attention has been paid to the development of an electric automobile consuming less energy for travelling and a power generation system using natural energies such as solar light and wind power. However, the above mentioned technologies have the following problems, which prevent such technologies from being utilized widely.
A problem with an electric automobile is that a driving battery thereof has a low energy density, resulting in a short travelling distance after one time charging. On the other hand, a problem with a power generation system using natural energies is that the system requires a large capacity of battery for leveling a fluctuation of generated output due to the large fluctuation of power generating capacity. This may result in requiring a higher cost. Accordingly, in both technologies, it is demanded to develop an inexpensive secondary battery having a high energy density.
A lithium-ion secondary battery has a higher energy density per unit weight than such second batteries as a nickel-metal hydride battery and a lead battery. Herein, the lithium-ion secondary battery is expected to be applied to an electric automobile and a power storage system. For the application, the lithium-ion secondary battery needs to have a higher energy density to meet increasing demands for an electric automobile and a power generation system. The increase in the energy densities of the cathode and anode of the battery is required in order to increase the battery energy.
Here, Li2MO3—LiM′O2 solid solution is expected as a cathode active material with a high energy density. Note that M is at least one element selected from the group of Mn, Ti and Zr, and M′ is at least one element selected from the group of Ni, Co, Mn, Fe, Ti, Zr, Al, Mg, Cr and V. Hereinafter, Li2MO3—LiM′O2 solid solution is referred to as a solid solution based cathode active material.
A solid solution of Li2MO3 having a layered structure and electrochemical inactivity and LiM′O2 having a layered structure and electrochemical activity is a cathode active substance with a high capacity. The solid solution may have an electric power capacity more than 200 mAh/g activated by charging a lithium metal with a voltage more than 4.4 V when initial charging is applied (see Journal of the American Chemical Society, 128 (26), pp. 8694-8698 (2006)).
A cathode for a lithium-ion secondary battery disclosed in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication Nos. 11-144734 and 2009-146811, includes an oxygen absorbing substance, by which oxygen generated from the cathode if the battery is overcharged or at a high temperature is absorbed.
Further, in Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 11-144734, a lithium-ion secondary battery is disclosed, in which an oxygen absorbing substance consisting of a metal oxide is fixed to a conductive material to absorb the oxygen released from the cathode at a high temperature.
Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2009-146811 discloses a material such as LiMoO2 having a lithium-ion absorbing and releasing ability and an oxygen absorbing ability if the battery is overcharged is used as an oxygen absorbing substance, so as to prevent an energy density from lowering caused by the addition of the oxygen absorbing substance.
Further, Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2009-76446 discloses a cathode for a lithium-ion secondary battery, comprising a cathode active material coated with vanadium oxide to improve conductivity of the solid solution based cathode active material.
Here, it should be noted that oxygen is released from a cathode when a solid solution based cathode active material is activated with charging on a voltage more than 4.4V described in Journal of the American Chemical Society, 128 (26), pp. 8694-8698 (2006). The released oxygen may cause a problem to destroy an electron conductive network in a cathode by reacting with a conductive material in the cathode. Further, an oxygen gas thus vaporized may increase an internal pressure in the battery to break a battery container. Moreover, the oxygen may react with an electrolyte solution, which results in lowering the capacity.
In the cathode of Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 11-144734, the oxygen absorbing substance does not have a lithium-ion absorbing and desorbing ability, resulting in significant decrease of the energy density per weight of the cathode. Further, since the oxygen absorbing substance is fixed to the conductive material, the absorbing efficiency of oxygen thereof is poor.
In the cathode of Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2009-146811, the oxygen absorbing substance after absorbing oxygen does not have a sufficient lithium-ion absorbing and desorbing ability in a range of the general operating voltage (2-5V for lithium metal). Accordingly, this may also decrease the energy density when the solid solution based cathode active material releasing oxygen when initial charging is applied is used.
In the cathode of Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2009-76446, vanadium oxide (VOx[2≦x<2.5], and V2O5) used for coating a cathode active material does not have a lithium-ion absorbing and desorbing ability and an oxygen absorbing ability simultaneously. Herein, a VOX based material does not have a lithium-ion absorbing and desorbing ability, and V2O5 has a poor oxygen absorbing ability, resulting in a lower energy density of the cathode.

Cathode for lithium-ion secondary battery, lithium-ion secondary battery, vehicle and power storage system equipped with the battery


A vehicle roof module having a transparent roof element and a roller blind apparatus arranged under the roof element and having a roller blind track, which is wound on a winding shaft and can be pulled out to cover the underside of the roof element, and which is guided by a drain edge when pulled out from the winding shaft, wherein, according to the invention, foam material attached on or around the roof element contains a drain edge body having the drain edge.

From DE 100 39 522 A1, a generic vehicle roof module is known having a transparent roof membrane and a roller blind apparatus arranged under the roof membrane. A frame-type inner shell of the roof module is formed of a foam material embedding and attached to the underside of the roof membrane. A rear frame component of the inner shell features a lower frame element flatly extending forward from a connecting bridge with the foam and delineating a cavity toward the roof membrane, in which a winding shaft of the roller blind apparatus is pivoted on the lower frame element by means of bearing blocks on both sides. A roller blind track is wound on a winding shaft such that it unwinds from the underside of the winding shaft when the roller blind track is pulled forward under the roof membrane. The roller blind track slides with the exposed underside facing the interior of the vehicle over a drain edge-forming ridge on the front edge of the lower frame element. A problem here is the mounting of the winding shaft on the bearing blocks of the lower frame element, since for this only a gap between the ridge and the roof membrane is available that must be accordingly wide. The foam material embedding of the lower frame element is malleable to a certain extent, so that the lower frame element can be bent downward for the mounting of the winding shaft. On the other hand, this malleability may complicate a stable stationary bearing of the winding shaft and the stable positioning of the ridge forming the drain edge. Furthermore, the sliding of the roller blind track on its exposed underside may cause an impairment on the surface of the roller blind track at the ridge, for instance when contamination on the ridge is transferred to the surface of the roller blind track.
The task underlying the invention is to create a vehicle roof module as mentioned above, featuring an improved roller blind apparatus.
In the vehicle roof module mentioned above, this task is solved according to the invention in that a foaming material applied on or around the roof element contains a drain edge body comprising the drain edge.
Advantageous embodiments of the invention are indicated in the dependent claims.
In the vehicle roof module according to the invention, the drain edge is therefore a part of the roof element, and is attached with it as a single unit to the roof module. Consequently, no special fixation device or anything similar is required for mounting the drain edge or a component supporting the drain edge.
The roof element may be, for instance, a fixed glass element or an FTM (fixed transparent module), and specifically, a glass cover or a plastic cover made out of a transparent or translucent plastic material such as PC or PMMA. The roof element features a foam material embedding which is attached at least to the underside of the roof element in proximity to the edge of the roof element or the cover, and which features, for instance, a reinforcement frame or a mount for a seal, or which also surrounds the edge of the roof element by means of an edge protector.
This form of foam material attachment, which may be executed circumferentially around the edge of the roof element, is formed with an extension in the area of the winding shaft of the roller blind apparatus which constitutes a drain edge body containing the drain edge. The drain edge is therefore arranged stable in form and stable in its position relative to the roof element and to the winding shaft. Since the drain edge, or respectively, the drain edge body, is created with the production of the foam material embedding, no additional or subsequent mounting process is required. The length of the drain edge body in the direction transverse to that of the roof module or of the roof element, respectively, essentially corresponds with the width of the roller blind track or with the length of the winding shaft.
Expediently, the drain edge body extends downward from the roof element in the form of a bar or of a bridge, but it is not limited to such a form. In particular, the bridge-shaped drain edge body extends downward directly from the underside of the roof element.

Vehicle roof module having a roof element and a roller blind apparatus


In a method of investigating the electrical resistivity of the ground, five electrodes are implanted in the ground at equal spacings along a straight line. An electrical current is passed through the ground between one pair of these electrodes and the potential difference between a further pair of the electrodes is measured. The electrode which is not used in this measurement is at one end of the line. A further measurement is then made with the four electrodes which exclude the electrode at the opposite end of the line. The measurements are combined to provide a measurement of apparent resistivity which is almost unaffected by a local resistivity variation.

This invention relates to a method of investigating the electrical resistivity of the ground wherein an electrical current is passed through the ground between a first pair of positions (called herein "current electrode positions") and a measurement is made of the resulting potential difference between a further pair of positions (called herein "potential electrode positions"). Such a method is hereinafter called "an electrical resistivity method". The invention also relates to apparatus for use in the method.
In one known electrical resistivity method, the potential electrode positions lie on a straight line between the current electrode positions and the three spaces between adjacent electrode positions are all equal. This is known as the Wenner electrode arrangement. A series of determinations of electrical resistivity are made with the same electrode arrangement but with different electrode spacings. The values of electrical resistivity which are found are used to plot a curve showing the relation between apparent resistivity and electrode spacing. This curve can be interpreted in terms of horizontal sub-surface strata of different resistivities and this method is one example of an electrical sounding method. Electrode arrangements other than the Wenner electrode arrangement are used in other electrical sounding methods.
Measurements made by the known electrical resistivity method hereinbefore referred to can be affected by the presence of local resistivity variations. By "local" I mean herein variations which are significant only in a region near to the electrodes. The distance across the region in which the variations is significant is not greater than twice the distance between the electrodes which are furthest apart.
One disadvantage of the known method hereinbefore described is that the potential difference measured between a particular pair of potential electrode positions can be affected by a local resistivity variation which arises from the presence in the vicinity of the electrode positions of a sub-surface mass of material which has electrical properties different from those of the stratum containing the mass. The relationship between the electrode spacing and the apparent resistivity which is calculated from such an affected potential difference measurement will not be repesentative of the strata under investigation and will mislead the investigator.
The effect on the potential difference measured may be a positive one, by which I mean that the apparent resistivity calculated from the affected measurement is greater than the apparent resistivity which would be found if the stratum in which the mass occurs is substantially homogeneous. Alternatively, the effect on the potential difference measured may be a negative one, by which I mean that the apparent resistivity calculated is smaller than the apparent resistivity which would be found if the stratum was substantially homogeneous. Whether the effect is a positive one or a negative one depends both upon the electrical properties of the mass and upon the position of the mass relative to the electrodes. In the vicinity of the electrodes there is a plurality of zones, five zones in the case of the Wenner electrode arrangement, and a mass which gives rise to a positive effect on the potential difference in one zone will give rise to a negative effect on the potential difference if the mass is in an adjacent zone.

Method of investigating the electrical resistivity of the ground and apparatus for use in the method


A pressure cooker includes a container having an upper annular shoulder. A pot is engaged in the container and has an annular flange extended from the upper portion. A cap has a peripheral portion engaged with the annular flange of the pot. A cover is pivotally coupled to the container and may be locked to the container for enclosing the container. The container, the cap and the cover each includes a hollow space for engaging with heat insulating materials. A spring is engaged between the cap and the cover for biasing the cap to enclose the pot.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a cooker, and more particularly to a pressure cooker.
2. Description of the Prior Art
Typical pressure cookers comprise a container and a pot disposed in the container. The container includes a cover secured on top thereof for enclosing the pot therein. The pot containing food is cooked and heated an oven and is then disposed in the container which is enclosed by the cover. The food contained in the pot may generate steam which is kept in the container by the cover in order to form high pressure within the container so as to further pressurize or cook the food. However, normally, the pot is not covered such that the food may flow out of the pot and may pollute the interior of the container.
The present invention has arisen to mitigate and/or obviate the afore-described disadvantages of the conventional pressure cookers.

No. 86, Lane 267, Section 3, Jien Guo Road


A plasma display panel is formed of front panel including at least display electrodes, dielectric layer that are formed on glass substrate, and a rear panel including electrodes, barrier ribs, and phosphor layers that are formed on a substrate. Dielectric layer is formed of multiple layers, i.e. lower dielectric layer and upper dielectric layer, and these layers are made of identical material to each other, and the material contains CaO and BaO, and the content of CaO is greater than that of BaO.

A plasma display panel (hereinafter referred to simply as a PDP) allows achieving high definition display and a large-size screen, so that television receivers (TV) with a large screen having as great as 100 inches diagonal length can be commercialized by using the PDP. In recent years, use of the PDP in high-definition TV, which needs more than doubled scanning lines than conventional NTSC method, has progressed and the PDP free from lead (Pb) is commercialized in order to contribute to environment protection.
The PDP is basically formed of a front panel and a rear panel. The front panel comprises the following elements:                a glass substrate made of sodium-borosilicate-based float glass;        display electrodes, formed of striped transparent electrodes and bus electrodes, formed on a principal surface of the glass substrate,        a dielectric layer covering the display electrodes and working as a capacitor; and        a protective layer made of magnesium oxide (MgO) and formed on the dielectric layer.The rear panel comprises the following elements:        a glass substrate;        striped address electrodes formed on a principal surface of the glass substrate,        a primary dielectric layer covering the address electrodes;        barrier ribs formed on the primary dielectric layer; and        phosphor layers formed between the respective barrier ribs and emitting light in red, green, and blue respectively.
The front panel confronts the rear panel such that its surface mounted with the electrodes confronts a surface mounted with the electrodes of the rear panel, and peripheries of both the panels are sealed air-tightly to form a discharge space therebetween, and the discharge space is partitioned by the barrier ribs. The discharge space is filled with discharge gas of Ne and Xe at a pressure ranging from 55 kPa to 80 kPa. The PDP allows displaying a color video through this method: Voltages of video signals are selectively applied to the display electrodes for discharging, thereby producing ultra-violet rays, which excite the respective phosphor layers, so that colors in red, green, and blue are emitted, thereby achieving the display of a color video.
The bus electrodes of the display electrodes employ silver electrodes in order to maintain electrical conductivity, and the dielectric layer employs low-melting glass made of mainly lead oxide. However, in recent years, dielectric layers free from lead for contributing to environment protection have been disclosed in, e.g. patent documents 1, 2, 3, and 4.
However, during the steps of forming the front panel, the silver electrode forming the display electrode diffuses silver ions into the dielectric layer and the glass substrate. The diffused silver ions are subject to the reducing action of alkaline metal ions contained in the dielectric layer and divalent tin ions contained in the glass substrate, thereby forming silver colloid. As a result, the dielectric layer and the glass substrate tend to be yellowed or browned more noisily, and yet, silver oxide having undergone the reducing action generates oxygen which incurs air bubbles in the dielectric layer. The yellowing changes chromaticity, thereby badly degrading picture quality, and what is worse, the air bubbles in the dielectric layer generate failures in insulation of the dielectric layer.
To decrease the yellowing or air bubbles, a double-layer structure is employed to the dielectric layer, namely, the dielectric layer is formed of two layers having different glass compositions. Each one of the two layers is fired during its manufacturing step, so that if air bubbles occur in either one of the layers, the dielectric layer can maintain its electrical withstanding voltage for reducing the failures in insulation.
The respective layers of the dielectric layer have different advantages so that the problems such as the yellowing can be overcome. To be more specific, a lower dielectric layer touching the electrodes of the front panel employs a glass composition which allows reducing the yellowing or air bubbles, and an upper dielectric layer to be formed on the lower dielectric layer employs another glass composition having a higher transmittance.
However, use of multiple dielectric layers differing in materials will complicate the material handling, and eventually increase the cost. On top of that, it invites a misuse of the materials. If the dielectric layer is formed of multiple layers made of only the glass composition employed to the lower dielectric layer, the transmittance of the dielectric layer cannot reach a sufficient level. On the other hand, if the dielectric layer is formed of multiple layers made of only the glass composition employed to the upper dielectric layer, it invites the yellowing and air bubbles.    Patent Document 1: Unexamined Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2003-128430    Patent Document 2: Unexamined Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2002-053342    Patent Document 3: Unexamined Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2001-045877    Patent Document 4: Unexamined Japanese Patent Application Publication No. H09-050769

Plasma display panel having a plurality of layers containing calcium oxide and barium oxide


The present invention relates to novel crystal forms of 4-{[4-({[4-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy)-1,2-benzisoxazol-3-yl]oxy}methyl)piperidin-1-yl]methyl}-tetrahydro-2H-pyran-4-carboxylic acid. More particularly, the invention relates to polymorph forms of Polymorph Form I, Polymorph Form II, Polymorph Form III, Polymorph Form IV, Polymorph Form V, and Polymorph Form VI, and to processes for the preparation of, compositions containing and to uses of, such polymorph forms.

4-{[4-({[4-(2,2,2-Trifluoroethoxy)-1,2-benzisoxazol-3-yl]oxy}methyl)piperidin-1-yl]methyl}-tetrahydro-2H-pyran-4-carboxylic acid is disclosed in PL1 as a 5-HT4 receptor agonist, which is useful in the treatment or alleviation of disease conditions mediated by 5-HT4 receptor activity; in particular 5-HT4 receptor antagonistic activity, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastrointestinal disease, gastric motility disorder, non-ulcer dyspepsia, functional dyspepsia (FD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, dyspepsia, esophagitis, gastroesophageal disease, gastritis, nausea, central nervous system disease, Alzheimer's disease, cognitive disorder, emesis, migraine, neurological disease, pain, cardiovascular disorders, cardiac failure, heart arrhythmia, diabetes, and apnea syndrome (See NPL 1 to 13 and PL 2 to 7).
Simply an white solid has been produced in the previously known methods of preparing 4-{[4-({[4-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy)-1,2-benzisoxazol-3-yl]oxy}methyl)piperidin-1-yl]methyl}-tetrahydro-2H-pyran-4-carboxylic acid, described in PL 1. Therefore, neither a crystal nor mixture of crystal forms have been known to the public.


This invention relates to a process and a device for the deposition of thin layers on a substrate using a plasma-CVD technique. The substrate itself, which previously has been made conductive by the deposition of conductive layers, is used as an electrode to create the discharge. In particular, the technique can be applied to the deposition of organosilicon layers on glass plates of large dimensions. The invention also relates to a glass substrate covered by thin layers including at least one metal layer, in particular silver, on which the organosilicon layer is deposited according to the process.

This invention relates to a process and a device for depositing a thin layer using a plasma-CVD technique on a conductive substrate where the substrate itself is used as an electrode for an electrical current. Of particular interest, an insulating substrate can be used that is first made conductive by the deposition of a thin conductive layer. Advantageously, the thin conductive layer will remain intact when the final product is obtained.
The invention also relates to a substrate covered by thin layers including at least one metal layer, preferably silver, on which a layer such as an organosilicon layer is deposited according to the process of the invention.
It is known to protect the surfaces of various materials by depositing on the surface a thin layer, such as one consisting of an organic compound obtained by the chemical reaction of a monomer under a low pressure plasma. Thus, French patent application FR 85 18673 and corresponding U.S. patent applications Nos. 515,539 and 306,960 describe an organosilicon film obtained by the introduction, under primary vacuum, of an organosilicon monomer gas into an electric discharge created by the capacitive coupling between two electrodes. One electrode is grounded and supports the substrate to be coated, the other is located a small distance above the substrate and is connected to a power generator operating at frequencies below one megahertz. This process makes it possible to obtain thin layers which have many applications including, the protection of thin layers with silver bases deposited on a glass substrate.
In the above mentioned process, the substrate remains immobile during the deposition. In other known processes the plasma is contained with a magnetic field and the substrate is displaced relative to the electrodes and therefore relative to the plasma.
Such a process is cumbersome to use because it requires a mechanical drive system under vacuum which is difficult to achieve and maintain. Further, since the thin organosilicon layers are most often intended to protect the more fragile operational layers, such as silver, an additional chamber may be required to facilitate industrial operations. For example, on an industrial production line where the operational layers are deposited, it would be necessary to have a special chamber equipped with a mechanical drive system where the deposition of the final protective layer could be performed. This chamber would have to be similar to those where the first layers are deposited, aside from its mechanical requirements, and be placed before the output lock chamber (a chamber where the pressure is normally brought to atmospheric pressure) and after the other deposition chambers.
The requirement of a special chamber can be obviated by using the above mentioned process of EP 230 188 where the substrate remains immobile. Since this process makes it possible, under certain limits, to perform the deposition without relative displacement between the glass and the plasma, it can be performed, for example, during the substrate's stop in the input lock chamber or the output lock chamber of an industrial cathode-sputtering line.
However, this process also has its limits. It has been observed that the zone where the major portion of the polymer deposition is performed is that closest to the electrode located above the substrate. Additionally, the deposition is performed as quickly on the upper electrode as on the substrate to be treated. This has multiple negative consequences. First, the quantitative efficiency of the process is low since only a small proportion of the monomers introduced in the chamber are found in the polymer on the glass. Furthermore, the operation of the process itself is impeded by the preferred deposition on the upper electrode because the deposition, which is insulating, modifies the characteristics of the electrical field created under the electrode. This in turn creates a drift that must be corrected by adjusting the electrical parameters of the process. Additionally, a harmful mechanical effect can also be manifested when several glass sheets are treated successively. In this situation the deposition on the electrode increases in thickness as the successive sheets are treated; and the thickening layer becomes friable and eventually disintegrates. Chips then fall on the substrate where they disturb the deposition process. Further, the rate of deposition on the glass is not very high and the thickness of the final layer is greater at the center than it is opposite the edges of the electrode.

Process and device for the deposition of thin layers and product made thereby

Saint Gobain Vitrage Int'l. "Les Miroirs"


The present invention relates, in general, to sheet material forming technology and the forming of structures there from. The invention relates to incremental forming of sheet material (1) with localised heating (5) and more particularly to a system and method for incrementally forming a sheet blank (1) that is at the same time heated by a dynamically moving heating source (5). This dynamic and localised heating locally changes the mechanical properties of the sheet material (1), thus facilitating the forming process.

A. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates, in general, to an improvement of the Asymmetric Incremental Sheet Forming (AISF) technology, and more particularly to an improved Asymmetric Incremental Sheet Forming (AISF) apparatus or method for easier and more accurately forming of sheet material of various composition. More particularly the invention is related to a system and method for asymmetric incrementally forming a sheet material blank by means of a locoregional heat/cooling system that is synchronised with the movement of the forming tool. The sheet material is at the same time locally heated at the contact zone of the forming means by a dynamically moving heating source that moves synchronically with the movement of the forming means over the surface of the sheet material to locally increase plasticity of the sheet material only at the contact zone of the forming tool or just in front or next to the contact zone of the forming tool on its movement toolpath.
B. Description of the Related Art
Incremental forming is the process of forming sheet material into complicated shapes without the use of either male or female dies. The method uses a single point means which plastically deforms sheet material, which is clamped in a blank holder to provide a localised deformation. The final shape of the part can for instance be obtained by the relative movement of a simple and small forming tool with respect to the blank. By incrementally moving the forming tool over the sheet using a controllable positioning system, for instance a computer numerically controlled tool, the plastically deformed points are, in effect, added as a means moves to provide a final shape.
Many different implementations of the incremental forming method exist. Single Point Incremental Forming uses a simple forming tool, preferably a hemispherical tool, to deform a sheet material clamped within a forming rig, and most preferably a metal rod with a smooth hemispherical tip, for instance within the range of 9-30 mm (FIG. 2). Two Point Incremental Forming also uses as forming tool a simple hemispherical tool to deform a sheet material clamped into a forming rig. The difference lies in the fact that under the sheet material a partial die is located and that the rig is allowed to translate along the bushings in the direction of the forming tool (FIG. 3). Other implementations exist as well where a hammering device or shot peening device replaces the forming tool. The forming tool can be controlled using a CNC milling machine, a robot or any other device that allows for the exact positioning of the forming tool.
The forming tool used is in many cases a simple hemispherical tool. There is no need for the forming tools to be adapted to the part to be formed. With a basic set of tools one is capable of forming a wide variety of desired part geometries.
This method of incremental forming, in the present state of the art, is suitable for incremental forming of soft materials such as aluminium and steels with a low carbon content 0.05% to 0.26% (e.g. AISI 1018 steel). The method, however, has the drawback that the forces on the forming means become high when forming thicker material or material with high yield strength and low ductility. For instance if the content of carbon rises in alloys of iron and carbon, the metal becomes harder and stronger but less ductile and it is more difficult to shape the alloy sheet with an asymmetric incremental sheet forming (AISF) apparatus.
Furthermore, it is generally not possible to substantially form harder and stronger but less ductile materials such as the alloys of iron and carbon for instance medium carbon steel: 0.29% to 0.54% (e.g. AISI 1040 steel), high carbon steel: 0.55% to 0.95%, very high carbon steel: 0.96% to 2.1% or the Titanium Grade 5 or Magnesium sheet materials. Yet another drawback is the difficulty to create clearly localised slope changes within parts. Should this slope change be located near the edge of the part this problem could be solved by using backing plates. This backing plate supports the region of the sheet material blank that should not be plastically deformed (see FIG. 2). These backing plates are cumbersome to work with and very difficult to use when the sudden slope change is not located near the edge of the plate.
Thus, there is a need in the art for improving the methods of incremental forming. The present invention provides an improvement to these drawbacks by using a method to incrementally form a sheet material blank that is at the same time locally heated by a dynamically moving heat source.

Asymmetric incremental sheet forming system


A deformation detecting sensor for a sealed secondary battery of the present invention is used with a unit cell, battery module, or battery pack of the sealed secondary battery and includes: a magnetic resin layer stuck to the unit cell and/or battery module, the resin layer comprising a matrix composed of a resin component and a magnetic filler dispersed in the matrix; and a magnetic sensor attached to the inside or outside wall of a package case so as to be capable to detect a change of a magnetic field caused by the magnetic layer. The present invention can provide a deformation detecting sensor capable to detect bulging of a sealed secondary battery with higher sensitivity and to exhibit stable detection characteristics.

A sealed secondary battery has been widely used as power sources for portable devices such as mobile phones and notebook computers, in which a non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery such as a lithium ion secondary battery or an aqueous electrolyte secondary battery such as a nickel-hydrogen secondary battery is sealed together with a protective circuit in a battery case such as a metal can or a laminate film. The protective circuit has a function for monitoring the voltage of the battery and blocking the charging current or discharging current when the overcharging or overdischarging occurs.
Since the non-aqueous electrolyte secondary battery uses a flammable organic electrolyte solution, the inside pressure of the battery may be raised by decomposition gas of the electrolyte solution and electrodes or vapor gas of the electrolyte solution generated by heat caused by overcharging or short circuit, and may cause the bulging of the battery, and may result in the explosion of the battery in the worst case. Moreover, in the case of aqueous electrolyte secondary battery, the battery may be expanded by the structural change of the electrode active material through charge and discharge and also by generated decomposition gas of the electrolyte solution and electrodes.
In contrast, a method for preventing rupture of the sealed secondary battery comprising detecting in advance the bulging of the sealed second battery and blocking the charging current or discharging current has been studied.
As a method of detecting the bulging of the sealed secondary battery, a method of using a PTC element is known (for example, Patent Document 1). The PTC element is electrically connected to the protective circuit, if a current exceeds the predetermined value and heat generation occurs in the sealed secondary battery, the element cuts off the current flowing between the sealed secondary battery and external devices by increasing the resistance value. However, as for the method of using the PTC element, there is a problem that the element cannot respond quickly to a rapid temperature rise of the sealed secondary battery. In contrast, methods for detecting bulging directly in place for detecting the heat generation caused by bulging have been proposed. According to this method, when the bulging occurs, it is possible to block current more quickly. For example, Patent Document 2 discloses a sealed secondary battery comprising a casing containing a positive electrode and a negative electrode and being capable of charging and discharging, and a safety element adhered to the surface of the casing and whose resistance value changes according to the bulging of the casing. It is described in Patent Document 2 that strain gauges are used as the safety element and those strain gauges are adhered to the surface of the casing using double-sided adhesive tape or double-sided adhesive film. Further, Patent Document 3 also discloses a battery in which strain gauges are adhered to the casing so as to detect the mechanical deformation of the battery.

Deformation detecting sensor for sealed secondary battery


An automatic airflow balancing valve (10), including: a housing (12) having an inlet (14) and an outlet (16) and defining a flow path (18) there through; a valve disc (30) operatively connected to the housing and disposed within the flow path; and an airflow volume calibrating assembly (92) disposed in the flow path and operatively connected to the valve disc and the housing to pivot the valve disc to a home position associated with a desired constant airflow volume. The airflow volume calibrating assembly includes an adjustment element that extends toward at least one of the inlet or the outlet.

One of the more difficult tasks in commercial structures such as an office building or hotel, for example, is to ensure that the central heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (HVAC) have properly balanced airflows based on the needs of each space. This is typically accomplished by manually adjusted fixed dampers within the supply and exhaust ventilation systems that are located throughout the structure.
These conventional air regulation devices typically include an adjustment mechanism in order to allow a technician to manually set an airflow volume which can be allowed to pass through each device. Once installed throughout the building, the technician and/or engineer must then perform a complicated balancing procedure wherein each of the previously installed devices are manually adjusted in order to achieve the desired airflow and exhaust rate throughout the structure. This manual process of adjusting mechanical dampers is challenging to perform accurately and does not accommodate any changes in the duct pressure caused from stack/chimney effect, loading of dirt and dust on filters/grilles/ductwork, user interaction, closing of registers, wind, and other systematic issues. The manual balancing process is also a labor intensive process thereby functions to greatly increase the cost of deploying the conventional systems, owing to the high amount of labor required.
Accordingly, there remains a need for an automatic airflow balancing valve for HVAC systems that do not suffer from the drawbacks of the above noted devices.

Airflow balancing valve for HVAC systems


An exemplary patch panel includes a printed circuit board having a plurality of input terminals and output terminals. An amount of the input terminals is equal to an amount of the output terminals. The input terminals are connected to the output terminals respectively. The printed circuit board further includes a plurality of standby terminals. Each of the input terminals is connected to the standby terminals via switches respectively. The standby terminals can be used to selectively replace a number of the input terminals or the output terminals, should they become inoperable, by operating the switches.

1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a patch panel.
2. Description of Related Art
Conventionally, operators use an adapter or a patch panel to couple an electric device to another electric device for signal transmission therebetween. If one of the input or output terminals (which are arranged to connect to the devices) of the patch panel becomes inoperable, the signal transmission will be stopped.
What is needed is a patch panel with standby terminals to maintain signal transmission when one or more of the terminals connected to the devices become inoperable.